Cannabis News

The U.S. Army is updating its regulations to allow recruits with a single conviction for marijuana or drug paraphernalia possession to enlist without a waiver starting April 20. The policy change aims to expand the candidate pool and also includes increasing the maximum recruitment age to 42, though the Army maintains a strict ban on active-duty drug use.

The Massachusetts legislature held a hearing on a ballot measure to repeal marijuana legalization, while Mississippi lawmakers sent bills to the governor to expand medical cannabis access and remove potency limits. Additionally, Senator Tim Sheehy plans to file a bill for a new VA office to research psychedelics, and Texas is implementing new restrictions on hemp and THCA products.

This article provides a recipe for "Mr. Nice’s Cream Cheese Frosted Carrot Cake," a cannabis-infused dessert featuring flavor profiles of hash, spice, and earth. It includes a full list of ingredients for the cake and frosting, step-by-step baking instructions, and guidance on dosing and strain substitutions.

The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America launched a new educational microsite advocating for a federal regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp-derived beverages that aligns with existing alcohol safety and tax standards.

A state audit of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission revealed failures to follow legal procedures, overpayment of legal fees, and poor record-keeping just before the state's medical market launch.

Jay Gans explores Apple Tartz by Glacier Cannabis in Michigan, a cultivar known for its sour-apple and berry flavors.

Story Cannabis is celebrating the 420 holiday with a series of community deals, product drops, and daily surprises.

Story Cannabis celebrates 420 in Maryland with six days of exclusive deals, product drops, and in-store experiences.

AmeriCannaRx is offering 25% off storewide every Friday through Monday throughout the month of April.

UpLift provides high-quality professional services in Cincinnati while supporting local community initiatives and promoting kindness.

Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) is filing the Veterans Health Administration Novel Therapeutics Preparedness Act to promote VA research into psychedelic-assisted therapies. The bill would establish an Office of Novel Therapeutics and regional Centers of Excellence to study treatments for PTSD and other mental health conditions.

Lawmakers address campaign spokesperson on data, funding, and the potential repeal of an adult-use marketplace.

Texas will implement new regulations on March 31 that effectively ban smokable hemp products by lowering THC limits and significantly increasing licensing fees for businesses. Industry leaders warn these changes will force many retailers to close and plan to sue the state to block the rules.

The Hawaii House Health Committee approved SB 3199, a bill to create a Mental Health Emerging Therapies Task Force to study and recommend policies for the therapeutic use of psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA. The task force, led by the University of Hawaii’s medical school, will spend two years reviewing research to prepare the state for potential federal rescheduling of these substances.

PharmaCann is exiting the Colorado cannabis market and laying off employees due to declining wholesale prices in the state.

Mississippi lawmakers sent two bills to Governor Tate Reeves that would expand medical marijuana access by creating a "Right to Try" pathway for patients with certain illnesses and removing potency limits on specific products.

Pennsylvania lawmakers are divided over whether the Liquor Control Board or a new Cannabis Control Board should oversee a potential recreational marijuana market. Democratic Rep. Dan Frankel advocates for the LCB's established regulatory experience, while Republican Sen. Dan Laughlin proposes a dedicated board to also manage the existing medical program.

Schwazze acquired 45 dispensaries and two manufacturing facilities across Colorado and New Mexico at a share price of $0.661.

Hybrida Farms, the first dual-licensed medical cannabis and hemp cultivator in Costa Rica, has completed a landmark shipment, establishing a new benchmark for Latin American pharmaceutical agriculture.

Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America is launching a campaign to regulate hemp THC beverages like alcohol rather than banning them, supporting a federal framework that includes licensing, taxes, and testing requirements.

Massachusetts lawmakers questioned a spokesperson for an anti-cannabis campaign regarding a ballot initiative that seeks to repeal commercial marijuana sales while maintaining personal possession limits. Members of the Joint Committee on Initiative Petitions expressed skepticism over the measure's impact on business investments, its potential to fuel the illicit market, and the validity of data suggesting declining public support.

The newsletter highlights the first official details of a federal pilot program for Medicare coverage of hemp-derived CBD and THC products, alongside Utah's governor signing a bill to support psychedelics research for veterans. Additional coverage includes Georgia's medical marijuana expansion, Colorado's high compliance rates for underage sales, and new international restrictions on cannabinol in Japan.

