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The Texas House of Representatives passed a bill to add new qualifying conditions to the state’s medical cannabis program and allow for new prescribed products. House Bill 46 would add chronic pain and Crohn’s disease to the list of qualifying conditions and give patients access to new products. Texas lawmakers are in a showdown over intoxicating hemp products in the state. < Back Texas House Votes to Expand Medical Cannabis Program May 14, 2025 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Texas House of Representatives passed a bill Tuesday seeking to add new qualifying conditions to the state’s medical cannabis program and allow for new prescribed products, the Texas Tribune reports. House Bill 46, introduced by state Rep. Ken King (R), would add chronic pain and Crohn’s disease to the list of qualifying conditions. The proposal would also give patients access to new products including patches, topicals, suppositories, prescribed inhalers, and some vaping devices, and would expand rural access to the program, the report said. “There are too many Texans who are still struggling to get access to the medicine they legally have a right to receive.” — King, in a floor statement The Texas Compassionate Use Program was established by lawmakers in 2015 to give state-registered patients access to low-dose medical cannabis products. The program originally was designed for epilepsy patients, but lawmakers have expanded the program over the years to cover other conditions including cancer, post-traumatic stress disorder, multiple sclerosis, an incurable neurodegenerative disease, and others. Meanwhile, Texas lawmakers are in a showdown over intoxicating hemp products in the state: the Senate passed an outright ban last month on products containing any amount of THC, but the bill was recently amended by a House committee to regulate — not gut — the retail hemp market. < 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

UFC heavyweight Curtis "Razor" Blaydes utilizes the AirVape Legacy PRO 2 vaporizer as a core component of his post-training recovery regimen, seeking to combat injury risk and enhance performance through intentional cannabis use. AirVape co-owner Gary Szilagyi highlights the shared philosophy of using cannabis for recovery, mental clarity, and focus, not just recreation. The Legacy PRO 2 is the next evolution of AirVape's device, featuring... < Back AirVape’s Legacy PRO 2: This Portable Luxury Vaporizer Is Innovating Cannabis Recovery Nov 6, 2025 Cannabis Now Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link UFC heavyweight contender Curtis “Razor” Blaydes is a major player in the world of mixed martial arts. He’s what you get when you combine the raw strength of an athlete with the strategy of a chess player. Blaydes is recognized across the sport for his formidable wrestling and explosive takedowns. As he navigates the intense physical demands and injury risks inherent in elite MMA, Blaydes is finding that recovery isn’t just about taking a break, it’s also a secret weapon that combats the risk of injury, enhances performance, and increases the potential for overall athletic progress. *Strategic Approaches to Cannabis Recovery* In his quest for the Holy Grail of peak performance and career longevity, Blaydes is pioneering state-of-the-art recovery methods through continuous improvement and a disciplined post-training regimen. Blaydes is not alone. Performance-tuning the recovery process is now an essential component of wellness as athletes balance healing, pain management, and stress reduction. The cornerstone of Blaydes’ recovery program is the AirVape Legacy PRO 2, a bespoke combustion-free experience that transforms the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. “I’m always looking for ways to recover smarter,” Blaydes says. “The AirVape Legacy PRO 2 is clean, fast, and helps me wind down the right way.” According to AirVape co-owner Gary Szilagyi, “what sealed the [partnership] was the shared philosophy: we both believe cannabis can be used intentionally for recovery, mental clarity, and focus, not just recreation. It felt like a natural fit: his discipline and story amplified our vision, and our technology elevated his routine.” The Legacy PRO 2 is AirVape’s next evolution of their original award-winning Legacy PRO dry herb vaporizer. And the love for this device runs deep. As AirVape’s first user-centered upgrade, it reflects direct input from the brand’s dedicated following—a community that’s helped cement its place among the top names in vaporization. As the company website states, they’re “taking everything users loved about the original Legacy Pro and enhancing it with smarter design, refined aesthetics, and user-driven upgrades.” If you, like Blaydes, are interested in joining the AirVape community and utilizing cannabis as part of your health and wellness routine, then you’ve found the right company. Their entire ethos is centered on promoting wellness through innovation. Founder Roland Szegi, a former athlete, envisioned transforming the portable vaporizer landscape. In the sequel to the original AirVape Legacy, he released a device that captured high performance, elegance, and mindfulness. *Setting a New Gold Standard* The AirVape Legacy PRO 2 is a sleek, ergonomic device that fits naturally in the palm of your hand. Designed for modern wellness seekers, it’s the cornerstone of a discreet ritual—an elegant piece of technology that hides in plain sight while subtly masking the aroma of the herbs within. Wrapped in hand-applied cork fabric with 24k gold flakes over a gunmetal frame, the vape balances modern design with artisanal detail—no two devices are exactly alike. The gold freckles upon the cork detailing are an homage to AirVape’s dedication to quality materials that produce a session’s luxury experience. Engraved into the leather is its name, bordered with delicate stitching. While the cork is aesthetically pleasing, it also functions to insulate the device’s heat and to maintain temperature precision. While the top vaporization devices on the market are quick to heat up within 30-40 seconds, the Legacy PRO 2 heats up in just 15 seconds. The hybrid heating methodology, gold-plated filters, detailing, and the glass airpath level up the original Legacy design. By integrating both conduction and convection, the device achieves true hybrid heating—a rare innovation that sets it apart from competitors. Blaydes had already been using vaporizers as part of his recovery routine, but when he tried the Legacy Pro, he immediately appreciated the design, build quality, and clean vapor experience. The glass is also easy to maintain, with a replaceable battery to enhance the lifespan of the device. The user’s ability to precisely adjust the temperature puts control back into the user’s hands to achieve efficient and even heating of the chamber. You can modify the temperature per strain and terpene profile for the best flavor and extend session time through temperature modulation. *Unparalleled Functionality* AirVape stood out to Blaydes because of his open advocacy for innovative, cleaner recovery methods. That innovation, The Legacy PRO 2, arrives assembled and ready to charge with a universally compatible USB-C port. To turn the device on, click the button three times. The device either times down or shuts down with clicking the button three times. This Legacy PRO 2 provides a visual display that is used to turn the temperature up and down, adjust session length, gauge battery life, and to say goodbye with a “ciao ” and a smile when turned off. This dual-use vape can hold flower or concentrate, adding convenience to a busy lifestyle. The gold-plated chamber isn’t just for looks— the chamber is interchangeable and easy to replace. It is an innovation on traditional heating devices with gold, a metal that’s traditionally been in medical devices, thanks to its stable characteristics. We’re impressed by how AirVape seamlessly blends form and function to create a device that isn’t just aesthetically pleasing but effective at what it’s designed to do. The Legacy PRO 2 also comes with two important accessories. First, there’s a loading tool that presses flower from the grinder into a compact puck that’s easy to take in and out of the device, making cleanup easy. Secondly, there’s a glass piece, reminiscent of the top of a water pipe, that helps with cooling the vapor further when playing with higher temperatures and wax. It’s easier to customize and pursue hybrid sessions by incorporating flower and sugar at the same time. The device’s innovations are born from real challenges compiled from AirVape’s dedicated fan base, making this the clean and innovative design Blaydes relies on. *Rethinking The Recovery Paradigm* Together, Blaydes and Air Vape are pushing cannabis and sports with their willingness to educate other athletes about alternatives to traditional painkillers. “What’s really striking is how authentic [Blades’] involvement is,” describes Szilagyi. “He’s not just endorsing a product; he’s sharing his own recovery journey.” Blaydes is championing the paradigm shift in athletic recovery. Acceptance of cannabis in sport is growing as regulations around flower use continue to vary. Vaporization devices like the AirVape PRO 2 play a vital role in supporting athletic wellness and performance. They offer an opportunity for all of us to channel our inner Blaydes as we strive for peak potential. The post AirVape’s Legacy PRO 2: This Portable Luxury Vaporizer Is Innovating Cannabis Recovery appeared first on Cannabis Now. