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No need to wait until May—April showers bring dank flowers for every strain. A big shift in Neptune means the stars need and exotic touch. The post Star signs and cannabis strains: April 2025 horoscopes appeared first on Leafly. < Back Star signs and cannabis strains: April 2025 horoscopes Apr 1, 2025 Carmen Ramirez Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link No need to wait until May—April showers bring dank flowers for every strain. A big shift in Neptune means the stars need and exotic touch. The post Star signs and cannabis strains: April 2025 horoscopes 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

The cannabis industry's "adolescence" ended in 2025, forced by price compression and oversupply to shift from rapid growth and improvisation to disciplined, efficient operations and professional management. This maturation led to a focus on consistent quality, technology adoption, and stability as new competitive advantages, resulting in more reliable products and greater transparency for consumers. < Back Cannabis Grows Up: Why 2025 Marked the Industry’s Turning Point Dec 30, 2025 Chris Mapson MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link For much of its existence, the legal cannabis industry operated like a precocious teenager: full of promise, ambition, and energy, but often fueled by improvisation and optimism more than discipline. Growth felt inevitable. Capital flowed freely. Expansion was celebrated, sometimes without regard for sustainability. But in 2025, that adolescence ended. The past year brought a sobering mix of price compression, persistent oversupply, tightening capital markets, and continued regulatory uncertainty. For many operators, the situation was painful. For some, existential. Yet these pressures may prove to be the most important catalysts the industry has faced to date. Because in being forced to confront reality, cannabis began its transition from youthful exuberance to adulthood. 2025 was the cannabis industry’s reality check The headwinds of 2025 exposed structural weaknesses that long had been masked by rapid growth and investor enthusiasm. Unsustainable expansion models, bloated cost structures, and vague paths to profitability no longer could be ignored. The era of growth at all costs ended abruptly as operators faced a hard truth: Scale without efficiency is a liability, not an asset. Increasing competition compounded these challenges. As more brands fought for shelf space and consumer attention, inefficiencies became impossible to hide. Many businesses were forced to make difficult decisions like exiting markets, streamlining operations, cutting SKUs or rethinking entire strategies. While painful, these moments of reckoning were necessary. 2025 became the year cannabis businesses were forced to grow up. Discipline replaces experimentation One of the clearest signs of maturation has been the shift away from improvisation and intuition and toward process-driven decision-making. In earlier years, companies relied on gut instinct, trial-and-error approaches, and rapid experimentation. Today, discipline is replacing spontaneity. Operators are paying closer attention to fundamentals by controlling costs, managing margins, and building product portfolios with clear strategic intent. Inventory and supply-chain planning have become more deliberate, reducing waste and excess. Marketing, too, has matured. Data-driven campaigns, sharper brand positioning, and fewer “me too” products are becoming the norm as companies seek to stand out through clarity rather than noise. Technology as a marker of maturity Technology adoption has emerged as one of the strongest indicators of the industry’s coming of age. Across cultivation, manufacturing, retail, and post-harvest operations, businesses increasingly are turning to technology to reduce variability and improve consistency. In cultivation, advanced environmental controls and optimization tools are helping growers fine-tune conditions, improve yields, and reduce risk. Science-backed and proven post-harvest technologies and standard operating procedures are replacing legacy processes that heavily relied on experience and guesswork, enabling more consistent quality and better product preservation. At the retail level, analytics platforms are delivering deeper consumer insights, improved demand forecasting, and more efficient inventory management. Collectively, these tools are doing more than merely improving operations. They are changing the industry’s mindset. Technology is replacing guesswork with repeatability, enabling cannabis businesses to operate with the predictability expected of mature industries. Quality, not volume, defines the next era Oversupply has forced a long-overdue reassessment of what actually sells. Simply producing more of whatever you produce is no longer a viable strategy. Instead, consistent quality, reliable experiences, and transparent processes are becoming the true differentiators. Consumers are increasingly discerning, and they expect products that deliver on their promises every time. Brands that prioritize quality over volume and can demonstrate consistency across batches and formats are better positioned to earn loyalty. In this next era, better — not more — products will determine long-term winners. Professional leadership reshapes cannabis businesses Another hallmark of maturity is the influx of seasoned executives and operators from adjacent industries such as food and beverage, agriculture, consumer packaged goods, and technology. Their presence has brought stronger governance, clearer key performance indicators, and greater operational accountability. This shift is also cultural. Cannabis increasingly is being treated as a real business that still values passion and mission but no longer relies on them alone. Professional management, disciplined execution, and long-term planning are becoming expectations rather than exceptions. While much of this evolution has occurred behind the scenes, consumers stand to gain the most. A more disciplined industry delivers better product