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A proposal from the Texas Department of State Health Services would dramatically increase hemp business license costs by over 13,000%—raising manufacturer fees from $250 to $25,000 and retailer fees from $150 to $20,000—which critics warn will force many small businesses out of the market. The proposed rules also establish a minimum purchasing age of 21 for hemp products. < Back Texas Hemp Rules Update Would Hike Licensing Fees 13,000% Jan 12, 2026 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A proposal from the Texas Department of State Health Services published last month would increase the cost of hemp business licenses by over 13,000%, the Texas Tribune reports. Under the proposed rules, the cost of a hemp product manufacturer license would increase from $250 to $25,000 per year per facility. The cost of a hemp product retailer license would increase from $150 to $20,000 per year per location. The rules would also establish a minimum purchasing age of 21 and set age verification and product recall requirements for the hemp products industry. The industry has been operating under emergency hemp rules issued last October after Gov. Greg Abbott (R) ordered the state in September to take action. Texas Cannabis Policy Center Heather Fazio said in a statement that if the rules are to be implemented as proposed, “Many small businesses simply cannot afford to absorb this level of cost and will be forced to shut down.” “Business licensing and registration fees should not be punitive. They should be structured to recover the reasonable costs of effective regulation — not to function as a revenue mechanism that drives compliant businesses out of the regulated market. The department’s own estimates show that the increased costs of administering these rules are minimal. In that context, it is unclear why such dramatic fee increases are necessary or justified.” — Fazio, in a statement In November, President Trump signed a federal spending bill containing a crackdown on the sale of hemp-derived THC set to take effect on November 12, 2026. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

D.C. has shut down Bouquet Labs, an unlicensed cannabis grower, imposing a $10K fine and ordering a license sale after a raid found 999 illegal plants. < Back D.C. closes third unlicensed psychedelic shop amid ongoing crackdown Jul 19, 2025 Editorial Staff Outlaw Report Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link D.C. shuts down Bouquet Labs, the first unlicensed cannabis grower to face enforcement, ordering a $10K fine and license sale after raid uncovers 999 illegal plants. Source < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission approved the first two medical cannabis cultivator license applications for Nancy Laughlin-Wagner and Patrick Thomas, allowing each to cultivate up to 1,250 flowering cannabis plants. These approvals are part of the state's new medical cannabis program, which permits a maximum of four licensed cultivators. Two other applications, including one from Crista Eggers of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, were rejected. Denied applicants have until October 23 to appeal. The commission had previously missed its October 1 deadline for issuing licenses due to commissioner resignations. < Back Nebraska Regulators Approve State’s First Medical Cannabis Cultivators Oct 9, 2025 TG Branfalt Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission on Tuesday approved the state’s first two medical cannabis cultivator license applications, Nebraska Public Media reports. The approvals were given to Nancy Laughlin-Wagner, on behalf of Midwest Cultivators Group, and Patrick Thomas. The approval will allow each to receive an offer of licensure to cultivate up to 1,250 flowering cannabis plants for medical purposes. The limit was included as part of the emergency regulations signed by Gov. Jim Pillen (R) last month – the first step in setting up the state’s medical cannabis program. Those regulations only permit up to four licensed cultivators in the state. The approved applications were one of four randomly reviewed by the commission. The other two applications were rejected by the commission – including one submitted by Crista Eggers, the executive director for Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, which led the successful ballot initiative that enacted the medical cannabis reforms. During the commission meeting, Eggers said that she hopes “the individuals that receive these licenses are good people that have every intention of providing good medicine to the people of this state that so desperately need it.” “I do hope that we see some transparency with a matrix and things,” she said during her remarks, “so that all applications, all licensed applicants, have that information to go forward, so that they know how they scored.” Denied applicants can appeal the commission’s decision until October 23. The commission