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GreenPharms in Mesa, Arizona, pioneered a supermarket-style cannabis dispensary, allowing customers to shop independently with carts and browse open shelves to make the experience feel like a familiar errand. This "grab-and-go" model, achieved through two years of regulatory persistence, helps normalize cannabis by tapping into the cultural familiarity and routines of everyday mini-mart shopping. < Back GreenPharms Feels Like Your Favorite Corner Store Jan 28, 2026 Taylor Engle MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Takeaways - *Self-guided shopping reduces intimidation* by making cannabis retail feel like a familiar errand. - *Merchandising drives discovery:* open shelves and readable labels encourage trial and add-on purchases. - *Staff support still matters:* Budtenders anchor the flower counter and checkout without hovering. - *Regulatory persistence is a competitive edge:* Two years of approvals created a first-mover format in Arizona. - *Routine builds loyalty:* Mini-mart behaviors (carts, aisles, browsing) help normalize cannabis through habit. Shopping at GreenPharms feels familiar. Light pours into the airy space in Mesa, Arizona. Aisles are clean, stocked, and easy to navigate. Shelves are well-lit. Customers grab a basket or buggy and wander the floor, exploring products at their own pace. The scene is pleasant, relaxed … more like a neighborhood grocery or corner store than a traditional cannabis dispensary. And that’s the point. A corner-store feel, by design [image: Shopping carts at the entrance of GreenPharms, facing bright aisles and open shelves.]Customers start like they would at a grocery store: grab a cart or basket, then browse. (Photo: Mike Rosati for GreenPharms) Founder and chief executive officer Marie Saloum set out to create a cannabis shopping experience that felt approachable and intuitive. As a first-generation American, a Hispanic business leader, and one of the few women CEOs in Arizona’s industry, Saloum blends resilience with vision. Her industry background crosses sectors, encompassing product brands like Cigaweeds, the medical card provider Marijuana Doctor, and events producer and lifestyle brand Trap Culture. Family-owned and -operated, vertically integrated GreenPharms is her latest effort to destigmatize and celebrate the plant. “Our biggest goal at GreenPharms is making friendly, easy access so people feel comfortable using cannabis,” she said. “Having to go to a budtender and have them grab everything for you doesn’t feel like a normal store. If you want cannabis to feel normal, you have to make the store feel that way.” The Mesa dispensary is the first of its kind in Arizona: a supermarket-style model that allows consumers to peruse shelves, read labels, and shop with autonomy and agency. It’s a shopping experience born of persistence in the face of regulatory back-and-forth, and it might just set the stage for the future of cannabis retail in the state. From lottery license to retail reinvention [image: Exterior of the GreenPharms building in Mesa, Arizona, with the GreenPharms sign above the entrance.]GreenPharms’ Mesa location is Arizona’s first supermarket-style cannabis dispensary. (Photo: Mike Rosati for GreenPharms) GreenPharms has been part of Arizona’s commercial scene since 2013, when the Saloum family opened Flagstaff’s first licensed medical dispensary. After voters approved adult use in 2020, the by-then three-store chain was picked third in the state’s license lottery for recreational sales. To better serve Mesa’s considerable recreational market, the Saloums decided to renovate the dispensary in that market using mini-marts’ “grab-and-go” concept. At first, regulators balked at what they considered a radical idea. “It took two years of going back and forth between the state, the health department, and the city” to get the remodeling plans approved, Saloum said. “They each had their own restrictions, so we had to go back to square one a few times and really figure out how to make it work. This was something they’d never heard of before, and we got so much pushback. It was such a risk. There were times I didn’t think it would ever get done.” The result turned out to be worth the frustration. The Mesa store feels simultaneously groundbreaking and comfortable. For consumers, the shopping experience is as natural as stopping by the corner store to pick up a few groceries. For Saloum and her team, the new-to-Arizona concept is proof that persistence and creative problem-solving can reimagine the way dispensaries look and perform. Designing for the errand, not the counter [image: GreenPharms interior showing category shelving and central displays arranged for grab-and-go shopping.]Merchandising is built for discovery: browse, compare, and choose without pressure. (Photo: Mike Rosati for GreenPharms) The Mesa renovation was a family affair. Saloum collaborated with her husband and brothers to create a space that not only adhered to regulations but also reflected their collective consumer instincts. “We all brought our own ideas of what a good shopping experience should look like to the table,” she said. “For example, one of my brothers wanted open aisles, because he shops at hardware stores a lot and likes how open [that environment] feels,” Saloum said. “For me, I like everything close. I don’t like signs to be too high, because then I can’t read them. So certain areas are lower because products are easier to grab. It was really a collaboration of what everyone wanted to see.” One thing the entire family agreed on: keeping consumers front and center in every remodeling decision. That focus resulted in shelves that are positioned for visibility and aisles that are navigable and inviting. As a whole, the finished space encourages exploration and discovery. “When you walk in, you grab your shopping cart or your basket, check in, and then take all the time you need exploring,” Saloum said. “We tried to make it easy and normal like every other store. “When designing, we really had to prioritize shopping convenience,” she added, “because we are all consumers at the end of the day. We go buy our groceries or our makeup, and we know what we like versus what we won’t go for.” The approach has paid off. Customers not only appreciate the “everyday shopping experience” but also find themselves trying products they otherwise might not have noticed. “I see customers trying items they haven’t tried in the past because they’re really able to explore and peruse on their own,” Saloum said. “They can walk around, find new items, discover new brands, and see what’s out there on the market.” Self-guided shopping, staffed support Amid the consumer freedom, budtenders still staff the deli-style flower counter and checkout stations, but their role feels more akin to employees at Best Buy or Sephora: available when needed, but never intrusive. Shoppers can flag down a budtender for help, but otherwise they enjoy the autonomy of browsing and learning at their own pace. Customers call the experience ‘liberating’ [image: A staff member stocks products along a brightly lit aisle at GreenPharms in Mesa, Arizona.]Open aisles and visible merchandising help shoppers explore at their own pace. (Photo: GreenPharms) Along with regulators, the community has embraced the concept, Saloum said. “Feedback has been great,” she revealed. “People