Cannabis News

Thailand is re-prohibiting cannabis after decriminalizing it three years ago, threatening the $1 billion industry. The new policy prohibits the sale of cannabis products without a medical prescription. A 2024 survey showed 75% of Thais support relisting cannabis as an illegal drug. The policy change was a priority of the ruling party.

The Arkansas ban on hemp-derived THC products can move forward after a federal court reversed a lower court's ruling. The ban, which prohibits the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived products, was signed by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders in 2023. Attorney General Tim Griffin (R) announced the ruling as a "significant victory." Meanwhile, in Texas, a similar ban was vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott (R).

People who used psychedelics during the COVID-19 pandemic showed improvements in mental health. A study found that psychedelics and marijuana users showed improvements in depression, anxiety, and overall mental health. Another study found that high doses of LSD led to greater reductions in depression. Psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy showed significant reductions in alcohol consumption and high smoking cessation rates.

The cannabis company has increased its store count to 202 locations across Canada with new locations in Ontario and Manitoba.

Board Chairman Kris Kane and Director David Daily resigned due to a receiver appointment under Canada’s Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.

The cannabis company is delaying the filing of its financial statements due to ongoing negotiations with creditors.

Embracing Marijuana Legalization Could Help GOP Win Over More Young Voters, Trump’s First Attorney General Pick Suggests

The post discusses how private credit has built and will continue to sustain the cannabis industry.

* FDA wants hemp on health incident form; CA marijuana tax hike; OR cannabis lounge initiative; MI psychedelics; WI legalization poll.
* Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) is not worried about the Senate rejecting his legislation to federally ban many hemp products.
* Oregon activists are preparing to submit signatures for an initiative to legalize cannabis social lounges.
* Michigan lawmakers filed a bill to legalize psilocybin for people with PTSD.
* A California tax hike on marijuana will take effect next week.
* New York lawmakers sent Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) a bill to extend the deadline for some marijuana businesses to submit electronic tax returns.
* A new poll shows that two in three Wisconsin voters now support legalizing marijuana.
* Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) questioned Attorney General Pam Bondi about Chinese-run illegal marijuana growing operations in her state.
* A study of Oklahoma home values found that "high-grower (but not high-dispensary) counties saw housing value increases of roughly 20% post-legalization when compared to neighboring states where marijuana remains illegal."

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission approved emergency regulations to begin accepting medical cannabis applications. The regulations would allow licenses for cultivators, product manufacturers, dispensaries, and transporters. Dispensaries cannot sell raw plant or flower, food or drinks with cannabis, or products with artificial flavoring. The commission set its next meeting for August 4.

The New York State legislature has passed a bill to extend the deadline for some marijuana businesses to file electronic tax returns. If signed into law, cannabis manufacturers and distributors would have 50 days to submit their tax returns, instead of the current 20 days. The bill aims to give businesses more time and flexibility, as well as provide a financial lifeline to struggling producers. Other developments in the New York cannabis market include the first round of grants for retail marijuana businesses owned by justice-involved people, a new online map to locate licensed retailers, and the growth of the legal cannabis market, with sales close to reaching $1.5 billion.

WM Technology co-founders Douglas Francis and Justin Hartfield are backing out of a deal to purchase the company's outstanding common stock.

For a limited time, buy five of Al Capone's all-natural blunt wraps and get one free. This offer is from Al Capone and appeared first on Leafly.

A tax increase on marijuana products in California will take effect next week after lawmakers failed to include provisions to delay its implementation in key budget legislation. The cannabis excise tax rate will increase from 15% to 19% on July 1. A standalone bill to delay the change for five years was not included. California officials are inviting research proposals for a second round of grants to educate the public on the state’s marijuana law and help policymakers make informed decisions. Legalization in California has created new grant programs aimed at addressing the consequences of marijuana prohibition and attempting to nurture a strong, well-regulated legal industry.

The most probable federal policy change in 2025 is marijuana banking protections, rather than rescheduling marijuana. This will follow the passage of the Big Beautiful Bill.

Michigan lawmakers introduced a bill to legalize psilocybin for adults with PTSD. The bill allows personal use and cultivation of psilocybin for those diagnosed with PTSD. A retired U.S. Army sergeant supports the bill, citing positive effects. The VA is researching psychedelics for veterans with PTSD. Additionally, the text mentions a Bigfoot and marijuana-related news story, the distribution of marijuana tax revenue, and a GOP congressman's stance on a hemp THC ban.

