Maryland Cannabis News

A new bill in Pennsylvania, SB 926, aims to protect parents who are medical marijuana patients from losing child custody or being subjected to drug tests solely based on their patient status. This legislation, introduced by Sen. John Kane, seeks to clarify existing state law and prevent lawful medical marijuana use from being used against parents in custody disputes. The push for this reform is happening alongside a broader effort to legalize adult-use marijuana in Pennsylvania, with several other bills and proposals currently under consideration, facing bipartisan support and opposition within the legislature.

Congressional Subcommittee Votes To Keep Blocking Marijuana Sales In D.C. As Trump Requested In Budget

Pennsylvania House Democrats are urging voters to pressure state senators to pass HB 1200, a bill to legalize marijuana and sell it through state-owned stores, citing health, safety, and revenue benefits. The bill narrowly passed the House but was rejected by a Senate committee. Despite bipartisan support among voters, the reform faces opposition from Senate Republicans. Other legalization proposals are in discussion, and supporters believe growing public sentiment will help overcome legislative hurdles. The governor also supports legalization, emphasizing competitiveness with surrounding states.

Senators Advance Bill Continuing Medical Marijuana Protections And Omitting House Proposal To Block Rescheduling

Ascend Wellness Holdings Inc. has launched a new e-commerce platform and "Ascenders Club" loyalty program. The loyalty program has four tiers (Blue, Gold, Platinum, and Legends Club) and offers personalized perks and benefits. The new platform includes an AI-powered recommendation engine, Ascend Pay for cashless transactions, and a new shopping app with integrated loyalty features. The "Ascenders Club" launched on July 15th, with existing customers automatically enrolled.

A Republican Pennsylvania senator, Dan Laughlin, believes that supporters of marijuana legalization are gaining votes to pass reform this session. He states that people prefer legalizing cannabis for revenue rather than increasing taxes to balance the budget. Laughlin, along with Sen. Sharif Street, introduced a bill to legalize adult-use cannabis. There are also other proposals, including a House companion version, under consideration. Despite previous setbacks, lawmakers are optimistic about passing a bill that would also include sealing and expunging cannabis-related convictions. However, there are conflicting views on the model of cannabis sales (state-run vs. private businesses) and the political dynamic with a GOP-controlled Senate. Despite these challenges, polls show strong public support for legalization. The governor also supports legalization, emphasizing economic benefits and public safety.

A Democratic Pennsylvania House lawmaker, Rep. Amen Brown, has filed a new marijuana legalization bill, mirroring a bipartisan Senate proposal. He argues that legalization would expand patient access, strengthen the state's cannabis infrastructure, ensure product safety, combat the black market, and address disproportionate arrests in communities of color. Brown emphasizes the economic benefits, citing other states, and warns against high tax rates that could drive consumers to illicit markets. Other lawmakers have also introduced similar bills, highlighting the bipartisan support and economic opportunities for Pennsylvania. Despite broad public support, legislative efforts have faced hurdles, particularly regarding state-run stores and the need for Republican support in the Senate.

A congressional committee approved a spending bill that includes provisions to block the Justice Department from rescheduling marijuana and maintains protections for state medical cannabis programs, with new language for enhanced penalties for sales near schools. The bill would specifically prevent the Justice Department from using funds to reschedule or deschedule marijuana. The Drug Enforcement Administration's marijuana rescheduling process remains stalled. Separately, discussions around marijuana policy reform and rescheduling efforts continue among politicians and advocates.

The text is a newsletter from Marijuana Moment, dated July 15, 2025. Key topics include: a House committee blocking marijuana rescheduling while protecting medical cannabis laws; a Senate committee report on cannabis marketing and hemp rules, and support for psychedelic research; the National Institute on Drug Abuse ending its marijuana cultivation contract with the University of Mississippi; Delaware's governor weighing local control against the slow start of the legal cannabis market; and new marijuana legalization bills in the Pennsylvania House and Senate. Other sections cover federal and state news, local incidents, international developments, science and health updates, advocacy, business news, and culture.