appreciate what we were going for. They see the vision, which is beautiful, and they understand that we’re trying to make cannabis feel like a regular shopping experience.” Customers have called walking the aisles, comparing products, and making their own decisions without pressure “liberating.” For a plant that’s still overcoming stigma, the normalized environment matters. “It’s all about making [the experience] comfortable and memorable,” Saloum said. “When you hear our name, I want people to have good memories and want to come back.” Next stop: Phoenix — and a bigger bet on browsing [image: Wide interior view of GreenPharms Mesa with bright aisles, open shelving, and product displays.]The Mesa dispensary is designed to feel like a familiar corner-store shopping trip. (Photo: Mike Rosati for GreenPharms) GreenPharms isn’t slowing down. Saloum has her sights set on expanding the grab-and-go model into new markets, beginning with a flagship Phoenix location expected to open in early 2026. The two-story, 5,000-square-foot Phoenix store will feature all the hallmarks of the Mesa shop: shopping carts, baskets, and self-guided browsing, but with additional features. A drive-thru window will allow for quick pickups, and an upstairs lounge will provide customers a new reason to visit. “It’s the first two-story dispensary in Arizona where you can go upstairs and shop,” Saloum said. “We’re trying to think outside the box even more, to see what else we can bring to that location that we’re not already doing. Of course, the consumer is always in mind. It’s essential that they have a great experience and that they remember us.” Why the mini-mart model works Why does the Mesa GreenPharms resonate so strongly with consumers? The answer may lie in the cultural familiarity of the “mini-mart.” Convenience stores, or mini-marts, emerged in the United States in the 1920s, most famously with the birth of 7-Eleven (then called Tote’m) in Dallas. By the mid-twentieth century, they had become fixtures of American life. Open late, easily accessible, and endlessly reliable, the corner store became a quiet backdrop to daily routines. And that’s the key: routine. Mini-marts and supermarkets tap into the psychology of habit. They offer freedom to browse, compare, and make spontaneous choices, but they also provide comfort through repetition. The bread is always on the same aisle. Drinks are easy to locate and grab. Customers can pop in to snag a quick snack or a carton of milk on their way home from work. These tiny, everyday behaviors build trust and loyalty in ways that don’t require marketing slogans or glossy campaigns. They simply become part of life. Cannabis dispensaries, by contrast, trend closer to jewelers or pharmacies than grocery stores. Products usually are locked behind glass, transactions are managed by a professional, and autonomous browsing and discovery are often discouraged; sometimes even prohibited. For consumers who are new to regulated cannabis, that model can feel intimidating. Experienced shoppers can find the model frustrating. GreenPharms bridges the gap by making cannabis shopping feel as casual as a stop at the corner store. Suddenly, cannabis is no longer mysterious or taboo. It’s just another errand on the way home from work. That subtle reframing has big implications. By adopting the rituals of everyday shopping — grabbing a cart, strolling aisles, deciding between infused gummies the same way you’d choose between breakfast cereals — GreenPharms is helping normalize cannabis in a way no splashy campaign, bold declaration, or glitzy environment ever could. Habit is a subtle but powerful force. We are all creatures of routine. And when picking up an eighth feels no different from picking up a loaf of bread, normalization becomes less of a lofty cultural goal and more of a lived reality. ------------------------------ Corner-store cannabis: your questions answered 1. What makes GreenPharms different from a traditional dispensary? GreenPharms uses a supermarket-style floor where customers can browse aisles, compare products, and read labels at their own pace while shopping with baskets or carts. 2. Can customers shop without speaking with a budtender? Yes. Shoppers can browse independently, but budtenders remain available at the flower counter and checkout for support when needed. 3. Why did regulators push back on the concept? Because open browsing and self-guided shopping were unfamiliar in cannabis retail. The team worked through layered compliance requirements across state, health, and city regulators. 4. Does the store still have a traditional flower bar? Yes. Flower is supported by a deli-style counter and staff, while the rest of the store is built for customer-led discovery. 5. Why does the mini-mart model help normalize cannabis? It taps into everyday retail routines — grabbing a basket, walking aisles, making choices — so cannabis feels less intimidating and more ordinary. 6. Is GreenPharms expanding the grab-and-go model? Yes. The company is planning a Phoenix flagship location expected to open in early 2026, adding features like quick pickup options and an upstairs lounge. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... 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Did you know that you spend approximately one-third of your life sleeping? March is National Sleep Month, so now is the perfect time to reflect on your sleep health. Sleep is essential for brain function, emotional well-being, and physical health. If you don’t get enough sleep, you run the risk of developing chronic conditions. About 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep disorders. Cannabis may be a beneficial sleep aid. National Sleep Month’s Top 10 Hemp-Derived Sleep Aids are mentioned. Good sleep is a necessity for optimal health and well-being. < Back Top 10 THC and CBD Products to Improve Sleep Quality Mar 1, 2025 Cannabis Now Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Did you know that you spend approximately one-third of your life sleeping? March is National Sleep Month, so now is the perfect time to reflect on your sleep health. Sleep is one of the four pillars of health and is essential for brain function, emotional well-being and physical health. If you don’t get enough sleep, you run the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease, obesity and cognitive decline. If you struggle to get enough sleep, you’re not alone. About 50 to 70 million Americans have sleep disorders. 