consistency, stronger safety and testing standards, and more thoughtful innovation. As companies refine processes and adopt proven systems, consumers can expect products that are more reliable from manufacturers and cultivators who are more transparent about their processes. Why stability is now a competitive advantage As cannabis moves beyond adolescence, stability itself is becoming a competitive advantage. Companies that survived 2025 are leaner, more focused, and better prepared for what comes next, whether that includes recently announced federal reforms, expanded markets or new consumer segments. Success is being redefined around resilience, adaptability, and sustainability rather than hype and rapid expansion. The cannabis industry’s carefree adolescence is fading, and with it, some of the myths that once defined the space. The growing pains are far from over, but the industry is stronger because of them. Through challenge and turmoil, cannabis has begun to evolve into a more disciplined, credible, and enduring business. The cannabis industry is no longer chasing legitimacy. It’s earning it. ------------------------------ FAQ: How 2025 Changed the Cannabis Industry 1. Why was 2025 a turning point for the cannabis industry? 2025 exposed long-standing structural weaknesses in cannabis, including unsustainable growth models, bloated costs, and vague paths to profitability, forcing operators to mature quickly. 2. How did price compression affect cannabis operators? Price compression reduced margins across cultivation, manufacturing, and retail, making efficiency, cost control, and disciplined operations essential for survival. 3. What role did technology play in cannabis industry maturation? Technology helped replace guesswork with repeatability, enabling better environmental control, inventory management, and data-driven decision-making across the supply chain. 4. Why is quality more important than volume in cannabis now? Oversupply revealed that consistent quality and reliable consumer experiences—not sheer output — are the true drivers of brand loyalty and long-term success. 5. What does cannabis industry maturity mean for consumers? A more mature cannabis industry delivers better consistency, stronger safety standards, and greater transparency, resulting in more reliable products and experiences. ------------------------------ [image: Chris Mapson Cannatrol] An accomplished marketing leader with more than twenty-five years of experience, Chris Mapson is executive vice president of marketing for *Cannatrol*, a leader in precision cannabis drying, curing, and storage technology. Previously, he served as vice president of marketing at LivWell Enlightened Health/Pharmacann and marketing and creative director at The Green Solution. Additionally, he has held roles at CenturyLink, Sony, and Aramark. < 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

D.C. medical cannabis sales surged to $5.46 million in April 2025, generating a 90% increase in tax revenue compared to the previous year, yet cannabis remains one of the city's lowest-taxed goods at 6%. < Back D.C. cannabis tax revenue soars but unlikely to trickle down to equity fund Jun 2, 2025 Editorial Staff Outlaw Report Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link D.C. medical cannabis sales surged to $5.46 million in April 2025, generating a 90% increase in tax revenue compared to the previous year, yet cannabis remains one of the city's lowest-taxed goods at 6%. Source < 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

From California to New York, small farms are diversifying by offering craft marijuana and produce at farmers markets and through community-supported agriculture programs. Farmers markets want to sell marijuana, but there are restrictions. < Back Farmers markets want to sell marijuana; here’s why they can’t May 22, 2025 Chris Roberts MJ Biz Daily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link From California to New York, small farms are attempting to diversify by offering craft marijuana along with produce at farmers markets and via community-supported agriculture programs. Farmers markets want to sell marijuana; here’s why they can’t 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

Texas Governor Greg Abbott wants lawmakers to regulate hemp THC products like alcohol after vetoing a bill to ban most consumable cannabinoids. He proposed a regulatory framework with age restrictions, zoning requirements, and bans on public consumption. A special legislative session will address this issue, with hemp advocates and veterans opposing the ban. < Back Texas Governor Tells Lawmakers To Regulate Hemp THC Products Like Alcohol After Vetoing Bill To Ban Most Consumable Cannabinoids Jun 23, 2025 Staff Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The governor of Texas says that, rather than outright ban consumable hemp products, lawmakers should establish a regulatory framework that treats cannabinoids “similar to the way alcohol is regulated.” After vetoing a controversial bill on Sunday that would have effectively eliminated the state’s hemp market, Gov. Greg Abbott (R) proposed an extensive list of policy changes that he says he would support—and which the legislature will have the chance to enact during a special session the governor is convening next month. “Texans on each side of the Senate Bill 3 debate raise serious concerns. But one thing is clear—to ensure the highest level of safety for minors, as well as for adults, who obtain a product more dangerous than what they expected, Texas must strongly regulate hemp, and it must do so *immediately,*” Abbott said. Part of the rationale behind his veto was the risk of litigation over “valid constitutional challenges” that he suggested would hold up in court. And to that end, multiple top Texas hemp companies did file a preemptive lawsuit challenging the legislation, SB 3, before the governor’s veto. “If I were to allow Senate Bill 3 to become law, its enforcement would be enjoined for years, leaving existing abuses unaddressed,” Abbott said in his veto message. “Texas cannot afford to wait.” “At worst, Senate Bill 3 