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The provided text summarizes a "Marijuana Moment" newsletter from September 30, 2025. Key points include: the DOJ delaying a marijuana rescheduling challenge, a US citizen freed from Russia over cannabis speaking at a conference, and Ohio marijuana rules changes. It also covers federal, state, local, international, science & health, advocacy, and business news related to cannabis. < Back Cannabis rescheduling could boost banking bill, GOP senator says (Newsletter: September 30, 2025) Sep 30, 2025 Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *DOJ agrees to delay marijuana rescheduling challenge; US man freed from Russia over cannabis to speak; OH marijuana rules changes* 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* Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-OH) said if President Donald Trump follows through on marijuana rescheduling, it would “obviously” be “an important domino” toward building momentum to passing cannabis banking legislation in Congress. The Department of Justice agreed to further postpone a case challenging the administrative process behind the marijuana rescheduling proposal being considered by the Trump administration until January 27, 2026. Marc Fogel, a U.S. citizen who was jailed in Russia for possessing medical marijuana before being released through a deal reached by the Trump administration, will speak at a cannabis conference in Pennsylvania this weekend—”sharing his experience to highlight the need for compassionate, equitable policies.” The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control filed proposed changes to rules on labeling and packaging requirements for marijuana products. A new poll shows that Americans think smoking marijuana during pregnancy is not as risky as smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol, but that only 8 percent believe it carries “low risk” or “no risk.” Erin Bass, Amy Rubenstein and Julie Vanneman of Dentons authored a new Marijuana Moment op-ed arguing that “proactive compliance” to mitigate the risks of work-related asthma in the cannabis industry “will be essential to protect workers and limit liability.” */ FEDERAL* The U.S. Supreme Court is considering whether to take a case on whether property owners facing marijuana-related code enforcement fines from Humboldt County, California officials have a right to a jury trial. The Drug Enforcement Administration posted another profile on one of its special agents. Rep. James Comer (R-KY) tweeted, “I’ve witnessed firsthand the tremendous potential of industrial hemp to create quality jobs & meaningful economic opportunities for American workers & family farmers. I’m leading a bipartisan effort today to protect the hemp industry.” Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) authored a blog post touting his recent op-ed in support of marijuana rescheduling. */ STATES* A Pennsylvania senator tweeted, “Pennsylvania can’t afford to wait any longer. Our cannabis landscape is fractured, unregulated products are being sold in corner stores, while the illicit market continues to thrive. The time is now to establish the PA Cannabis Control Board. Let’s get this right!” Nebraska medical cannabis regulators stepped down, with one saying he felt Gov. Jim Pillen (R) sought his resignation due to his support for upholding the will of voters who enacted legalization initiatives. California officials published a report on marijuana revenue-funded youth drug prevention and treatment programs. Minnesota regulators launched a public education campaign about cannabis aimed at reaching people under the age of 25. Maryland regulators released new educational resources for cannabis cultivation and processing business employees. Washington State regulators added a new required reporting function to the state’s cannabis tracking system. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority Board of Directors will meet on Wednesday. Colorado regulators will hold a stakeholder meeting about revisions to marijuana rules on Thursday. The New York Cannabis Control Board will meet on Monday. The U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Advisory Board will meet on October 8. Missouri regulators will host cannabis training sessions for police officers and government officials next month. *— 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* Baldwin Park, California and several public officials are being ordered to pay nearly $1.9 million to a cannabis company after a jury agreed they committed fraud during the city’s licensing process. */ INTERNATIONAL* UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated his opposition to legalizing cannabis. */ SCIENCE & HEALTH* A review concluded that “cannabis-derived compounds hold promise for antiviral therapies and functional ingredients, though further research is essential to ensure safety and efficacy.” A study found that “the percentage of population agreeing with marijuana legalisation is associated with higher legislator support for drug legalisation, and presidential and legislator support for drug legalisation are associated with higher – but not more intense – citizen support for marijuana legalisation.” */ ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS* The Rockefeller Institute of Government published a report on differing circuit court rulings about the federal law banning marijuana consumers from owning guns. */ BUSINESS* Village Farms International, Inc.’s board of directors approved a $10 million share repurchase authorization. Beverage companies sent a letter expressing concerns about Minnesota cannabis product requirements. *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 Cannabis rescheduling could boost banking bill, GOP senator says (Newsletter: September 30, 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

