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The summary covers various cannabis-related developments, including: US senators discussing if rescheduling cannabis would aid banking legislation; a scheduled Pennsylvania Senate vote on a cannabis control board bill; a Massachusetts official expressing concern over proposed recriminalization initiatives impacting tax revenue; NYC mayoral candidates discussing cannabis use; an overwhelming volunteer turnout for a Maryland police DUI recognition training event involving smoking marijuana; a study suggesting legalization is associated with reduced opioid use among cancer patients; hearings on bills to reduce regulatory burden in Michigan and criticism of restrictive rules in Nebraska; federal updates on a Navy Admiral's retirement and a request to ban mention of legalization during a cultivation trial; state-level actions in New Mexico, New York, California, Delaware, Connecticut, U.S. Virgin Islands, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, and Nevada; a local fine reduction in La Crosse County, Wisconsin; science and health studies on pain reduction and post-legalization use prevalence; and business news including an acquisition and Colorado's July sales. < Back Would Trump rescheduling cannabis boost reform in Congress? (Newsletter: October 20, 2025) Oct 20, 2025 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *PA marijuana hearing; MA official talks recriminalization; NYC mayor candidates on cannabis; Study: Legalization reduces cancer patient opioid 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…* *BREAKING*: Journalism is often consumed for free, but costs money to produce! While this newsletter is proudly sent without cost to you, our ability to send it each day depends on the financial support of readers who can afford to give it. So if you’ve got a few dollars to spare each month and believe in the work we do, please consider joining us on Patreon today. https://www.patreon.com/marijuanamoment */ TOP THINGS TO KNOW* Bipartisan U.S. senators shared differing perspectives with Marijuana Moment about whether President Donald Trump rescheduling cannabis would open the door to advance industry banking legislation in Congress. - “There are a lot of senators that are ready for it.” The Pennsylvania Senate Law & Justice Committee has scheduled a Tuesday vote on a bill to create a Cannabis Control Board to oversee the existing medical marijuana program and that could also regulate the adult-use market if broader legalization is enacted. The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s executive director said proposed ballot initiatives to recriminalize recreational marijuana sales would imperil tax revenue that supports substance misuse treatment efforts and other public programs. - “I cannot justify, as a public policy initiative, how alcohol can be legal and adult-use cannabis cannot be.” New York City mayoral candidates were asked whether they have ever bought marijuana at a dispensary during a debate—with Zohran Mamdani revealing that he has, Andrew Cuomo saying he hasn’t and Curtis Sliwa speaking about how he’s used it for medical purposes. The Ocean City, Maryland Police Department said it received an “overwhelming” number of volunteers to smoke marijuana and get free lunch at a DUI recognition training event for officers. A new federally funded study published by the American Medical Association found that legalizing marijuana for medical or recreational purposes is “significantly associated with reduced opioid use among patients diagnosed with cancer.” - “Results of this study suggest that cannabis may serve as a substitute for opioids in managing cancer-related pain, underscoring the potential of cannabis policies to impact opioid use.” The Michigan Senate Regulatory Affairs Committee held a hearing on several bills aimed at reducing the regulatory burden on the marijuana industry shortly after a new wholesale tax on cannabis was enacted. The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission held a hearing and heard testimony from dozens of people who unanimously criticized restrictive rules proposed by the governor-appointed panel. */ FEDERAL* Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, who had been overseeing the Trump administration’s military attacks on alleged drug boats, announced he is retiring earlier than expected. Federal prosecutors are seeking to ban any mention of marijuana legalization during a trial of people accused of illegal cannabis cultivation. */ STATES* A New Mexico marijuana business owner who is considering running for governor as a Republican filed a lawsuit challenging Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s (D) line-item vetoes in spending legislation. New York’s Assembly minority leader authored an op-ed arguing that the state needs to do more to prevent marijuana-impaired driving. California regulators announced a recall of marijuana products due to incomplete and incorrect regulatory compliance testing. Delaware regulators issued a warning about a fraudulent marijuana operation impersonating a licensed business. Connecticut officials are working to expunge more than 100,000 marijuana conviction records. U.S. Virgin Islands regulators are accepting applications for marijuana manufacturing licenses. Oklahoma regulators are launching a new medical cannabis portal on Tuesday. Massachusetts regulators published an annual report on the state’s marijuana programs. Nevada regulators will hold a hearing about proposed changes to marijuana rules on November 20. *— 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 La Crosse County, Wisconsin Council approved a proposal to lower the fine for marijuana possession