Anxiety disorders are common, affecting many adults. Some patients find cannabis helpful for easing symptoms. Research shows cannabis can reduce stress reactions. Experts advise caution with edible cannabis treatments, suggesting low doses and awareness of individual reactions.

A GOP congressman is pushing for a federal hemp THC ban in a spending bill. He is not concerned about potential opposition in the Senate and is disputing reports about the scope of the legislation. The bill would ban consumable hemp products with any quantifiable amount of THC. The alcohol industry association has called on Congress to dial back the language in the bill. Key GOP congressional lawmakers don’t seem especially concerned about provisions in the bill despite stakeholder concerns.

Legislation to close a 2018 Farm Bill 'loophole' is being prepared for the House floor, and Texas will decide whether to ban or regulate hemp in a special session.

A campaign in Oregon is working to legalize cannabis social lounges and has gathered enough signatures to move to the next stage of the process. The campaign needs to collect about 120,000 signatures to qualify for the November 2026 ballot. If passed, the measure would legalize state-licensed cannabis consumption lounges. In other news, state officials are challenging a ruling on labor peace agreements for marijuana businesses, and a federal lawsuit could expand access to psilocybin for homebound patients. Additionally, a new law allows marijuana businesses to offer samples at trade events.

The FDA is proposing to track the health impacts of hemp-derived cannabinoid products by adding CBD and other hemp-derived cannabinoids as selectable options on federal documents. The agency is also accepting feedback on the submission of the information, with comments due by July 25. A House committee approved a spending bill that hemp stakeholders say would devastate the industry, prohibiting most consumable cannabinoid products. The bill would redefine hemp to prohibit cannabis products containing any "quantifiable" amount of THC. A leading alcohol industry association has called on Congress to maintain the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids and only prohibit synthetic items.

Two in three Wisconsin voters support legalizing marijuana, according to a new poll. Support for legalization has generally increased over time. Democrats are the most likely to favor legalizing cannabis, followed by independents. Republicans are still opposed to adult-use legalization. Gov. Tony Evers (D) recently said that if Democrats take control of the Assembly and Senate, the state can "finally" legalize marijuana. The legalization proposal would have imposed a 15 percent wholesale excise tax and a 10 percent retail excise tax on recreational cannabis products. A legislative analysis estimated that Wisconsin residents spent more than $121 million on cannabis in Illinois alone in 2022.

California lawmakers did not include cannabis tax relief in the budget bill.

* GOP senator: Regulate marijuana like alcohol; Bill to increase hemp THC limit; Survey: Cannabis industry workers happy; OH legalization change delay.
* The U.S. House of Representatives approved amendments to let Department of Veterans Affairs doctors recommend medical cannabis and to support research on the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics.
* Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) said marijuana legalization opponents “have lost” the debate and that “it’s time” to create a regulatory framework treating cannabis “the same way that we do with alcohol and tobacco” so states can set their own policies without federal intervention.
* Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) filed a bill to triple the amount of THC that can legally be in hemp and to make other changes to federal rules for the crop to address industry concerns.
* Hourly workers in the marijuana industry rank at the top of the list of “happiest” employees across multiple sectors, according to a new survey from Deputy—with more than 9 in 10 reporting a “positive sentiment” in their job.
* Thailand’s public health minister signed an order requiring people to have doctors’ prescriptions and medical certificates mandatory in order to buy cannabis.
* A study found that “since 2012, there has been considerable growth in patents and publications related to cannabis drug delivery systems, driven by the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids.”
* A poll found that Australians support legalizing marijuana, 48 percent to 41 percent.
* Verano Holdings Corp. is opening a bodega-style dispensary in Phoenix, Arizona.

The company will host a grand opening on June 28 at the new retail facility in Broward County.

A Canadian cannabis company broadened program eligibility to include individuals with an annual income of up to 60,000 CAD.

The new study provides insight into the bioavailability of medical cannabis formulations for therapeutic treatment.

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed a bill that would have allowed tribal nations and the governor's office to establish compacts to legalize and regulate cannabis on reservations. Gianforte cited the bill as "unnecessary and duplicative." Jeffry Stiffarm requested the veto, stating it undermines tribal rights. Gianforte echoed these sentiments, expressing concerns about tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. The bill, Gianforte concluded, could hinder negotiations and cooperation.