Bipartisan lawmakers in Pennsylvania have filed new bills to legalize marijuana. The House has filed legislation establishing the Keystone Cannabis Authority and the Community Opportunity Fund, aiming to close a budget gap and create jobs. Meanwhile, a companion bill to a Senate legalization proposal is also expected to be filed in the House. Lawmakers supporting legalization emphasize economic opportunity, justice, equity, and responsible regulation, including expungement of low-level offenses. The governor has called for adult-use marijuana legalization, stressing competitiveness and the need to address the illicit market. Despite bipartisan support among voters, legislative efforts have stalled due to conflicting views, particularly on state-run stores versus private sales, and the need for Republican support in the Senate.

A new report from the Senate Appropriations Committee expresses concerns about misleading marketing of cannabis products and the need for revised hemp rules, while also supporting research into psychedelic medicines. The report is attached to a spending bill that initially proposed a federal ban on hemp products with any quantifiable THC, but senators agreed to delay implementation for a year. The committee is concerned about non-FFDCA compliant cannabis products making unsubstantiated health claims. They also encourage the FDA to collaborate with the VA, DoD, and NIH on psychedelic research. On hemp, the committee recognizes consumer demand and the need for clear, science-based guidance, directing the FDA to engage with industry stakeholders and seek information from states on cannabinoid limits and age restrictions. Other provisions include improving data sharing between state and federal authorities, supporting hemp cultivar development, and establishing a hemp germplasm repository. Senator Mitch McConnell is reportedly behind the restrictive cannabis language in the bill. Senator Rand Paul has filed a bill to triple the legal THC concentration in hemp. The proposed legislation would effectively ban most commonly marketed hemp products. The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) has called on Congress to dial back the ban, advocating for the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids and prohibiting synthetic items.

Ceres Naturals, a Maryland-licensed cannabis processor, entered a Consent Order with the Maryland Cannabis Administration following an inspection that revealed several regulatory violations. These violations included issues with visitor logs, cannabis storage and disposal, unregistered and untrained staff, and equipment sanitation. The company agreed to corrective actions to avoid a formal hearing, underscoring the state's strict regulation of cannabis businesses.

The author, Ryan Basore, a former federal prisoner for medical cannabis cultivation, launched Redemption Cannabis and the Redemption Foundation. His cannabis brand is now available in West Virginia, where he was incarcerated. The Redemption Foundation provides expungements and financial support to non-violent cannabis offenders still in prison, partnering with organizations like Mission Green and the Last Prisoner Project. Basore emphasizes that despite widespread legalization, many people remain incarcerated for cannabis offenses, and federal law, which classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug, needs to change for true justice. He states that 10% of Redemption Cannabis licensing revenue supports incarcerated individuals and their release, highlighting that buying their products contributes to the pursuit of justice.

A new study found that psychedelic retreats using psilocybin and ayahuasca significantly improved mental health in military veterans, including reductions in PTSD, depression, and anxiety symptoms, improved sleep, quality of life, and post-deployment reintegration. Psilocybin showed greater overall improvements, while ayahuasca was slightly more effective for PTSD. The study emphasizes the positive impact of psychedelic retreats on veterans' mental health and general well-being, highlighting the potential benefits of the communal experience. The study comes as pressure builds at state and federal levels to ease access to psychedelics, especially for veterans with PTSD, with government officials expressing interest in expanding research and access.

Bipartisan Pennsylvania Senators Dan Laughlin (R) and Sharif Street (D) have filed a bill to legalize adult-use marijuana in the state. The legislation aims to create a Cannabis Control Board, protect consumers, expunge past offenses, and reinvest in communities impacted by prohibition. Supporters highlight the economic benefits and the need for Pennsylvania to catch up with neighboring states that have already legalized cannabis. While there is bipartisan support among voters, the reform has faced legislative hurdles, particularly in the GOP-controlled Senate. Governor Josh Shapiro (D) has also called for legalization, emphasizing the economic advantages and the need to regulate the illicit market.

A Senate committee approved a bill to ban consumable hemp products with any quantifiable amount of THC, but delayed implementation for one year. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) supported the ban to close a "loophole" from the 2018 Farm Bill that led to intoxicating cannabinoid products. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) expressed concern that the ban would be overbroad, affecting non-intoxicating products like CBD. Industry experts fear it would effectively ban most CBD products due to trace THC. The new bill text has not been released, but sources say it's similar to a House bill. There are some differences in the definition of "quantifiable" THC and an exception for FDA-approved drugs. The alcohol industry also advocates for maintaining the legality of naturally derived cannabinoids while banning synthetic items.