to $1. */ SCIENCE & HEALTH* A study found that “treatments involving cannabis products had a positive effect on reducing pain symptoms.” A German study found that “in the early post-legalization period, there is a small non-significant increase in the prevalence of cannabis use in comparison to 2021.” */ ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS* The Washington Examiner editorial board is urging President Donald Trump not to reschedule marijuana. */ BUSINESS* WeedWeek was acquired by RegStream Media Group. atai Life Sciences announced a proposed registered underwritten offering of its common shares. Colorado retailers sold $115.7 million worth of legal marijuana products in July. *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 Would Trump rescheduling cannabis boost reform in Congress? (Newsletter: October 20, 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

Project Champion, along with the Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas and the Texas Hemp Coalition, is urging Governor Greg Abbott to veto the ban on intoxicating hemp. They argue the ban would harm the hemp industry, eliminate jobs, and restrict access to plant-based wellness alternatives for Texans, including veterans. They advocate for freedom of choice and sensible regulations, emphasizing the need to support small businesses and patients. < Back Project Champion, Ricky Williams Step into Texas Hemp Fight Jun 19, 2025 Staff MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *AUSTIN, Texas —* Project Champion, a national coalition of former professional athletes advocating for cannabis reform, has joined forces with two leading hemp associations — the Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas, and the Texas Hemp Coalition — in a unified call for Governor Greg Abbott to veto the intoxicating hemp ban in front of him. “This plant helped me stay balanced and healthy through the grind of professional football,” said Ricky Williams, former NFL running back, University of Texas legend, and cofounder of Project Champion. “Now it’s helping veterans manage PTSD and families manage pain. These changes in the law don’t protect Texans; it punishes them. The people of Texas deserve freedom of choice and don’t need the government to tell them what they can and can’t put in their body. If we have learned anything from the past decade it has been that.” Williams posted a video to social media calling on Abbott to veto SB 3 and urged his friend Abbott to take action and stand up for patient access and veterans who rely on these products. SB3 would criminalize hemp-derived THC products, including those legal under federal law. The bill threatens to dismantle Texas’s growing hemp industry, eliminate thousands of jobs, and strip veterans, patients, and everyday Texans of plant-based wellness alternatives, according to opponents. Project Champion is uniting with the Texas hemp industry to protect what’s become a thriving, job-creating sector with 53,000 jobs now at risk. The coalition is issuing a joint call to action, with each leader reinforcing the urgent need for Abbott to reject what they call misguided legislation. Eddie Velez, President, Texas Hemp Coalition: “SB 3 is a direct attack on Texas small businesses and farmers who built a safe, legal industry. A THC ban would devastate our operations, from cultivation to retail, and ripple through local economies. We don’t want bans. We want commonsense regulations like age limits and responsible use education. Work with us, not against us.” Nick Mortillaro, founder , Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas: “This legislation would wipe out hundreds of Texas companies, many of them family-run. The economic damage would be catastrophic. The illicit market and the cartels will fill the vacuum. We urge Governor Abbott to listen to business owners, veterans, and patients, not fear-based politics.” The proposed ban would eliminate access to plant-based products used by countless Texans to manage pain, anxiety, and chronic illnesses, including many veterans, the organizations said. “Prohibition doesn’t protect people; it puts them in danger,” Williams said. “We’ve seen this story play out before. When you take legal, regulated products off the shelves, people don’t stop using them. They lose access to safety, transparency, and accountability. That’s when the illicit market steps in, and Texans pay the price. Veterans, patients, small business owners — they all lose. It’s a fumble Texas can’t afford. We can build a model for smart, compassionate policy, or we can go backward and cause real harm. The choice is clear.” Project Champion and its coalition partners urge Abbott to stand with small business, patients, veterans, freedom of choice for Texans and veto SB 3. About Project Champion Project Champion is a 501c4, bipartisan coalition of former professional athletes dedicated to advancing effective cannabis/hemp legislation that normalizes and destigmatizes its use, unlocking its myriad wellness, medical, and socio-economic benefits for all Americans. The organization is led by former NFL greats Ricky Williams, Jim McMahon, and Kyle Turley. All have been long-time medical cannabis advocates and has made it their personal goal to elevate the legitimacy of cannabis as a medicine. PC is committed to championing meaningful cannabis policy reform and advocating for the rights of patients and businesses in the cannabis sector. Through education, outreach, and community engagement, the organization aims to foster a more equitable and just cannabis landscape across the United States. About Texas Hemp Coalition The Texas Hemp Coalition (THC) is a business advocacy and educational non-profit dedicated to providing