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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed a law regulating hemp products, setting testing and labeling requirements, and banning smokable THC products. Edible products are capped at 10 milligrams of THC per serving and 40 milligrams per package, with a 10% excise tax and licensing by the ABC Board. Hemp industry operators opposed the proposal, while the Alabama Policy Institute opposed it for not going far enough. < Back Alabama Gov. Signs Hemp Restrictions Bill Into Law May 16, 2025 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (R) on Wednesday signed into law a proposal to regulate consumable hemp products, the Alabama Reflector reports. Sponsored by state Rep. Andy Whitt (R), the bill, HB 445, sets new testing and labeling requirements for consumable hemp products and bans the sale of smokable THC products, including vaporizers. Edible products, meanwhile, will be capped at 10 milligrams of THC per individually wrapped product and 40 milligrams per package. The proposal also imposes a 10% excise tax on consumable hemp products, and the state Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board will be tasked with licensing hemp companies. Only licensed companies, however, will be allowed to conduct retail consumable hemp sales. Whitt told WSFA 12 News that the proposal stops short of legalizing cannabis but also doesn’t set an outright ban on hemp products, noting that “If you take gummies to help you sleep or help you with your arthritis or anxiety, you will still be able to go get these products but it’s not at your local gas station or convenience store.” Hemp industry operators vehemently opposed the proposal and called on the governor to use her veto powers to protect the businesses and livelihoods of the Alabama hemp sector: “I might have to close down and open a bar. The poison that is alcohol is legal whereas the plant that grows naturally out of the ground is not.” — Douglas Kennedy, owner of Montgomery’s The CBD Place, via WSFA 12 News The Alabama Policy Institute, a conservative think tank, also opposed the policy, but for not going far enough to rein in the 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

Medical marijuana is legal in Kentucky, and while sales have not yet begun, cultivation has started, indicating progress. < Back Kentucky medical marijuana cultivation begins but sales await Oct 23, 2025 Margaret Jackson MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Medical marijuana has been legal in Kentucky throughout the year, and while patients are waiting to purchase it, progress is being made. Kentucky medical marijuana cultivation begins but sales await 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

An exciting collaboration has emerged in the cannabis breeding sector: Globally established Barney’s Farm has joined forces with American cannabis innovator Backpackboyz. This cross-continental alliance aims to revolutionize cannabis genetics. The partnership has led to the creation of the Black Cherry Gushers, Lemon Cherry Gelato, and Bubblegum Gelato strains. < Back Barney’s Farm Partners With Backpackboyz on Groundbreaking Cannabis Genetics Project Jun 13, 2025 Cannabis Now Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link An exciting collaboration has emerged in the cannabis breeding sector: Globally established Barney’s Farm has joined forces with American cannabis innovator Backpackboyz. This cross-continental alliance aims to revolutionize cannabis genetics by combining complementary expertise and genetic resources from both organizations. Long recognized as a pioneer in cannabis genetics, Barney’s Farm is leveraging strategic partnerships to establish a wider presence in the United States. This venture is just the first step in the company’s ambitious US strategy. Insiders reveal ongoing negotiations with American cultivators and breeders, signaling plans to penetrate diverse market segments. Meanwhile, Backpackboyz gains access to a global genetic vault, empowering them to craft region-specific strains with broad appeal. A New Chapter of in the World of Cannabis Genetics Barney’s Farm contributes decades of breeding expertise and a vast genetic library developed across multiple continents. At the same time, Backpackboyz offers a cutting-edge understanding of American consumer preferences and cultivation techniques optimized for specific regional environments. Backpackboyz brings not only its technical breeding capabilities but also its well-established connection with cannabis enthusiasts and deep understanding of consumer preferences. “We’re witnessing the globalization of cannabis breeding in real time,” one industry analyst familiar with both companies explained. “These partnerships bring together genetic material that would have remained isolated just a few years ago, creating novel expressions that benefit from diverse breeding philosophies.” Now, let’s take a look at some of their recent collaborations. [image: Black Cherry Gushers from Barney's Farm and Backpackboyz] [image: Black Cherry Gushers cannabis strain]Black Cherry Gushers *Collaboration Release No 1: Black Cherry Gushers* Black Cherry Gushers is a novel cultivar representing the biological intersection of both company’s genetic libraries. The development of this strain demonstrates how such complementary approaches can enhance genetic outcomes. This collaboration emerged during a period of significant regulatory evolution across the United States. As individual states continue