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The article argues that the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education and Regulation (CPEAR), funded by tobacco and alcohol giants like Altria, is using a poll to manipulate public opinion and push for the STATES 2.0 Act. This bill, framed as a "states' rights" approach, would lead to market consolidation and benefit large corporations at the expense of small businesses and social justice reforms. The author, Damian Fagon, highlights the conflict of interest with the polling firm and points out that the poll's own data shows less support for STATES 2.0 than for general marijuana legalization. He urges Congress to pursue a legalization framework that includes record expungement and protects workers' rights and communities impacted by the war on drugs. < Back Big Tobacco Is Selling A Corporate Cannabis Blueprint As A Public Mandate, Former New York Regulator Says (Op-Ed) Jul 3, 2025 Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“CPEAR’s poll is a thinly veiled attempt to persuade policymakers to take a broadly popular issue in a less popular direction.”* *By Damian Fagon, Parabola Center* In 1994, R.J. Reynolds quietly pumped millions into a flag-waving coalition called “Get Government Off Our Back.” The mission was simple: pose as a grassroots movement with an anti-regulation agenda to prevent the Food and Drug Administration from touching cigarettes. Three decades later, a similar playbook has found its way to cannabis, and the fingerprints are unmistakable. Today’s vehicle is the Coalition for Cannabis Policy, Education and Regulation (CPEAR), bankrolled in part by Altria, the Marlboro parent that sank $1.8 billion into the cannabis firm Cronos Group. Earlier this month, CPEAR released a poll trumpeting a popular “mandate” for the STATES 2.0 Act, a bill that would take a “states’ rights” approach to marijuana. Set aside the patriotic headlines and the math tells another story. This poll functions not to record public opinion, but to manufacture it. *The Messenger Is The Message* CPEAR is not a neutral think tank. It is a front group financed by Altria and other tobacco and alcohol giants. The polling firm, Forbes Tate Partners, also happens to be a public affairs firm and a registered lobbyist for Altria. Sponsor and pollster are, quite literally, on the same team. Accepting the findings at face value asks us to forget that the data and the desired outcome share the same business address. *A Framework For Consolidation* The cynical design of CPEAR’s favored bill, STATES 2.0, lies in what it doesn’t do: expunge criminal records, protect cannabis workers’ rights, prevent marijuana-related deportations or take any accountability for the harms caused by the war on drugs. Instead, 50 states will compete for investment on the most lenient, “business-friendly” terms they can devise. The deepest-pocketed operators and conglomerates will flock to low-tax, low-oversight jurisdictions, monopolize supply chains and absorb smaller competitors. We have seen this playbook before in alcohol and tobacco, and the economic logic with cannabis will be no different. Every law we pass shapes the economy Americans will inherit. Adopting the STATES 2.0 Act would codify consolidation and leave mom-and-pop operators scrambling for scraps. Congress can choose a better course by insisting on a legalization framework that clears records, protects state regulation and channels investment to the very communities that paid the highest price under prohibition. Anything less turns legalization into prohibition by another name. *Persuasion By Design* CPEAR’s poll is a thinly veiled attempt to persuade policymakers to take a broadly popular issue in a less popular direction. It frames STATES 2.0 in the language of states’ rights, a tested appeal to conservative voters, while staying silent on relevant questions related to record expungement, equity and small business access. By excluding legislative alternatives such as the MORE Act, which pairs legalization with the justice reforms that a majority of Americans do support, the poll reduces a complex debate to a loaded yes-or-no test. And by asking how a person would feel about a congressional candidate or the Trump administration if they supported marijuana reform, the final question seeks to make CPEAR’s chosen bill look like a winning political decision. And yet, it isn’t. *What The Numbers Really Say* The poll’s own data reveal a critical weakness. Despite general support for federal legalization standing steady at 70 percent, respondent enthusiasm drops to the low 60s when presented within the STATES 2.0 framework. Wouldn’t we expect a federal marijuana bill to garner at least as much support as marijuana legalization generally? But even in a poll framed by the bill’s own advocates, STATES 2.0 is less popular than the cause it claims to represent. And the news for their favored politicians is even worse—despite CPEAR’s creative description of a “near majority” being more likely to support a pro-cannabis candidate, the big takeaway is that the actual majority would not be more likely to support a pro-cannabis candidate. With tobacco and alcohol conglomerates leading the lobbying charge, can we blame them? We don’t know what else the numbers showed. The report relies on a low-transparency online poll of 2,051 respondents and omits key disclosures that make it impossible to verify or replicate. Without information on respondent demographics, such as age, gender identity, race and income or a nuanced look at their political philosophy instead of just party labels, one could easily “cook the books” by oversampling favorable groups and pretending it happened organically. By withholding these data, along with the weighting methods that the American Association for Public Opinion Research considers basic requirements, the pollsters tell Congress and the voting public to simply trust them. Given their blatant conflict of interest, why should anyone? *Damian Fagon is a former New York cannabis regulator and the executive leadership fellow at Parabola Center for Law and Policy.* Doctors Group Launches Campaign Empowering More Healthcare Professionals To Join Drug Decriminalization Movement The post Big Tobacco Is Selling A Corporate Cannabis Blueprint As A Public Mandate, Former New York Regulator Says (Op-Ed) 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

RollPros, a pre-roll joint automation technology leader, has expanded its services to include packaging and design, offering a comprehensive solution for cannabis brands. This expansion aims to streamline operations, ensure compliance, and enhance brand presence by providing a single partner for automation, packaging, and design. RollPros offers various packaging options, addresses industry pain points by consolidating services, and provides flexible financing. The company's mission is to eliminate friction in the pre-roll production process, empowering cannabis operators to grow. < Back RollPros Adds Packaging and Design Services for Cannabis Brands Jun 19, 2025 Staff MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *VANCOUVER, Wash. –* RollPros, an industry leader in pre-roll joint automation technology, expanded its packaging and design services, transforming the company from an equipment provider into a full-spectrum partner that can help companies fuel brand growth through seamless integration of automation, packaging, and design. In an industry often challenged by fragmented supply chains and inconsistent branding, RollPros aims to deliver a complete, streamlined solution. Cannabis operators can now rely on a single partner to accelerate production, ensure compliance, and elevate their brand’s shelf presence, all while simplifying operations and cutting costs. “Our mission at RollPros has always been to eliminate friction in the pre-roll production process,” said Kyle Loucks, founder and CEO. “Expanding our packaging and design services means we’re no longer just providing machines. We’re also delivering the entire ecosystem that brands need to compete, scale, and win. From precision automation to premium materials and eye-catching design, we’re the partner that empowers cannabis operators to grow without limits.” RollPros’ expanded service portfolio includes a curated range of premium packaging options such as child-resistant and non-child-resistant slide boxes, magnetic locking flip-top cartons, child-resistant tins and blunt tubes, custom-printed crutches and rolling papers, and fully branded packaging kits, all designed in-house. Each product is engineered for market compliance and crafted to capture consumer attention in a fiercely competitive retail environment. The expanded offering addresses a critical industry pain point: the operational complexity caused by sourcing equipment, materials, and packaging from multiple vendors. By consolidating these essential components into one comprehensive service, RollPros gives brands greater control, improved efficiency, and a faster path to market. In doing so, RollPros is helping to normalize cannabis operations, bringing much-needed professionalism and streamlined logistics to an industry still overcoming unique regulatory and supply chain hurdles. This makes scaling easier and smoother, similar to what mature industries have long experienced. Moreover, customers financing their Blackbird equipment can now bundle packaging and design services into the same flexible financing package, creating a more cost-effective growth strategy from day one. “This is a significant shift in how cannabis brands build and scale their business,” Loucks added. “We’re crafting a holistic ecosystem that removes barriers, ignites brand potential, and lets operators focus on growth and innovation.” About RollPros RollPros is a leader in pre-roll joint automation technology for the legal