pertinent information about the hemp industry in the state of Texas. Its goal is to provide beneficial content to members in the areas of farming, processing, retail, and economic development in this developing industry. About Hemp Industry Leaders of Texas HILT is an independent, grassroots organization created by and for Texas hemp business owners. The group stands together to face challenges, from legal issues to compliance hurdles, and to promote the growth and success of the industry. HILT holds up farmers, veterans, and customers with medical needs as the primary focus of its advocacy and leverages its partnership with CRAFT for compliance SOPs to protect livelihoods and communities. < 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 new medical cannabis facility for the company is located in Pace, near Pensacola, on a busy retail corridor in the panhandle. < Back Planet 13 Opens 34th Florida Dispensary in Pace Oct 20, 2025 Staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The company’s new medical cannabis facility in Pace, near Pensacola, is located on a busy retail corridor in the panhandle. < 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 House bill aiming to ban THC hemp products is facing strong opposition from Sen. Rand Paul, who believes it would "completely destroy" the American hemp industry. The bill, championed by Rep. Andy Harris, would prohibit products containing any "quantifiable" amounts of THC, which would include most CBD items that naturally have trace amounts of THC. Paul has introduced his own bill, the HEMP Act, which seeks to triple the legal THC concentration in hemp and address other industry concerns. The Congressional Research Service also reported that the House legislation would effectively ban hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America has urged Congress to reconsider the ban, advocating for state-level regulation of intoxicating products and a federal system for testing and labeling. < Back Rand Paul Says GOP Congressman’s Hemp Ban Bill Would ‘Completely Destroy’ The Industry Jun 30, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A GOP senator says that an effort to ban THC hemp products that’s advancing in the Republican-controlled House would “completely destroy” the industry. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) told Marijuana Moment on Thursday that he’s opposed to cannabis language included in a House agriculture spending bill that’s being championed by noted prohibitionist Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD). Asked for his thoughts on the proposal, the senator said “they have an appropriations bill that I think would completely destroy the American hemp industry.” “I don’t know how you’d be able to sell CBD oil with that,” he said, echoing arguments from certain hemp stakeholders who say the legislation as currently drafted would ban not only synthetic intoxicating cannabinoids like delta-8 THC but also most hemp-derived non-intoxicating cannabidiol products. While Harris amended report language attached to the bill that clarifies it’s not the intent of the committee to stop people from accessing “industrial or nonintoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoid products with trace or insignificant amounts of THC,” the bill itself still says that products containing any “quantifiable” amounts of THC couldn’t be marketed. And it’s rare to find CBD items without any natural traces of THC. Paul recently filed a bill that would go in the opposite direction of Harris’s ban, proposing to triple the concentration of THC that the crop could legally contain, while addressing multiple other concerns the industry has expressed about federal regulations. The senator introduced the legislation, titled the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act, last week. It mirrors versions he’s sponsored over the last several sessions. Hemp and its derivatives were legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill, but the industry has experienced multiple setbacks in the years since—and the proliferation of intoxicating cannabinoid products has led to pushes in Congress and state legislatures across the country to reign in the largely unregulated market. Harris, for his part, told Marijuana Moment last week that he’s not concerned about any potential opposition in the Senate—and he also disputed reports about the scope of what his legislation would do to the industry. The 2026 spending legislation that contains provisions to ban consumable hemp products with any quantifiable amount of THC advanced out of the House Appropriations Committee on Monday and is now headed to the floor before potentially getting taken up by the Senate. Harris—who serves as chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies—also noted in the interview with Marijuana Moment that there “was no opposition [to the hemp provisions] that came up in committee, that’s for sure.” He also briefly weighed in on the Texas governor’s recent veto of a bill to recriminalize hemp products with any THC—simply stating that he’s “not paying attention to what a single state is doing” while he focuses on enacting the proposed federal ban. The language in the congressional bill, meanwhile, would still effectively eliminate the most commonly marketed hemp products within the industry, as even non-intoxicating CBD items that are sold across the country typically contain trace amounts of THC. Under current law, those products are allowed if they contain no more than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight. The proposed policy championed by Harris would drastically change that. It would instead maintain the legal status of “industrial hemp” under a revised