This article examines the significant financial consequences and lost revenue associated with failing to use CO2 enrichment in cultivation.

The company announced transactions and Chapter 15 proceedings under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act.

The Mississippi Senate approved a medical cannabis reform bill that includes right-to-try provisions, removes THC potency limits for concentrates, and sets one-year ID card expirations.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun has expressed openness to medical cannabis reform, citing pressure from neighboring states and support from groups like veterans. Although the state legislature previously rejected legalization efforts, polling indicates that 60% of Indiana residents support legalizing cannabis for medical or adult use.

Nebraska lawmakers advanced a bill to protect medical providers from penalties for recommending medical cannabis to patients.

HYTN Innovations Inc. has appointed Fabian Monaco, a veteran technology entrepreneur and former Gage Growth Corp. CEO, to its board of directors.

Marc Rodriguez discusses the high turnover rates in the U.S. cannabis retail industry, attributing the issue to rapid expansion outpacing management infrastructure and leadership training. He recommends that businesses stabilize growth by building leadership pipelines, standardizing onboarding, and elevating HR to a strategic role to reduce compliance risks and improve employee retention.

The Georgia General Assembly passed Senate Bill 220, which aims to expand medical marijuana access by removing the THC percentage cap and allowing patients to vape for faster relief. The bill, which also adds lupus to the list of qualifying conditions, now awaits a decision from Governor Brian Kemp.

Rhode Island is considering reducing the number of new retail cannabis licenses from the original 24 to prevent a potential market crash.

New Mexico is establishing a Medical Psilocybin Treatment Equity Fund to increase program access for low-income and rural residents through a $630,000 state appropriation. The initiative aims to provide affordable psilocybin therapy for conditions like PTSD and treatment-resistant depression by the end of 2026.

Missouri marijuana-tax revenue totaling about $95 million, intended for veterans, public defenders, and drug-addiction treatment, remains unspent due to a lack of legislative authorization. Despite a state audit and budget proposals from Governor Mike Kehoe, conflicts over funding levels and payroll increases for public defenders persist.

The cannabis concentrate brand is launching its live resin high-terpene extract products in the state market via a new collaboration.

The company is closing its production facility in May and selling 17 Colorado dispensaries to Vireo.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is launching a pilot program as early as April 1 to cover up to $500 annually for hemp-derived CBD and THC products for select Medicare beneficiaries. The initiative, part of a broader federal effort to improve access to full-spectrum CBD, allows qualified physicians to provide these products for symptom control, specifically targeting conditions like chronic pain from cancer.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox signed HB 390 into law, authorizing the Huntsman Mental Health Institute to conduct clinical trials on the efficacy of psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA for veterans with PTSD.

The South Carolina Senate passed a bill to regulate consumable hemp with restrictions similar to alcohol, including age limits, potency caps for grocery stores, and a ban on Sunday sales.

An audit of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission revealed multiple instances of state law noncompliance between 2021 and 2025, including a $204,197 overpayment on a legal services contract and failures in record-keeping and meeting transparency.

Colorado regulators reported a 99 percent compliance rate for marijuana retailers checking IDs to prevent underage access in 2025. This high compliance aligns with broader trends showing that youth cannabis use has declined or remained stable in states with legal, regulated markets.

CMS has defined eligible hemp products as orally administered items containing no more than 3 milligrams of THC per serving.

Canadian Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre told Joe Rogan that marijuana use is a personal choice, despite having previously voted against its legalization in Canada. The article also highlights rising public support for cannabis legalization and its positive economic impact in the country.

Cannabis genetics breeders in the US can use various methods, including patents and plant variety protection, to secure their intellectual property prior to federal legalization.

This newsletter highlights Indiana’s potential move toward marijuana legalization, Idaho’s progress on a medical cannabis ballot initiative, and various state legislative updates regarding psychedelics and hemp.

Bipartisan lawmakers have introduced legislation to grant U.S. cannabis companies access to traditional lending and financing services.