cannabis industry. The company’s proprietary Blackbird joint-rolling system mimics the compaction of hand-rolled joints while preserving the integrity of the flower’s essential ingredients. The company’s automation system helps cannabis businesses thrive by facilitating production of pre-rolls, optimizing production capacity, and freeing up key personnel to focus on critical business activities. RollPros was the first company to create a commercial joint rolling machine that does not require pre-made cones. < 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 hemp advocates are opposing a bill to outlaw consumable hemp-derived cannabinoid products with detectable THC. They're urging Gov. Greg Abbott to veto the measure. The Texas Hemp Business Council says the bill would destroy the industry, which employs an estimated 53,000 people. Critics argue against the bill's potential impact, emphasizing existing regulations and advocating for thoughtful regulation instead of outright prohibition. Meanwhile, Texas lawmakers passed a bill for ibogaine clinical trials and expanded the medical marijuana program. < Back Texas Hemp Advocates Deliver 100,000+ Petitions To Governor’s Office, Urging Him To Veto THC Ban Bill Jun 3, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Texas hemp advocates and stakeholders are rallying in opposition to a bill the legislature passed to outlaw all consumable hemp-derived cannabinoid products containing any detectable THC—delivering more than 100,000 petition signatures asking Gov. Greg Abbott (R) to veto the measure. “Senate Bill 3 was designed to destroy a vibrant and legitimate industry,” Cynthia Cabrera, president of Texas Hemp Business Council, which represents the state’s roughly $8 billion hemp industry, said in a press release. “The bill now awaits review by Governor Abbott. We respectfully urge him to consider the facts, listen to our appeal and make the logical decision to veto SB 3.” At a press conference on Monday, Cabrera said she wanted to “address the misinformation, misdirection and maligning of this industry” by the bill sponsor, Sen. Charles Perry (D), and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R), who serves as presiding officer of the Senate and strongly advocated for the legislation. “SB 3 violates the very principles Texas prides itself on: small government, individual freedom and free enterprise,” she said. “Governor Abbott, we ask that you keep your promise to small businesses, to women entrepreneurs and to every Texan who values freedom.” Critics of the bill have said the industry—which employs an estimated 53,000 people—would be decimated if the measure becomes law. “Make no mistake, the idea that ‘no one knows what’s in these products’ is false,” Cabrera said, responding to the lieutenant governor’s arguments in support of SB 3. “For the past six years, Texas law has mandated third-party lab testing and clear labeling. The only goal of these scare tactics is to frighten legislators and the public into going along with an agenda they did not ask for.” Rather than outlaw products outright, the petition from the Texas Hemp Business Council, which has now been signed by more than 120,000 people, says the legislature should “support additional, thoughtful regulation, such as age restrictions for purchasing, and child- resistant packaging, that ensure product safety without the elimination of these products for Texans.” 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. Texans don’t take freedom lightly. Thousands of letters. One clear message: @GregAbbott_TX, #VetoSB3. #txlege pic.twitter.com/3GMlDzXWKp — Texas Hemp Business Council (@TexasHempBiz) June 2, 2025 Military veterans advocates, including Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars, have 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. Last month, a spokesperson for the governor declined to detail Abbott’s plan for the bill, saying only that he “will thoughtfully review any legislation sent to his desk.” On the other side of the debate, supporters of SB 3 held a separate press conference on Monday, where representatives of the organization Citizens for a Safe and Healthy Texas condemned the hemp industry. One speaker said they are “sick and tired of the hemp industry stating no one dies from THC” and claimed that cannabis is more dangerous than alcohol. Meanwhile in Texas, the legislature this week passed a bill that would 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, with the goal of developing a drug that would win U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. *— 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. —* Last month, meanwhile, the Texas House passed a pair of bills designed to ensure speedy access to psychedelic-assisted therapy in the event of FDA approval, but they did not clear the Senate by the end of the session. More recently, lawmakers over the weekend passed a bill to significantly expand the state’s medical marijuana program, sending it to the governor. Just days after the legislation from Rep. Ken King (R) advanced through the Senate, with amendments that watered down the original House proposal, bicameral negotiators worked out a compromise over the weekend and then each chamber gave final approval on Sunday. The final version of the bill—which cleared the House on a 138-1 vote and the Senate by a vote of 31-0—would expand 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. California Assembly Unanimously Passes Bill To Delay Marijuana Tax Hike For Five Years *Photo courtesy of Brendan Cleak.* The post Texas Hemp Advocates Deliver 100,000+ Petitions To Governor’s Office, Urging Him To Veto THC Ban Bill 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

HYFE is a lifestyle brand that encourages individuality, health-conscious living, personal growth and awareness. We believe in fostering genuine relationships and never compromising the power of our product integrity. We cultivate a client-centric environment by providing exceptional customer delivery service from the moment your request is made until it is in your hands. Our professionalism, timeliness, knowledge and experience ensures your experience with us will be a pleasureable one. HYFE DC WEBSITE MENU REVIEWS Delivery# (202) 820-2328 HYFE is a lifestyle brand that encourages individuality, health-conscious living, personal growth and awareness. We believe in fostering genuine relationships and never compromising the power of our product integrity. We cultivate a client-centric environment by providing exceptional customer delivery service from the moment your request is made until it is in your hands. 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The Pennsylvania governor is hopeful that lawmakers will deliver a marijuana legalization bill by the end of the month. He's urging the GOP-controlled Senate to put their ideas on the table. The governor sees this as an issue of competitiveness, as neighboring states have legalized it. Discussions are ongoing, and the governor hopes for a budget package by the end of the month. < Back Pennsylvania Governor Is ‘Hopeful’ Lawmakers Will Send Marijuana Legalization Bill To His Desk By End Of This Month Jun 3, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The governor of Pennsylvania says he remains “hopeful” that lawmakers can deliver a marijuana legalization bill to his desk by a budget deadline at the end of this month—and he’s urging the GOP-controlled Senate to “put their ideas on the table” after the defeat of a House-passed cannabis reform measure in that chamber. During a press briefing on unrelated transportation issues, Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) was asked about the status of talks around cannabis and gaming legalization, both of which he proposed as part of his latest budget request. Shapiro said the administration has had “some good conversations that have been ongoing, particularly on the skill games side,” but he feels that “folks understand the importance of finally regulating and taxing both of those issues—and we’re going to continue to work through it over the next few weeks.” “We’ve had really good, honest dialogue about it,” the governor, who recently criticized the Senate for abruptly derailing the House marijuana legalization bill, said. Asked whether he anticipates that legalization could be delivered to his desk by the end of the month in a budget package, the governor said “that’s my hope.” “Look, I think this is an issue of competitiveness,” he said. “Every state around us, with the exception of West Virginia, has gotten it done. You go visit some of these dispensaries along our border—in this case with Maryland, [that] is probably the closest one here. Sixty percent of the people walking into those dispensaries are from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.” “The reality is we’ve got to catch up. And instead of going and funding schools and parks and roads and bridges and mass transit in other states, I want those revenues to stay here in Pennsylvania,” Shapiro said. “I also think it’s really important that we regulate what is now a black market system, and it is critically important that we have a justice component to this and wipe away the convictions of those who have on their record possession of small amounts of marijuana.” “It’s time to have some justice in that space as well. So I’m hopeful we’ll be able to get it done the Senate. The House passed a measure a few weeks ago… I called it at the time sort of an opening salvo in this. The Senate has different ideas. They should put their ideas on the table, but we can’t cede this ground to other states. It’s time for Pennsylvania be more competitive, and I’m hopeful we’ll get this done.” Whether Pennsylvania legislators