Maryland is implementing new cannabis restrictions on July 1, capping THC content in unlicensed products and increasing regulatory oversight. Unlicensed products are prohibited from containing more than 0.5 mg THC per serving or 2.5 mg per package, with violators facing misdemeanor charges and fines. Licensed dispensaries are unaffected, but unlicensed retailers must comply. These changes aim to protect consumers from untested or potent illicit goods. < Back Maryland Caps THC Levels and Tightens Cannabis Regulations Starting July 1, 2025 Jul 9, 2025 Staff Mary Jane Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link On July 1, Maryland will implement new cannabis restrictions—capping THC content in unlicensed products and boosting regulatory oversight of legal cannabis. The new law, HB 12/SB 214, prohibits unlicensed cannabis products from containing more than 0.5 mg THC per serving or over 2.5 mg per package. Those selling or distributing such items without a license face misdemeanor charges and fines up to $5,000  . Licensed dispensaries, dual-licensed to sell both medical and recreational cannabis, remain unaffected—but unlicensed retailers must comply or risk enforcement (). The crackdown targets loophole THC products on the market without oversight, aiming to shield consumers, especially youth, from untested or potent illicit goods (). These cannabis rules join sweeping energy and environmental reforms—like clean energy assessments and Chesapeake Bay protection—that also begin July 1. But for shoppers and vendors, the cannabis changes mark a significant shift in Maryland’s regulatory landscape  . The post Maryland Caps THC Levels and Tightens Cannabis Regulations Starting July 1, 2025 appeared first on Merry Jane. < 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

Blank Rome LLP is hosting its ninth annual State of the Cannabis Industry conference on October 27, 2025, in Boston. The conference will address challenges like federal rescheduling delays and high taxes, as well as opportunities driven by robust consumer demand and growth in THC and intoxicating hemp beverages. Key sessions include a discussion with the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission and a panel of cannabis CEOs. Attendees will include various professionals from the cannabis industry and related sectors. < Back 9th Annual State of the Cannabis Industry Conference to Take Place October 27 in Boston Oct 16, 2025 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *BOSTON* — Coast-to-coast law firm Blank Rome LLP is set to host the ninth annual State of the Cannabis Industry conference, gathering professionals to analyze and discuss the many challenges and opportunities facing the multibillion-dollar cannabis sector. The conference will take place Monday, October 27, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET at Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport with a live-stream option available. “This year has challenged the cannabis industry, with federal rescheduling delays, limited institutional capital, high taxes, and ongoing competition from the illicit market. Much of our recent work has focused on receiverships and distressed transactions, highlighting the pressures businesses face,” added Scott H. Moskol, partner and co-chair of the Cannabis Practice. “Despite these headwinds, we are seeing powerful trends fueling optimism in the industry—consumer demand remains robust, the industry continues to expand, and the market for THC and intoxicating hemp beverages is experiencing remarkable growth. These trends signal real innovation and opportunity.” The conference will feature a keynote session, moderated by Frank A. Segall, with Chair Shannon O’Brien and Commissioner Kimberly Roy of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, who will share their unique and direct insights into the Commission, offering firsthand perspectives on how it is addressing industry issues and shaping the future of cannabis in the state. This session sets the stage for dynamic conversations on the industry’s hottest topics, such as game-changing regulatory developments, cutting-edge capital market strategies, business transformation, and innovative Employee Stock Ownership Plan models. One must-see session, “The View from the Top: Cannabis CEOs on 2025’s Critical Challenges & Opportunities,” brings together cannabis CEOs for a rare, insider look at how leaders are taking on federal rescheduling, navigating complex mergers and acquisitions deals, mastering ever-changing regulations, and capitalizing on shifting consumer trends. Panelists include: - Joseph Andreae, CEO, CULTA. - Jared Maloof, CEO, Standard Wellness. - Ed Schmults, CEO, Firelands Scientific. - Jim Scott, CEO, Statehouse Holdings. Attendees will range from multi-state operators and retailers to cultivators, product manufacturers, and delivery operators. Attendees will network with investment bankers, banking and financial institutions, venture capital firms, accounting and insurance professionals, brand license companies, consultants, regulatory experts, and packaging specialists. < 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 proposed constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use marijuana in Florida is progressing despite legal challenges and state opposition. < Back Florida adult-use marijuana legalization advances past state opposition Nov 19, 2025 Margaret Jackson MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A proposed constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use marijuana in Florida is moving forward amid legal battle. Florida adult-use marijuana legalization advances past state opposition 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