adopting or expanding cannabis programs, the infrastructure for international collaboration has strengthened considerably. [image: Barney's Farm and Backpackboyz lemon cherry gelato] [image: Lemon Cherry GElato] *Collaboration Release No 2: Lemon Cherry Gelato* The emergence of Lemon Cherry Gelato represents another significant advancement in cannabis cultivation through strategic genetic collaboration. Lemon Cherry Gelato is a distinctive phenotype showcasing the harmonious genetic integration of multiple premium lineages. The strain embodies a careful balance of citrus sharpness and cherry sweetness, underpinned by the creamy foundation of its Gelato heritage. This plant gained prominence during California’s transition to regulated adult-use markets, where consumer sophistication drove demand for more refined sensory experiences. The timing aligned with broader industry shifts toward emphasizing terpene profiles and entourage effects rather than focusing exclusively on THC potency. [image: Barney's farm and Backbackboyz Bubble Gum Gelato] [image: barney's farm gelato 45]Gelato 45 *Collaboration Release No 3: Bubblegum Gelato* Bubblegum Gelato is an exceptional hybrid strain born from the groundbreaking collaboration between Barney’s Farm and Backpackboyz, a masterful cross of Gelato 45 and Indiana Bubble Gum. The flavor profile mirrors its enticing scent, delivering a rich, dessert-like experience that enchants the palate with its sweet and fruity complexity. Celebrated for its innovative fusion of elite genetics and expert breeding, Bubblegum Gelato stands as a premium choice for those seeking a memorable sensory journey defined by playful sweetness and refined sophistication. Exciting Future Prospects Barney’s Farm’s partnership with Backbackboyz is positioning the brand for American consumers. PHOTO Justin Cron The fusion of European breeding methodologies with American market insights represents a broader trend within the maturing cannabis industry. Rather than competing directly, established companies increasingly find value in combining specialized expertise to develop products that appeal to a sophisticated consumer base. Industry forecasters suggest this partnership is merely the opening chapter in Barney’s Farm’s American market strategy. Visit the Barney’s Farm USA website today and check out the latest releases. And don’t forget—you can get exclusive offers plus 20% off your first order by signing up to the Barney’s Farm newsletter here. The post Barney’s Farm Partners With Backpackboyz on Groundbreaking Cannabis Genetics Project 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 new retail facility, founded by Daron Hudson, an individual previously involved with the justice system, focuses on legacy and local impact and has support from Indoor Treez. < Back The Sanctuary Garden Cannabis Dispensary Opens on NYC's Upper West Side Sep 11, 2025 Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Founded by justice-involved individual Daron Hudson, the new retail facility is rooted in legacy and local impact with support from Indoor Treez. < 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

LeafLink and Confia have partnered, with LeafLink acquiring Confia's cannabis banking customers. These customers are transitioning to the Dama Financial by LeafLink platform, which offers banking services and a digital platform. This partnership follows LeafLink's July 2024 acquisition of Dama Financial, expanding LeafLink's offerings to include banking, credit, and payments tools for the cannabis industry. A 2025 LeafLink survey revealed that 10% of cannabis operators have faced banking shutdowns, with 11% operating without a bank. LeafLink, founded in 2016, is a B2B technology platform for the wholesale cannabis industry, also providing financial services. They acquired Dama Financial and Leaf Trade in 2024 and have received several recognitions for innovation in fintech. < Back LeafLink, Confia Partner to Deliver Cannabis Banking Services Sep 4, 2025 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *NEW YORK —* LeafLink and Confia formed a strategic partnership through which LeafLink acquired customers from Confia’s cannabis banking platform. Confia customers have transitioned onto the Dama Financial by LeafLink platform and gained access to its financial services suite. Dama Financial provides businesses with access to banking services and a digital platform. The partnership builds on LeafLink’s July 2024 acquisition of Dama Financial, the banking division of Dama Technology Inc. This significantly expanded LeafLink’s product offerings to include cannabis banking capabilities. Since the acquisition, LeafLink offers a suite of banking, credit, and payments tools. A 2025 survey conducted by LeafLink found 10% of cannabis operators have contended with banking shutdowns. While 63% of operators reported banking with a local bank or credit union, 11% said they operate without a bank at all. Of those with a bank, 40% said they contend with high monthly fees or high transaction fees. About LeafLink Founded in 2016, LeafLink is a B2B technology platform for the wholesale cannabis industry, enabling thousands of brands and retailers across 30+ markets to streamline e-commerce operations through sales, ordering, and fulfillment tools. The platform also expands access to essential financial services. In 2024, LeafLink acquired Dama Financial and Leaf Trade, a wholesale cannabis marketplace. LeafLink has been recognized with Fast Company’s 2024 Best Workplaces for Innovators (Banking, Finance, and Fintech), Best Cannabis Fintech by Green Market Report, and inclusion in Fast Company’s 2025 list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies. < 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 Utah lawmaker filed HB 253 for the 2026 session to decriminalize marijuana, proposing to reduce the penalty for a first offense of possessing up to 14 grams of cannabis to a civil infraction with a fine up to $750, removing the threat of jail time. The bill is supported by advocates who note current Utah law allows for jail time for minor possession, though the state already has a growing medical cannabis program and authorized a psychedelics pilot program in 2024. < Back New Utah Bill Would Decriminalize Marijuana, Removing The Threat Of Jail Time For Low-Level Possession Jan 27, 2026 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A Utah lawmaker has filed a bill for the 2026 session that would decriminalize marijuana and make it so that people caught possessing small amounts of cannabis would not face the threat of jail time for first-time offenses. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Grant Amjad Miller (D), would reduce the penalty for possession of up to 14 grams of marijuana to a civil infraction for a first offense, which is punishable by a fine of up to $750 with no jail time. Under the proposal, subsequent cannabis possession offenses would be treated as misdemeanors. “Currently, Utah is one of the 19 states where possession of a joint can still land you in jail,” the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) said in an alert asking its supports in the state to contact their lawmakers about the bill. “Under current Utah law, possession of as little as an ounce of marijuana can result in a six-month jail sentence. “There is no reason for a minor infraction like cannabis possession to land a person in jail or carry life-altering consequences,” MPP said. If enacted into law, HB 253 would take effect on effect on May 6. *— 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. —* “When it comes to cannabis, Utah’s laws are half baked,” Miller said in an Instagram video last year that contrasted his state’s continued criminalization approach with that of neighboring Nevada, which has legalized marijuana and is generating tax revenue from regulated sales. View this post on Instagram Utah does have legal medical cannabis under a law the legislature passed in 2018. And that program has significantly grown in the years since, with the state confirming last year that more than 100,000 patients were registered to participate. State lawmakers have also taken additional steps to build upon the state’s medical marijuana law in recent sessions. Despite being known for its political conservatism, Utah’s legislature separately passed legislation in 2024 authorizing a pilot program for hospitals to administer psilocybin and MDMA as an alternative treatment option. The governor let that law take effect without his signature that year. A poll released last year also showed that a majority of Utah voters back legalizing marijuana for adult use. But despite that support, the state’s top Republican lawmakers in the House and Senate have consistently reiterated their opposition. Meanwhile, last August, a federal judge ruled against Utah state and county officials in a lawsuit challenging their prosecution of a Provo City-based religious group that uses the psychedelic fungi as sacrament. The church has also sued over related raids. The post New Utah Bill Would Decriminalize Marijuana, Removing The Threat Of Jail Time For Low-Level Possession appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

A SpaceX capsule carrying 150 cannabis seeds and human remains crashed into the Pacific Ocean due to a parachute failure, jeopardizing a science experiment aimed at studying how cannabis seeds fare in space for potential future cultivation on the moon or Mars. Scientists at Martian Grow hoped to study the effects of microgravity and cosmic radiation on germination and development. Despite the setback, the team believes growing cannabis in space could be vital for future lunar or Martian bases, providing food, building materials, and medicine. Other related events include a debunked alien DNA theory for marijuana, Neil deGrasse Tyson's warning against using marijuana in space, and Elon Musk's advocacy for drug testing federal workers despite his own reported drug use. Separately, scientists recently identified 33 significant markers in the cannabis genome influencing cannabinoid production, aiding in the development of new plant varieties. < Back Cannabis Seeds Launched To Orbit By SpaceX Crash Into Sea, Setting Back Mission To Grow Marijuana On Mars Jun 27, 2025 Ben Adlin Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A science experiment intended to study how cannabis seeds fare in space—in hopes of one day planting the crop on the moon or even Mars—failed earlier this week when a capsule carrying the payload crashed into the Pacific Ocean. Aboard the capsule were about 150 cannabis seeds, which the organizers of the project hoped to study after the vehicle’s return to earth. But a day after being launched into orbit on a SpaceX rocket Monday, the capsule’s parachute reportedly failed and it crashed into the sea. The capsule’s payload—including not just dozens of cannabis seeds but also the remains of more than 160 deceased people, whose loved ones had paid to send them briefly into space—is currently believed to be