had missed the statutory deadline of October 1 to begin issuing industry licenses after the resignation of two commissioners led to a slowdown of the process. < 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 American Council of Cannabis Medicine (ACCM) launched a national initiative to expand access to affordable, medically guided cannabis treatment. This multi-faceted program includes partnerships with insurers for comprehensive coverage, an "Elevated States" educational platform for members of associations and wellness organizations, and a Distinguished Physician Referral Network for healthcare systems to refer patients to vetted medical-cannabis programs while maintaining compliance. The "Next Frontier" platform unifies the process for a seamless, scalable, state-compliant patient experience. < Back ACCM Unveils Initiative to Expand Medical Cannabis Access Oct 21, 2025 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *WASHINGTON* — The American Council of Cannabis Medicine (ACCM) launched a national initiative developed with top insurers, health systems, associations, and wellness organizations. The multi-faceted program expands access to affordable, medically guided cannabis treatment for millions of Americans. Expanded Insurance Coverage Puts Cannabis Care Within Reach New partnerships with leading insurance providers deliver comprehensive medical cannabis benefits for individuals and companies of all sizes — from single policyholders to Fortune 500 employers. With several major carriers participating, the program offers broad coverage tailored to patient needs. Associations, Wellness Groups Introduce Members to Elevated States Over 400 associations and wellness organizations are engaging their members with ACCM’s Elevated States program — a unique educational and benefit platform that empowers individuals to explore safe, legal use of medical cannabis as part of their wellness journey. Healthcare Systems Gain Referral Resource ACCM’s Distinguished Physician Referral Network enables healthcare systems nationwide to refer patients to vetted medical-cannabis programs. This initiative protects Medicare and Medicaid compliance while expanding access to alternative care pathways. Tying It All Together Through ACCM’s Next Frontier platform, standards, and protocols, ACCM unifies the process to deliver a seamless patient experience mirroring the efficiencies of traditional pharma. Under the Next Frontier umbrella, ACCM combines technology and network partners to facilitate a scalable, state-compliant system—built for today’s framework and ready for national implementation alongside federal reform. < 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 has authorized $75 million in cash for the third-quarter closing, reflecting a balanced approach to capital allocation. < Back Village Farms International’s Board Approves $10M Share Repurchase Authorization Sep 29, 2025 Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The authorization reflects the company’s balanced approach to capital allocation, with $75 million in cash for the third-quarter closing. < 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

Ben Carson, who led President Donald Trump’s Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) during his first term, is speaking out against a marijuana rescheduling proposal that the current administration is actively considering. < Back Former Trump Cabinet Official Claims Marijuana Rescheduling Would ‘Worsen The Crisis’ Of Crime Sep 4, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Ben Carson, who led President Donald Trump’s Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) during his first term, is speaking out against a marijuana rescheduling proposal that the current administration is actively considering. In an op-ed published by Fox News on Thursday, the former HUD secretary suggested that reclassifying cannabis as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) conflicts with the president’s efforts to end “the crime epidemic destroying American cities.” He said while “there are many factors contributing to high crime rates, we cannot ignore one that’s dominated the national debate in recent weeks: the prevalent use of marijuana, a trend which is growing in our urban centers.” “As the president starts cleaning up our streets, a cabal of Soros-funded activists are pushing for a dangerous Blue City-style policy that will worsen the crisis: rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III,” Carson claimed. “Even well-intentioned but misguided activists are now advocating to loosen marijuana restrictions through efforts to reschedule the drug.” A Schedule III designation would not federally legalize cannabis. It would, however, acknowledge that it has medical use and allow state-licensed marijuana businesses to take federal tax deductions they’ve been barred from under an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) code known as 280E. It would also lift