Michigan attorneys are defending the constitutionality of a law raising the wholesale cannabis tax to 24%, arguing it doesn't need a supermajority vote because it's distinct from the voter-approved retail tax. This defense is in response to a lawsuit by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, which claims the tax violates the state constitution's contracts clause and was passed improperly by lawmakers. The state maintains the tax's primary goal is to fund roads, not to regulate the cannabis industry. A court hearing is anticipated later this month. < Back Michigan Attorneys Argue Cannabis Wholesale Tax Is Distinct from Retail Tax, Thus Constitutional Nov 13, 2025 TG Branfalt Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Attorneys for the state of Michigan are arguing in court that the law raising the wholesale tax on cannabis to 24% is constitutional because it is distinct from the retail tax included in the voter-approved adult-use law and, therefore, does not need the three-fourths supermajority required to amend voter-initiated statutes, Michigan Public reports. “Rather, the Legislature enacted a law that works in concert with the legal framework for regulating marijuana, which exists in several separate, but intertwined, laws.” — The state, in a brief, via Michigan Public The brief was filed in the state’s Court of Claims in a lawsuit filed by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association that contends the tax violates the state constitution’s contracts clause. In their lawsuit, the trade association argues that lawmakers “jammed” the bill through the legislature “without a single committee hearing to discuss the substance of the bill” by disguising its provisions behind an original title that only mentioned creating a fund for road infrastructure and revenue replacement – not establishing a new tax. The state contends that the primary purpose of the wholesale tax is to raise revenue for roads and not to regulate the cannabis industry. A hearing on the lawsuit is expected later this month. < 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

This is a definitive list of the best munchies in Seattle, written and sourced by local Seattle stoners, featuring favorite classic and hidden gems. The original post appeared on Leafly. < Back The best munchies in Seattle Oct 30, 2025 Morgan Rosendale Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The definitive list of the best munchies in Seattle. Written & sourced by local Seattle stoners. Find our fave feast-ready classics & gems. The post The best munchies in Seattle appeared first on Leafly. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

World Breeders is a cannabis seed company founded by three partners who transitioned from operating in Spain's semi-legal cannabis associations to establishing a fully legal, large-scale production facility in Colombia in 2020. The company focuses on developing proprietary genetics, such as their current line of nine strains, and is pursuing innovation with triploid seeds while anticipating expansion into liberalizing European markets. < Back From Spain, The Planet Awaits Jan 12, 2026 Bill Weinberg Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link World Breeders, a cannabis seed company with who is making good on its promise to export seeds worldwide, has three founders, and it’s taken them all to shape the trajectory they have now—from working in cannabis on the “underground side,” as co-director Gorka Cid Luaces says, to an enterprise with operations on three continents and the momentum to fulfill their ambitions. Jon Urriola Rementeria—responsible for seed development, genetics and research—was growing tomatoes for Spanish supermarkets before he switched to *hierba* with the emergence of the first “cannabis associations” in the País Vasco, Spain’s northeast Basque Country. Leandro García Rodriguez handles client and concept development, while Cid Luaces is responsible for overall management of the company. García Rodriguez is originally from Seville, while Rementeria and Cid Luaces are native to the Basque Country. [image: World Breeders cannabis seeds]World Breeders claims to have dedicated itself to selecting and developing its own genetics with meticulous attention to details. Rementeria and Cid Luaces first came together in GreenFarm Éibar, which was among the first cannabis associations in Euskadi, as the País Vasco is known in the Basque language. They produced flower for the association in a mixed greenhouse and outdoor operation, with the local police informed. “The experience with GreenFarm marked our entry into the cannabis industry,” Cid says. “It was a highly rewarding stage, yet also one filled with tension. Working constantly on the edge of legality takes a heavy psychological toll.” GreenFarm was a member organization of the Federation of Cannabis User Associations of Euskadi (EUSFAC) which coordinates rules and standards for a sector operating in a kind of legal gray area. These regulations allowed private cultivation for the associations but limited members to two grams per day, to be consumed on club premises. Several associations closed during the pandemic in 2020, as these restrictions became untenable, and the sector never fully recovered. Associations continue to thrive in the regions of Catalonia and Andalusia, but regional authorities in País Vasco cracked down, with some clubs busted and herb confiscated. [image: World Breeders Cannabis Cultivation] The