Adult-use cannabis sales in Michigan declined for the fourth consecutive month in May, with sales down from the previous year. This downturn is likely due to oversupply, leading to lower prices, but consumers are buying more products. Lawmakers discussed a moratorium on new cultivators due to concerns about industry consolidation.

FL Group, a subsidiary of Tilray Brands Inc., is the first company in Italy approved to distribute medical cannabis flower. The products will be available this month in pharmacies. The three approved products include Tilray Medical’s Tilray THC 25%, Tilray THC 18%, and Tilray THC 9%/CBD 9%. Italy legalized medical cannabis in 2013 and initially relied on imported products.

The U.S. House voted to include Rep. Brian Mast's amendment, which would allow Veterans Affairs to prescribe medical cannabis, in a military funding bill.

Ohio lawmakers are unlikely to change the state’s recreational marijuana law before their summer break.

Flav will be offering BOGO deals on edibles, flower, and vapes starting on the Fourth of July for 710.

Most hemp-derived THC products in Arkansas are illegal, and state officials may enforce a 2023 ban, according to a ruling from the U.S. 8th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Advocates express concerns that the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission's proposal may impede patient access to medical cannabis. The commission is facing challenges, including a lack of transparency and potential legal issues, as it prepares to establish licensing criteria and regulations. Key issues include the role of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which has historically opposed legalization, and a legal "memorandum of agreement" that could give DHHS significant control over rulemaking. The article highlights frustration among advocates, potential delays in patient access, and ongoing legal challenges.

The U.S. House of Representatives approved amendments to a spending bill that would authorize U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) doctors to issue medical marijuana recommendations to military veterans and support psychedelics research and access. The amendments aim to increase veterans' access to state medical marijuana programs and eliminate a current VA directive barring doctors from issuing cannabis recommendations. Another provision would encourage VA to support research into the benefits of psychedelics in treating medical conditions commonly affecting military veterans.

The Eighth Circuit Court determined that the 2018 Farm Bill does not supersede a state's right to regulate hemp, following Governor Greg Abbott's veto of a bill aimed at banning it.

A GOP senator introduced a bill to triple the legal THC concentration in hemp and address industry concerns about federal regulations. The bill contrasts with a House committee's spending bill that could devastate the industry by criminalizing hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The senator's bill would increase the THC threshold to 1 percent, address testing requirements, and set documentation standards for transporting hemp. The alcohol industry also has concerns, proposing to maintain the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids and only prohibit synthetic items.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago (June 8-10) highlighted resiliency and thriving brands. Companies, past investment-seeking, focused on partnerships and growth. Key takeaways from brands like Kiva Confections (wide product range, firm payment terms), SōRSE Technology (cost control, data-driven approach), and Abstrax Tech (innovation, diversification) were discussed. The event also featured Adaptaphoria's launch, Seth Yakatan's insights on investment, and discussions on partnerships. The conference included networking events and concluded with an after-party. Despite industry volatility, optimism for the future remains.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified that a Norwegian man was denied entry to the U.S. due to admitting to prior drug use, not a meme of Vice President J.D. Vance. Mads Mikkelsen admitted to using cannabis in legal jurisdictions. DHS and CBP refuted claims that the denial was for political reasons. The incident highlights ongoing controversies involving DHS and CBP regarding cannabis-related issues, including seizures of marijuana products and legal challenges from state-licensed businesses.

A federal court upheld Arkansas's hemp restrictions, contradicting the Texas governor's stance in vetoing a proposed ban in his state. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals reversed a lower court's decision, confirming that states can regulate hemp production, including banning THC, despite the 2018 Farm Bill. This ruling supports Arkansas's THC ban and challenges arguments made by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who had vetoed a similar bill. The Texas legislature plans to reintroduce the bill, and the governor has called a special session to address the issue, suggesting regulations to legalize THC.

Cannabis sativa L. is vulnerable to 'forever chemicals' contamination due to its ability to absorb environmental toxins, posing legal risks for producers and retailers as federal scrutiny increases.

Hydrofarm offers brands for indoor cultivators, including racking, lighting, nutrients, grow media, and cultivation supplies, with brands like Innovative Growers Equipment and PHOTOBIO.

Ohio lawmakers are likely to delay changes to the state's marijuana law until after the summer break. The House is considering changes to Senate Bill 56, including regulations for intoxicating hemp products. Key issues include the reduction of THC levels, limits on dispensaries, and restrictions on public smoking.