definition that allows for the cultivation and sale of hemp grown for fiber, whole grain, oil, cake, nut, hull, microgreens or “other edible hemp leaf products intended for human consumption.” The Congressional Research Service (CRS) released a report this month stating that the legislation would “effectively” prohibit hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Initially it said that such a ban would prevent the sale of CBD as well, but the CRS report was updated to exclude that language for reasons that are unclear. The hemp language is largely consistent with appropriations and agriculture legislation that was introduced, but not ultimately enacted, under the last Congress. Hemp industry stakeholders rallied against that proposal, an earlier version of which was also included in the base bill from the subcommittee last year. It’s virtually identical to a provision of the 2024 Farm Bill that was attached by a separate committee last May via an amendment from Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL), which was also not enacted into law. There are some differences between the prior spending bill and this latest version for 2026, including a redefining of what constitutes a “quantifiable” amount of THC that’d be prohibited for hemp products. It now says that a quantifiable amount is “based on substance, form, manufacture, or article (as determined by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture),” whereas it was previously defined as an amount simply “determined by the Secretary in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services.” The proposed legislation also now specifies that the term hemp does not include “a drug that is the subject of an application approved under subsection (c) or (j) of section 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 355),” which seems to carve out an exception for Food and Drug Administration- (FDA) approved drugs such Epidiolex, which is synthesized from CBD. A leading alcohol industry association, meanwhile, has called on Congress to dial back language in the House spending bill that would ban most consumable hemp products, instead proposing to maintain the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids from the crop and only prohibit synthetic items. Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) President and CEO Francis Creighton said in a press release that “proponents and opponents alike have agreed that this language amounts to a ban.” “By pushing a rapidly evolving industry back into the shadows, Congress is creating even more chaos in the marketplace, undermining state initiatives and punishing responsible actors,” he said. “We urge the full House to reconsider this approach. States can regulate intoxicating products safely and effectively through systems that preserve consumer trust and public safety. It’s time for Congress to follow their lead, not override their authority.” Members of WSWA also met with lawmakers and staffers in April to advocate for three key policy priorities that the group says is based on “sound principles of alcohol distribution.” They include banning synthetic THC, setting up a federal system for testing and labeling products and establishing state-level power to regulate retail sales. Separately, key GOP congressional lawmakers—including one member who supports marijuana legalization—don’t seem especially concerned about provisions in the bill despite concern from stakeholders that it would put much of the hemp industry in jeopardy by banning most consumable products derived from the plant. *— 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. —* Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, told congressional lawmakers in April that the market is “begging” for federal regulations around cannabis products. At the hearing, Rep. James Comer (R-KY) also inquired about FDA inaction around regulations, sarcastically asking if it’d require “a gazillion bureaucrats that work from home” to regulate cannabinoids such as CBD. A report from Bloomberg Intelligence (BI) last year called cannabis a “significant threat” to the alcohol industry, citing survey data that suggests more people are using cannabis as a substitute for alcoholic beverages such a beer and wine. Last November, meanwhile, a beer industry trade group put out a statement of guiding principles to address what it called “the proliferation of largely unregulated intoxicating hemp and cannabis products,” warning of risks to consumers and communities resulting from THC consumption. *The LCB contributed reporting from Washington, D.C. * Matt Gaetz Pictured Reviewing Contract To Provide Top Marijuana Company With ‘Administration-Related’ Support Amid Rescheduling Push *Photo courtesy of Pixabay.* The post Rand Paul Says GOP Congressman’s Hemp Ban Bill Would ‘Completely Destroy’ The Industry 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

364 days until federal hemp THC prohibition as President Trump signs ban < Back 364 days until federal hemp THC prohibition... Nov 13, 2025 Chris Roberts MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Congress passed a spending bill late Wednesday that also bans hemp-derived THC. 364 days until federal hemp THC prohibition as President Trump signs ban 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