would be permanently invalidated by the courts; at best, its implementation would be delayed for years as the case winds its way through the legal system,” he said. “We can do better.” Rather than face the possibility of having the law enjoined, or indefinitely delayed, the governor said the state “must enact a regulatory framework that protects public safety, aligns with federal law, has a fully funded enforcement structure, and can take effect without delay.” “Legislators could consider a structure similar to the way alcohol is regulated, with strict enforcement by an agency like the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission,” he said, adding a list of recommended policies he wants to see lawmakers adopt that include age restrictions, zoning requirements and bans on public consumption. *Here’s the full list of the governor’s recommended hemp regulations:* - Selling or providing a THC product to a minor must be punishable as a crime. - Sales must be prohibited near schools, churches, parks, playgrounds, and other areas frequented by children. - Packaging must be child-resistant, tamper-evident, and resealable; - Products must not be made, packaged, or marketed in a manner attractive to children. - Any store selling these products must have a permit and restrict access to anyone under the age of 21, with strict penalties for any retailer that fails to comply. - Products containing THC may not contain other psychoactive substances (e.g., alcohol, tobacco, kratom). - Testing must be required at every phase of production and manufacturing, including for both plants and derivative consumable products. - Manufacturing and processing facilities must be subject to permitting and food safety rules. - Permit and registration fees must suffice to support robust enforcement and testing by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, in partnership with other state agencies. - An operator’s permit and warning/danger signs must be posted at any store selling these products. - Sales must be limited to the hours between 10:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., and prohibited on Sundays. - The amount of THC permissible in each product must be restricted and an individual may make only a limited number of purchases in a given period of time. - Labels must include a surgeon general-style warning, a clear disclosure of all ingredients, including the THC content, and a scannable barcode or QR code linking to test results. - Fraudulently creating or displaying manifests or lab results must be punishable as felony offenses. - Public consumption, consumption on the premises of any store that sells these products, and possession of an open container in a vehicle must be punishable as crimes. - The Attorney General, district attorneys, and county attorneys must have authority to pursue violations under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act. - Local governments must have the option to prohibit or limit stores selling these products. - Excise taxes must be assessed on these products to fund oversight and enforcement. - Additional funding must be provided to ensure law enforcement have sufficient resources to vigorously enforce restrictions. “This list, of course, is not exhaustive. But it may provide items to consider in a regulatory system that is strict, fair, and legally sustainable,” Abbott said. “Passing a law is not the same thing as actually solving a problem. Texas needs a bill that is enforceable and will make our communities safer today, rather than years from now. Next month, the Legislature will have the opportunity to address this serious issue. I look forward to working with them to ensure that we get it right.” Abbott on Sunday called a special session of a legislature to begin on July 21, saying in a press release that SB 3 and other vetoed bills would be placed on the agenda for further consideration. Hemp advocates and stakeholders had delivered more than 100,000 petition signatures asking Abbott to veto the measure. Critics of the bill argued that the industry—which employs an estimated 53,000 people—would be decimated if the measure became law. Texas lawmakers legalized the sale of consumable hemp in 2019, following enactment of the 2018 federal Farm Bill, which legalized the plant nationwide. That’s led to an explosion of products—including edibles, drinks, vape products and cured flower—sold by an estimated 8,000 retailers. Military veterans advocates, including Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars, have also called on the governor to veto the hemp ban, saying it “would cause irreversible harm to communities across the state.” Farmers have also said the prohibition would devastate a key sector of the state’s agriculture industry. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R), who championed the hemp ban legislation this session, criticized Abbott’s move to veto the bill. “His late-night veto, on an issue supported by 105 of 108 Republicans in the legislature, strongly backed by law enforcement, many in the medical and education communities, and the families who have seen their loved ones’ lives destroyed by these very dangerous drugs, leaves them feeling abandoned,” he said on social media. “I feel especially bad for those who testified and poured their hearts out on their tragic losses.” Meanwhile, a recent survey from a GOP pollster affiliated with President Donald Trump showed that Texas Democratic and Republican voters are unified in their opposition to the hemp ban bill. Another poll commissioned the Texas Hemp Business Council (THBC) found that Texas Republican primary voters oppose the proposal. On Saturday, the governor signed bill to significantly expand the state’s medical marijuana program with new qualifying conditions additional product forms and more dispensary locations. *— 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. —* Abbott separately signed a bill into law this month to create a state-backed research consortium to conduct clinical trials on ibogaine as a possible treatment for substance use disorders and other mental health conditions. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop the psychedelic into a prescription drug with federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, with the state retaining a portion of the profit. The measure expands the state’s list of medical cannabis qualifying conditions to include chronic pain, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Crohn’s disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases, while also allowing end-of-life patients in palliative or hospice care to use marijuana. Separately in Texas, a House committee approved a Senate-passed bill last month that would prohibit cities from putting any citizen initiative on local ballots that would decriminalize marijuana or other controlled substances—as several localities have already done despite lawsuits from the state attorney general. Under the proposal, state law would be amended to say that local entities “may not place an item on a ballot, including a municipal charter or charter amendment, that would provide that the local entity will not fully enforce” state drug laws. While several courts have previously upheld local cannabis decriminalization laws, an appellate court comprised of three conservative justices appointed by the governor has recently pushed back against two of those rulings, siding with the state in its legal challenge to the marijuana policy in Austin and San Marcos. Despite the ongoing litigation and advancement of the House and Senate bills, Texas activists have their targets set on yet another city, Kyle, where they hope put an initiative before voters to enact local marijuana reform at the ballot this coming November. A recent poll found that four in five Texas voters want to see marijuana legalized in some form, and most also want to see regulations around cannabis relaxed. *Read the governor’s veto message on the hemp bill below: * Alabama Cannabis Regulators Grant Medical Marijuana Testing License To Foley-Based Lab The post Texas Governor Tells Lawmakers To Regulate Hemp THC Products Like Alcohol After Vetoing Bill To Ban Most Consumable Cannabinoids 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

Jeff Wu, founder of Xylem Robotics, discusses the critical need for cannabis manufacturers to adopt Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ISO standards to survive and thrive in an increasingly regulated market. He explains that cannabis manufacturing is a hybrid of consumer packaged goods (CPG) and pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the importance of a well-run supply chain with product consistency and quality. Wu advocates for flow manufacturing over batch systems, highlighting its efficiency, scalability, and ability to ensure consistency and quality, which are crucial for customer satisfaction and retention. He also stresses that compliance is a financial safeguard, preventing costly recalls and legal exposure. Wu advises operators to begin with documentation and creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) as a first step towards GMP and ISO compliance, which he believes will be mandated with federal legalization. < Back Jeff Wu on Manufacturing, Compliance, and Culture Oct 8, 2025 Taylor Engle MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link [image: Jeff Wu] Cover Story JEFF WU ON COMPLIANCE, CULTURE, AND CANNABIS MANUFACTURING’S FUTURE The Xylem Robotics founder explains why GMP and ISO standards are no longer optional for operators who want to survive — and thrive. By TAYLOR ENGLE Photos by Andrew Strother ------------------------------ The cannabis industry is no stranger to turbulence. Operators across the country face complex challenges: record consumer demand, heightened regulatory uncertainty, and a marketplace that rewards speed as vigorously as it punishes mistakes. In this environment, decisions made today can have unforeseen long-term consequences. Operators who underestimate the operational complexity of manufacturing risk setbacks that can ripple across their entire business. Each choice, from equipment selection to employee training, carries weight far beyond the immediate outcome. Across the spectrum, from cultivation to manufacturing and retail, the stakes are higher than ever. Each harvest and every batch of extract carries the potential to bring a company closer to trust or disaster. Trust, in this context, is multi-layered, encompassing regulators, investors, retail partners, and consumers. One lapse in quality or consistency can erode all these relationships, making the journey back to credibility both costly and time-consuming. The difference often comes down to standards compliance. “My previous experiences in lab equipment and appliances allowed me to understand cannabis manufacturing is a cross between consumer packaged goods (CPG) and pharmaceuticals,” said Xylem Robotics founder Jeff Wu. “And central to the success of CPG and pharmaceuticals is a well-run supply chain with product consistency and quality. We actually screen our potential clients to see if they understand basic supply chain principles, because we want the people who purchase Xylem products to be successful in this market.” The screening process is about more than technical knowledge. The Xylem team also attempts to ensure operators understand how product flow, traceability, and documentation affect the bottom line. Wu emphasized foundational operational understanding is a prerequisite to responsible scaling. For decades, cannabis operated outside traditional regulatory frameworks that come naturally to the much more mature CPG and pharmaceutical industries. But as legalization expands, regulators and consumers alike expect the industry to play by the same rules as other industries. That means documenting everything, ensuring traceability, managing risk and, above all, maintaining a culture that mandates quality. Building this culture is not a matter of simply posting rules on a wall; it requires hands-on leadership, consistent training, and clear communication so every employee understands their role in maintaining compliance and product safety. Preparing for Increased Federal Oversight Few people understand