A Missouri appeals court ordered state regulators to award 13 marijuana facility licenses to Hippos LLC, citing inconsistent scoring by unqualified graders and a lack of documentation. The ruling criticized the Administrative Hearing Commission's rescoring methodology as flawed and arbitrary, potentially impacting hundreds of other licensing appeals.

The South Carolina Senate passed a bill restricting the sale of hemp-derived THC products to adults over 21, limiting THC content in beverages and gummies and designating specific retail locations for sales. The legislation aims to keep intoxicating hemp products out of the hands of children while establishing regulations for an industry previously operating through legal loopholes.

The Nebraska Legislature voted 30-7 to advance Legislative Bill 933, which aims to protect medical practitioners from criminal or civil penalties for recommending medical cannabis to patients. The bill, sponsored by State Sen. John Cavanaugh, seeks to ensure a functional medical program following voter legalization in 2024 while maintaining accountability for malpractice and professional negligence.

Ohio implements Senate Bill 56, introducing new restrictions on marijuana and a ban on intoxicating hemp products, including THC beverages, following a failed referendum attempt. The law, which faces multiple legal challenges, reduces allowable THC levels in extracts and flower while establishing new criminal penalties for possession and transportation.

Tanana Herb Company, founded by brothers Sam and Joe Hachey, has grown from a small bootstrapped operation into a successful Fairbanks-based cannabis business that navigates Alaska’s challenging terrain and climate to reach retailers statewide. Known for their weekly delivery model and hands-on approach, the company is currently expanding with new retail and cultivation facilities despite a high failure rate in the local market.

Sen. Jeremy Cooney is advocating for the repeal of New York's medical cannabis tax to remove financial barriers for patients. This push comes amid claims of a crisis in the state's medical cannabis industry.

Vireo Growth, a Minnesota-based cannabis multistate operator, reported a revenue increase of over 250% following a series of strategic acquisitions.

The Natural Medicine Alliance of Idaho has collected over 73,000 signatures for a medical cannabis legalization initiative, exceeding the statewide requirement for the November ballot. Activists continue to gather signatures to meet regional distribution requirements before the May 1 deadline.

The WNBA is reportedly negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement that includes eliminating marijuana testing for players, aligning the league with recent policy reforms in the NBA, NFL, and NCAA. While a deal has been reached in principle, the specific terms regarding cannabis have not yet been released.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun acknowledges the state must address marijuana legalization as surrounding states have already reformed their laws, despite ongoing opposition from top Republican legislative leaders. While Braun remains open to medical cannabis, the legislature has focused on banning hemp products, contrasting with polls showing that a majority of Hoosiers support broad legalization.

A study from Johns Hopkins University published in JAMA Network found that psilocybin was significantly more effective than nicotine patches for smoking cessation. Researchers reported that 40% of participants receiving psilocybin treatment successfully quit smoking after six months, compared to only 10% of those using nicotine patches.

Ohioans for Cannabis Choice failed to collect enough signatures to qualify for a ballot initiative seeking to repeal Senate Bill 56, which imposes strict new regulations on Ohio's hemp and cannabis industries.

Massachusetts lawmakers have approved two bills, H.2203 and H.4200, to establish psychedelics pilot programs for treating conditions like PTSD and depression. These initiatives aim to collect clinical data on psilocybin and other psychedelic materials to inform future regulatory frameworks and potential insurance coverage in the state.

New York senators approved a bill to codify medical marijuana reciprocity for out-of-state patients and the sale of pre-rolled joints, even though these reforms are already largely in effect through previous legislation and regulations. The measure, sponsored by Senator Jeremy Cooney, aims to provide more targeted statutory language for the state's evolving cannabis program.

Reps. Guy Reschenthaler and Troy Carter filed a bipartisan bill to allow state-legal marijuana businesses to list on major stock exchanges and protect service providers. Other updates include a potential 3mg THC limit for Medicare CBD products, Iowa's progress on a psilocybin therapy program, and a study finding cannabis less harmful than alcohol and tobacco.

The company has opened a premium cannabis retail location in Morris County.

The push for reform continues in seven states this year, even as previous favorites like Florida and Wisconsin have dropped off the list.

The Trump administration's CBD Medicare plan includes a new THC allowance, though the program's launch date and participation details remain unconfirmed.