A House committee blocked a bipartisan amendment that would have given the Department of Defense an additional $10 million for psychedelic clinical trials, despite prior mandates and support from various lawmakers and officials. Meanwhile, other efforts to advance psychedelic medicine for veterans continue. < Back Amendment To Fund Psychedelic Clinical Trials At Defense Department Blocked By GOP-Controlled Congressional Committee Jul 15, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A key House committee has blocked a bipartisan amendment to a spending bill that would have given the Department of Defense (DOD) another $10 million to support clinical trials into the therapeutic potential of substances such as ibogaine and psilocybin. Under appropriations legislation that was enacted last session, DOD is already mandated to conduct the trials, with $10 million in previously provided funding, to investigate the medical value of psychedelics for active duty military members. But now the House Rules Committee has declined to allow a floor vote on an amendment to the underlying DOD funding bill for Fiscal Year 2026 that would have provided additional support to widen the scope of the department’s research as it moves to fulfill its mandate. Meanwhile, the panel cleared 330 other amendments on unrelated topics for floor votes as part of the military legislation. Led by Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-TX), a Navy SEAL veteran himself who has been candid about his own experience benefitting from ibogaine and 5‐MeO‐DMT, the amendment would have transferred the $10 million to “enable DoD Wide psychedelic medical clinical trails for the Defense Health Program research, development, test and evaluation,” according to a summary from its sponsors. A spokesperson for Luttrell told Marijuana Moment last week that, if the amendment were adopted, the designated funding “would be placed in the Defense Health Program Research and Development line” at DOD. Reps. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX), Sara Jacobs (D-CA) and Nancy Mace (R-NC)—as well as Reps. Jack Bergman (R-MI) and Lou Correa (D-CA), who serve as co-chairs of the Congressional Psychedelic Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus—were also sponsors of the proposal. The action blocking the amendment to the spending bill from advancing comes as bipartisan lawmakers and stakeholders continue to see other advances in the debate over psychedelic medicine. For example, former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) recently said the psychedelic ibogaine represents an “astonishing breakthrough” in the nation’s current “sick care system” that’s left people with serious mental health conditions without access to promising alternative treatment options—and he intends to use his influence to advance the issue. Meanwhile, a Navy SEAL veteran credited with killing Osama Bin Laden said during a Fox News interview last week 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 Correa and Bergman that would encourage VA to support research into the benefits of psychedelics in treating medical conditions commonly affecting military veterans. Last month, meanwhile, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 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.” U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (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. Meanwhile last month, bipartisan congressional lawmakers asked the VA head to meet with them to discuss ways to provide access to psychedelic medicine for military veterans. In a letter sent to Collins, Reps. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Jack Bergman (R-MI)—co-chairs of the Congressional Psychedelic Advancing Therapies (PATH) Caucus—said they were “encouraged by your recent remarks about the importance of pursuing research into psychedelic treatments and other alternative treatments to improve Veterans’ care.” Correa and Bergman separately 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. *— 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. —* 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). Last year, VA’s Yehuda also touted an initial study the agency funded that produced “stunning and robust results” from its first-ever clinical trial into MDMA therapy. 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. The post Amendment To Fund Psychedelic Clinical Trials At Defense Department Blocked By GOP-Controlled Congressional Committee 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

Chris Yetter has been appointed to the board of directors for Hydrofarm Holdings Group Inc. and will also serve on the Compensation Committee. Yetter is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Dumont Global and has experience in public companies focused on health and wellness, including the U.S. regulated cannabis industry. He replaced Susan P. Peters, who retired. < Back Chris Yetter Joins Hydrofarm Board of Directors Oct 2, 2025 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *SHOEMAKERSVILLE, Pa.* — Chris Yetter has been appointed to the board of directors for Hydrofarm Holdings Group Inc. Yetter also will serve on the Compensation Committee. Yetter has served since 2018 as the Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Dumont Global, a private investment partnership and affiliate of Dumont Master Fund LP, a long standing stockholder in the company. Yetter also serves as a director for Minneapolis Cider Co., a position he has held since 2024. Yetter has extensive experience as a professional investor in public companies focused on health and wellness, including a large portfolio in the U.S. regulated cannabis industry. Susan P. Peters created a vacancy on the board when she retired to spend more time with family, effective October 1. < 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

Virginia's medical cannabis sales reached nearly $30 million in July and August, exceeding expectations according to state data. < Back Virginia medical marijuana sales greatly exceed expectations Sep 26, 2025 Chris Roberts MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Virginia medical cannabis sales totaled nearly $30 million in July and August, according to state data. Virginia medical marijuana sales greatly exceed expectations 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