1 in 3 adults (about 84 million people) don’t regularly get the recommended amount of uninterrupted sleep needed to protect their health. According to a 2022 Gallup survey, only 32% of Americans said they got “excellent” or “very good” sleep; 35% described their sleep as “good,” and 33% said their sleep was “fair” or “poor.” Cannabis and Sleep Cannabis is regarded by many to be a beneficial sleep aid. It may reportedly “help you fall asleep faster, sleep more soundly, or otherwise improve the overall quality of your sleep.” The cannabinoids found in cannabis, like THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex set of receptors regulates sleep, mood and relaxation. When cannabinoids bind to CB1 receptors in the brain, they send messages to increase levels of sleep-promoting adenosine and suppress the brain’s arousal system. Together, these effects may help cannabis users feel sedated or sleepy. Many people already use cannabis as a sleep aid; a Sleep Foundation survey found that around 70% of young adults regularly use cannabis to help them fall asleep. Plus, as many as 85% say it improves their sleep quality. Another cannabinoid is gaining in popularity to help improve sleep. Cannabinol (CBN) is gaining a reputation for being the “sleepy cannabinoid.” It’s a non-psychoactive minor cannabinoid that forms as THC degrades from oxidation. Research shows that CBN is effective when combined with the two main cannabinoids in either full-spectrum or broad-spectrum formulations. Companies that are ahead of the game are including CBN in their CBD-based sleep products. National Sleep Month’s Top 10 Hemp-Derived Sleep Aids Whether you’re dealing with occasional sleeplessness or chronic insomnia, these natural, hemp-derived sleep aids might be the missing piece in your sleep puzzle. And because they’re all derived from the hemp plant, they’re federally legal so you can order from anywhere in the US. Kanha FX Sleep Marionberry Plum Gummies Kanha’s Marionberry Plum Gummies feature a 3:2:1 blend of CBD, CBN and THC. These are specially formulated to gently relax you and melt away stress for a deep, restorative slumber. Each gummy contains 30mg CBD, 20mg CBN and 10mg THC to help you sleep soundly. These fast-acting NANO technology powered gummies have a rapid onset of that are often felt in a matter of minutes. Opal & Joy Restorative Sleep System Opal & Joy’s Restorative Sleep System is a unique, dual-product system that’s specifically designed for women experiencing perimenopause sleep issues. It’s made up of two products: Rest, which supports the endocannabinoid system and contains full-spectrum CBD, CBN and linalool; and Relax, which supports the endocrine system and contains powerful adaptogens including reishi and ashwagandha. This ground-breaking, clinically formulated approach provides wrap-around support for women to help tackle the source of perimenopause sleep issues, like hormone regulation, anxiety, insomnia, night sweats, joint pain and more. Medtarra Sound Asleep CBD Gummies Medtarra’s Sound Asleep CBD gummies are a high-potency blend of THC, melatonin, L-theanine and CBD. Scientifically crafted to promote a healthy sleep cycle and ensure you awake refreshed, each gummy contains 50mg CBD and 5mg THC. Viia Hemp Zen Sleep CBN Gummies For those seeking the benefits of cannabinoids without THC, Viia Hemp’s Zen Sleep gummies combine CBN with other sleep-promoting ingredients, including L-Theanine, which is an amino acid in tea leaves that may promote relaxation and relief. URB Mile High Skybites For those with a higher tolerance, the Mile High Skybites from URB might be the ticket to deep sleep. Formulated using Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP) and nano D9, URB claims these to be the strongest gummies it’s ever produced. Choose from various mouth-watering flavors, including Passion Fruit, Watermelon Juice and Guava Smoothie. Sleepy Bear Premium Sleep Support Sleepy Bear also taps into the power of CBN and Melatonin. Its proprietary 5/3/2 Formula combines specific amounts of CBD, CBN and melatonin to help restore your natural sleep cycle and improve long-term sleep quality. Each gummy contains 15mg CBD, 9mg CBN and 2mg melatonin. The top-selling CBD sleep brand also has a CBD/CBN-only version, as well as a CBN/THC version, giving you lots of options to choose from. Charlotte’s Web Sleep Gummy Formulated with melatonin and its famous CBD oil, Sleep Gummy by Charlotte’s Web supports sound sleep and balanced sleep cycles. Each gummy contains 10mg CBD and 3mg melatonin and are in a natural raspberry flavor. Plain Jane Sleep Gummies Plain Jane’s Sleep Gummies offer a delicious and beginner-friendly way to experience the benefits of CBD, CBN and melatonin. Each blueberry-flavored gummy contains approximately 9.40mg of full-spectrum CBD, 4.18mg of CBN and 2.5mg of melatonin. Wyld Boysenberry Gummies Wyld’s Boysenberry Gummies use a 1:1:1 blend of THC, CBD and CBN that work together to soothe body and mind. Each delicious fruit gummy contains 10mg THC, 10mg CBD and 10mg CBN, making this a great choice for those seeking deeper sleep. Dad Grass Deluxe Nighttime THC Gummies with CBD & CBN Designed to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake up refreshed, each Deluxe Nighttime Gummy delivers 2mg THC, 18mg CBD and 2mg CBN, offering extra strength support for deeper, more restful sleep. These full-spectrum, fast-acting gummies are precisely dosed for consistent results. Infused with a delicious Midnight Berry flavor, they offer a soothing and enjoyable way to unwind before bed. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene While these hemp-derived sleep aids can help you fall asleep, you must do the work to ensure you have “good sleep hygiene.” This refers to healthy habits and practices that promote quality sleep. By consistently practicing good sleep hygiene, you can improve sleep quality. Better sleep makes you feel more refreshed and energized throughout the day. Here are key elements of good sleep hygiene: 1. *Maintain a Consistent Schedule:* Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends, to regulate your body’s internal clock. - *Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine:* Wind down with calming activities like reading, meditation or a warm bath to signal to your body that it’s time to sleep. - *Optimize Your Sleep Environment:* Keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet. Use blackout curtains, white noise machines, or essential oils such as lavender for relaxation. - *Limit Screen Time: *Avoid electronic devices (phones, tablets, TVs) at least an hour before bed, as blue light can interfere with melatonin production. - *Be Mindful of Food & Drink: *Avoid heavy meals, caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can disrupt sleep quality. - *Get Regular Exercise:* Engage in physical activity during the day, but avoid intense workouts right before bedtime. - *Manage Stress and Anxiety: *Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, journaling or gentle stretching to calm the mind. - *Limit Naps:* Keep daytime naps short (20–30 minutes) and earlier in the day to avoid interfering with nighttime sleep. Good sleep is not a luxury — it’s a necessity for optimal health and well-being. Are you ready to prioritize your sleep health and consider the potential benefits of premium hemp-derived sleep aids? The post Top 10 THC and CBD Products to Improve Sleep Quality appeared first on Cannabis Now. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

ÓRALE offers New Mexican-inspired edibles, vapes, pre-rolls, and shake to make celebrations unforgettable. The post about experiencing ÓRALE at PurLife first appeared on Leafly. < Back Experience ÓRALE at PurLife and light up the moment Oct 7, 2025 Leafly Staff Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Give your celebrations a distinctly New Mexican flair. Happy Halloween, New Mexico! No matter what you’ve got planned for the spookiest day of the year, ÓRALE will help you make it unforgettable. ÓRALE is deeply rooted in and inspired by New Mexican culture, and all of their edibles, vapes, pre-rolls, and high-quality shake are steeped […] The post Experience ÓRALE at PurLife and light up the moment appeared first on Leafly. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