Chicago Police Department officers can no longer search vehicles based solely on the smell of raw cannabis, according to a rule change. This decision was made despite a 2024 Illinois Supreme Court ruling that allowed searches based on the smell of raw cannabis during traffic stops. The CPD conducted 70 traffic stops for suspected cannabis violations from December 2024 to June 2025.

Jones Soda Co. sold its hemp-based THC beverages brand Mary Jones to MJ Reg Disrupters for $3 million to focus on its core soda offerings. MJ Reg Disrupters purchased Mary Jones with an initial cash payment of $489,399 plus additional payments via promissory notes over the next three years. Jones Soda CEO Scott Harvey stated that the sale enables them to sharpen strategic priorities and accelerate investment in core soda, functional beverage, and adult beverage categories. MJ Reg Director Joe Oblas said they are excited to build on the Mary Jones legacy.

Hourly workers in the marijuana industry are the "happiest" employees across multiple sectors, according to a new survey. The report shows that American workers are becoming less happy overall, but those in the cannabis and tobacco industries report the most positive feelings about their jobs. The report also highlights the challenges faced by the marijuana industry, including federal prohibition and the need for labor peace agreements.

D.C., Virginia, and Maryland cannabis news from June 18 to June 24, 2025.

The company's new shopping experience allows customers to browse and select items directly from shelves.

A GOP senator stated that opponents of marijuana legalization have "lost" and that lawmakers should create a regulatory framework for cannabis like alcohol and tobacco. He argued that the absence of federal regulations has created a vacuum allowing illicit operators to thrive and that federal regulations are needed. The senator also discussed the policy disconnect between state, federal, and tribal governments. He supports creating a regulatory framework for marijuana.

Texas' policy changes in hemp and medical marijuana set the stage for advancements in both industries within business and politics.

* Federal hemp ban advances.
* RFK wants psychedelics available in 12 months.
* Pennsylvania legalization debate.
* Montana governor vetoes tribal cannabis bill.
* Texas hemp regulations.
* The House Appropriations Committee approved a spending bill containing provisions to ban most consumable hemp-derived cannabinoid products.
* The House Rules Committee cleared amendments to let Department of Veterans Affairs doctors recommend medical cannabis and to support research on the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for floor votes this week.
* Texas’s lieutenant governor decided to ban all synthetic cannabis including Delta 8, Delta 10, and others.
* A review concluded that purified cannabidiol was reported to reduce seizure frequency ranging between 30% and 50%.
* Tilray Brands, Inc. announced that it is the first company to receive authorization from Italian officials to import and distribute medical cannabis flower for therapeutic use.

A Republican budget proposal in the U.S. House of Representatives, which would ban hemp-derived THC under federal law, passed a committee vote. However, it is still far from becoming law.

C21 Investments Inc. announced its audited financial statements for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. Key highlights include: a 3% increase in Q4 revenue to $8.1 million, driven by same-store sales growth; a gross margin of 45%; and an adjusted EBITDA of $1.7 million, up 8% quarter-over-quarter. For the fiscal year, revenue was $30.1 million, with a gross margin of 42% and an adjusted EBITDA of $4.9 million. The company also repurchased and canceled over 2 million shares in the fourth quarter.

Detroit Dispensing Solutions (DDS) has launched a new line of vacuum ovens, pumps, and cold traps to replace Cascade Sciences' products after Cascade ceased operations. DDS is also providing service and replacement parts for existing Cascade equipment and distributing Huber Temperature Control Units. Brian Towns has been appointed as the new COO of DDS. DDS is a provider of equipment and solutions to the cannabis industry.

Wyld, a cannabis edibles brand, has become a Pinnacle Member of The Conservation Alliance, deepening its commitment to conservation. This move aligns Wyld's business model with environmental advocacy, supporting the protection of wild landscapes and biodiversity. Wyld will support grassroots organizations and campaigns to protect public lands and outdoor access.

THC Therapeutics Inc. (THCT) acquired The Headquarters Group Inc. (THG) for approximately $11 million. THG has a portfolio of cannabis-related companies with a combined revenue of about $4.8 million. The acquisition allows THCT to expand in the California and Oregon markets and includes subsidiaries like Jefferson Soul, Kalix, NPK Industries, Harvest Food for Life, Shasta Properties Management, and Blue Sky Investments. THCT aims to build a strong cannabis portfolio and capitalize on the growing cannabis sector.