will advance legalization this session remains to be seen following the defeat of the House bill, which called for a novel system of state-run dispensaries. But two Democratic lawmakers—Sen. Sharif Street (D) and Rep. Rick Krajewski (D)—recently said they’re aiming to reach a compromise and pass reform legislation before the budget deadline. Also, last month Sen. Marty Flynn (D) announced his intent to file a new bill to legalize marijuana in the state, calling on colleagues to join him on the measure. While the House legislation Krajewski sponsored alongside Rep. Dan Frankel (D) was rejected in a Senate committee following its expedited passage through the House along party lines, Street said he’s “cautiously optimistic we’re going to be able to revive the bill and amend it and move forward with a work product that allows us to get a bill on the governor’s desk and realize revenue.” That said, Sen. Dan Laughlin (R), who has sponsored legalization legislation with Street, recently seemed to suggest that lawmakers should pump the brakes on the push to enact the policy change amid resistance to reform within his caucus and instead pass a bill to create a new regulatory body that can begin overseeing medical cannabis and hemp while preparing to eventually handle the adult-use market as well. “I remain committed to crafting a cannabis bill that can pass the Senate and be signed into law to benefit all Pennsylvanians,” Laughlin said. “That starts with honest dialogue from everyone involved, including House leadership and the governor, to develop a realistic approach–not political theater.” Following the Senate committee vote, lawmakers from both chambers who support legalization have been trading criticisms about each other’s roles in the stalled push to end prohibition. Krajewski, for example, recently wrote in a Marijuana Moment op-ed that Senate Republicans who killed his House-passed cannabis legalization bill are “stuck in their prohibitionist views of the past” and are “out of touch with the will of our Commonwealth.” Prior to that vote, Pennsylvania’s Republican attorney general said that while he doesn’t currently support the House-passed marijuana legalization bill, he’s open to changing his mind about the policy change after continuing to review the details. For what it’s worth, a recent poll found that Pennsylvania voters say they favor a model where cannabis is sold by licensed private businesses, rather than through a system of state-run stores. The governor has repeatedly called for adult-use marijuana legalization. However, he hasn’t endorsed the specific idea of having a state-controlled model. Rep. Abby Major (R)—who is sponsoring another forthcoming legalization bill that envisions a traditional private sales model alongside Rep. Emily Kinkead (D)—said during the House floor debate on HB 1200 that she stands opposed to the competing bill, emphasizing that she disagrees with the state-run stores proposal. While Democrats control the House and governor’s office, they will still need to reach a deal with the GOP-controlled Senate to effectuate change. And in addition to the conflicting perspectives among pro-legalization legislators, another potential barrier to reform is exactly that political dynamic. Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman (R) said that while he sees a “path forward” for enacting regulations for separate gaming-related reform, “I’m not seeing consensus between the four caucuses and the governor collectively that [marijuana legalization] should be a priority.” Regardless of which direction Pennsylvania lawmakers do—or don’t—go on marijuana legalization this session, a survey released in April shows a majority of adults in the state support the reform—and opposition to the policy change has fallen by nearly 50 percent over the last decade. Kinkead has made the case in another recent interview that legalizing cannabis in Pennsylvania will help the state mitigate public health and safety concerns associated with the illicit market, including the fact that unregulated products can be laced with fentanyl. The lawmaker previously introduced a separate bipartisan marijuana legalization bill, alongside 15 other cosponsors, last September. It did not advance, however. Meanwhile, Laughlin recently called for the creation of a state “legacy” fund, using tax revenue from adult-use marijuana sales and gaming to make long-term investments in the Commonwealth’s economy. The senator argued that, beyond using any resulting tax revenue to fund day-to-day projects and public services, the state should earmark a portion of those tax dollars for a fund to “provide a sustainable source of prosperity that lasts for generations.” Another GOP Pennsylvania senator, Sen. Gene Yaw (R), is backing the push to legalize marijuana in the commonwealth, pointing out that, historically, prohibition “has not turned out well,” noting the country’s experience with alcohol criminalization. Pennsylvania House Speaker Joanna McClinton (D) recently said that Democrats are ready to pass a marijuana legalization bill this session, but that the party “will need Republican support” to get the job done—adding that it will be a “heavy lift.” Polls have shown bipartisan support for legalization among voters, but the reform has consistently stalled in the legislature, owing in large part to GOP opposition. But not all Republican members are against the policy change—and one recently said she felt her party should seize the “opportunity to snatch” the issue from Democrats. Separately in March, the Pennsylvania House approved a bill sponsored by Frankel that’s meant to strengthen safety standards and oversight of the state’s medical marijuana program as lawmakers work to advance adult-use legalization. While Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis program was enacted nearly a decade ago, lawmakers say the measure, which now heads to the Senate, is necessary to improve testing compliance, product audits and lab inspections, among other aspects of the industry. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Democratic lawmakers recently introduced a bill that would allow farmers and other small agriculture operators to sell marijuana they cultivate to existing growers and and processors if the state moves to legalize adult-use cannabis. Separately, an independent Pennsylvania agency is projecting more tax dollars to be generated from adult-use marijuana sales compared to what the governor’s office has estimated, although it expects significantly less overall revenue from cannabis legalization due to differing views on licensing fees. Pennsylvania officials have also launched a new survey that invites legal marijuana businesses across the country to provide information about their operations to help the state better understand the cannabis industry as lawmakers consider enacting adult-use legalization this session. *— 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. —* Also, in a video interview released in March, the governor emphasized that the state is “losing out” to others that have already enacted adult-use legalization, while maintaining a policy that’s enriched the illicit market. “I think it’s an issue of freedom and liberty. I mean, if folks want to smoke, they should be able to do so in a safe and legal way,” he said. “We should shut down the black market—and, by the way, every state around us is doing it. Pennsylvanians are driving to those other states and paying taxes in those other states.” The state’s agriculture secretary separately told lawmakers that he’s fully confident that his department is in a “really good” position to oversee an adult-use marijuana program if lawmakers act. Meanwhile, in February, top Pennsylvania police and health officials told lawmakers they are prepared to implement marijuana legalization if the legislature moves forward with the reform—and that they stand ready to work together as the details of legislation to achieve it are crafted. Amid the growing calls for marijuana legalization in Pennsylvania, a GOP state senator said prohibition has been a “disaster,” and a regulated sales model for cannabis—similar to how alcohol and tobacco are handled—could serve as an effective alternative. A Republican Pennsylvania senator also recently defended the push to legalize and regulate marijuana, calling it “the most conservative stance” on the issue. Texas Hemp Advocates Deliver 100,000+ Petitions To Governor’s Office, Urging Him To Veto THC Ban Bill *Photo courtesy of Chris Wallis // Side Pocket Images.* The post Pennsylvania Governor Is ‘Hopeful’ Lawmakers Will Send Marijuana Legalization Bill To His Desk By End Of This Month 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... 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Shrinkage, including cash and inventory loss, poses a major risk to cannabis retailers, who often operate with thin margins and face strict regulatory oversight. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are essential for loss prevention, providing accountability and governing critical tasks like cash management, inventory control, and security protocols. The article emphasizes that internal theft is a significant problem and that technology, such as integrated POS systems and real-time alerts, can reinforce SOPs and automate loss-prevention functions, making the strategy proactive. Best practices include regularly reviewing SOPs, conducting surprise audits, and continuous staff training. < Back Dispensary Loss Prevention: How SOPs Stop Shrinkage Oct 22, 2025 Faai Steuer MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link For cannabis retail operators, the difference between a profitable year and a devastating setback can come down to one factor: shrinkage. Whether it’s cash mysteriously missing from the drawer, inventory discrepancies that don’t reconcile, or large-scale thefts that make headlines, loss prevention is a constant challenge for dispensary owners. What’s worse, the risks are only rising. In 2025, dispensary theft cases included a $75,000 cash heist and more than $100,000 worth of product stolen in a single incident. For businesses already operating in a razor-thin margin environment with limited access to banking services, losses like these can be catastrophic. There is good news, though: Shrinkage is not inevitable. With disciplined operations and well-designed dispensary standard operating procedures, you can dramatically reduce your risk, strengthen compliance, and build a resilient cannabis retail operation. The alarming scale of retail shrinkage Retail shrinkage is not a new problem, but the scale has grown sharply in recent years. Across United States retail as a whole, the National Retail Federation reported that shoplifting incidents were 93 percent higher in 2023 than in 2019, with total losses climbing almost 90 percent in the same period. In the same survey, retailers cited an average of 177 shoplifting incidents per day in 2023, with some retail sectors reporting higher daily totals, especially during busy periods. The stakes are even higher for cannabis retailers. Dispensaries are often cash-heavy operations, and the products themselves are high in both value and demand, making them prime targets for theft. Within the industry, it’s estimated that as much as 90 percent of product loss stems from internal theft rather than external actors. That means the greatest risk isn’t always someone breaking through your door at night; it may just be a trusted employee failing to follow procedures. Unlike traditional retailers that can absorb some shrinkage into their margins, dispensaries face not just financial losses but also potential regulatory consequences and even license risk if discrepancies aren’t explained and corrected. SOPs as the defensive backbone Here’s the reality: You can’t rely on security cameras and strong locks alone. The foundation of effective dispensary loss prevention is a well-designed set of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that govern every aspect of your operations. Dispensary SOPs are detailed, step-by-step instructions that guide your team through critical tasks — from opening and closing the store to reconciling cash drawers, conducting cycle counts, and managing deliveries. They turn best practices into routine habits, ensuring your staff executes tasks consistently and that no corner is cut in the name of convenience. Strong SOPs improve compliance, reduce training time, and increase efficiency — but when it comes to loss prevention, their biggest advantage is accountability. With SOPs in place, you can pinpoint exactly who was responsible for each action, when it was performed, and whether it followed the prescribed process. That level of documentation creates both deterrence and protection. Cash-management SOPs: securing the most tempting target Cash is both the most tempting and the most vulnerable asset in a dispensary. Because many cannabis businesses still operate heavily in cash due to banking restrictions, large amounts of currency can accumulate quickly. Without strict procedures, this creates enormous risk. Cash-management SOPs should start by limiting the amount of money kept in each drawer. By enforcing maximum thresholds, you reduce potential losses if a till is compromised. When drawers exceed their limit, excess cash should be transferred into a secure safe through safe drops — recorded, time-stamped deposits that can only be completed following protocol. Access to safes and vaults should be governed by dual-control procedures, meaning no single employee can open them alone. This reduces opportunities for internal theft and ensures oversight during critical cash-handling activities. End-of-day reconciliation is equally vital. Every register should be counted, variances logged, and discrepancies investigated immediately. Over time, these reconciliations create a record that can highlight patterns of error or theft, enabling managers to address issues before they escalate. Some dispensaries have reduced losses significantly by integrating digital payments into their point-of-sale (POS) system. One retailer reported saving more than $1,000 per month by simply eliminating manual reconciliation errors with an integrated payments solution. That kind of operational upgrade shows how technology and SOPs can work together to prevent shrinkage. Inventory and track-and-trace SOPs: closing the gaps If cash is the most obvious theft target, cannabis products themselves are the most regulated. Every gram must be accounted for, and regulators demand precise reporting through systems like Metrc or BioTrack. Any discrepancies can lead to fines, audits, or even license suspension. To prevent losses, inventory SOPs should require frequent cycle counts, not just end-of-month reconciliations. By performing daily or weekly counts, missing products can be identified quickly, before losses accumulate. Every variance, no matter how small, should trigger variance reporting that documents the discrepancy, investigates the cause, and records corrective actions. Even if the issue turns out to be a data-entry mistake, documenting the resolution demonstrates diligence to regulators. SOPs also should govern how products are received, labeled, stored, and transferred. Every item must be tagged correctly and recorded in both POS and track-and-trace systems. Staff should never “skip the system” to speed up sales or transfers. Aligning your inventory SOPs with your tech stack creates a closed loop where every product’s movement is visible and auditable. That’s not just a compliance necessity. It’s a theft deterrent. Security SOPs: protecting the premises Even the most sophisticated inventory system can’t prevent physical break-ins or careless lock-ups. That’s why dispensaries need rigorous SOPs for security protocols, especially during opening and closing. Opening routines should include a walkthrough inspection of the premises to identify signs of forced entry or tampering. Staff also should test alarms and verify cameras are functioning before customers arrive. Closing SOPs should be just as thorough. Every door, display case, and safe should be locked, with a checklist completed and signed off by staff. Security sweeps should confirm no one remains inside and alarms are set. These procedures, when documented and enforced, create multiple layers of assurance. In addition, SOPs should establish clear rules for access control. Not every employee needs access to safes, vaults, or restricted areas. Limiting access to key personnel reduces opportunities for internal theft and ensures sensitive areas are always monitored. Role SOPs: building a culture of compliance Loss prevention isn’t just about locks and cameras; it’s also about people. Employees who understand their responsibilities and the consequences of deviation are far less likely to commit errors or theft. Staff SOPs should clearly define who is responsible for each task. From handling cash to approving refunds, there should be no room for ambiguity. Every transaction, discount, and void should be traceable to a specific employee. It’s also crucial to prohibit risky behaviors. SOPs should bar employees from ringing up their own purchases, applying unauthorized discounts, or distributing free products. These “small exceptions” often open the door to larger losses. Regular audits of employee activity — reviewing voids, refunds, and inventory adjustments — help reinforce accountability. When staff members know their actions are being monitored, they are more likely to follow procedures diligently. Finally, building a culture of compliance means celebrating adherence, not just punishing violations. Recognize teams that maintain clean audit records and successfully pass surprise inspections. This creates positive reinforcement that aligns with your broader business values and fosters team cohesion and trust. Technology as a loss-prevention ally Even the best SOPs can be undermined by human error or deliberate misconduct. That’s where technology really shines. Modern dispensary software and hardware can automate many loss-prevention functions and provide real-time visibility into operations. An integrated POS and payments system ensures every transaction is recorded with a complete audit trail, reducing the risk of mismatched sales and deposits. Real-time variance alerts notify managers immediately when actual inventory diverges from expected counts, allowing for quick investigation. Role-based access control within software platforms can help limit which employees are able to perform sensitive actions, such as processing refunds or changing product data. Meanwhile, surveillance systems can be linked to POS data, so suspicious transactions can be cross-referenced with video footage. Automated audit logs can bolster accountability further by recording every change, override, or adjustment. This data is invaluable during investigations and demonstrates diligence during regulatory audits. When technology and SOPs are aligned, loss prevention becomes proactive rather than reactive. Instead of discovering theft weeks after it occurs, anomalies may be detected in real time, allowing response before losses begin to compound. Best practices for cannabis retailers To create a robust loss-prevention strategy, dispensary operators should combine SOPs, technology, and culture. Some proven best practices include: - *Treating SOPs as living documents.