certain research barriers that apply to Schedule I drugs. “I urge caution when we consider such sweeping changes. The intent may be compassionate, but the consequences are certainly harmful,” the former Trump administration official wrote. “As someone who’s spent decades caring for the health and well-being of families across America, I have seen firsthand how substance abuse devastates lives and communities.” He also linked cannabis use with increased crime, and he argued that legalization is associated with “substance-use disorders” and “chronic homelessness.” “Negative consequences follow liberalized drug policies like night follows day. It makes sense that order and civil society suffer the more you give license for individuals to engage in antisocial behavior such as abusing drugs,” Carson said. “More and more locations are learning the hard way that easing drug prohibitions can have disastrous consequences.” “If one thing is clear from crime-controlled areas, it’s this: rampant drug use is fueling the fire. This truth is reflected across countless American cities,” he said. “As a former pediatric neurosurgeon who is deeply concerned for America’s future generations, I believe we must approach marijuana policy with caution and allow sound evidence to guide the debate.” “The health, safety and stability of our families depend on thoughtful, responsible leadership—not experimenting with policies that fuel more crime and suffering. Let’s instead focus on what truly makes our towns and cities places where every American can thrive.” The former Cabinet member’s comments come about eight years after he criticized the impact that criminal drug enforcement has on disadvantaged communities. Meanwhile, Trump’s former press secretary Sean Spicer and his long-time advisor Roger Stone recently traded diverging takes on the prospect of the administration moving forward on marijuana rescheduling. Stone separately made the case for reform in an op-ed for Marijuana Moment last week. Nine GOP congressional lawmakers have called on the U.S. attorney general to reject what they called a “corrupt and flawed” marijuana rescheduling proposal. In contrast to that letter from GOP lawmakers, a leading drug policy reform group recently launched a petition urging the president to go further than rescheduling by legalizing marijuana altogether. The post Former Trump Cabinet Official Claims Marijuana Rescheduling Would ‘Worsen The Crisis’ Of Crime 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

Virginia’s proposed cannabis legislation attempts to prevent monopolization and promote restorative justice, but the author warns that current operational timelines and fees threaten to undermine these goals by favoring incumbent multi-state operators. The author recommends that Virginia abandon the arbitrary retail launch date and instead implement "Market Readiness" benchmarks, allowing sales to begin only when independent licensees have compliant product available, thus ensuring a competitive market start. < Back Virginia Rejected A Monopoly Model For Marijuana, But Lawmakers Need To Finish The Job (Op-Ed) Dec 10, 2025 Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“Legislators must ensure the launch mechanics don’t inadvertently hand the keys back to the incumbents before independent operators can even get in the door.”* *By Max Jackson, Cannabis Wise Guys* For years, the story of legal cannabis in America has been a rerun of the same bad movie: corporate lobbyists write the rules, “Big Weed” captures the market and independent farmers are regulated into bankruptcy. Last week, Virginia’s Joint Commission to Oversee the Transition of the Commonwealth into a Retail Cannabis Market decided to change the channel. In October, I warned the Joint Commission in testimony that Virginia faced a choice between two economic models: “Path A,” a limited-license market dominated by incumbent multi-state operators (MSOs), or “Path B,” a competitive market built on independent Virginia businesses. The proposed legislative changes represent a genuine attempt to prevent the monopolization that has plagued legal cannabis markets across the country. The Commission has embraced restorative justice, killed the regulatory barriers that created “cannabis deserts” in other states and built a framework for independent operators to compete. The question is whether the operational timeline will deliver on that promise—or undermine it. *The $10 Million “Penalty” Is Actually A Discount* The proposal requires incumbent pharmaceutical processors to pay a $10 million fee to enter the adult-use market. To the average Virginian, that sounds like a hefty price tag. But let’s be honest about the math—and the history. Virginia’s medical program launched in 2020 as a limited-license, vertically-integrated market. Five pharmaceutical processors—most of them multi-state operators—were awarded exclusive territories with mandatory vertical integration, a structure designed to