The legal cannabis industry contributed $9.104 billion to Canada’s GDP in the first three months of 2025, up from $8.3 billion during the same period last year. Licensed cannabis production and sales increased, while unlicensed production and sales decreased. Canadian household expenditures totaled $11.7 billion, with provincial and territorial governments taking in $1.5 billion. Household expenditures on medical cannabis remained level at $116 million. A survey found that most Canadians view cannabis as important to the country’s economy. < Back Cannabis Industry Contributed $9.1B to Canada’s GDP During Q1 2025 Jun 10, 2025 TG Branfalt Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The legal cannabis industry has contributed $9.104 billion to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) through the first three months of 2025, according to the most recent, seasonally adjusted figures from Statistics Canada. During the same period last year, the sector contributed $8.3 billion to Canada’s GDP. Canada’s production of licensed cannabis increased 10.6% from March 2024 to March 2025, while unlicensed production dropped 4.5%, according to government data. Sales at licensed cannabis retailers experienced a 4.7% year-over-year increase from March 2024 to March 2025, while sales at unlicensed shops fell 4.4% over that same timeframe. Canadian household final consumption expenditures totaled $11.7 billion during the first quarter of this year, with provincial and territorial governments taking in $1.5 billion. The combined revenue, expenditure, and budgetary balance through the first quarter is down from the $1.032 billion during the fourth quarter of 2024. Household expenditures on medical cannabis remained level at $116 million from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025. A survey from April conducted by Abacus Data, commissioned by Organigram Global, found a majority (57%) of Canadians view cannabis as important to the country’s economy, with 62% believing it could play a more significant role in the future economy. < 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

First Cut Farms demonstrates the old-world method of turning loose dry sift into temple balls, inspired by Frenchy Cannoli. The process emphasizes heat, pressure, and understanding resin, beginning with boiling water in a glass bottle and dry sift. < Back Temple Ball Hash Tutorial: From Dry Sift to Cure-Ready Resin Jul 1, 2025 Lindsay MaHarry Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Let’s watch First Cut Farms turn loose dry sift into tight little temple balls using the old-world method made famous by Frenchy Cannoli. The whole process is built around heat and pressure and a real feel for resin. It starts with a glass bottle filled with boiling water and a pile of golden dry sift […] The post Temple Ball Hash Tutorial: From Dry Sift to Cure-Ready Resin 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

Veterans, business owners, farmers, and industry leaders are urging Gov. Greg Abbott to veto the legislation banning hemp products. < Back Texas Hemp Advocates Deliver 118,000+ Signatures to Governor to Stop SB 3 Jun 3, 2025 Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Veterans, business owners, farmers and industry leaders are urging Gov. Greg Abbott to veto the ‘flawed’ legislation that would ban hemp products. < 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

Delaware will begin adult-use cannabis sales on August 1, following the passage of reforms in 2023. The state's Marijuana Commissioner, Joshua Sanderlin, emphasized the market's focus on safety, equity, and accountability, highlighting its potential to generate revenue for public services and create opportunities. Although initial dispensary licenses were awarded in December, the process faced a setback when the FBI denied federal background checks, leading to a rework of licensing requirements. < Back Adult-Use Cannabis Sales to Launch in Delaware Next Month Jul 2, 2025 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Delaware Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) announced Tuesday that adult-use cannabis sales would commence in the state starting August 1. Delaware lawmakers passed the state’s adult-use cannabis reforms in 2023. Joshua Sanderlin, the state’s new Marijuana Commissioner, said the pending sales launch “reflects the tireless efforts of our regulatory team and our strong partnerships with state agencies, industry stakeholders, and community leaders.” “Our focus is on building a safe, equitable, and accountable marijuana market that delivers real benefits to Delawareans,” Sanderlin said in a press release. “This new industry will generate critical revenue to strengthen our schools, infrastructure, and public health systems, while creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs. This revenue also gives us a powerful tool to invest in the communities most impacted by the war on drugs, addressing past wrongs and ensuring that the benefits of this new market reach every corner of our state.” — Gov. Matt Meyer (D), in a statement The first adult-use dispensary licenses were awarded in December. Earlier this year, however, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) denied the process for federal background checks as required by the state’s legalization policy, which sent lawmakers and officials scrambling to rework the program’s licensing requirements. < 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