DEA Provides No Cannabis Rescheduling Update After 180 Days < Back DEA Provides No Cannabis Rescheduling Update... Jul 8, 2025 staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Drug Enforcement Administration still has yet to fix a briefing schedule for an interlocutory appeal as Trump’s nominee awaits Senate confirmation. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Missouri cannabis stakeholders are preparing a 2026 ballot initiative to unify marijuana and hemp regulations. The initiative aims to consolidate regulations and create parity between the hemp and marijuana sectors, potentially creating a more leveled playing field for both industries. < Back Missouri Cannabis Stakeholders Prepare 2026 Ballot Initiative To Create ‘Unified’ Marijuana And Hemp Regulations Jun 16, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Missouri cannabis activists and industry stakeholders are gearing up for a push to put an initiative on the state’s 2026 ballot that’s meant to consolidate regulations and create parity between the hemp and marijuana sectors. The marijuana legalization law that voters approved in 2022 enshrined regulations in the state Constitution, removing lawmakers’ ability to make certain adjustments. The industry coalition behind the forthcoming initiative is aiming to strike much of that language and instead give a constitutional mandate for the legislature to develop statutory rules themselves. “In our American tradition, the purpose of a constitution is to define and restrain the power of governments—not the private sector or the individual,” Eapen Thampy, a lobbyist for American Shaman, told Marijuana Moment on Monday. “It’s the job of statutory law to handle regulation of the private sector.” “I think this solves a lot of issues for a lot of people,” he said. “The marijuana guys have this insane regulatory burden created by regulations that they can’t change, despite the millions of dollars they spent supporting campaigns for office in the last election cycle.” The text of the proposal is currently being drafted by an unnamed law firm, Thampy said during a virtual briefing with stakeholders and advocates on Monday. The plan is to get the measure filed by August to make the November 2026 ballot. The effort is being organized under a new political committee called Missourians for a Single Market, which was formed this monrh. In theory, the initiative would create a more leveled playing field for the marijuana and hemp industries, which currently abide by a discordant set of regulations. What stakeholders want to see is both industries treated more equitably, with policies that more closely resemble how the state deals with the alcohol and tobacco markets. “We’ve got this artificial legal construct called ‘marijuana’ and this artificial legal construct called ‘hemp,’ and these two legal creations represent one plant,” Thampy said. “And so the idea here is, it’s one plant. There should be one unified market. There should be one unified set of regulations.” “We have an opportunity in Missouri to pioneer a first-in-the-nation approach,” he said. Steve DeAngelo, a well-known marijuana advocate and entrepreneur who has been involved in multiple successful legalization campaigns in the past and founded the Harborside dispensary in Oakland, California, also joined Monday’s video conference and voiced his support for the proposal. He described the three “pillars” of the industry that he feels should be unified under a single regulatory model: marijuana, hemp and “legacy” operators that were in the space before legalization. “When you bring down the barriers to entry, all of the legacy folks who are right now out of the legal system would be able to come in,” he said. “So you create one single, unified market for cannabis across all sectors. That’s the proposal that I have to advance now.” *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* Meanwhile, Missouri’s hemp market has been facing increased pressure from the state as officials attempt to crack down on businesses selling intoxicating cannabis products such as THCA outside of the marijuana program. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey (R) sent over a dozen cease-and-desist orders to such businesses this month, threatening potential legal action for non-compliant businesses. Lawmakers are contemplating multiple approaches, with different details on what kinds of products would be allowed and what limits would be set on THC levels in the products. In February, legislation allowing low-dose intoxicating hemp beverages to continue to be sold in grocery and liquor stores was reported favorably by committees in both the House and Senate but was not enacted into law. D.C. Hemp Company Sues Feds Over ‘Unworkable Standard’ Created By Marijuana Budget Rider *Photo courtesy of Philip Steffan.* The post Missouri Cannabis Stakeholders Prepare 2026 Ballot Initiative To Create ‘Unified’ Marijuana And Hemp Regulations appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Chanda Macias, a former cancer researcher and current global cannabis advocate, is committed to helping others and making cannabis accessible worldwide, a journey characterized by resilience and passion. < Back Chanda Macias’ mission is to make cannabis accessible worldwide Jan 5, 2026 Margaret Jackson MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link From her early days as a cancer researcher to her role as a global cannabis advocate, Macias’ journey is one of resilience, passion and a commitment to helping others. Chanda Macias’ mission is to make cannabis accessible worldwide is a post from: MJBizDaily: Financial, Legal & Cannabusiness news for cannabis entrepreneurs < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Congressional Leaders Drop Attempt To Block Marijuana Rescheduling, While Preserving State Medical Cannabis Protections < Back Congressional Leaders Drop Attempt To Block Marijuana Rescheduling... Jan 5, 2026 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Bipartisan House and Senate leaders have rejected a provision that would’ve blocked the Justice Department from rescheduling marijuana—while maintaining a longstanding rider protecting state medical cannabis programs from federal interference. While a GOP-controlled House committee advanced a version of Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) appropriations legislation over the summer that would’ve prevented DOJ from rescheduling cannabis, a new bicameral agreement unveiled on Monday omits that language. The move comes weeks after President Donald Trump issued an executive order directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to expeditiously complete the process of moving marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). *Here’s the language of the provision advanced by the House Appropriations Committee but excluded from the latest agreement: * “SEC. 607. None of the funds appropriated or other wise made available by this Act may be used to reschedule marijuana (as such term is defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802)) or to remove marijuana from the schedules established under section 202 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812).” GOP senators have separately tried to block the administration from rescheduling cannabis as part of a standalone bill filed in 2023, but that proposal did not receive a hearing or vote. Meanwhile, on