New Ohio laws imposing limits on cannabis businesses have taken effect following a federal hemp THC ban signed by Donald Trump.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is launching a pilot program to cover CBD products for Medicare beneficiaries, though initial THC limits for the program currently conflict with stricter federal hemp standards. CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz indicated that the initiative could provide free CBD to millions of seniors as early as April, particularly for chronic pain management.

An Iowa Senate panel approved a bill to create a state-regulated therapeutic psilocybin program specifically for patients with PTSD. The legislation, which passed the House in a broader form, was narrowed by the Senate committee to limit access to PTSD patients and task the Medical Cannabidiol Advisory Board with its regulation.

The Ohioans for Cannabis Choice campaign failed to collect sufficient signatures to place its repeal referendum on the ballot.

A bipartisan congressional bill called the CLIMB Act has been introduced to allow marijuana businesses to list on major U.S. stock exchanges and protect service providers from federal penalties. The legislation aims to expand financial lending and investment opportunities for the cannabis industry while providing safe harbor for national securities exchanges.

Jon Purow hosts a "One Hitters" episode from MJ Unpacked, featuring interviews with Lauren Avenius of Node Labs Inc. regarding cannabis tissue culture and Jasmine Johnson of GŪD Essence on research-driven medical cannabis.

A government-funded study in Canada finds that alcohol and tobacco are significantly more harmful to individuals and society than marijuana, ranking higher in nearly all harm categories. While cannabis presents some risks related to mental health and illegal markets, alcohol causes the most overall damage, leading to a "substitution effect" where users increasingly choose marijuana as a healthier alternative.

Tilray Brands expands its Australian medical cannabis offerings with new product launches from its Redecan and Good Supply brands.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is considering a series of marijuana-related bills passed by lawmakers, including measures to legalize recreational sales, provide resentencing relief, and protect parental rights for consumers. The legislative package also includes provisions for medical cannabis access in hospitals, updated delivery and labeling rules, and new enforcement mechanisms against illegal sales.

The DEA acknowledged declining teen marijuana use, while a new study found no correlation between tax rates and usage. Other updates include an Ohio referendum failure, Virginia's legalization progress, and new state-level developments in Iowa, New Jersey, and New Mexico.

The company collaborated with Toke Cannabis to utilize a specialized marketing platform for the restricted cannabis industry.

San Francisco officials are considering an ordinance to allow cannabis cafes, following state legislation that permits these businesses to sell food and non-alcoholic beverages.

New Jersey has reintroduced a bill requiring workers' compensation, PIP, and health insurance to cover medical cannabis costs for authorized patients.

Ohioans for Cannabis Choice failed to collect enough signatures to place a referendum on the ballot to block state lawmakers' restrictions on marijuana and hemp. As a result, new regulations will move forward, including a ban on intoxicating hemp products and reduced THC limits for adult-use marijuana.

Ohio is banning the sale of hemp-derived THC products, including beverages and edibles, in unlicensed locations like bars and restaurants, restricting these sales to licensed cannabis retailers.

Virginia lawmakers approved legislation to establish a regulated retail market for adult-use cannabis, with sales set to begin January 1, 2027, pending Governor Abigail Spanberger's signature. The bill creates a statewide licensing and tax framework, increases possession limits to 2.5 ounces, and includes equity provisions such as microbusiness licenses and a reinvestment fund for communities disproportionately affected by past drug enforcement.

An Ohio State University study found no clear correlation between high marijuana tax rates and lower usage, challenging a New York Times editorial board claim. Researchers warned that excessive taxation may drive consumers to the illicit market rather than deterring use.

Cannabis is not native to the U.S. but exists as naturalized feral populations, often called "ditch weed," primarily in the Midwest and Northeast where hemp was historically cultivated. These plants typically grow in disturbed habitats like floodplains and roadsides and are genetically distinct from high-THC modern marijuana.

The article argues that Virginia's cannabis legalization bill creates an unfair market by allowing five existing medical processors to start adult-use sales on January 1, 2027, long before independent competitors can become operational. This head start allows incumbents to establish dominant pricing, branding, and retail relationships, potentially causing long-term structural damage to market competition. To prevent this, the author proposes tying the launch of adult-use sales to a trigger: when at least one independent cultivator and retailer are certified and ready to sell in a given region.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) acknowledged in a new online quiz that youth marijuana use has significantly declined from 1995 to 2025, even as state-level legalization has expanded. Despite this admission, the agency continues to highlight potential health risks and maintains its stance on the drug's negative impacts while undergoing a federal rescheduling process.