unrecoverable. “As a result of this unforeseen event, we believe that we will not be able to recover or return the flight capsules aboard,” the memorial company, Celestis, said in a statement, according to Gizmodo. “We share in the disappointment of our families, and we offer our sincerest gratitude for their trust.” The Exploration Company, maker of the 1.6-ton reentry capsule known as Nyx, has said it’s “still investigating the root causes and will share more information soon,” explaining on Tuesday that it lost contact with the craft “a few minutes before splash down.” As for the cannabis seeds, they were contained in a biological incubator called MayaSat-1. Scientists at Martian Grow, the group behind the project, hoped to study how conditions in space—including microgravity and cosmic radiation—affected germination and development of the plants. Separate organizers launched both hemp tissue and coffee to the International Space Station in 2020, though findings from that mission are reportedly still unpublished. The Martian Grow team is headed by Božidar Radišič at the Research Nature Institute, in Slovenia. He told WIRED ahead of the project launch that if humans want to settle on the moon or Mars, cannabis could be indispensable. “Sooner or later, we will have lunar bases, and cannabis, with its versatility, is the ideal plant to supply those projects,” Radišič said. “It can be a source of food, protein, building materials, textiles, hemp, plastic, and medicine. I don’t think many other plants give us all these things.” While cannabis plants are comparatively hardy and known for being resistant to stressors such as UV light and radiation, the goal of the current project was to see how space affected the seeds’ genetics. “The point is to explore how, and if, cosmic conditions affect cannabis genetics, and we may only find this out after several generations,” Radišič said. The team also intended to study changes in the plant’s structure and morphology, looking at factors such as leaf size, water use, root growth, chlorophyll content and rate of photosynthesis. “Whether there are changes or not, both results will be important for the future, so we know how to grow cannabis in the space environment,” Radišič told WIRED. The publication notes that humans are still some time away from growing marijuana on the moon or Mars, pointing out that factors such as microgravity, extreme temperatures, toxins a lack of nutrients in the soil are likely obstacles to cultivation. “We will have to adapt to the environment on Mars, and slowly adapt our plants for them to survive,” Petra Knaus, the CEO of Genoplant, which is also developing a space capsule, told WIRED. “For now, we believe it will only be possible [to grow plants] in a closed system container with the conditions adapted.” As for other intersections of cannabis and the cosmos, in 2018, the fact-checking website Snopes debunked an earlier article that suggested marijuana contained “‘alien DNA’ from outside our solar system.” That same year, renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson advised against actually using marijuana in space, warning that “if you do anything to alter your understanding of what is reality, that’s not in the interest of your health.” Relatedly, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said earlier this year that he thought it was a “great idea” to mandate drug testing of federal government workers. Months later, a Democratic congresswoman filed a bill that would require Musk and other Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) workers to submit to drug testing to maintain their “special government employee” status. In addition to awkwardly puffing a marijuana joint on Joe Rogan’s podcast while at the helm of a federally contracted aerospace company (Musk later claimed he never inhaled), the SpaceX CEO has reportedly been a heavy user of ketamine, so much so that it interfered with his ability to urinate. Separately, in the world of cannabis genetics, scientists reported last month that they’ve identified 33 “significant markers” in the cannabis genome that “significantly influence cannabinoid production”—a finding they say promises to drive the development of new plant varieties with specific cannabinoid profiles. Published in the journal The Plant Genome, the results “offer valuable guidance for *Cannabis *breeding programs, enabling the use of precise genetic markers to select and refine promising *Cannabis* varieties,” authors said. Mike Tyson And Other Celebs Push Trump To Go Further On Marijuana Than Biden By Expanding Clemency And Enacting Rescheduling The post Cannabis Seeds Launched To Orbit By SpaceX Crash Into Sea, Setting Back Mission To Grow Marijuana On Mars 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 document is a newsletter from Marijuana Moment, dated September 16, 2025. Key topics include: a push from various groups for federal marijuana legalization, the expected availability of medical marijuana in Kentucky by next month, the Texas Supreme Court declining to hear an appeal on a local marijuana decriminalization law, a New York Assembly Health Committee hearing on psilocybin, and a new op-ed about pending congressional hemp legislation that could ban certain products. The newsletter also covers federal and state cannabis news, local and international updates, science and health studies related to cannabis and psychedelics, and business news in the cannabis industry. < Back Groups push Congress to legalize cannabis (Newsletter: September 16, 2025) Sep 