A new federally funded study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that medical marijuana significantly decreased self-reported anxiety and depression in patients within three months of initiation, with sustained reductions over six months. The study, conducted by Johns Hopkins University and funded in part by NIDA, observed 33 adults in Maryland who used medical cannabis. Most participants chose THC-dominant products, and while reporting mental health benefits, also noted a decline in perceived driving ability and an increase in feeling high. Authors recommend further controlled clinical trials to investigate efficacy and safety. Other recent research also supports cannabis, particularly CBD, for its potential antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties.

Maryland is implementing new cannabis restrictions on July 1, capping THC content in unlicensed products and increasing regulatory oversight. Unlicensed products are prohibited from containing more than 0.5 mg THC per serving or 2.5 mg per package, with violators facing misdemeanor charges and fines. Licensed dispensaries are unaffected, but unlicensed retailers must comply. These changes aim to protect consumers from untested or potent illicit goods.

The cannabis brand Cookies, founded by rapper Berner, is opening its East Coast flagship in Washington, D.C. Maryland is also improving cannabis equity with a new CEO Accelerator Program launched on June 24.

Senator Mitch McConnell is reportedly pushing legislation to ban consumable hemp products with quantifiable amounts of THC, which stakeholders say would effectively eliminate much of the consumable hemp market, including most CBD products due to trace THC. This move is seen as an attempt to close a "loophole" in the 2018 Farm Bill that led to the proliferation of unregulated intoxicating cannabinoid products. The proposed language, similar to what passed the House Appropriations Committee, is facing opposition from some senators and industry groups who argue it would devastate the American hemp industry, though others are unconcerned about potential Senate opposition.

This newsletter from Marijuana Moment covers various cannabis and psychedelics-related news. Key topics include a federal judge upholding a gun ban for marijuana users, a former Navy SEAL discussing psychedelic therapy for PTSD, and a scientific review on what gives cannabis strains their aroma and flavor. It also highlights a study on cannabis consumption in California, Maryland's plan for a state-owned cannabis incubator, and updates on cannabis legislation and regulation in several states. Other sections touch on international drug policy, science and health studies related to cannabis and psychedelics, and business news in the cannabis industry.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced that the state will find a new location for its planned $7 million cannabis incubator project due to local opposition to the original site in Catonsville. The new site will not be near residential communities or schools. The project aims to be the country's first state-owned cannabis incubator, allowing up to 110 microbusinesses to store and process cannabis products.

The July 7, 2025 edition of Marijuana Moment’s newsletter covers several key developments in cannabis and psychedelics policy. The Czech Republic Senate passed a bill legalizing marijuana possession and home cultivation, and allowing medical psilocybin. VA Secretary Doug Collins praised psychedelics' effectiveness in treating veterans. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) indicated that a cannabis banking bill is pending, delayed by other legislative priorities. A new study links frequent cannabis use with increased daily sexual desire. Other stories include California and Texas lawmakers' debates on marijuana taxes and hemp product regulations, updates on medical cannabis operations in Rhode Island and Delaware, and a survey challenging "lazy stoner" stereotypes in Des Moines, Iowa. Federal news includes the Bureau of Land Management’s contract for cannabis cultivation reclamation, a warning about synthetic kratom, and a proposed amendment on minors' access to sensitive content online. State-level updates cover expungement laws in Maryland, Georgia's medical marijuana study committee, crackdowns on intoxicating hemp in Arizona, product recalls in California and Minnesota, license payment reminders in Colorado, free marijuana locking bags in Michigan, and a cannabis regulation collaborative in Missouri. Local news includes Dallas, Texas officials seeking an injunction against voter-approved marijuana decriminalization. Internationally, an Israeli official upheld the rejection of tariffs on Canadian medical cannabis imports. Science and health news highlights phytocannabinoids' potential as antifungal treatments and psychedelics' potential to alleviate pain. Business news includes Blum Holdings, Inc. acquiring a Northern California dispensary.

Maryland launched a cannabis equity ecosystem, including a CEO Accelerator Program, on June 24, 2025. This program, led by the Office of Social Equity, supports 191 social equity licensees with business development, financial training, and mentorship, in partnership with NuProject and Coppin State University.