Bud & Mary’s launched a limited-edition Strawmelon BATCH vape in Missouri, with proceeds benefiting Can Play, a nonprofit promoting inclusivity through adaptive recreation. This partnership is part of Bud & Mary’s Aware-N-Us campaign, supporting underrepresented communities. The Strawmelon BATCH vape is available at Missouri dispensaries. Can Play provides free sports and recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. Bud & Mary’s and Can Play aim to foster inclusion and community through their collaboration.

Nabis, a cannabis wholesale platform, expanded its digital Marketplace to New York, bringing its distribution, financing, and analytics technology to the state's growing cannabis market. The market generated $114.6 million in sales in May 2025, a 100.4% year-over-year increase. The Marketplace offers a supply chain solution, streamlining B2B transactions. It launched with nearly 40 brands and offers retailers access to real-time inventory and automated order suggestions. Nabis aims to build a more sustainable cannabis industry, supporting over $1B in transactions and earning recognition from Inc. 5000, Fast Company, and Deloitte.

Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 3, which would ban most hemp-derived THC products. The bill faces opposition from businesses and consumers. If Governor Abbott takes no action by June 22, the legislation becomes law automatically. Backers cite youth protection and loophole concerns. The Texas hemp industry generates billions in revenue and supports many jobs. Polling shows broad bipartisan opposition to the ban. Retired NFL star Ricky Williams joined a lawsuit against the ban. Governor Abbott is reviewing concerns before his decision.

Tilray Medical, a division of Tilray Brands Inc., is the first company in Italy to receive authorization to import and distribute its medical cannabis flower. Beginning in June, the following Tilray Medical products are approved for therapeutic use in Italy and available for distribution through pharmacies: Tilray THC 25%, Tilray THC 18%, and Tilray THC 9% / CBD 9%. Tilray has operations in Germany, Italy, Portugal, Poland and the United Kingdom, offering a broad portfolio of EU-GMP certified medical cannabis products.

Bloom Brand, a U.S. leader in cannabis vape, is expanding internationally with a launch in the UK in Q1 2026 through a partnership with New Garden Pharma. This marks Bloom's first international market expansion, with plans for further EU market development in 2026 and beyond. The partnership will provide UK patients access to Bloom's vape collections. New Garden Pharma will lead the UK entry, ensuring a compliant and scalable launch.

The U.S. House of Representatives is considering amendments to a spending bill that would allow VA doctors to recommend medical marijuana to military veterans and support psychedelics research. One proposal would increase veterans' access to state medical marijuana programs and eliminate a VA directive barring doctors from issuing cannabis recommendations. Another provision would encourage the VA to support research into the benefits of psychedelics for veterans.

Advertising involves identifying boundaries and providing solutions to problems. Three key components of a successful ad campaign are truth, resourcefulness, and diligence. Truth involves using data to understand demographics. Resourcefulness highlights the availability of free tools. Diligence emphasizes persistence, planning, and setting realistic expectations. Prioritizing trust, transparency, and vigilance is also important.

Montana's Governor vetoed a bill that would have allowed tribal nations to negotiate cannabis regulations individually. The bill, HB 952, aimed to remove restrictions on tribal cannabis operations, but the governor cited concerns about tribal sovereignty and the negotiation process. The article also notes the divided cannabis industry in Montana and the governor's other vetoes.

Get ready for Pride weekend with us as we pair some of our favorite queer icons with the strains we think they’d smoke. The post "What strains would these queer icons smoke?" appeared first on Leafly.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is committed to expanding research on psychedelic therapy, aiming to provide legal access for military veterans within 12 months. Clinical trials are underway, and preliminary results are encouraging. Congress has mandated clinical trials for active-duty military veterans. Bipartisan lawmakers are seeking ways to provide access to psychedelic medicine for veterans. The VA is also funding studies on MDMA-assisted therapy.

Blue Dream is a popular sativa-dominant cannabis strain known for altering moods and providing euphoria. It is easy to grow and can reach 4-6 feet tall, flourishing indoors and outdoors. The article provides tips for growing Blue Dream, including buying seeds or clones, germination, lighting, temperature, ventilation, watering, nutrients, staking, transplanting, and harvest.