Monday, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) said a marijuana rescheduling appeal process “remains pending” despite Trump’s executive order. The newly unveiled bicameral CJS bill, which is being combined with legislation to fund parts of the government covering interior, environment and energy and water Development, also contains a rider that’s been annually renewed since 2014 barring the Justice Department from using its funds to interfere in the implementation of state medical marijuana laws. However, for reasons that are unclear, the rider that lists each state that would be protected excludes Nebraska. *Here’s the text of that provision: * “SEC. 531. None of the funds made available under this Act to the Department of Justice may be used, with respect to any of the States of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, or with respect to the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the United States Virgin Islands, Guam, or Puerto Rico, to prevent any of them from implementing their own laws that authorize the use, distribution, possession, or cultivation of medical marijuana.” Missing from the latest version is an addition to that rider that the House previously included that would have authorized enhanced penalties for sales near schools and parks. That provision specifically stipulated that the Justice Department could still enforce a section of U.S. code that calls for increased penalties for distributing cannabis within 1,000 feet of an elementary school, vocational school, college, playground or public housing unit. However, a joint explanatory statement for the new spending package also says Congress “directs the Department to appropriately enforce the Federal Drug-Free School Zones Act (2 1 U.S.C. 860), to ensure that areas with young children, including schools and playgrounds remain drug-free.” That appears to be related to a report from the Senate committee that was released earlier this year stating that the medical marijuana protection rider “does not explicitly preclude” U.S. attorneys from enforcing a federal statute on selling or manufacturing controlled substances in “areas with young children, including schools and playgrounds.” *The new bill also maintains protections for state industrial hemp research programs under the 2014 Farm Bill: * “SEC. 530. None of the funds made available by this Act may be used in contravention of section 7606 (‘Legitimacy of Industrial Hemp Research’) of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Public Law 113–79) by the Department of Justice or the Drug Enforcement Administration.” “President Trump set an important foundation by signing three appropriations bills into law in November, and we are carrying that momentum into the new year,” House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), said in a press release. “This bipartisan, bicameral package reflects steady progress toward completing FY26 funding responsibly.” Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) said the overall deal is a “fiscally responsible package that restrains spending while providing essential federal investments that will improve water infrastructure in our country, enhance our nation’s energy and national security, and spur scientific research necessary to maintain U.S. competitiveness.” Advocates may welcome the exclusion of the rescheduling provision and inclusion of medical marijuana protections in the CJS bill, but many cannabis stakeholders have protested Trump’s signing of a separate appropriations measure in November that includes provisions to ban most consumable hemp products. However, when the president issued the marijuana rescheduling order last month, he also directed Congress to reevaluate that policy and ensure that people can continue to access full-spectrum CBD products. A federal agency will also be moving to cover such products for certain patients under Medicare and Medicaid. The post Congressional Leaders Drop Attempt To Block Marijuana Rescheduling, While Preserving State Medical Cannabis Protections appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The October 7, 2025 Marijuana Moment newsletter covers various cannabis-related developments. Key topics include the U.S. Supreme Court considering a case on marijuana use and gun purchases, Wisconsin's prospects for medical cannabis legalization, a Pennsylvania bill allowing terminally ill patients to use medical cannabis in hospitals, and a survey indicating that THC drinks reduce alcohol consumption. Other news includes federal drug prosecutions reaching a low, state-level discussions on medical cannabis in Nebraska, Wisconsin, Michigan, Alabama, Louisiana, Oregon, California, and New York, and international updates from Germany. The newsletter also touches on scientific findings regarding cannabinoids for multiple sclerosis and epidermolysis bullosa, advocacy for drug legalization, business news, and a cultural note about Elon Musk. < Back Another cannabis & gun rights case before SCOTUS (Newsletter: October 7, 2025) Oct 7, 2025 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *WI medical marijuana prospects; PA bill on medical cannabis in hospitals; Survey: THC drinks reduce alcohol use* Subscribe to receive Marijuana Moment’s newsletter in your inbox every weekday morning. It’s the best way to make sure you know which cannabis stories are shaping the day. Get our daily newsletter. Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: *Your support makes Marijuana Moment possible…* **Rattling the tip jar* *Got a few dollars you can spare to help Marijuana Moment pay our writers, keep our website running and grow into the kind of robust news organization the fast-paced world of drug policy deserves? Join us for $25/month and be a part of our work: https://www.patreon.com/marijuanamoment */ TOP THINGS TO KNOW* The U.S. Supreme Court is being asked to take up the case of a man who lied about his marijuana use when purchasing guns—as the justices are set to discuss several other cases on cannabis consumers’ Second Amendment rights in a closed-door meeting this week. Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R) said “there’s the hope to try to find a consensus” to pass medical cannabis legalization legislation—but he argued that a new bill from the GOP Senate president is “way too broad and way too wide-ranging.” Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators filed a bill to allow terminally ill patients to use medical cannabis in hospitals, mirroring a policy that’s already been enacted in California. A new survey shows that nearly four in five adults who drink cannabis-infused beverages say they’ve reduced their alcohol consumption—and 20 percent have quit drinking alcohol altogether. */ FEDERAL* Federal drug prosecutions have reportedly fallen to the lowest level in decades. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) tweeted, “Reclassify Marijuana.” */ STATES* A spokesperson for Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen (R) defended his decision to pressure regulators to reduce the number of medical cannabis plants that licensed businesses can grow. A Wisconsin representative discussed the possibility of legalizing medical cannabis. A Michigan representative criticized a recently passed bill to increase marijuana taxes. A federal judge paused a lawsuit against Alabama medical cannabis regulators’ business licensing decisions. Louisiana regulators adopted changes to medical cannabis rules. Oregon regulators filed proposed changes to marijuana and hemp rules. California officials are cracking down on kratom and 7-OH products. New York regulators approved additional marijuana business licenses. *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* */ LOCAL* The Boston, Massachusetts Cannabis Board will meet on Wednesday. */ INTERNATIONAL* German officials issued a notice of intent to tighten medical cannabis rules. */ SCIENCE & HEALTH* A review concluded that “cannabinoids may alleviate symptoms of multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus, although their long-term impact on immune competence remains uncertain.” A study found that “cannabinoids are used by nearly half of all [epidermolysis bullosa] patients with notable improvements in pain, itch, and overall wellbeing.” */ ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS* The Social Democratic Party of Germany said a new government analysis shows that the country’s cannabis legalization law “was the right and long overdue step.” The leader of the Green Party of England and Wales said he supports legalizing all drugs. */ BUSINESS* A Cannabist Company Holdings Inc. co-founder resigned from the board of directors. */ CULTURE* Elon Musk posted an AI-generated video of himself smoking what appears to be marijuana on Mars. *Make sure to subscribe to get Marijuana Moment’s daily dispatch in your inbox.* Get our daily newsletter. Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: *Photo courtesy of Chris Wallis // Side Pocket Images.* The post Another cannabis & gun rights case before SCOTUS (Newsletter: October 7, 2025) appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

A Republican duo submitted an amendment to a spending bill that would block the DOJ from reclassifying cannabis. < Back 2 GOP Senators Attempting to Steal Rescheduling Power From Trump Administration Jan 15, 2026 Staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Republican duo submitted an amendment to reinsert language in a spending bill that would block the DOJ from reclassifying cannabis. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Months after Utah’s ban on flavored vapes, Blackhouse, a former Sugar House vape shop, became a sanctuary and a safe haven for those searching to get flavored cartridges—for spiritual and religious practices. < Back Trump Posts Video On Medical Benefits Of Cannabis For Seniors As White House Weighs Rescheduling Sep 29, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link President Donald Trump on Sunday shared a video promoting the health benefits of cannabis—suggesting that covering CBD under Medicare would be “the most important senior health initiative of the century.” As the marijuana industry awaits Trump’s decision on a pending rescheduling proposal, the president’s decision to put a spotlight on the video that was produced by The Commonwealth Project immediately drew the attention of stakeholders. What the nearly three-minute clip—which repeatedly refers to “hemp derived CBD”—means for broader marijuana rescheduling’s prospects is unclear. But it also comes amid a contentious debate in Congress about federal hemp laws, with some GOP lawmakers vying for an outright ban on cannabis with any trace amounts of THC. Experts say that would effectively eradicate the hemp market, as it’s considered unfeasible to produce even non-intoxicating CBD products without at least some level of THC. The video Trump posted also briefly features a Fox News clip describing the economic benefits of medical marijuana legalization, saying that on an annual basis it would amount to cost savings of “$64 billion a year if cannabis is fully integrated into the healthcare system.” “The groundbreaking 2018 Farm Bill championed by President Trump was the first step” toward modernizing health care integrating cannabis, the narration says. That refers to the landmark legislation that federally legalized hemp containing up to 0.3 percent THC, which Trump signed in his first term. Notably, the video also states that “it’s time to educate doctors on the endocannabinoid system, provide Medicare coverage for CBD and give millions of seniors the support they deserve.” At a time when certain senior lawmakers, including Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), are pushing for policy changes that threaten to upend the CBD market, touting a promotion that calls for Medicare coverage of the cannabinoid is notable. “You will deliver the most important senior health initiative of the century, cementing your legacy and transforming aging care,” it says. “Millions everywhere will thank you.” While Trump didn’t directly comment on the video, here’s a transcript of part of its narration: “You can revolutionize senior health care. We’ve all heard about the major systems in our bodies—like the digestive, respiratory, nervous and cardiovascular systems–but there’s one essential system discovered in the 90s that you probably never heard of. It makes all of the other systems work smoothly with each other, like a conductor, ensuring the different sections of an orchestra all play a beautiful symphony together. This system is called the endocannabinoid system. It has been acknowledged and studied by scientists extensively, with support from the National Institutes of Health. As we age, the system weakens. As a result, the different systems in our body stop working together smoothly. That’s one of the reasons older adults struggle with pain, inflammation, cognitive decline and other ailments of aging for which doctors often prescribe dangerous and addictive pharmaceuticals. They also recommend lifestyle remedies such as exercise, good diet and stress management. And while all these improve the system, it is only fractionally and over a long time. But here’s the game changer: The system can be restored faster using hemp-derived CBD. When the system is restored, pain subsides, sleep is improved and stress is reduced. When the system is restored, disease progression can slow down, and years are added to your life, as well as years spent in good health. And 20 percent of seniors are already using CBD today for pain, arthritis, cancer, symptoms, sleep disorders, Alzheimer’s and many other ailments of aging. But doctors are not equipped to provide guidance, and there are no FDA standards for what is already in the market today. Imagine if that were the case for other medications. Older adults are suffering needlessly. Hemp-derived CBD can help them feel better, live longer and improve their quality of life significantly.” Meanwhile, a new poll shows that a majority of Americans don’t consider marijuana dangerous, though most do think consuming cannabis increases the likelihood that people will transition to using more dangerous drugs. The poll is one of the latest temperature checks on American sentiment toward drug policy as Trump weighs a proposal to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). And while a leading prohibitionist group, Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), recently claimed a poll they commissioned demonstrated majority opposition to rescheduling, a policy change that Trump endorsed on the campaign trail, the result flies in the face of multiple other national surveys showing support for reform that goes beyond rescheduling. *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* Another