This article from Marijuana Moment summarizes cannabis-related news. Key topics include Wisconsin's rejection of marijuana amendments, California ending cannabis testing for prison guards, a lawsuit against the federal government regarding marijuana use and security clearances, and researchers arguing that marijuana's Schedule I status hinders research. It also covers federal and state-level developments, international updates on CBD products, scientific reviews on cannabinoids and psychedelics, business news from AYR Wellness Inc. and Washington D.C. dispensaries, and a cultural mention of Mike Tyson.

California senators have passed a bill to ratify a labor agreement that will end random marijuana drug tests for most correctional officers, acknowledging a state law protecting employees from discrimination based on off-duty cannabis use. However, officers with commercial driver's licenses will still be tested. This is part of an ongoing evolution of California employment policies since cannabis legalization, which has included removing past marijuana use questions for police applicants and prohibiting employers from penalizing employees for lawful off-duty use. The article also mentions related developments in Oregon, Maryland, and Delaware.

Researchers involved in a federally funded clinical trial on marijuana highlight the critical importance of further study into the substance, given its widespread use. They argue that classifying cannabis as a Schedule I substance creates a paradox, as it heavily restricts the very studies needed to prove its medical value. The researchers advocate for moving marijuana to Schedule III to ease restrictions, increase NIH funding, and improve access to government-approved cannabis supplies. They also point out obstacles such as systemic underfunding, institutional hesitancy due to stigma, navigating multiple federal agencies, and limited supply of NIDA-approved marijuana. The article emphasizes that reform is crucial to close the evidence gap and address public health concerns.

The July 3, 2025 edition of the Marijuana Moment newsletter highlights several key developments in cannabis policy, including Hawaii's expansion of medical cannabis access, Florida's progress toward a 2026 legalization initiative, New Jersey's acceptance of marijuana consumption lounge applications, and a poll indicating most cannabis consumers use it as a prescription medication substitute. It also covers federal discussions on marijuana rescheduling, state-level legislative changes and regulatory actions, and international developments in Georgia. The newsletter also touches on scientific research into cannabis and psychedelics, and business news within the cannabis industry.

TerrAscend Corp. is exiting the Michigan cannabis market by selling its assets, including cultivation and processing facilities, 20 retail dispensaries, and real estate, to pay down debt. This "strategic" decision, according to Executive Chairman Jason Wild, is due to the difficulty of the Michigan market and will allow the company to focus on its core markets in the northeastern U.S. (New Jersey, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Ohio). The exit will result in a 21% workforce reduction (approximately 1,200 employees) by the end of Q3 2025. Following the plan's completion, TerrAscend will operate 19 dispensaries and four cultivation/processing facilities across five U.S. states and Toronto. The Michigan exit is expected to be mostly completed in the second half of 2025 and will be reported as discontinued operations starting in Q2 financial results.

New York-based Cannabis Public Policy Consulting LLC was awarded a $238,700 contract to study Missouri's marijuana market for the next year. The study aims to determine if and when the state needs to issue additional cannabis facility licenses, and to provide information on the economic stability of the regulated market, including its impact on economically distressed areas. Missouri's cannabis market has been successful, with $1.46 billion in sales in 2024, partly due to limiting the number of licenses. The study will also help create a plan to promote ownership and employment in the marijuana industry for people from economically distressed areas.

Summary: D.C., Virginia and Maryland cannabis news from June 25 to July 1, 2025.

It’s Time For Congress To Create A Federal Pathway For Medical Cannabis Access (Op-Ed)

Pennsylvania senators have introduced a bipartisan bill to create a new regulatory body, the Cannabis Control Board (CCB), to oversee medical cannabis and prepare for eventual adult-use legalization. The bill, sponsored by Senator Dan Laughlin, aims to establish a transparent and efficient framework for the cannabis industry, ensuring the state is ready when adult-use legalization passes. The CCB would consolidate oversight, enhance transparency, and manage the industry. While the bill doesn't explicitly legalize adult-use cannabis, it sets up the infrastructure for it. Democrats and some Republicans support legalization due to public health and safety concerns, economic benefits, and competitiveness with neighboring states that have already legalized. Despite bipartisan voter support, the reform faces hurdles in the legislature due to conflicting views on a state-controlled versus private sales model and the need for Republican support in the GOP-controlled Senate.