GreenFarm veterans moved into the commercial space, anticipating an expanding market for the recreational side as policy in several European countries liberalized. World Breeders was registered as a seed company in the Czech Republic in 2019, though they had already been working with third partner García Rodriguez from Medical Weed Sevilla, one of the first associations in Andalusia’s southern region, for some time with different companies. Seeking a suitable country for production, the trio settled on the rising industry player of Colombia. Cannabis had been decriminalized there since 1994 and medical marijuana was legalized in December 2015 by decree of then-president Juan Manuel Santos—who would the following year win the Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating peace with the guerillas. Along with the historic peace deal in 2016, Colombia’s Congress that year approved commercial cannabis cultivation under government license. “We knew we wanted to continue working in the cannabis industry—it’s our passion, and our professional path,” Cid says. “But we were equally clear that we wanted to do it within a fully legal framework. Colombia offered the chance to operate under official licenses, with a transparent regulatory environment and the ability to develop genetics and production at scale, without legal uncertainty. That’s why we took the leap and established our operations there.” In 2020, World Breeders set up its mixed indoor/greenhouse production facility in Antioquia in the northwest region of the country. Their first greenhouses were in Guarne, a charming mountain town in the Andes. Production began in January 2021 and licensed export of seed to Spain began that year. The seed stock they’d been working with initially had difficulties adjusting to higher altitude and new, more acidic soil and water conditions. Operations later moved to Ebéjico, on the outskirts of the Medellín metropolitan area, where the altitude is lower and the climate warmer. [image: World Breeders growing cannabis in Colombia]Based in Colombia since 2020, World Breeders’ new environment creates exceptional photoperiods: 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness per day. “It’s ideal for complex terpene profiles,” says co-founder Gorka Cid Luaces. Conditions here, as it turns out, are exceptional. The light offers perfect photoperiods: about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness per day. And the altitude of some 1,400 meters above sea level, Cid describes as “ideal for complex terpene profiles.” “Over the years, we have dedicated ourselves to selecting and developing our own genetics with meticulous attention to details,” their website boasts. The company, a seed bank marketing its genetic creations to specialty growers, currently offers nine strains, with names including Clementine Slush, Fizzy Gum and Pink Truffle. Cid takes pride in the descriptive accuracy of these appellations. “If we say it tastes like clementine, it really tastes like clementine,” he assures. A recent addition is La Hokuzan, developed in cooperation with Barcelona-based Hidden Group Genetics. The Catalan group had bred its own indica-heavy hybrid Hokuzai, which World Breeders crossed with their own Fizzy Gum for a more “sparkling and fruity” feel. Just coming online is Pilot, developed in conjunction with Spanish rapper JC Reyes, combining his favorite traits—a three-way cross of Pink Watermelon x Jokerz x WB Bubba. World Breeders is also currently working with growers in the Rif Mountains of Morocco to develop a line of triploid seeds. Triploid strains have three sets of chromosomes, as opposed to the traditional diploid varieties with two sets—one from each parent plant. They typically don’t collect pollen and therefore don’t produce seeds. (Most of the bananas we eat are triploid, as well as seedless watermelons.) This is important for cannabis, because a female plant that doesn’t get fertilized will keep secreting resin indefinitely throughout the growing season, even if there are male plants in the vicinity. A triploid line could be a breakthrough for the centuries-old tradition of hashish production in the Rif, and a boon to growers everywhere. “We’re confident that this new line will mark a before-and-after in the genetic development of cannabis, positioning World Breeders as a benchmark for innovation and quality in the sector,” Cid predicts. But expanding markets in Europe represent the real opportunity on the imminent horizon, Cid says, pointing to recent moves toward permitting adult-use cultivation in Portugal and Germany. “What began as a dream of the World Breeders team is now a consolidated reality,” he says. *This story was originally published in issue 52 of the print edition of Cannabis Now.* The post From Spain, The Planet Awaits 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

Over the past four years, Montana's combined cannabis sales have surpassed $1 billion, although the market composition has changed. The state recently recorded a record $327 million in adult-use cannabis sales. < Back Montana adult-use cannabis sales hit record $327 million Jan 15, 2026 Margaret Jackson MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Over the past four years, Montana has recorded more than $1 billion in combined cannabis sales, but the market composition has changed. Montana adult-use cannabis sales hit record $327 million 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