favor deep-pocketed incumbents over independent operators. Between July and August 2025 alone, that protected medical market recorded nearly $30 million in sales across more than 256,000 transactions. In 2024, The Cannabist Company sold its Eastern Virginia medical operation to Verano Holdings for $90 million. Just last week, The Cannabist sold its Central Virginia operation to Curaleaf for $110 million. Two territories, $200 million in total value. In exchange for this one-time $10 million conversion fee, these companies are being granted licenses that are larger and more powerful than any other tier available to new entrants. They retain their vertical integration—growing, processing and selling their own product—while new businesses are forced to specialize. They already have completed facilities, trained staff, established supply chains and consumer brand recognition. Against proven territory valuations of $90-110 million and a medical market generating $15 million per month, a $10 million conversion fee is not a penalty; it’s a discount on market dominance. *Killing The “Cannabis Desert”* The most significant victory for public safety is the removal of the local referendum option. The failure of the opt-out model is well-documented. In New Jersey, nearly 70 percent of municipalities initially opted out of allowing cannabis businesses, creating vast “cannabis deserts.” This didn’t stop consumption; it simply handed those markets directly to illicit operators who don’t check IDs or test their products. By striking the opt-out provision, the Commission has acknowledged a fundamental truth: you cannot regulate a market if you do not allow it to exist. However, access alone doesn’t guarantee competition. The proposal also establishes a one-mile minimum distance between retail dispensaries, intended to prevent the clustering seen in states like New Jersey, where zoning restrictions force retailers to open across the street from one another. In theory, this promotes geographic distribution. In practice, it transforms retail licensing into a real estate race—whoever secures a location first controls a one-mile radius, and well-capitalized operators with real estate teams will always move faster than independent applicants still assembling financing. Removing the opt-out provision helps by opening more geography to competition, but the mile-radius rule still advantages those who can play the property game at speed. *Restorative Justice Requires Resources* Equally important is the shift in how Virginia defines “impact.” The proposal to include prior felony distribution charges as a qualifier for impact status—rather than a disqualifier—is an absolute victory. It moves beyond performative equity and toward actual restorative justice, acknowledging that the expertise of legacy operators is a feature, not a bug. However, a license is only an opportunity if the resources exist to execute on it. The bill’s commitment to direct 50 percent of the Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund into loan capital is a start, but impact licenses are only as helpful as the funding, technical assistance and affordable professional services available to support them. Virginia must ensure these operators can access not just capital, but the legal, accounting and compliance expertise necessary to survive the capital-intensive startup phase—services that incumbents already have in-house. *The 120-Day Trap* As an operational consultant, I must be direct: the timeline in this proposal threatens to undo everything the policy structure is trying to achieve. Here’s the math. Assuming the bill passes early in 2026, the Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) has until July 1 to stand up regulations and process the first round of licenses. Retail sales begin November 1. That gives a newly licensed independent operator exactly 120 days to go from “license in hand” to “product on shelves.” Let me explain what 120 days actually means in cannabis cultivation. A typical flowering cycle runs 60-65 days. Add 3-4 weeks of vegetation before that. Then, 10-14 days for drying and curing. Then testing, packaging and compliance. You’re looking at 100-120 days minimum from clone to compliant, sellable product—assuming everything goes perfectly, your facility is already built, your systems are dialed in and you started cultivation the moment your license arrived. For a new operator still finishing construction, installing equipment, and training staff? The math doesn’t work. They will have nothing to sell on November 1. The pharmaceutical processors, meanwhile, already have inventory. They have flower curing in their vaults right now. They’ll be ready to sell on day one. *Market Readiness, Not Calendar Dates* The solution is straightforward: tie market launch to actual competitive readiness, not arbitrary dates. Virginia should establish “Market Readiness” benchmarks where retail sales begin when a minimum threshold of independent