House bill would “destroy” hemp industry, GOP senator says (Newsletter: July 1, 2025)

Cannabis workers at The Apothecarium dispensaries in Cumberland and Salisbury, Maryland, are publicly challenging their parent company, TerrAscend, over alleged union-busting tactics.

Weed, an IP company focused on well-being, is partnering with Khalifa Kush, Wiz Khalifa's cannabis brand, to commercialize its "Weed" branded well-being lifestyle products. This partnership aims to destigmatize the word "weed" and redefine it as a term for happiness and personal fulfillment, using AI and Web3 technology. Khalifa Kush's CEO and Co-Founder will join Weed's Board of Advisors. Weed Holdings, founded in 2022, owns the trademarks for "Weed" across various industries and plans aggressive commercialization through licensing, Web3, and AI. Khalifa Kush, established in 2015, is a global cannabis brand expanding into new markets.

A House bill aiming to ban THC hemp products is facing strong opposition from Sen. Rand Paul, who believes it would "completely destroy" the American hemp industry. The bill, championed by Rep. Andy Harris, would prohibit products containing any "quantifiable" amounts of THC, which would include most CBD items that naturally have trace amounts of THC. Paul has introduced his own bill, the HEMP Act, which seeks to triple the legal THC concentration in hemp and address other industry concerns. The Congressional Research Service also reported that the House legislation would effectively ban hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America has urged Congress to reconsider the ban, advocating for state-level regulation of intoxicating products and a federal system for testing and labeling.

Chicago police will update their policy to discourage vehicle searches based solely on the smell of raw marijuana, a move applauded by the ACLU of Illinois. This change responds to conflicting state Supreme Court rulings regarding the smell of burnt versus unburnt cannabis as probable cause for searches. Advocates are also pushing for legislative changes to eliminate the odor-proof container requirement for cannabis in vehicles, which would overrule a previous court decision. Other states like Maryland, Minnesota, and New York have also passed laws limiting police searches based on cannabis odor alone. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently highlighted the state's significant marijuana sales revenue but expressed concerns about the unregulated hemp market.

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

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

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.

* Texas expands medical cannabis law, but vetoes hemp product ban.
* Bernie Moreno delays cannabis banking bill discussions.
* New Jersey offers cannabis training.
* Study: LSD may help with depression.
* Massachusetts and Missouri are reviewing cannabis regulations.

State legislatures considered criminal justice reform bills related to marijuana, but many failed. The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) calls this the "hidden crisis in cannabis reform." Bills to seal records and release incarcerated individuals fell short in several states. Virginia's resentencing bill was vetoed. However, Maryland and Hawaii saw landmark victories in record relief and expungement. LPP advocates for addressing past drug war harms and urges action on cannabis justice.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) announced pardons for nearly 7,000 people convicted of cannabis crimes. This follows a previous pardoning of over 175,000 past cannabis convictions. Moore also announced investments for underserved neighborhoods, historically Black universities and colleges, and procurement contracts for Black-owned businesses. The governor's pardons forgive past convictions but do not expunge them. A bill was signed into law to automatically shield low-level cannabis convictions from public view. Maryland's adult-use cannabis market launched in 2023.

The Congressional Research Service said a bill advancing through the House would “effectively” ban hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) marked Juneteenth with a new round of pardons for marijuana possession convictions. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) is continuing to push for marijuana legalization. An agreement between Ohio House and Senate lawmakers on how to amend the voter-approved marijuana legalization law fell apart. A New Hampshire House-Senate conference committee agreed to lower penalties for first-time possession of psilocybin. The New York Office of Cannabis Management awarded the first 52 grants. California regulators are using marijuana revenue to support research projects. FundCanna CEO Adam Stettner argues it’s “hypocritical” and “illogical” for Texas lawmakers to spend $50 million to support research on the psychedelic ibogaine while continuing to criminalize cannabis. Former Department of Government Efficiency head Elon Musk posted a report from a second drug test showing negative results for various substances. A study found that “medical cannabis pharmacies can provide an effective adjuvant intervention for pediatric cancer symptoms.” Law enforcement and anti-drug groups sent a letter urging Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) to sign a bill banning consumable hemp products with any amount of THC.