both the urgency and the opportunity better than Wu. After years of building systems that helped companies in highly regulated markets avoid recalls and survive audits, he entered cannabis with a pragmatic message: Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) aren’t optional. They’re inevitable. Those who prepare now will not only survive federal scrutiny but also thrive in a more mature, trusted marketplace. Preparation involves assessing existing workflows, identifying gaps in training or documentation, and making capital investments strategically, rather than reactively, to support long-term growth. That’s easier said than done. Many operators are trying to scale production in a patchwork of state-by-state regulations while managing thin margins, talent shortages, and constant competitive pressure. The combination of rapid growth expectations and limited operational experience creates stress points that often manifest in inconsistent product quality, delayed shipments, or compliance oversights, all of which can jeopardize contracts and investor confidence. Operators who embrace standardized practices put forth by GMP and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) now will be ready for a federally regulated market in the future. Those who don’t will be exposed to operational, legal, and financial risk that scales with their production volume. Wu broke down the current state of cannabis manufacturing, the inevitability of federal regulation, and why building a strong culture of standards compliance today will determine who leads tomorrow. His insights emphasize operational excellence is both a defensive and offensive strategy that prevents failures while positioning companies to win in a competitive, evolving market. [image: Jeff Wu pullquote graphic] The State of Manufacturing Compliance At first glance, cannabis manufacturing resembles any other CPG operation: Inputs enter the system, and products come out. But under the surface, a fundamental question defines the success of the entire process: batch or flow? “Think of home brewers versus a beer factory,” Wu said. “Batch manufacturing [as in home brewing] groups products into lots, with the entire batch moving through each production stage sequentially. This offers flexibility but ultimately can lead to downtime and higher total manufacturing time and cost.” One potential issue with batch manufacturing, he pointed out, may occur when a manufacturing defect is discovered during the production cycle. In that case, the entire batch must be disposed of or processed again. In contrast, flow manufacturing pushes products through the system one at a time, from start to finish without interruption. This creates a steady stream of output, reducing lead times and increasing consistency while lowering per-unit costs. However, flow systems generally require a larger investment up front. “Regulations drive up the cost of compliance or product standards,” Wu said. “Flow manufacturing solves these issues head-on with consistency and quality, which are key drivers of success for consumer products. “Early on, when I was an investor-operator in a California cannabis manufacturing facility, the first proto-Xylem cartridge-filling system we built was a flow manufacturing system to compete with much larger competitors like Select. It was our secret weapon, so to speak.” For context, most cannabis companies operate with a batch system. Flower is harvested, processed, and packaged in lots. It’s then measured by the pound, the run, or the day. This approach fits the plant’s agricultural roots but leaves gaps in traceability and risk management. In contrast, flow systems, which are common in food and pharmaceuticals, continuously track inputs and outputs. This creates a tighter, more transparent chain of custody. Wu explained why flow systems are essential for scaling. “If you batch 200 units, you’ll be profitable,” he said. “Batch 400, still okay. But at 1,000, cracks start to form. By 10,000, you’re losing money and exposing your company to operational risk. One misstep at a million [production] units can be catastrophic. Even paint specks or minor contamination can trigger multimillion-dollar legal exposure.” He added labor costs in the United States make batch systems fundamentally unscalable at high volumes. “Comparing batch and flow, one is efficient and one is not,” he said. “One is scalable; one is not. All large-scale manufacturing requires flow-based systems. Even pharmaceuticals are flow-based. If people think they can scale a batch approach, they’re in for a big shock.” Lessons from Other Industries Wu encourages operators across the spectrum to take lessons from other tightly regulated sectors that are well-established. “If you’re working in meat packaging or foods, there is zero possibility you’re not going to hurt someone if you don’t adhere to GMP and ISO standards,” he said. “In cannabis, things like gummies are at least a little safer. Once you get water out, sugar is a natural preservative. But, I’d still be worried about mold, especially in flower. And when it comes to drinks, I’m worried about potential bacterial issues.” He emphasized cannabis is not a hype-driven product like energy drinks. Products require disciplined manufacturing practices and reliable supply chains. Compliance is more than merely a legal checkbox. It’s a financial safeguard, Wu said. Recalls, fines, and lawsuits are not theoretical risks; they can be operational landmines. “GMP and ISO standards ensure products are produced safely, consistently, and with quality,” he explained. “When federal legalization occurs, these standards will most likely be mandated and compulsory, but this is not what most operators want to hear due to the equipment and capital investments needed to comply. However, if operators take a pragmatic approach, GMP and ISO standards mean product consistency and quality. These lead to customer satisfaction and, more importantly, customer retention. GMP and ISO standards control for equipment and processes hygiene, which builds in risk management, and that minimizes costly recalls and legal exposure.” The