Steve Bevan, a key figure in drafting the hemp language in the 2018 Farm Bill, argues that the emergence of intoxicating cannabinoid products is not due to a "loophole" but rather the intentional language added to the law and subsequent inaction by lawmakers and regulators like the FDA. Bevan's letter to GOP leaders opposes a proposed ban, suggesting that simple age restrictions and regulation are the solution, not prohibition, which he claims would only boost the illicit market. He suggests that state attorneys general advocating for a ban are likely motivated by competition with the cannabis businesses in their states. The article also notes that major alcohol industry associations support a ban and highlights the disagreement among GOP lawmakers, with Senator Rand Paul opposing the ban aggressively, while Senator Mitch McConnell pushes for it. Congress has two options: prohibit the products or create a regulatory framework with quality standards and age requirements. < Back Legalizing Intoxicating Hemp Products Wasn’t A ‘Loophole’ But Was Intentional, Expert Who Helped Draft Farm Bill Says Nov 5, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link One of the behind-the-scenes architects of the federal law legalizing hemp during President Donald Trump’s first term says it’s a misconception that Congress accidentally created a “loophole” allowing intoxicating cannabinoid products to be sold. Rather, the controversy over the hemp THC marketplace that’s emerged is a direct consequence of inaction by lawmakers and regulators that could be resolved without outright banning such products, as certain GOP members have proposed, Steve Bevan said in a letter to key Republican committee leaders on Tuesday. Bevan—who worked with then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to help draft the hemp language contained in the 2018 Farm Bill—said proponents of re-criminalizing intoxicating cannabinoid products “claim it’s about protecting children from dangerous products,” yet “simple age gating and responsible consumption resolve this.” “Instead of focusing on citizens’ access to wellness and the positive economic benefits being realized from the national hemp experiment–it worked!–they bizarrely suggest a return to prohibition,” he said in the letter, which was shared exclusively with Marijuana Moment. The message to congressional leaders is responsive to a separate letter sent by 39 state and territory attorneys general who urged legislators to enact restrictions on the consumable hemp market by banning intoxicating items. This stepped-up push to get such products prohibited again is being led in part by McConnell, who has insisted he and colleagues only intended to allow for industrial uses of hemp, with exceptions for non-intoxicating CBD. That isn’t exactly the case, Bevan said. “We specifically added language about ‘extracts, derivatives, and cannabinoids’ to the definition of hemp to help American farmers and rural communities build businesses around hemp-derived products,” he said. “Senator McConnell understood this and changed the definition. This wasn’t an accident or a loophole—it was intentional to ensure that the farmers of Kentucky newly producing hemp—could reach markets with their new crop.” Bevan, who served as a co-founder and chair of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable and is now a partner at OCan Group, said that during the drafting of the hemp provisions of the Farm Bill, “we asked federal regulators to create quality and safety standards for these products.” “That’s common sense—you test food before people eat it, right? But the FDA, even when Congress instructed them to act, has repeatedly refused to regulate these products,” he said, echoing complaints from bipartisan lawmakers and industry stakeholders over the years since hemp was legalized. “We told [FDA] exactly what would happen without proper regulations: products would become popular, quality would vary, there’d be no age restrictions, and consumers wouldn’t know what they’re buying,” he said. “The FDA responded with silence for over two years, then sent out a few warning letters in late 2024. Too little, too late.” Bevan, who also founded the cannabis company GenCanna before it declared bankruptcy in 2020, said that what Congress isn’t addressing with the proposed ban is the fact that intoxicating hemp products are already popular with a significant portion of the adult population, prohibition would only bolster the illicit market, the industry has thrived despite lack of federal support and re-criminalizing would lead to the same drug war consequences the country has historically witnessed. The letter posits that a key reason for the attorneys general message supporting a ban could be that the vast majority of signatories serve states and territories where marijuana is legal in some form, and those businesses “compete directly with hemp products.” “Instead of competing on price and quality, these AGs want Congress to eliminate their competition,” he said. “Think about that. Your state’s top law enforcement official wants to criminalize products that millions of adults use—not because they’re dangerous, but because they’re cutting into state tax revenue.” It concludes by describing “two options” for Congress: Lawmakers can move to prohibit the intoxicating cannabinoid products and launch “another drug war” that ignores consumer demand, or they can create a regulatory framework for the hemp market that establishes “rules around quality and standards for the benefit of the principal stakeholders that should have existed from day one.” If they opt for the latter option, Bevan said that should start with age requirements for hemp purchases and allowing a transition period for businesses to get into compliance with any new regulations, Bevan said. “The question isn’t whether to regulate hemp products—clearly we should. The question is whether we’ll do it intelligently, or