The governor of Maryland issued another mass pardon for about 7,000 people with past marijuana possession convictions, coinciding with Juneteenth. This follows a previous pardon of over 175,000 convictions. The new executive order addresses cases initially missed due to technical issues. The governor is acting to correct historical injustices, particularly impacting African Americans. Legislation was also passed to expand expungement opportunities and address other marijuana-related issues.

A Pennsylvania Republican says marijuana legalization will not be included in the 2026 budget, but Gov. Josh Shapiro hopes for a compromise. The budget deadline is June 30. Shapiro supports legalization, as do many Pennsylvanians, but Senate Republicans are resistant. The House passed a legalization bill, but it was rejected by a Senate committee. Lawmakers are divided, but some are aiming for a compromise. A recent poll shows majority support for legalization. The governor emphasizes the state is "losing out" to others that have already enacted adult-use legalization.

A Maryland hemp industry association and hemp businesses are suing the state over cannabis licensing and seized products. The lawsuit challenges state laws regulating hemp-derived products, the licensing system, and the social equity program. The plaintiffs argue the state's actions are overreach and economic favoritism.

Washington, D.C. is cracking down on unlicensed cannabis businesses. Maryland collected over $17.5 million in cannabis taxes in Q1 2025. The owner of Zarati shops in Virginia reached a plea deal in a drug and money laundering case.

*TX gov on hemp ban; FL medical marijuana patient penalty; OR appealing cannabis labor ruling; Petition on Facebook’s drug censorship; AK psychedelics*

A group of 11 Maryland hemp operators is suing the state in federal court as part of an ongoing quest to overturn a 2023 law that requires them to obtain a marijuana license to sell THC products. ‘Communist cannabis’: Maryland hemp operators ask judge to redo regulations is a post from: MJBizDaily: Financial, Legal & Cannabusiness news for cannabis entrepreneurs

GOP senators filed a bill to increase penalties for marijuana edibles; Wisconsin may legalize marijuana; Capitol Hemp is suing the federal government; a Colorado healing center administered the first psilocybin session; Snoop Dogg launched a new cannabis platform.

A hemp retailer in Washington, D.C. is suing the federal government over a budget restriction that prevents local officials from establishing and regulating a retail marijuana market. Capitol Hemp filed the suit in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on Thursday, seeking a declaration from a federal judge that the congressional budget rider doesn’t stand in the way of D.C. adopting legislation to regulate hemp. At the center of the lawsuit is the so-called Harris rider, a ban blocking Washington, D.C. from creating a system of regulated adult-use marijuana sales. The suit comes as federal and state lawmakers increasingly move to crack down on markets for intoxicating hemp products.

A powerful GOP-led congressional committee amended a report for a spending
bill containing provisions that hemp stakeholders say would upend the
industry, clarifying that the panel does not intend to prohibit
non-intoxicating cannabinoid products with “trace or insignificant amounts
of THC” that were federally legalized during the first Trump administration...

Current and former state officials, advocates and business representatives met last week to discuss the legal landscape around hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The discussion covered the explosion of intoxicating products, potential harms, and how policymakers are moving forward amid the uncertainty. The presentation, “Illicit Hemp-Derived Intoxicants: State Enforcement Mechanisms and Challenges,” was part of a project that seeks to provide dialogue on how cannabis legalization might preserve public health and safety. Since Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill, unregulated products containing THC have proliferated. At the state level, policymakers are taking steps to rein in the products. Multiple states have moved to ban intoxicating cannabinoids. As federal lawmakers consider changes, attorneys general can take other steps to limit possible harms. Speakers acknowledged that vagueness in the Farm Bill may have unintentionally created the intoxicating hemp market. The hemp market is in its infancy, and law enforcement is having a difficult time discerning who’s the good actor and who’s the bad actor. Michelle Minton explained model legislation she’d developed for possible use by state officials. Many state-licensed cannabis companies have complained that intoxicating hemp products unfairly compete with marijuana. During a Q\&A portion of the webinar, an audience member asked whether only retailers with liquor licenses should be able to sell intoxicating hemp products. Speakers said they expected Congress to attempt to close the hemp loophole. The latest legislation that would ban intoxicating cannabinoids now proceeds to a full House committee for consideration. The 138-page bill covers a wide range of issues, but for the hemp industry, there’s a section of particular concern that would redefine hemp. Hemp industry stakeholders rallied against that proposal. Alcohol industry representatives urged members of Congress to create a federal regulatory framework. A report called cannabis a “significant threat” to the alcohol industry.