licensees—impact operators, microbusinesses and small cultivators—have received licenses, completed buildout and have product ready for sale. When the independents and the incumbents cross the starting line together, consumers get competition, prices reflect a real market and the policy achieves its stated purpose. This isn’t about delaying the market indefinitely. It’s about aligning the incentives of all market participants so that pharmaceutical processors, independent operators and the state all benefit from a stable, competitive launch. One approach would be to make pharmaceutical processor conversion contingent on independent operator readiness—perhaps even on a regional basis—so that cooperation becomes more profitable than obstruction. When incumbents’ adult-use revenue depends on independents getting operational, the market dynamics shift dramatically. The ready-together framework prevents the first-mover revenue trap that has cemented MSO dominance in state after state. Arizona launched sales roughly 80 days after licensing—but only incumbents with existing inventory could participate, giving them a 6-12 month head start that new operators never recovered from. Virginia has built the right policy framework to avoid that outcome. Now it must build the right launch mechanics. The Commission should amend the current timeline provisions to establish clear market readiness criteria: retail sales commence when the Cannabis Control Authority certifies that licensed independent operators have compliant product available for distribution, ensuring market launch reflects genuine competition rather than incumbent inventory advantage. This preserves the urgency of launching a regulated market while ensuring the Commission’s equity and competition goals aren’t undermined by a calendar date that only pharmaceutical processors can meet. *“Operational” Must Mean Progress, Not Perfection* The proposal includes a 24-month “use it or lose it” rule to prevent license speculation. That’s good policy—if “operational” is defined correctly. In Virginia’s current construction environment, the electrical transformers required for a commercial cannabis facility can face lead times of 12-18 months. Add permitting delays, zoning appeals and on-site construction, and the 24-month window becomes dangerously tight. The standard for retaining a license must be “demonstrable progress”—breaking ground, passing inspections, installing equipment, securing financing—not “open for business.” Without this clarity, the 24-month rule becomes another tool that advantages incumbents with completed facilities while punishing independents for delays entirely outside their control. *Shell Company Scrutiny Needs Speed Limits* The proposal includes provisions requiring the Cannabis Control Authority to scrutinize ownership agreements, management contracts and financing arrangements to prevent MSOs from using shell companies to control nominally “independent” licensees. This is vital—without it, every anti-consolidation provision in the bill becomes meaningless. However, regulatory scrutiny without statutory time limits can be as dangerous as no scrutiny at all. If CCA takes six months to review a management agreement or a financing deal, that delay alone can kill a small business burning through cash while waiting for approval. Virginia must establish clear timelines—30 to 60 days for standard reviews, with defined criteria for what triggers extended review—so that legitimate operators aren’t inadvertently strangled by bureaucratic pace. *Virginia Can Lead—If It Finishes The Blueprint* Virginia has rejected the monopoly model that has failed consumers and small businesses in state after state. The Commission has embraced restorative justice by making felony distribution convictions a qualifier, not a disqualifier. It has eliminated the local opt-out provisions that created “cannabis deserts” in New Jersey and elsewhere. It has built a framework for microbusinesses, shared processing hubs, and impact licensees to compete on a level playing field. But a blueprint is not a building. By establishing clear market readiness criteria that tie launch to competitive preparedness, defining “operational readiness” to protect legitimate businesses from bureaucratic delays and establishing time limits for regulatory review, Virginia can deliver on the promise of a truly competitive market. The Commonwealth has drawn the blueprint for what legal cannabis could look like. Now legislators must ensure the launch mechanics don’t inadvertently hand the keys back to the incumbents before independent operators can even get in the door. *Max Jackson is the founder of Cannabis Wise Guys and specializes in translating between cannabis operations, investment, and public policy. He has provided expert testimony to the Virginia Legislature on preventing market consolidation in emerging cannabis markets.* *Photo courtesy of Max Jackson.* The post Virginia Rejected A Monopoly Model For Marijuana, But Lawmakers Need To Finish The Job (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