Texas hemp industry leaders are amenable to state lawmakers imposing more regulations on their THC products, such as age restrictions on purchases and more testing of their products. Gov. Greg Abbott rejected Senate Bill 3, which would have banned consumable hemp products that contained any THC. Instead, he has called a special session beginning July 21 to determine how to regulate hemp-derived THC. Some stakeholders want stricter enforcement on retailers while others want freedom to grow the plant without worry, but all agree that the state should raise the age to purchase THC products to 21. Abbott proposed nearly 20 regulations for the hemp industry, including raising permit and registration fees and posting warning and danger signs at any store selling these products. Some retailers caution against limiting the number of purchases that can be made in a given period and enforcing further limits on the amount of THC in a product, which could harm those who use the products for health purposes.

Arkansas' medical marijuana sales are on track to break the annual record set in 2023, with sales exceeding $121 million through May.

A California brand known for innovation and premium products is entering its 15th U.S. market.

A Canadian company will offer high-potency medical cannabis products in Poland using its own genetics.

A key Pennsylvania senator is working with lawmakers to develop a marijuana legalization bill before the budget deadline. The senator stated they are getting close to passing a bill and want to ensure it is equitable. Other lawmakers are also emphasizing the revenue-generating potential of legalization. While some are hopeful, the Senate Majority Leader said legalization will not be included in the 2026 budget.

The cannabis market in Washington, D.C. is changing, with more out-of-state patients, particularly due to the city's self-certification. Although D.C. residents still make up most of the buyers in May 2025, out-of-state shoppers are increasing.

The company received approval from the Italian Ministry of Health to import and distribute three cannabis flower varieties for therapeutic use.

A House committee approved a spending bill that would prohibit most consumable cannabinoid products, which hemp stakeholders say would devastate the industry. The bill redefines hemp under federal statute to prohibit cannabis products with any quantifiable amount of THC or other cannabinoids with similar effects. Rep. Andy Harris championed the ban, while the alcohol industry association called on Congress to maintain the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids. Despite concerns, key GOP lawmakers are not especially concerned about the bill's provisions.

In 2024, the regulated marijuana industry's revenue increased by 4.5% to $30.1 billion, but employment decreased by 3.4%, resulting in a loss of 15,000 jobs, totaling 425,000 workers. Job losses are occurring in mature markets while emerging states are experiencing growth.

The provided text is a newsletter from Marijuana Moment. Key topics include: a clash between Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick over hemp regulation; a poll showing support for marijuana reform among US voters; a DEA judge's decision on psychedelic compounds; and a Supreme Court case regarding marijuana users' gun rights. The newsletter also covers state and local news, international developments, and scientific studies related to cannabis.

The House Appropriations Committee added a provision to redefine hemp and regulate finished products in a must-pass spending bill.

Josh Kesselman, the founder of RAW Rolling Papers, and Matt Stang purchased the High Times brand for $3.5 million. The new owners plan to relaunch the print magazine, reintroduce the Cannabis Cup event series, and rebuild the digital platform. High Times was founded in 1974 and sold in 2017 to Hightimes Holding Corp. Adam Levin, the founder of Oreva Capital, pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges involving undisclosed payments to a stock analyst.

Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch (R) stated that intoxicating hemp-derived products are prohibited under the state’s Controlled Substances Law but declined to offer an “official opinion” on possession due to federal law. The law does not specifically address the possession or sale of hemp products, but the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Act allows for the sale and possession of medical cannabis products. The state allows hemp cultivation, but the legislature did not appropriate the necessary funding for the program. A bill to ban intoxicating hemp products was not taken up by lawmakers.

Medical cannabis dispensary licenses in Alabama are expected to be issued soon, following years of litigation. The issuance of dispensary and integrated facility licenses remained in limbo, but a court allowed the issuance of other licenses to move forward. A lawsuit was filed in April over delays implementing the program by the mandated date.

Jones Soda Co. sold its cannabis beverage business to MJ Reg Disrupters LLC for $3 million. The deal included cash and a promissory note. MJ Reg will have the right to use the Mary Jones brand name under a licensing agreement. The sale allows Jones Soda to focus on its core soda offerings.