*NC gov talks marijuana; LA psychedelics reso passes; ME psilocybin bill dies; PA medical cannabis workplace bill; Study: Marijuana genetic bottleneck*

Easyday Edibles’ Vision, Proposed Craft Endorsements, and the Harris Rider lives...

\*HI gov medical marijuana veto; USDA warning on cannabis & food stamps; Dispensary’s Bigfoot photo promo; TX decrim & democracy op-ed*

Key GOP congressional lawmakers are considering a bill that would ban most consumable hemp products. The bill would redefine hemp to prohibit products with any amount of THC or similar cannabinoids. Rep. Dave Joyce supports regulating the industry and wants to ensure only adults have access. The bill could ban even non-intoxicating CBD products with trace amounts of THC. The long-term solution may come through the next Farm Bill. The alcohol industry is pushing for federal regulation of intoxicating hemp-derived products.

Lawmakers are attempting to shut down the sale of hemp-derived THC products at the federal level. A House subcommittee voted to prohibit the sale of hemp-derived THC, closing the "hemp loophole." The National Cannabis Industry Association argues against this, stating that it would negatively impact public health and safety.

Marijuana puts “pressure” on alcohol sales; CO gov signs cannabis & psychedelics bills; OH legalization amendments; Legal cannabis & hotel profits. The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture approved a bill to ban most consumable hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Colorado Gov. Polis signed bills to streamline marijuana regulations. The Ohio House Judiciary Committee heard public testimony against a bill to revise the state’s marijuana legalization law. The Nevada legislature passed a resolution calling on the federal government to “reschedule” certain substances. A federal judge denied a motion regarding the state’s psilocybin services program. The CEO of Jack Daniel’s maker said growing use of cannabis is putting “pressure” on the spirits industry. A new study shows hotel revenue increases after cannabis legalization.

A GOP-led House committee approved a spending bill that could devastate the hemp industry by prohibiting most consumable cannabinoid products. The bill redefines hemp, potentially banning products with any "quantifiable" THC. Industry stakeholders and the alcohol industry have expressed concerns, and the bill is scheduled for further review.

A GOP-led House committee proposed a spending bill that would ban most consumable cannabinoid products, which hemp stakeholders say would devastate the industry. The bill redefines hemp to prohibit cannabis products with any “quantifiable” amount of THC. The bill also specifies that hemp does not include FDA-approved drugs.

A leader in innovative horticulture lighting solutions, the company was recognized at the council’s annual Industry Awards Celebration.

*PA gov on legalization; ME psilocybin; CA marijuana tax bill passes; TX hemp petitions; Ukraine medical cannabis import*

The Pennsylvania governor is hopeful that lawmakers will deliver a marijuana legalization bill by the end of the month. He's urging the GOP-controlled Senate to put their ideas on the table. The governor sees this as an issue of competitiveness, as neighboring states have legalized it. Discussions are ongoing, and the governor hopes for a budget package by the end of the month.

D.C., Virginia and Maryland cannabis news May 28 to June 2, 2025. Source

D.C., Virginia and Maryland cannabis news May 20 to May 27, 2025.

Source

he Maryland Office of Social Equity (OSE) will host a "From Seed to Success" Cannabis Business Vendor Fair on June 6, 2025. This event aims to connect Maryland's 191 Social Equity Cannabis Licensees with essential local vendors and service providers, including those in construction, legal, accounting, and security. Source

The Pennsylvania Senate Law and Justice Committee rejected the cannabis legalization bill passed by the House. Senator Dan Laughlin opposed the state-run dispensary system, fearing it would limit consumer choice. Senator Losa Boscola also declined to support the bill, stating she needed a better bill. The bill proposed state control of retail cannabis sales and set daily sales and possession limits, along with THC limits.

The cannabis workers at the company’s retail facility in Frederick voted to join the UFCW Local 27.

Story Cannabis has 40% off storewide at all four Maryland locations for 420.

Bye-bye, Dry January. Millions of weed smokers celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with cannabis. Legalization offers affordable alternatives to booze. The California outdoor is perfectly cured. Your favorite musician has a new strain. Maryland has \[…].