potential for federal regulation already is causing shifts in the market. Investors are starting to ask tougher questions about compliance readiness, Wu said. Retail buyers want assurances products are manufactured to the same standards used in traditional consumables sectors. In addition, employees are more willing to work for companies that value safety and consistency. For operators wondering how to prepare for GMP and ISO standards, Wu offered a simple recommendation: Begin with documentation. Creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and logging processes can pay immediate dividends even for businesses that are not ready for full GMP certification. Establishing written SOPs trains teams to think systematically and creates a paper trail that regulators and investors can trust. “I came into the cannabis market during the 2018 California legalization frenzy with investments into Eaze and a processing facility,” he revealed. “The people who brought me into this market were the ‘tech bro’ crowd who were interested in fast money and fast exits. Most had little interest in understanding supply chains or manufacturing and even less interest in running such a company. “But at the end of the day, hundreds of millions of dollars of investment capital cannot change the fact that cannabis is a perishable product that needs to be physically manufactured and requires strict supply chain management to generate profits,” he continued. “Success means simple, fundamentally sound business models with durable competitive advantages centered around product consistency and quality versus complex, flashy trends.” The industry may still be years away from federal legalization, but for manufacturers, the clock is ticking. Standards compliance is not a one-time project; it’s an ongoing discipline. The companies that take it seriously today will be the ones that remain standing tomorrow. “What’s fun about watching people with [Xylem’s] systems is, a lot of operators are running the model we wanted to run back when we were operators,” Wu said, chuckling. “Now you see operators actually using these systems the way they’re designed to be used.” Many new operators enter the industry with a fundamental misunderstanding about the nature of the business, underestimating the harsh realities of manufacturing in a highly regulated space, he said. Today’s industry may not be subject to FDA oversight, but that day is coming. Developing the discipline required to consistently produce a product at scale is crucial, he said—and the sooner operators embrace that truth, the better for their bottom lines. “Cannabis is a manufacturing business with hard costs of goods, and you will never get around that fact,” Wu said. “If you think this will be two to three years and then you can go sit on a beach, that’s not going to happen. Be ready to run a proper company that does true manufacturing work. Success comes from doing it well and producing products people want to buy.” For operators, adopting GMP and ISO standards now will deliver more than a competitive advantage. Upgrading operations will prepare businesses for an industry that most likely will be increasingly regulated, scrutinized, and operationally demanding. < 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 citizen initiative in Maine, backed by GOP operatives, seeks to repeal the state's commercial adult-use marijuana market and strip consumers of the right to grow their own plants, nearly 10 years after voters legalized recreational cannabis. The proposal would keep possession of up to 2.5 ounces legal for adults and leave the medical cannabis program intact. Proponents need approval from the secretary of state's office before circulating petitions. Opponents, like Rep. David Boyer (R), are concerned the effort ignores the will of Maine voters and would empower the black market. < Back New Maine Ballot Initiative Would Roll Back Marijuana Legalization Law Approved By Voters Oct 30, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link There’s another effort brewing to undermine a state voter-approved marijuana law—this time in Maine, where a citizen initiative backed by GOP operatives has been submitted in hopes of rolling back the commercial adult-use market. Almost 10 years after Maine voters passed a recreational legalization measure at the ballot, a group of voters—including a Republican state senator and a former top staffer to then-Gov. Paul LePage (R), a staunch prohibitionist—filed a petition to repeal much of the law with the secretary of state’s office last month. This comes as a separate campaign in Massachusetts says it’s “on track” to turn in enough signatures to qualify their own initiative to roll back cannabis legalization for the state’s 2026 ballot. In Maine, the citizen initiative application led by Madison Carey and signed by state Sen. Scott Cyrway (R), former LePage senior policy advisor Nicholas Adolphsen and others describes a broad repeal of current statutes allowing for the retail sale of cannabis to adults, while also stripping consumers of the right to grow their own plants for personal use. Possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana by adults would remain legal under the proposal. And the state’s medical cannabis program would remain intact. The draft initiative must be approved by the secretary of state’s office before proponents can circulate petitions, and a spokesperson for that office told Marijuana Moment on Wednesday that the petitioners have since “asked for changes to the proposed bill from the Revisor’s office.” “Once that is back, it will need to go to another office for a fiscal impact statement, and only then can the Elections staff layout and issue the petition,” they said. Carey, the chief petitioner, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Marijuana Moment. So it remains unclear what, if any, substantive changes they’re asking the state to make to the ballot language. As currently drafted, however, the initiative also details a process by which the Office of Cannabis Policy would need to streamline requests from existing adult-use businesses to convert