Athletes, Entertainers Urge Trump to Reschedule Marijuana, Offer Clemency, Ease Cannabis Banking < Back Athletes, Entertainers Urge Trump to Reschedule Marijuana... Jun 30, 2025 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *WASHINGTON —* A high-profile coalition of athletes, entertainers, and advocates has sent a formal letter to President Donald J. Trump urging him to follow through on his public support for marijuana rescheduling and to lead a new era of cannabis reform in America. Led by boxing icon Mike Tyson, NFL Stars Ricky Williams, Jim McMahon, NBA greats Allen Iverson and Kevin Durant, as well as cultural voices like Wyclef Jean, Lil Pump, and Adin Ross, the group is throwing its weight behind Trump’s call to move marijuana to Schedule III—a change they say is “scientifically necessary and politically overdue.” “We fully support your vision for sensible, evidence-based marijuana policies that reflect today’s societal realities and promote safe, regulated access,” the coalition wrote. “Rescheduling marijuana will not only correct outdated federal policy—it will unlock research, innovation, and investment, and bring fairness to businesses and consumers nationwide.” The letter highlights the disparity between federal cannabis laws and the reality in most U.S. states, where the plant is already legal in some form. The group notes that current federal scheduling continues to obstruct medical research, punish legal businesses with excessive taxes, and criminalize behavior that is now broadly accepted. The coalition also urged Trump to pair rescheduling with meaningful clemency action, particularly for nonviolent marijuana offenders still serving outdated sentences, and to advocate for cannabis banking reform to end discriminatory practices harming legal operators. “As a disruptor of the status quo, your leadership on cannabis would be historic,” the letter states. “We are ready to help you push for bold changes that align with the will of the American people and the realities of today’s economy.” This call to action comes at a pivotal moment, as the Biden administration failed to act decisively on marijuana reform despite campaign promises. In contrast, Trump has spoken publicly about marijuana’s medical value, the need for smarter regulation, and the absurdity of continued incarceration for cannabis-related crimes. The coalition includes: Mike Tyson: Boxing Champion, Entrepreneur, & Advocate Wyclef Jean: Grammy-Award Winning Musician & Member of the Fugees Allen Iverson: NBA Superstar Kevin Durant: NBA Champion Ricky Williams: NFL All-Pro & Heisman Trophy Winner Jim McMahon: NFL Pro-Bowler and two-time Super Bowl Champion Kyle Turley: NFL Pro-Bowler; Country Music Artist Adin Ross: Streamer Lil Pump: Rapper; Singer; Songwriter Stephen Jackson: NBA Champion Roy Jones Jr.: Boxing Champion and Hall of Famer Chris Webber: NBA All-Star John “Spider” Salley: NBA Champion; Actor; Sports Commentator Matt Barnes: NBA Champion J.R. Smith: NBA Champion Al Harrington: NBA player, cannabis entrepreneur Dez Bryant: NFL Roland “Champ” Bailey Jr.: NFL Hall of Famer Kyle Turley: NFL Pro-Bowler; Country Music Artist Marvin Washington: NFL Veteran, Super Bowl Champion, Entrepreneur, Reform Advocate Ralo: Hip Hop Recording Artist Boyd Melson: Military Boxing Champion Tony Richardson: Former NFL Player Keith “One Time” Thurman: Boxing Champion < 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

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CannaCon, a B2B cannabis industry expo, is returning to Washington State, its birthplace, from October 3-4, 2025, at the Clark County Event Center in Vancouver. The event will feature exhibitors, seminars, and networking opportunities for cannabis business professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and regulators. Angela Grelle, Director of Marketing and Operations, expressed excitement about returning to the Pacific Northwest, a leader in cannabis innovation. < Back CannaCon Returns to Its Home State of Washington, October 3–4, 2025 Sep 10, 2025 Ganjapreneur Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *Vancouver, WA – Sept 8, 2025*– CannaCon, the nation’s premier B2B cannabis industry expo, is proud to announce its highly anticipated return to Washington State, the birthplace of the CannaCon brand. The event will take place October 3–4, 2025, at the Clark County Event Center in Vancouver, Washington. Since 2014, CannaCon has been at the forefront of connecting cannabis business professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and regulators across the country. After last hosting in Washington in 2019, the expo is making a long-awaited comeback to its home state, bringing with it a robust lineup of exhibitors, industry-leading seminars, and unparalleled networking opportunities. “Washington is where CannaCon began, and returning here feels like