16, 2025 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *KY medical marijuana available soon; TX Supreme Court dodges cannabis case; NY psychedelics hearing; Federal hemp product ban op-ed* 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…* *Hold on, just one second before you read today’s news. *Have you thought about giving some financial support to Marijuana Moment? If so, today would be a great day to contribute. We’re planning our reporting for the coming months and it would really help to know what kind of support we can count on. Check us out on Patreon and sign up to give $25/month today: https://www.patreon.com/marijuanamoment */ TOP THINGS TO KNOW* The ACLU, Drug Policy Alliance, NORML and groups representing social workers, lawyers and unions sent a letter urging members of Congress to support a federal marijuana legalization bill—saying incremental rescheduling being considered by the Trump administration “will maintain the criminal penalties and collateral consequences that are in effect today.” The executive director of the Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis said legal medical marijuana should be harvested and on dispensary shelves for sale by next month. - “So we’re moving and we’re finally getting to a point where we’re, these patients are going to receive this medication sooner than later.” The Texas Supreme Court declined to consider an appeal of a ruling that overturned a voter-approved local marijuana decriminalization law in the city of San Marcos. The New York Assembly Health Committee has scheduled a hearing about “the potential medicinal value and risks of psilocybin” for September 30, with plans to invite testimony from “researchers, medical experts and other stakeholders.” Lauren Estevez and Joanne Caceres of Dentons US Cannabis Group authored a new Marijuana Moment op-ed highlighting how pending congressional hemp legislation could reshape the legal market by banning certain products. */ FEDERAL* The Drug Enforcement Administration posted another profile of one of its special agents. Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH) tweeted, “We need to ensure qualified, motivated Americans aren’t turned away from serving their country over previous legal cannabis use. By clarifying the reenlistment waiver process through my amendment, we can expand opportunities to serve and strengthen our military.” */ STATES* An Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics official will testify about organized crime involvement in the state’s medical cannabis industry at a congressional hearing this week. Maryland regulators posted guidance about a recent court ruling upholding hemp product restrictions. Vermont regulators sent guidance about cannabis lab sample submission requirements. California generated $259.7 million in cannabis tax revenue in the second quarter of this year. New Jersey officials are considering a pilot program to offer funds to cannabis businesses. Michigan regulators published a monthly report on disciplinary actions against marijuana businesses. Massachusetts regulators published an explainer video about the marijuana rulemaking process. New York regulators participated in a cannabis event at Cornell University. The Alaska Marijuana Control Board will meet on Wednesday and Thursday. The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday. Oregon regulators are holding hearings on proposed psilocybin services rules this week. *— 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 143rd Judicial District, Texas district attorney is facing a legal challenge over her decision to smoke marijuana while streaming on TikTok. */ INTERNATIONAL* The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization will reportedly feature cannabis reform perspectives at an upcoming event. The Philippine Supreme Court acquitted a man accused of planting marijuana, finding that police failed to follow the required chain of custody. */ SCIENCE & HEALTH* A study found that “there were no increases in any cannabis outcomes after [recreational cannabis laws] enactment among those 12–20 years old.” A study found that 85 percent of psychedelic researchers “reported personal experiences with classic psychedelics.” */ ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS* The Pennsylvania Hemp & Cannabis Guild is a newly formed industry advocacy group. */ BUSINESS* Verano Holdings Corp. is moving to redomicile from British Columbia, Canada to Nevada. Canopy Growth Corporation completed an early prepayment of $25 million against a senior secured term loan. Virgin Group founder Richard Branson authored a letter in support of ending the war on drugs. *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 Groups push Congress to legalize cannabis (Newsletter: September 16, 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