to medical marijuana licensees. It would also allow cannabis products available in recreational shops to be sold or transferred to medical marijuana licensees. Rep. David Boyer (R), who led the fight to pass the cannabis legalization initiative on Maine’s ballot in 2016 when he was a staffer for the Marijuana Policy Project, said told Marijuana Moment he is “deeply concerned” by the new prohibitionist campaign. “This effort ignores the will of Maine voters who chose to end the failed era of prohibition nearly a decade ago,” he said. “Since legalization, Maine has generated hundreds of millions in tax revenue; created thousands of good-paying Maine jobs; and replaced a dangerous black market with a safe, regulated system that prioritizes consumer safety and quality control.” “We’ve avoided the pitfalls seen in other states by fostering a market that supports small businesses and local growers,” Boyer said. “Turning back now would only empower criminal enterprises, waste taxpayer dollars on ineffective enforcement, and infringe on the personal freedoms of responsible adults.” Outside of the ballot process, there have been multiple recent attempts to undermine state marijuana laws in legislatures across the country, generating criticism for advocates who have blasted primarily GOP lawmakers for going against the interests of the majority who favor reform. *— 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. —* Back in Maine, legislators in June reversed course and rejected a bill to legalize possession of up to one ounce of psilocybin by adults 21 and older. That followed a separate effort in the state last year to legalize psilocybin and allow adults to access the psychedelic at state-licensed facilities. But lawmakers watered down that bill—amending it to create a commission to further explore the reform instead—and it ultimately did not pass. Meanwhile, Maine lawmakers in February voted to investigate possible conflicts of interest by a top marijuana official. And last year, a law took effect allowing people to apply to have records of now-legal marijuana crimes sealed. *Read the text of the draft ballot initiative to repeal Maine’s commercial marijuana market below:* The post New Maine Ballot Initiative Would Roll Back Marijuana Legalization Law Approved By Voters 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

As the cannabis industry matures, access to reliable data is more important than ever. Where to find cannabis industry data online is a post from: MJBizDaily: Financial, Legal & Cannabusiness news for cannabis entrepreneurs < Back Where to find cannabis industry data online May 28, 2025 Andrew Long MJ Biz Daily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link As the cannabis industry matures, access to reliable data is more important than ever. Where to find cannabis industry data online 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

Sesh by Sherlocks started as a glass museum and has grown to become North Carolina's leading brand for THCA flower and live rosin. < Back Meet Sesh by Sherlocks Glass—North Carolina’s leading THCA flower and live rosin brand, born from a glass museum Dec 23, 2025 Leafly Staff Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Sesh by Sherlocks has grown to North Carolina's top destination for THCA flower after beginning as a glass museum. The post Meet Sesh by Sherlocks Glass—North Carolina’s leading THCA flower and live rosin brand, born from a glass museum 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

Marijuana multistate operator Curaleaf Holdings sued New Jersey regulators on October 9th to avoid punishment for violating a union rule, a post from MJBizDaily reports. < Back Marijuana MSO Curaleaf sues New Jersey to avoid ‘death penalty’ Oct 22, 2025 Chris Roberts MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Marijuana multistate operator Curaleaf Holdings sued New Jersey regulators on Oct. 9 to avoid serious punishment for violating a union rule. Marijuana MSO Curaleaf sues New Jersey to avoid ‘death penalty’ 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

Massachusetts lawmakers are advancing a bill to establish a pilot program for the regulated therapeutic use of psychedelics, with a focus on mental health treatment. The bill, S.1400, would allow the Department of Public Health (DPH) to license up to three health facilities to administer and study psychedelics, collecting patient outcome data for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorder. The bill emphasizes that participating organizations cannot be affiliated with cannabis or pharmaceutical companies. Separately, lawmakers are considering other psilocybin-related measures, including a broader legalization proposal, and have heard testimony on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. This comes after Massachusetts voters rejected a statewide ballot measure to legalize psychedelics last year, though local decriminalization initiatives have passed in several cities. < Back Massachusetts Lawmakers Advance Psychedelics Pilot Program Bill As Committees Weigh Additional Psilocybin Measures Oct 1, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Massachusetts lawmakers have approved a bill to establish a pilot program for the regulated therapeutic use of psychedelics. And two committees have separately held hearings to discuss additional psilocybin-related measures. Less than two weeks after advancing out of the legislature’s Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Hearing, the pilot program legislation from Sen. Cindy Friedman (D) moved through the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing on Tuesday with a “do pass” recommendation. The bill, S.1400, is light on specifics, leaving many details of the pilot program up to regulators with the Department of Public Health (DPH). But in general, it calls for a “pilot program to allow for the monitored mental health care of clinically appropriate patients using psychedelic materials.” It would involve the “on-site administration by a multi-disciplinary care team in a supervised licensed mental health clinic setting.” DPH