coming home,” said Angela Grelle, Director of Marketing and Operations at CannaCon. “The Pacific Northwest has always been a leader in cannabis innovation, and we are excited to provide a platform where businesses from across Washington, Oregon, and beyond can connect, collaborate, and grow.” The two-day event will showcase exhibitors featuring the latest in cultivation technology, dispensary innovations, packaging solutions, financial services, compliance resources, and more. Attendees will also benefit from a diverse seminar schedule featuring expert speakers covering pressing topics such as licensing, compliance, and business strategy. CannaCon Washington promises to be an essential gathering for anyone seeking to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving cannabis market—whether seasoned operator or new entrepreneur. *Event Details:* CannaCon Washington October 3–4, 2025 Clark County Event Center, Vancouver, WA Tickets and exhibitor information: www.CannaCon.org *About CannaCon*CannaCon is the nation’s leading cannabis B2B trade show, hosting events across the United States that bring together industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. With a mission to provide a global marketplace for education, networking, and business development, CannaCon continues to shape the future of the cannabis industry. *Media Contact:*Angela Grelle Director of Marketing and Operations Angela@CannaCon.org < 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

Stevie Williams, known as "Little Stevie," began his skateboarding career at 12, gaining attention from Element and developing a unique street style. By 18, he ventured into business, securing sponsorships and launching the skate brand DGK. Inspired by cannabis culture, Williams expanded into streetwear and his latest endeavor, Lord Williams Farms, focuses on cannabis lifestyle and technology. He continues to be a pioneer in skateboarding, cannabis, and fashion. < Back Skateboarding Legend Stevie Williams Builds A Cannabis Empire Jun 30, 2025 Clare Sausen Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Stevie Williams, known initially solely as “Little Stevie,” made his first impression on the skateboarding world more than three decades ago. At 12, he ripped through Philadelphia’s famous LOVE Park and catching the attention of the legacy skate brand Element then appearing in their Fine Artists Vol 1 Collection in 1994. With skills far beyond his age, he soon became synonymous with the city, developing a raw street style that reverberated to the East Coast skating scene at large. By 18, Williams had extended his acumen to the business sphere. His career and sponsorship opportunities grew in succession with global names including G-Shock, Reebok and Playboy for exclusive collabs and signature product lines. With an entrepreneurial spirit that had yet to be satiated, Williams, with friend and collaborator Eli Soto, launched the skate brand DGK (Dirty Ghetto Kids)—a reclamation of the stereotype Williams says he faced growing up Black in the inner city—cementing his legacy on the board and beyond. Pursuing an interest in fashion with inspiration rooted in cannabis culture, Williams is now as well-known for streetwear as he is for skating. DGK currently features a litany of goods directly inspired by the plant, from a Team Indica line of basketball wear to rolling trays adorned with works of art. “DGK represents urban culture, so we support the cannabis space and the movement by representing that culture correctly,” Williams says. His latest endeavor, Lord Williams Farms, is inspired by the energy of downtown Los Angeles, utilizing NFC chip technology popular in the city’s legal weed industry. “Lord Willaims is a journey brand in the cannabis lifestyle space,” he says. “It’s a blend of technology, lifestyle, cannabis and psychedelics.” While it’s typically applied in cannabis for product verification, digital collectibles and cryptocurrency transactions, Williams uses it to engage his consumers to point-and-shoot their tag toward a product experience aligned with his vision far beyond the limitations of a static graphic. Through ventures ranging from skate gear to streetwear with the application of innovative platforms, Williams continues to solidify his legacy as a multifaceted pioneer in skateboarding, cannabis and fashion. The post Skateboarding Legend Stevie Williams Builds A Cannabis Empire 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

An industry organization is calling for the enforcement of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order on regulating cannabinoid hemp products. < Back Texas Hemp Business Council Supports Protections for Minors Sep 11, 2025 Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The industry organization is urging the practical enforcement of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order on regulating cannabinoid hemp products. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5