whether we’ll repeat the failures of prohibition one more time and miss another opportunity for American leadership and innovation,” he said. “Millions of Americans have made their choice. They want these products. They deserve safe, regulated acces—not criminalization. It’s time for Congress to listen to the people, not just the tax collectors.” Meanwhile, a coalition of major alcohol industry associations is throwing its weight behind the push to get Congress to ban intoxicating hemp products—at least on a temporary basis before the federal government creates a “robust regulatory framework” for the marketplace. As lawmakers work to finalize appropriations legislation, they’ve felt pressure on both sides of the hemp debate, with some interests endorsing controversial proposals to outright prohibit intoxicating cannabinoids and others that have called for a comprehensive regulatory approach that could prevent significant economic fallout for the hemp industry. There’s been a surge in congressional lobbying from major alcohol companies and associations in recent months, with stakeholders aiming to influence federal hemp laws that focus on THC beverages that many consumers are turning to as beer and liquor alternatives. As Congress continues to navigate a path forward on funding legislation to end an ongoing government shutdown, lawmakers are still at work attempting to reach a deal on federal hemp laws—with one GOP senator telling Marijuana Moment that multiple options are on the table, though it will ultimately come down to what leadership wants. Two GOP lawmakers—McConnell and Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD)—have pushed aggressively for an outright ban on hemp products containing THC. But others such as Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) have insisted that such a policy change would devastate the industry. And Paul said recently he’d go so far as to hold up large-scale spending legislation if a full ban was kept intact . The senator also pushed back against the recent letter from the state and territory attorneys general who implored Republican leaders to fully prevent the marketing of intoxicating hemp products. “Some of them came back from states that have completely legalized marijuana, and they’re going to ban hemp? I mean, it’s just ridiculous,” he said. “So they prefer people to use a much higher dose of THC from cannabis than lower-dose hemp products. It doesn’t make any sense.” *— 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. —* As far as legislative options go, Paul did put forward legislative language recently to require a study and report on state regulatory models for hemp that could inform future revisions to the federal law—rather than prohibit sales altogether, as McConnell would have it. In August, McConnell–who ushered in the federal legalization of hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill–took to the Senate floor to criticize those who opposed the ban, including Paul. Meanwhile, Paul recently filed a standalone bill that would go in the opposite direction of the hemp ban, proposing to triple the concentration of THC that the crop could legally contain, while addressing multiple other concerns the industry has expressed about federal regulations. The senator introduced the legislation, titled the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act, in June. It mirrors versions he’s sponsored over the last several sessions. *Read the letter from Bevan to congressional leaders on the hemp ban proposal below:* The post Legalizing Intoxicating Hemp Products Wasn’t A ‘Loophole’ But Was Intentional, Expert Who Helped Draft Farm Bill Says 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

Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) believes the federal government needs to establish a regulatory framework for marijuana, including exploring its efficacy for conditions like PTSD and pain. He emphasized that Congress has not adequately addressed the issue despite increasing state-level legalization. Tillis also indicated support for regulating cannabis similarly to alcohol and tobacco to allow states to set their own policies. < Back GOP Senator Says Congress Must ‘Step Up’ And Regulate Marijuana, While Exploring Its ‘Efficacy’ For PTSD And Pain Sep 17, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A GOP senator says the federal government needs to “step up” and explore a regulatory framework for marijuana—and that should include a pathway to explore the “efficacy” of cannabis for certain health conditions. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) made the comments during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Wednesday, where President Donald Trump’s judicial appointees and nominee for director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) testified ahead of possible confirmation votes. Tillis said that Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) made points about cannabis policy in the hearing that “are very well-taken,” adding that “Congress is not doing its job by recognizing that that bell has been rung.” As more states enact legalization, certain public health concerns related to THC potency are going to worsen “unless we get serious about regulatory regimens,” the Republican senator argued. *Listen to the senator’s remarks on marijuana regulations starting at 2:44:10 into the video below:* “Congress needs to step up and try to figure out how we can manage this [and] exploit its efficacy in areas that are helpful—particularly for the treatment of persons with PTSD” and pain, Tillis said. “But we’ve got to step up.” “In my remaining time here, hopefully we can get something done,” Tillis, who