could only issue licenses for up to three health facilities to administer and study the psychedelics in the state. They would be tasked with “establishing the best and safest clinical practices for psychedelic mental health treatment programs in the commonwealth and for the purposes of collecting patient outcomes data regarding the benefits of psychedelic pharmacotherapy.” “Eligible pilot program organizations must exclusively focus operations and treatment on mental health and cannot be subsidiaries, affiliates or members of cannabis industry organizations, psychedelic molecule development companies or pharmaceutical companies,” the bill text states. The department would be required to develop rules for the program, including setting standards for people to apply to participate, patient assessments and ongoing monitoring, clinical staffing and the administration of psychedelic medicines. “All pilot program participant organizations must track patient care outcomes data related to the identification, diagnosis and psychedelic treatment of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder,” it says. “These data sets must be shared with the department to assist in the refinement of best clinical protocols and final regulatory frameworks for the safe use of psychedelic material in Massachusetts.” Jamie Morey, executive director and co-founder of the advocacy group Mass Healing said the bill’s advancement “brings the promise of healing one step closer for Massachusetts residents suffering from trauma, depression, and other treatment-resistant conditions.” “We thank Senator Friedman and the committee for seeing the desperate need for new treatment options to help reduce deaths of despair and taking bold action to put Massachusetts at the forefront of a mental health revolution that will save countless lives,” she said. The bill, as well as a separate measure to provide a more limited pilot program for psilocybin therapy alone, will also be the focus of a hearing on November 10 before the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery. At separate hearings on Monday, lawmakers considered a psilocybin pilot program proposal from Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa (D), as well as a broader measure to legalize and regulate psilocybin for adults that’s being sponsored by Rep. Patrick Kearney (D). Members of the Joint Committee on Revenue took up the legalization measure, while the Joint Committee on Public Health discussed the psilocybin pilot program proposal. Members in both panels took testimony from experts about the therapeutic potential of the psychedelic and ramifications of criminalization, but did not act on the bills. Graham Moore, educational director for Mass Healing, told the revenue panel that “blanket prohibition can actually cause more harm than good.” “The largest preventable cause of death in this state is tobacco, and psilocybin has been shown to help people break that addiction among many other improvements to behavioral health,” he said. Joe McKay of Clusterbusters told lawmakers about how using psilocybin has helped to manage cluster headache condition he began experiencing after 9/11, when he was one of many firefighters who responded to the World Trade Center attack in New York City. “I would take a low dose a few times a year to keep the attacks away. And during one experience, I had this 10,000-foot view of my life and I realized how I had changed since 9/11 and that I was living with PTSD. I also realized that I was taking the painkillers to numb the emotional pain and not the physical,” he said. “I sought out help from an underground therapist, and today I no longer drink alcohol and I have not taken a painkiller since,” McKay said. “And I can honestly say that psilocybin healed me, both physically and mentally.” While multiple cities across Massachusetts have enacted local psychedelics decriminalization initiatives, voters rejected a statewide ballot measure last year that would have legalized substances such as psilocybin, ibogaine and DMT for adults. Ahead of that vote, the governor signed a military veterans-focused bill that includes provisions to create a psychedelics working group to study and make recommendations about the potential therapeutic benefits of substances like psilocybin and MDMA. Meanwhile, the legislature’s Joint Committee on the Judiciary in July held a hearing on four of 12 psychedelics-related bills that were filed for this session, with the Massachusetts Psychiatric Society (MPS) endorsing one that would decriminalize certain entheogenic substances. *— 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. —* Separately in Massachusetts, the state attorney general recently certified and prepared summaries for dozens of proposed 2026 ballot initiatives—including a pair that would roll back adult-use marijuana legalization in the state. Regulators are also working to finalize rules to allow for a new cannabis consumption lounge license type, which they hope to complete soon. The legislature’s Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy last month approved bills to provide employment protections for marijuana consumers and expand the state’s medical cannabis program, in part by adding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and opioid use disorder to the list of qualifying conditions. State lawmakers have also been considering setting tighter restrictions on intoxicating hemp-derived products and a plan to allow individual entities to control a larger number of cannabis establishments. *Photo elements courtesy of carlosemmaskype and Apollo.* The post Massachusetts Lawmakers Advance Psychedelics Pilot Program Bill As Committees Weigh Additional Psilocybin Measures 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

Performance—enhanced. The post Poll: What’s the best exercise to do stoned? appeared first on Leafly. < Back Poll: What’s the best exercise to do stoned? Jan 10, 2025 Leafly Staff Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Performance—enhanced. The post Poll: What’s the best exercise to do stoned? 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