* Regularly review them, especially as theft tactics evolve or regulations change. Outdated procedures are nearly as risky as no procedures at all. - *Conducting surprise audits.* Unannounced cash counts and inventory checks keep staff vigilant and highlight issues early. - *Training continuously.* Don’t relegate SOP training to the first week of employment. Hold regular refresher sessions and role-play scenarios to reinforce best practices. - *Fostering accountability and recognition.* Track loss-prevention metrics and recognize staff for clean audit results, encouraging a culture where compliance is valued. - *Layering security measures.* Use a combination of cameras, alarms, secure cabinetry, and access controls. No single measure should be your only line of defense. - *Planning for scale.* If you’re expanding to multiple locations, design SOPs and choose technology that can scale without compromising oversight or consistency. SOPs protect more than the bottom line Failing to implement robust loss-prevention strategies can have devastating consequences. Beyond the immediate financial loss, shrinkage can trigger regulatory scrutiny, strain cash flow, and damage customer trust. In some cases, persistent discrepancies can even lead to license suspension or revocation. Shrinkage is an unavoidable risk in any retail environment, but in cannabis, the stakes are much higher than in other industries. The combination of valuable inventory, cash-heavy transactions, and strict regulatory oversight makes loss prevention a critical discipline for every dispensary operator. By investing in robust dispensary standard operating procedures backed by integrated technology and reinforced through staff accountability, you can turn loss prevention from a vulnerability into a competitive strength. ------------------------------ Loss-Prevention SOPs: Essential FAQs 1. What type of SOPs have the biggest impact on loss prevention? Cash-handling procedures and inventory controls typically deliver the highest ROI because they create an auditable trail of every touchpoint and reduce internal theft risk. 2. How often should dispensaries audit their SOPs? At least quarterly — but high-risk functions like cash drops and product reconciliation benefit from weekly or even daily touchpoints. 3. Are loss-prevention SOPs required for compliance? Not always explicitly, but regulators look for documentation, reconciliation, and accountability. SOPs are often the difference between “explainable variance” and a licensing issue. 4. What role does technology play in SOP enforcement? Integrated POS and payments systems, along with real-time variance alerts reinforce SOPs by narrowing loopholes, reducing manual error, and flagging anomalies quickly. ------------------------------ [image: Faai Steuer, VP of marketing, Cova Software] *Faai Steuer* is vice-president of marketing at *Cova Software*, an award-winning cannabis retail platform trusted by more than 2,000 stores across North America. Recognized as Retail Software of the Year at the 2024 Emjay Awards, Cova helps dispensaries launch strong, stay compliant, and grow with confidence through its reliable point-of-sale, e-commerce, payment, and analytics solutions. With twenty years of experience in retail tech and consumer packaged goods, Steuer is passionate about helping cannabis entrepreneurs build successful, sustainable businesses. < 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

An Ohio-based cannabis company opened The Garden retail facilities in Sycamore Township and Mansfield. < Back King City Gardens Opens 2 New Dispensaries in Ohio Dec 16, 2025 Staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Ohio-based cannabis company opened The Garden retail facilities in Sycamore Township and Mansfield. < 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 lawmakers are advancing legislation to legalize and regulate recreational marijuana sales, a move supported by 60 percent of registered voters, according to a new poll. - The legislation proposes retail sales starting in late 2026 or early 2027, with a maximum purchase limit of 2.5 ounces and a total tax rate of up to 12.625 percent. - The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority would oversee licensing and regulation, and tax revenue would fund administration, an Equity Reinvestment Fund, pre-kindergarten, and substance use prevention programs. < Back Majority Of Virginia Voters Back Legalizing Recreational Marijuana Sales As Lawmakers Advance Bills To Do It Jan 30, 2026 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link As Virginia lawmakers advance legislation to expand the state’s current marijuana law by legalizing and regulating recreational sales, a new poll shows that they have the support of a majority of registered voters. Sixty percent of respondents in the survey released on Wednesday by The Wason Center at Christopher Newport University support allowing retail adult-use cannabis sales. That includes majorities of Democrats (74 percent) and independents (59 percent), though only 38 percent of Republicans are on board. Voters between the ages of 18 and 44 are much more likely (74 percent) to back legalizing recreational cannabis sales than are those above 45 years old (48 percent), according to the poll. The survey results come as committees in the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate have recently approved bills to legalize and regulate the adult-use cannabis market. While there are some differences between the chambers’ bills, the overall proposals largely align with recommendations released last month by the legislature’s Joint Commission to Oversee the Transition of the Commonwealth into a Cannabis Retail Market. Since legalizing cannabis possession and home cultivation in 2021, Virginia lawmakers have worked to establish a commercial marijuana market—only to have those efforts consistently stalled under former Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), who twice vetoed measures to enact it that were sent to his desk by the legislature. “It’s been nearly five years since Virginia legalized cannabis,” JM Pedini, development director for the advocacy group NORML and executive director for Virginia NORML, said in a blog post about the new poll results. “Voters recognize the public safety urgency in taking marijuana out of the corner store and placing it behind age-verified dispensary counters.” “The illicit market has exploded in the absence of legal retail access,” Pedini said. who also serves as the executive director of the state chapter, Virginia NORML. “In addition to improving consumer safety, regulated sales will reinvest millions of tax dollars in Virginia communities and replace the underground market that drains local resources.” *Here are the key details of the Virginia marijuana sales legalization legislation:* - Retail sales could begin on November 1, 2026 under the House version and January 1, 2027 under the Senate bill. - Adults would be able to purchase up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana in a single transaction, or up to an equivalent amount of other cannabis products as determined by regulators. - The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority would oversee licensing and regulation of the new industry. Its board of directors would have the authority to control possession, sale, transportation, distribution, delivery and testing of marijuana. - A tax of up to 12.625 percent would apply to the retail sale of any cannabis product. That would include a state retail and use tax of 1.125 percent on top of a new marijuana-specific tax of 8 percent. Local governments could levy an additional 3.5 percent. - Tax revenue would be split between the costs of administering and enforcing the state’s marijuana system, a new Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund, pre-kindergarten programs, substance use disorder prevention and treatment programs and public health programs such as awareness campaigns designed to prevent drug-impaired driving and discourage underage consumption. - Local governments could not opt out of allowing marijuana businesses to operate in their area. - Delivery services would be allowed. - Serving sizes would be capped at 10 milligrams THC, with no more than 100 mg THC per package. - Existing medical cannabis operators could enter the adult-use market if they pay a $10 million licensing conversion fee. - Cannabis businesses would have to establish labor peace agreements with workers. - A legislative commission would be directed to study adding on-site consumption licenses and microbusiness cannabis event permits that would allow licensees to conduct sales at venues like farmers markets or pop-up locations. It would also investigate the possibility of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority becoming involved in marijuana regulations and enforcement. Newly sworn-in Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D) supports legalizing adult-use marijuana sales. “Right now is that we live in this gray space where there’s some legality to marijuana, there’s some illegality,” she said ahead of taking office. “There’s a lot of questions—a lot of confusion—and that creates real problems for Virginians who might currently have the legal ability to buy it for medicinal needs, or for those who might try to fall under the personal use.” *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* Meanwhile, Virginia lawmakers have filed other marijuana-related legislation for the 2026 session, including proposals to provide resentencing relief for people convicted of past cannabis crimes and to let terminally ill patients use medical marijuana in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Separately, the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry recently published a new outlining workplace protections for cannabis consumers. *Photo courtesy of Max Jackson.