New directives from Florida election officials complicate the state's voter verification process, potentially disrupting the Smart & Safe Florida campaign's bid to place an adult-use cannabis legalization question on the 2026 ballot, which requires over 880,000 valid signatures by February 1 and a 60% voter approval rate to pass as a constitutional amendment. < Back Last-Minute Voter Verification Changes In Florida Threaten Cannabis Campaign’s 2026 Bid Jan 19, 2026 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Last week, an official with the Florida Secretary of State’s Office issued new directives to the county supervisors of elections that complicate the state’s voter verification process and could disrupt a bid to put an adult-use cannabis legalization question on the 2026 ballot, the Orlando Sentinel reports. The order came from Maria Matthews, director of the state Division of Elections, but the Secretary of State is a governor-appointed role, and Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has long opposed adult-use cannabis reforms in the Sunshine State. The Smart & Safe Florida campaign needs to submit just over 880,000 valid voter signatures before February 1 to qualify for November ballots. The campaign has already accused the state of dragging out the approval process — last year, advocates claimed that officials were purposefully delaying approving the petition to make the signature-gathering process more difficult. Additionally, state officials disqualified over 200,000 signatures last year, saying they were invalid because voters had not been provided with the full text of the constitutional amendment. If the question does ultimately make it onto the ballots, as a constitutional amendment, it will require at least 60% of voter support to pass. In 2024, a cannabis legalization amendment received jus 56% of the vote and failed. < 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 op-ed argues that merely extending the 2018 Farm Bill's hemp restrictions is a temporary "band-aid" that fails to provide the necessary certainty for farmers and patients. The author urges Congress to instead pass thoughtful, evidence-based regulation now by fixing the THC threshold and clarifying the distinction between intoxicating and non-intoxicating therapeutic CBD products. < Back Hemp Farmers And Patients Who Rely On CBD Need More Than Just A Delay In The Looming Federal Ban (Op-Ed) Jan 19, 2026 Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“Merely hitting pause does not protect public health; thoughtful regulation does.”* *By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Realm of Caring* While some policymakers are proposing to delay impending hemp restrictions by extending the 2018 Farm Bill, this is just a band-aid and might ultimately create a significant missed opportunity. An extension may temporarily allow farmers to plant this season, but it does nothing to solve the underlying problem. Kicking the can down the road only prolongs uncertainty for farmers, patients and families, plus it guarantees we will be having the same crisis conversation again next year. We create an industry that can’t plan for the future. The right solution is not just delay; it is clarity. Congress has a narrow window right now to fix the language, correct the THC threshold and clearly distinguish intoxicating products from non-intoxicating, therapeutic CBD—and it should take that opportunity while there is momentum and support to do so. Farmers do not need temporary relief; they need regulatory certainty that allows them to operate responsibly and sustainably. And most importantly, the patients and families who rely on this medicine need therapeutical tools they can depend on. Claims that we need “more research” to determine intoxicating levels of THC in CBD products ignore the substantial body of evidence that already exists. Scientific literature, clinical experience and real-world data consistently demonstrate that non-intoxicating CBD products can contain trace amounts of THC well below any level that produces intoxication. This is not theoretical, but it is observable, measurable and already understood. No organization has engaged more deeply or consistently with the community using cannabinoids than Realm of Caring. Through tens of thousands of direct, recorded interactions with patients, caregivers, clinicians and families across the country, we can confidently articulate what constitutes a non-intoxicating level of THC in commercially available CBD products that have been used responsibly for more than a decade. From our perspective, if lawmakers have the opportunity to pass a reasonable, evidence-based solution, particularly with encouragement from a supportive administration, they should take that shot. This challenge can be viewed as a gift for the industry to come together, end the hemp ambiguity and protect workers and patients. But merely hitting pause does not protect public health; thoughtful regulation does. *Sasha Kalcheff-Korn is the executive director of Realm of Caring, a Colorado-based nonprofit that advocates for and connects people to cannabinoid therapy.* The post Hemp Farmers And Patients Who Rely On CBD Need More Than Just A Delay In The Looming Federal Ban (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

Marijuana rescheduling looms as Senate Republicans move on Trump DEA pick < Back Marijuana rescheduling looms... Jul 18, 2025 Chris Roberts MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Terrance Cole, Donald Trump's choice to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration, may be confirmed by the Senate as early as next week. Marijuana rescheduling looms as Senate Republicans move on Trump DEA pick 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 company opened its 22nd retail location to improve patient access to medical products and experiences. < Back iAnthus Continues Florida Expansion With GrowHealthy Dispensary in Palm Harbor Jul 18, 2025 staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The grand opening marks the company’s 22nd retail location, enhancing patient access to premium medical products through engaging experiences. < 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