Delaware lawmakers are reconsidering a proposed law that aimed to restrict hemp products with any THC content after facing backlash. The bill sought to move all hemp-derived THC sales to licensed marijuana dispensaries or liquor stores, but retailers argued it would harm their industry. The bill has been paused and will be split into two parts: regulating THC beverages through liquor stores first, and then revisiting edibles and smokable hemp products in 2026. Policymakers plan to collaborate with stakeholders to develop clearer regulations around age verification, product testing, and labeling, without shutting out existing hemp businesses.

A Drug Enforcement Administration judge sided with the agency in its attempt to ban two psychedelic compounds, DOI and DOC. The judge recommended placing the psychedelics in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, despite opposition from researchers and advocates. The ruling could reignite a legal challenge, with critics questioning the judge's impartiality and the evidence supporting the ban. The DEA's actions have been criticized for lacking evidence of the compounds' high abuse potential and for using questionable tactics. Meanwhile, the rescheduling of marijuana is stalled, and the confirmation of a new DEA administrator is pending.

Jones Soda Co. sold its marijuana beverage business to MJ Reg Disrupters for $3 million.

The Lieutenant Governor of Texas criticized Governor Greg Abbott for vetoing a bill that would have banned hemp products containing THC, suggesting Abbott wants to legalize recreational marijuana. Abbott, however, proposed a regulatory framework similar to alcohol, which the legislature will consider in a special session. Meanwhile, a recent poll shows that Texas voters oppose the hemp ban.

A new poll shows that most Utah voters support marijuana legalization, but top GOP lawmakers still oppose the reform. The survey found that 53% of respondents support adult-use cannabis legalization, while 77% support the state’s existing medical cannabis law. Despite these findings, GOP leadership remains opposed, citing concerns about social consequences and misuse.

The Texas hemp-derived THC industry, valued at $5.5 billion, is preserved due to Gov. Greg Abbott's veto of a bill that would have banned its largest market.

Leafly's queer staff recommends strains and brands for Pride Month and beyond. The post "What is Leafly’s queer staff smoking this Pride?" appeared first on Leafly.

This article discusses Rick Steves' advocacy for cannabis legalization, connecting it to his views on personal freedom, civil liberties, and harm reduction. Steves, a travel expert, sees cannabis reform as a social justice issue, emphasizing the importance of pragmatic approaches and the need to move away from outdated views. He believes in the civil liberty of adults to use marijuana recreationally and highlights the economic benefits of legalization, while also acknowledging the need for regulations. The article also touches on how Steves' travel experiences have shaped his perspective and how other countries approach cannabis policies.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants lawmakers to regulate hemp THC products like alcohol after vetoing a bill to ban most consumable cannabinoids. He proposed a regulatory framework with age restrictions, zoning requirements, and bans on public consumption. A special legislative session will address this issue, with hemp advocates and veterans opposing the ban.

A Michigan marijuana shop's Bigfoot statue is causing controversy, with critics saying it appeals to kids. Additionally, marijuana companies are using creative ways to gain publicity, such as speed-rolling tournaments and offering jobs to sample and review products.

Gotham, a female-founded concept store, opened its fourth location in Chelsea, New York. The new location features Gotham Gallery, the city’s first dedicated art exhibition space within a cannabis retail environment. The space combines retail with an artistic aesthetic and offers space for exhibitions. The debut exhibition, “The World is Yours,” features rapper Nas and homeware design studio Objects Are By. The Chelsea location offers products and events. Gotham’s Editions initiative will offer limited-edition, artist-designed products this fall. The new location proves that Gotham is more than a dispensary; it is a cultural institution.

A Seattle-based craft beverage company sold its cannabis segment, including its Mary Jones brand assets, to MJ Reg Disrupters.

Texas's hemp THC industry will not be banned as Governor Abbott vetoed a bill to do so. The governor also signed a proposal to expand the state's cannabis program.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis pardoned individuals convicted of possessing certain psychedelic substances, specifically psilocybin and psilocin. These pardons align with the state's 2023 decriminalization of low-level possession of natural psychedelics. Polis announced the pardons at the Psychedelic Science 2025 conference, emphasizing Colorado's shift away from outdated drug policies.

7 In 10 US Voters Support Federal Marijuana Reform, And Nearly Half Would View Trump More Favorably If He Took Action, Poll Shows

Gov. Greg Abbott disapproves of Senate Bill 3, which clashes with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's policy, and Abbott believes improvements can be made.

Letting Marijuana Users Have Guns Poses ‘A Clear Danger,’ Trump’s Solicitor General Tells Supreme Court