* The post Majority Of Virginia Voters Back Legalizing Recreational Marijuana Sales As Lawmakers Advance Bills To Do It appeared first on Marijuana Moment . < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The Business of Cannabis: New York Summit, held at the Wythe Hotel, gathered cannabis industry professionals to discuss the future of New York's legal market amidst challenges like delayed licensing and confusion within the Office of Cannabis Management. The recent election of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who admitted to purchasing cannabis legally, introduced cautious optimism but also anxiety about future regulation. Robert Sciarrone of CuraLeaf encouraged operators to proactively engage with the new administration to advocate for their businesses. A prevailing theme was the urgent need for New York cannabis operators to form a cohesive coalition for collaboration and political negotiation, as the market's future depends on persistence, relationships, and continued dialogue, not just new regulations. < Back Event Recap: Business of Cannabis NY 2025 Nov 18, 2025 Cannabis Now Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Business of Cannabis: New York Summit took place earlier this month on November 6 at the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, New York. The crowd was composed of dispensary owners, growers, legal experts, marketing professionals, educators and brand leaders. The historic brick-walled space overlooking the East River was filled with conversation, cautious optimism, and shared curiosity about what the next chapter of New York’s legal cannabis market might bring. The energy in the room was shaped by the industry’s complex moment. New York’s cannabis market has expanded rapidly since legalization, but the state’s industry has also been confronted with major challenges, including delayed licensing and confusion within the Office of Cannabis Management. For many entrepreneurs and advocates who gathered at the summit, the recent election of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was viewed as the biggest variable in what might come next. *The Cannabis-Friendly Mayor* During a candidate debate, Mamdani was asked, “Have you ever purchased anything in a cannabis shop, and what did you buy?” “I have, I have purchased marijuana at a legal cannabis shop,” Mamdani replied with a chuckle. Laughter was heard from the audience at the debate, but the comment was received differently within the cannabis industry. Mamdani’s admission was regarded as more than a humorous moment; it was seen as a rare display of candor by an elected official when addressing cannabis. His words were quickly circulated across industry circles and social media feeds, prompting discussions about the type of administration he might lead and how open he might be to engaging with those who have built the city’s legal market from the ground up. In the days following the election, curiosity was replaced by a mix of excitement and anxiety. Operators, brand founders and policy advocates questioned whether the new mayor might signal a more collaborative approach to regulation and enforcement. *The Mamdani Effect* When Mamdani’s potential impact on the New York market was discussed, CuraLeaf’s executive vice president and regional leader Robert Sciarrone offered his view. “It’s too early to tell in New York, to see what the new mayor is going to do here,” Sciarrone said. “I’m just happy to hear that he visited a shop in New York during the debates.” Sciarrone’s remarks were met with nods and agreement from attendees. For many, the comment served as a reminder that even small signs of understanding from elected officials carry importance. A mayor who has stepped inside a licensed cannabis store, observed its operations, and spoken with its staff may have developed a deeper appreciation for the work behind compliance and community impact. Rather than focusing on uncertainty, Sciarrone encouraged the community to take initiative and advocate whenever possible. “Like any regime change, everybody is on a menu for a hot topic for them to bite down on. It’s our responsibility as operators in the state to get out in front of it and have conversations with Mamdani and make sure he understands that we are fighting for our business. All we can do is hope he listens. I can’t predict what’s going to happen, but all I know is we have to talk about it or else…we’re on a menu. We’ve to get out there with urgency and have a good conversation.” *Taking Action* His call to action was echoed throughout the event. In smaller breakout sessions and hallway discussions, strategies were developed. Some participants concentrated on job creation, SKU analysis and tax revenue, while others discussed strategies for engagement with the Office of Cannabis Management. Many operators spoke about the need to humanize their stories so that the mayor and his team could better understand that behind every dispensary counter and cultivation license are individuals building legitimate businesses after years of prohibition. Above all, concern was expressed about the hemp market and the impact of illegal markets on cannabis. The event took place just days ahead of President Trump’s signing of the new federal budget bill, which bans hemp-derived THC and will surely bring additional challenges for those working in the hemp consumables space. The Wythe’s atmosphere was described as a crossroads between celebration and vigilance. Attendees congratulated one another for surviving the turbulence of recent years but repeatedly returned to a shared theme: the urgent need for city and state cannabis operators in New York to form a cohesive coalition. The absence of such a coalition within the state was described as one of the most harmful issues facing the market today, hindering collaboration and collective political negotiation. A sense prevailed that New York’s cannabis market might either fragment or flourish depending on its engagement with new political leadership. *Collaboration Between Competitors* As the day concluded, sunlight streamed through the tall industrial windows, and attention shifted toward next steps. Contact information was exchanged, working groups were organized, and commitments were made to attend future events such as the upcoming MJBizCon in Las Vegas. For those in attendance of the Business of Cannabis event, the takeaway was clear: New York’s cannabis industry cannot wait for clarity from above. Messaging must be created that both challenges and educates. The future of the market will depend not only on new regulations, but also on relationships, persistence and the willingness to continue discussions even when outcomes remain uncertain. The post Event Recap: Business of Cannabis NY 2025 appeared first on Cannabis Now. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Federal Agency Says It Halted Marijuana Cultivation Contract Following Cost-Cutting Order From Trump’s DOGE < Back Federal Agency Says It Halted Marijuana Cultivation... Jul 21, 2025 Ben Adlin Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Officials at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) say the federal agency’s recent decision to halt its longstanding orders of research marijuana supplied by the University of Mississippi is the result of a cost-cutting directive from the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). But the move, NIDA said, isn’t expected to interrupt the availability of cannabis for government-approved research. A recent executive order—titled “Implementing the President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ Cost Efficiency Initiative”—led to the Department of Health and Human Services conducting “a comprehensive review of all existing contracts to identify opportunities for cost reduction,” NIDA representatives said in an email to Marijuana Moment. “As a result of this initiative, no new task orders for cannabis cultivation have been issued,” the email explains. “That said, the NIDA Drug Supply Program maintains an existing inventory of cannabis and cannabis-derived products, which remain available for approved research.” NIDA’s email also clarified that while the agency has not issued new orders for research cannabis, its “contract with the University of Mississippi to grow cannabis for research remains in place,” active until 2028. The agency does not contract with other growers, it confirmed in a follow-up email. “The NIDA-supported marijuana cultivation contract is only with the University of Mississippi,” it said. While the University of Mississippi for decades held a monopoly on the production of research cannabis, there are now seven Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-approved “bulk manufacturer marihuana growers.” DEA in recent years has slowly expanded the pool of institutions eligible to produce and provide marijuana for research purposes amid calls by politicians and public health experts to more intensively study the drug. Nevertheless, NIDA exclusively contracted Ole Miss to provide marijuana for its Drug Supply Program, which allows researchers working on federally approved studies to obtain cannabis for free. In the wake of NIDA’s recent halt of its orders, news of which was first reported by Cannabis Wire, some other DEA-approved cultivators are warning that future marijuana research could be at risk. Maine-based Maridose said in a press release Wednesday, for example, that NIDA’s cancellation “has created uncertainty regarding the future of cannabis research.” “While existing inventory produced under this program is currently sufficient to support