recent survey from the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education, and Regulation (CPEAR), which was conducted by the firm Forbes Tate Partners, showed that seven in 10 American voters want to see the end of federal marijuana prohibition—and nearly half say they’d view the Trump administration more favorably if it took action on the issue. A poll released in June that Marijuana Moment partnered on with the cannabis telehealth platform NuggMD showed that a majority of marijuana consumers disapprove of the Trump administration’s actions on cannabis policy to date, but there’s also a significant willingness among users to shift their position if the federal government opts to reschedule or legalize marijuana. Earlier this year, meanwhile, a firm associated with Trump—Fabrizio, Lee & Associates—also polled Americans on a series of broader marijuana policy issues. Notably, it found that a majority of Republicans back cannabis rescheduling—and, notably, they’re even more supportive of allowing states to legalize marijuana without federal interference compared to the average voter. The post Trump Posts Video On Medical Benefits Of Cannabis For Seniors As White House Weighs Rescheduling appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

A VA official emphasizes the need for the federal government to prepare for providing psychedelic medicines to veterans, ensuring therapists are equipped for these novel therapies. Rachel Yehuda, director of mental health at VA’s James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, discussed the therapeutic potential of psilocybin and MDMA for veterans on CBS Mornings. She highlighted that psychedelics offer a "very different approach" to mental health treatment by allowing individuals to access and work with the core of their problems in a supervised setting. Other figures like former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich and a Navy SEAL veteran have also spoken positively about psychedelic therapy. The U.S. House of Representatives has included an amendment encouraging VA research into psychedelics, and HHS Secretary Kennedy and VA Secretary Doug Collins have expressed commitment to expanding access and research in this area. VA has also committed $1.5 million to study MDMA-assisted therapy for veterans with PTSD and alcohol use disorder. < Back VA Official Says Federal Government Must ‘Gear Up’ For Expanding Psychedelic Medicine For Veterans Oct 15, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) official says the federal government needs to “gear up” to provide psychedelic medicines to veterans and ensure that therapists are equipped to facilitate the novel therapy. As VA continues to support research into psychedelic medicine, Rachel Yehuda, director of mental health at VA’s James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, spoke on CBS Mornings on Friday about the therapeutic potential of substances such as psilocybin and MDMA for veterans. “There’s still a lot more research that needs to be done, and we have to gear up in a way that makes it safe to be able to provide these therapies,” she said. “We have to make sure therapists know how to use these medications—and also who should and shouldn’t be treated with them.” The widespread piecemeal approach to mental health treatment for conditions such as depression, anxiety and trauma is simply a means of dampening “symptoms,” rather than identifying possible cures, she said. Psychedelics represent “a very different approach.” “This is an approach where you take a medication that puts you in an altered state of consciousness—and if you are prepared for it in the right way, and you do it in the right setting with the right facilitator, different kind of material will surface,” Yehuda, who was speaking in the interview in her capacity as director of Mount Sinai’s Parsons Research Center for Psychedelic Healing and not appearing as a representative of VA, said. “E motions, thoughts, memories—a lot of things that usually you spend a lot of time keeping down.” “But the reason that we have mental health symptoms is because we feel those things and because things have happened to us,” Yehuda said. “So this is a way to access and be able to work with really what’s at the core of the problem.” “This is a way of taking a medicine—a medication once or twice or three times at most—these are sessions that take several hours with psilocybin or MDMA [and] could be six or eight hours, and you’re with therapists the whole time,” she said. “Stuff comes up that you talk about, and hopefully you won’t have to keep taking medications once you try to get at the root of the problem.” “But let’s be very clear that there is a danger in having unfettered access to psychedelics and having people—I wouldn’t say danger, the drugs themselves are not very dangerous—but the material that can surface with these drugs can be very overwhelming. So you want to really make sure that you take the drug with a professional who is able to help you make meaning out of the experience that you’ve just had. For many people, what comes up can be very overwhelming, and if they don’t have somebody there to talk them through it, then maybe some things can happen that would be harmful.” “I think that really, when we’re talking about what’s new in the field of mental health, we are not talking about handing somebody a psychedelic and saying, ‘let me know how it goes,'” she said. “We’re talking about a supervised experience.” Yehuda has routinely discussed the therapeutic potential of psychedelic medicine with respect t0 veterans with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* Meanwhile, former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) over the summer extolled the therapeutic promise of ibogaine on an episode of his podcast, drawing attention to a Stanford University study that found the psychedelic showed potential to treat PTSD, anxiety and depression in military veterans with traumatic brain injury. The message around the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has been getting out in a number of ways, including in prominent conservative media circles and within the Trump administration. For example, a Navy SEAL veteran credited with killing Osama Bin Laden said during a Fox News interview that psychedelic therapy has helped him process the trauma he experienced during his time in the military, stressing that “it works” and should be an available treatment option. That interview came days after the U.S. House of Representatives included an amendment to a spending bill from Reps. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Jack Bergman (R-MI) that would encourage VA to support research into the benefits of psychedelics in treating medical conditions commonly affecting military veterans. Meanwhile, HHS Secretary Kennedy recently said his agency is “absolutely committed” to expanding research on the benefits of psychedelic therapy and, alongside of the head of FDA, is aiming to provide legal access to such substances for military veterans “within 12 months.” VA Secretary Doug Collins also disclosed in April that he had an “eye-opening” talk with Kennedy about the therapeutic potential of psychedelic medicine. And he said he’s open to the idea of having the government provide vouchers to cover the costs of psychedelic therapy for veterans who receive services outside of VA as Congress considers pathways for access. Collins also recently visited a facility conducting research on psychedelics, and he reiterated that it’s his “promise” to advance research into the therapeutic potential of the substances—even if that might take certain policy changes within the department and with congressional support. The secretary’s visit to the psychedelics research center came about a month after the VA secretary met with a military veteran who’s become an advocate for psilocybin access to discuss the therapeutic potential of psychedelic medicine for the veteran community. Collins also briefly raised the issue in a Cabinet meeting with President Donald Trump in April. Correa and Bergman—co-chairs of the Congressional Psychedelic Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus—introduced a bill in April to provide $30 million in funding annually to establish psychedelics-focused “centers for excellence” at VA facilities, where veterans could receive novel treatment involving substances like psilocybin, MDMA and ibogaine. Bergman has also expressed optimism about the prospects of advancing psychedelics reform under Trump, arguing that the administration’s efforts to cut spending and the federal workforce will give agencies “spines” to tackle such complex issues. Kennedy, for his part, also said in April that he had a “wonderful experience” with LSD at 15 years old, which he took because he thought he’d be able to see dinosaurs, as portrayed in a comic book he was a fan of. Last October, Kennedy specifically criticized FDA under the prior administration over the agency’s “suppression of psychedelics” and a laundry list of other issues that he said amounted to a “war on public health” that would end under the Trump administration. In December, VA separately announced that it’s providing $1.5 million in funding to study the efficacy of MDMA-assisted therapy for veterans with PTSD and alcohol use disorder (AUD). In January, former VA Under Secretary for Health Shereef Elnahal said that it was “very encouraging” that Trump’s pick to have Kennedy lead HHS has supported psychedelics reform. And he hoped to work with him on the issue if he stayed on for the next administration, but that didn’t pan out. *Photo courtesy of Dick Culbert.* The post VA Official Says Federal Government Must ‘Gear Up’ For Expanding Psychedelic Medicine For Veterans appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Michigan officials are defending a new 24 percent wholesale marijuana tax, set to take effect January 1, 2026, against lawsuits filed by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association and Holistic Research Inc. The tax was passed to raise $420 million annually for road repairs. The plaintiffs argue the tax illegally changes the 2018 voter-approved initiative legalizing recreational sales, which requires a three-fourths legislative majority to amend. State attorneys contend the tax does not alter the original text but builds upon it, and that the original initiative allowed for other taxes to still apply. They are also arguing the state treasury department is immune from suit under a 1960s-era Michigan law regarding governmental functions. Arguments over a preliminary injunction to block the tax are scheduled for November 25. < Back Michigan Officials Defend New Marijuana Tax From Industry Lawsuit Nov 13, 2025 Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“When the Legislature exercised its constitutional authority to impose a tax on the wholesale sale of marijuana, it did not place an ‘undue burden’ on the voters’ exercise of direct-democracy rights.”* *By Jordyn Hermani, Bridge Michigan* *This story was originally published by Bridge Michigan, a nonprofit and nonpartisan news organization. To get regular coverage from Bridge Michigan, sign up for a free Bridge Michigan newsletter here.* Michigan’s new wholesale marijuana tax law does not alter “in any way” the 2018 ballot proposal voters approved to legalize recreational sales, according to state attorneys urging a judge to toss a lawsuit that seeks to block the tax. In early October, lawmakers gave final approval to a 24 percent wholesale tax on marijuana as part of a larger plan to raise $420 million annually for Michigan road repairs. That tax was quickly signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) and is set to take effect January 1, 2026. The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association filed suit in the Court of Claims not long after, arguing lawmakers illegally changed the voter-approved initiative, which would have required supermajority votes in both chambers of the Legislature. But attorneys representing Michigan Treasurer Rachel Eubanks contend the new tax does not alter the text of the 2018 initiative—as the cannabis association claims—but instead builds upon its foundation. “When the Legislature exercised its constitutional authority to impose a tax on the wholesale sale of marijuana, it did not place an ‘undue burden’ on the voters’ exercise of direct-democracy rights,” they said in a filing last week. Instead, that 2018 voter-led initiative, “created a targeted tax on retail adult-use marijuana sales and specifically allowed that all other taxes would still apply,” the attorneys argued. The cannabis industry lawsuit seeks to invalidate the law. Holistic Research Inc., a licensed cultivator and processor located in Harrison Township, filed a similar lawsuit and is seeking a preliminary injunction to block implementation of the tax while the legal case plays out. Attorneys for Holistic claim the tax will force the company to either raise prices or “absorb the tax, destroying already narrow operating margins.” “As a result, Holistic faces an imminent risk of losing customers, contracts, market share, and goodwill, and of being forced to reduce or cease operations entirely,” Holistic’s attorney Stephen Crane Jr. wrote, “injuries that cannot be adequately remedied by a later money judgment.” Attorneys for Whitmer and the state treasury department have since sought to throw out Holistic’s complaint, arguing they are “immune from suit” under the 11th Amendment of the US Constitution. A 1960s-era Michigan law, they state attorneys argue, renders a governmental agency unable to be sued if it is “engaged in the exercise or discharge of a governmental function.” In the case of the Department of Treasury, collecting taxes is part of its daily operations. The Holistic and Michigan Cannabis Industry Association suits have been consolidated by Michigan Court of Claims Judge Sima Patel. She’s scheduled to hear arguments over the request for a preliminary injunction on November 25 in Detroit. Under the Michigan Constitution, amending a voter-approved law requires support of three-fourths of the Legislature. The tax passed the Senate 19-17 and the House 78-21—both short of that threshold. The new law creating the tax doesn’t directly amend the statute, though. Instead, it creates a new Comprehensive Road Funding Tax Act. The cannabis industry attorneys assert the new tax is an attempt to get around amending the original legalization statute. This article first appeared on Bridge Michigan and is republished here under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License . The post Michigan Officials Defend New Marijuana Tax From Industry Lawsuit appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5