Celebrity cannabis brands generally outperform standard product lines, though individual success varies. Industry experts suggest specific strategic factors are responsible for the brands that thrive compared to those that fail.

The Congressional Research Service updated its report on marijuana rescheduling, while several states advanced legislation regarding synthetic psilocybin and hemp THC regulations. The newsletter also highlights scientific studies on cognitive health and quarterly financial results for cannabis businesses.

States are tightening regulations on hemp-derived THC products in anticipation of a potential federal ban.

Active Brand THCV has announced a strategic endorsement with MMA legend Randy Couture to promote THCV, a cannabinoid focused on fitness and active lifestyles. The partnership emphasizes discipline and evidence-based research, supported by clinical studies and educational content.

Canopy Growth has become the largest medical cannabis firm in Canada following an acquisition expected to generate $10 million in cost savings and revenue within 18 months.

The Rhode Island Cannabis Control Commission has recommended a ban on the sale of hemp-derived THC beverages at venues with liquor licenses, citing public health and safety concerns. This move is strongly opposed by the Rhode Island Hospitality Association, which argues for regulation and training over a total ban, pointing to Minnesota as a model for safe on-site consumption. Meanwhile, state regulators are monitoring potential federal changes to hemp potency rules that could impact the industry nationwide by 2026 or 2027.

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden signed a bill to legalize synthetic psilocybin for mental health therapy, contingent upon future approval and rescheduling by federal agencies like the FDA and DEA. The legislation, which saw strong support from veterans' advocates, aims to provide new treatment options for PTSD and treatment-resistant depression.

Dispensary sales are slightly lower than 2025 because of decreased flower prices rather than a drop in demand.

California Governor Gavin Newsom mocked Donald Trump on social media after the former president mistakenly referred to him as the "president of the United States." Newsom responded with a series of satirical posts outlining a progressive "presidential" agenda, including the federal legalization of marijuana and the dismissal of Trump administration officials.

Nevaeh Verde Dispensary in Belleville, NJ, is celebrating its first anniversary with a Cannaversary event on March 21, 2026, followed by a 4/20 celebration on April 18. The locally owned business focuses on cannabis education, high-quality products, and a sophisticated retail experience.

The Colorado Capital Development Committee voted unanimously to recommend the rejection of HB 1301, a bill proposing a ballot measure to increase marijuana and alcohol taxes to fund mental health treatment. Committee members and industry representatives raised concerns regarding declining cannabis revenue, high existing tax rates, and the potential to drive consumers toward the illicit market.

Ohio officials defended Governor Mike DeWine's line-item veto of a provision that would have allowed brewers to sell hemp-infused drinks until the end of the year. The state argues the governor has the constitutional authority to veto any item in an appropriations bill, while brewers claim the move will lead to criminal charges and significant financial losses.

Congressional researchers have updated their report on the federal-state marijuana law conflict, highlighting the limitations of pending rescheduling and upcoming changes to hemp policy. The revised document notably removes language predicting the likelihood of marijuana being moved to Schedule III and emphasizes that such a change would not bring state-legal industries into full compliance with the Controlled Substances Act. Additionally, the report notes that new federal testing requirements for total THC in hemp, set for November, could significantly impact the consumable cannabinoid market.

D.C. courts have consolidated briefing for eight lawsuits against unlicensed cannabis retailers and their landlords to streamline legal proceedings through a single motion to dismiss.

The FDA submitted a CBD compliance policy for review, while federal officials confirmed no immediate changes to workplace drug testing despite pending marijuana rescheduling. Additionally, a new poll suggests marijuana is more morally acceptable to Americans than gambling, and a study indicates that legalization reduces both property and violent crime.

Credit scoring and trade reports for the cannabis industry.

Vlasic Labs is hosting a charity golf tournament to support Jarred Shaw and his family while he serves an Indonesian prison sentence for cannabis possession.