immediate research needs through the end of 2025, there is no assurance that additional product will be available once those supplies are exhausted,” the company said. “This disruption could jeopardize ongoing clinical and preclinical studies, and impede progress on critical cannabis research across the country.” Researchers conducting federally approved studies can obtain cannabis through any of the DEA-approved cultivators, though materials cost more than going through the free Drug Supply Program. Growers like Maridose say they’re prepared to fill any unmet demand. “Our team is committed to working with researchers to ensure uninterrupted access to high-quality materials for both current and future studies,” founder Richard Shain said in the company’s release. “While the loss of the University of Mississippi program may present short-term challenges, Maridose stands ready to help fill that gap.” Others, however, said there was little risk that NIDA’s move would impact research. A lack of funding and regulatory hurdles as the result of cannabis’s Schedule I status—not a scarcity of research marijuana—are what’s holding back clinical studies, they said. Sue Sisley, a researcher at the Scottsdale Research Institute (SRI), which is itself DEA-licensed cannabis cultivator, said NIDA severing its order with Ole Miss “doesn’t affect Scottsdale Research Institute at all.” “We grow our own high-quality (comparable to real world) marijuana,” she told Marijuana Moment in an email. “We use it for our own FDA [Food and Drug Administration] studies and we grow to supply other studies. So U Miss closing down new cannabis orders is irrelevant.” As for barriers to research, Sisley emphasized that there is “barely any new marijuana research happening,” calling the amount of funding available “minuscule compared to other areas.” “And therefore the demand for new research cannabis is minimal,” she explained. In fact, Sisley cheered the end of the Ole Miss order. “This is a brilliant move by the Trump admin,” she wrote. “I applaud this administration for having the courage to finally acknowledge that there was no need to have only one federally legal supplier that was receiving millions in government money annually.” “The bottom line is that we are growing our own cannabis and it’s ten times better than anything that’s grown at the University of Mississippi,” the researcher added, noting that SRI “just supplied 400 bottles of low-THC cannabis tincture…for a phase 1 trial examining cannabis oil treating autism.” Sisley and others in past years have complained about the quality cannabis grown by the University of Mississippi and supplied through NIDA, claiming that some provided samples wouldn’t even pass basic testing standards in state-legal cannabis markets. Nevertheless, a study late last year by researchers at Ole Miss asserted that cannabis produced at the school was “very similar” to products found on state-legal markets. “The pause between NIDA and Ole Miss highlights what many in the research community have known for years,” Justin Abril, co-founder of DEA-licensed cultivator Royal Emerald Pharmaceuticals, said in an email to Marijuana Moment. “There’s been limited demand for NIDA supplied cannabis due to well-documented concerns about quality, consistency, and lack of suitability for pharmaceutical development.” “The fact that NIDA reports having excess material on hand speaks for itself,” Abril added. “Now that there are multiple DEA-licensed manufacturers online and news of the intended rescheduling, researchers finally have access to pharmaceutical grade material appropriate for investigational studies.” Sisley at SRI said it’s time to give other growers—who haven’t had government subsidies—an opportunity to fill the demand for research marijuana. “Let’s give these other 10 DEA licensed growers a chance to start growing research grade cannabis and taking over where university of Mississippi is now suddenly unfunded,” she said, noting that at SRI, “we’ve never had an opportunity to enjoy government money flowing month after month.” Even leadership at Maridose, which warned that NIDA’s move could threaten future research, think the University of Mississippi order cancellation could eventually improve the supply of cannabis used for clinical studies. “The cancellation should have a positive effect on the quality of research because the cannabis obtained from other DEA manufacturers will be more analogous to what is sold to the public,” founder Richard Shain said in an email. “DOGE’s cancellation of the DSP contract makes perfect business sense,” he added, noting that “demand was decreasing and other non-government sources are available.” Shain also said he doubted the NIDA development signaled skepticism by the Trump administration toward marijuana research generally. “No manufacturing licenses were canceled and the government grant establishing the Resource Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids (R3CR) was not affected,” he said, referring to another federally funded marijuana facility housed at Ole Miss. “This seems to indicate the administration support for cannabis research.” Mahmoud ElSohly—who has long helmed the University of Mississippi cannabis cultivation and research division, contracted as part of NIDA’s drug supply program—declined to offer additional reaction last week on the order cancellation. In past comments to Marijuana Moment, he’s challenged the claims that the school’s cannabis is of low quality. An Ole Miss spokesperson, meanwhile, confirmed to Marijuana Moment that “NIDA has chosen not to award the current year task order to the University of Mississippi for cannabis production.” “The university has two years remaining on its federal contract,” added Jacob Batte, the school’s director of news and media relations, “and stands ready to leverage its more than 57 years of cannabis research experience to advance the field of cannabis science and meet any future needs NIDA may have.” NIDA’s cancellation of the Ole Miss order comes on the heels of the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) ending a contract in May with the University of Mississippi through which the school monitored cannabinoid content such as THC and CBD in cannabis confiscated by law enforcement. ElSohly, who also heads that program, said at the time that it was still possible his lab’s work could limp along until the federal funding resumes. But if samples stop flowing to his Mississippi lab, a decades-long history of THC levels in the illicit U.S. cannabis supply will soon come to an end, he said. The earlier contract cancellation came about two months after DOGE separately promoted the end of a separate grant meant to fund a study examining cannabis use risks among LGBTQ+ individuals, non-binary people and heterosexual women. Despite the cuts to some programs, it’s hardly the end for the University of Mississippi’s (UM) involvement in marijuana research. “The UM School of Pharmacy will continue to play a leading role in the state and around the country in cannabis discovery, innovation and research through the National Center for Natural Products Research, the National Center for Cannabis Research and Education, and the Resource Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research,” Batte said in the statement to Marijuana Moment. The National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) Resource Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research (R3CR), hosted at Ole Miss, launched earlier this year. For that project, the university partnered with Washington State University (WSU) and the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), with support from a grant awarded by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) under NIH. Ole Miss is leading the effort’s regulatory guidance core, while WSU will handle research support and USP will focus on research standards. Ole Miss’s National Center for Natural Products Research is housing the NIH resource center to “provide cannabis research information through an interactive website, webinars, seed funding and conferences” to empower researchers to “generate more science-backed evidence,” it said in a press release at the time. Meanwhile, the Drug Enforcement Administration has ramped up recruitment—recently urging people to join them on the frontlines of the “war on drugs,” even if they currently work as a “coffee barista” or otherwise have a non-law enforcement background. It was also recently revealed that “marijuana” is one of nearly two dozen “controversial or high-profile topics” that staff and researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) are required to clear with higher-ups before writing about, according to a leaked memo from within the federal agency. Separately, researchers involved in a federally funded clinical trial around marijuana wrote in a recent article in the American Journal of Medicine that further study into the substance is of “critical importance” given the millions of patients and consumers in legal states, but they warned that government restrictions “stifle scientific exploration of its potential and risks.” Classifying cannabis as a Schedule I substance, said authors from the University of Maryland (UMD) schools of medicine and nursing, “traps researchers in a paradox: proving medical value requires studies, yet studies are heavily restricted.” “As legalization outpaces science,” they added, “reform is imperative to close the evidence gap and meet society’s demands.” *Photo courtesy of National Institute of Standards and Technology.* The post Federal Agency Says It Halted Marijuana Cultivation Contract Following Cost-Cutting Order From Trump’s DOGE 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