is not running for reelection, said. Earlier in the hearing, Trump’s pick for White House drug czar, Sara Carter (who also uses the name Sara Bailey), addressed questions from Booker and said the administration is keeping “all options” on the table as it continues to consider a pending marijuana rescheduling proposal, while describing cannabis reform as a “bipartisan issue.” Booker noted that Carter discussed her support for medical marijuana access in 2023, adding that Congress has had “bipartisan hearings here with military personnel talking about the transformative impact it’s had” in treating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the senator supports ending federal cannabis prohibition altogether, he said the rescheduling proposal that was initiated under former President Joe Biden and which Trump said last month he’d be making a final decision on imminently would be a “step in the right direction.” Tillis didn’t specifically weigh in on the proposal to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). But he did echo earlier points he’s made about the need to evaluate a regulatory framework for marijuana at the federal level. *— 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. —* At a separate Judiciary Committee hearing in June, Tillis said opponents of marijuana legalization “have lost” the fight to maintain prohibition and that “it’s time” for lawmakers to address that reality by creating a regulatory framework treating cannabis “in the same way that we do with alcohol and tobacco,” so that states can set their own policies without federal intervention. Back in February, the senator also raised the issue during a Senate Banking Committee hearing, saying “we should reexamine [federal marijuana laws].” But at the same time, “we damn sure shouldn’t do it by passing” legislation that would simply prevent federal regulators from penalizing banks that work with state-legal cannabis businesses. “If somebody wants to work on rules of the road and do that—and bank the industry in a cohesive, sustainable way that doesn’t kind of skirt around the fact that it’s still illegal at the federal level—count me in. Happy to do it,” Tillis said. Tillis also said last December that he’s hopeful Congress will have a “discussion” about potentially creating a federal regulatory framework for marijuana in 2025, though he added that he personally wouldn’t vote to federally legalize cannabis. Last year, the senator also said he supports creating a “comprehensive regulatory framework that treats marijuana just like tobacco,” arguing that “the federal government needs to figure out a safe way to allow this market to occur.” Tillis in April joined Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC) in asking federal, state and local officials what steps they were taking to enforce marijuana prohibition as an Indian tribe prepared to launch recreational cannabis sales on its lands within North Carolina. Meanwhile, back in 2017, Tillis also teamed up with bipartisan colleagues on a bill that was meant to ease researchers’ access to marijuana for studies on its medical benefits and require the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to develop recommendations for good manufacturing practices for growing and producing cannabis for research. The post GOP Senator Says Congress Must ‘Step Up’ And Regulate Marijuana, While Exploring Its ‘Efficacy’ For PTSD And Pain 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

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi will direct the Justice Department to investigate allegations by Sen. Thom Tillis that the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians' (EBCI) cannabis operation is marketing products to children and transporting products across boundary lines. Tillis expressed concern that the operation seems to be "preying on young people" and questioned the legality of transporting cannabis from tribal land to a non-contiguous dispensary. Bondi stated that transporting cannabis across state or tribal lines would violate federal law. EBCI Principal Chief Michell Hicks called Tillis' suggestions "inaccurate and offensive," defending the tribe's "lawful and transparent activities" and emphasizing their commitment to sovereignty and economic development while respecting laws and their neighbors. < Back AG Pam Bondi to Investigate Tribal Cannabis Program Oct 14, 2025 TG Branfalt Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has indicated she will direct the Justice Department (DOJ) to investigate allegations by Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) that the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) cannabis operation is marketing products to children and transporting products across boundary lines when making deliveries to its dispensary, the Asheville Citizen Times reports. During an October 8 hearing, Tillis told Bondi that he couldn’t “find any legal way” to get the cannabis products from the tribal land to the dispensary, which is in a non-contiguous part of the boundary. “This worries me because it’s a money-making enterprise; it kind of seems like it’s preying on young people. But then, I want to talk about this handy app you can get. Now, it’s illegal in North Carolina, and Tennessee, and Georgia, and South Carolina to buy pot, but apparently, you can order on an app and ride over there and get it, I assume. I assume that they’re not delivering it outside the boundary.” — Tillis, during the hearing, via WLOS Bondi responded that she would “absolutely” have the agency “look into the issue.” If the investigation commences – which has not been confirmed by the DOJ – it would mark the first time that a tribal-approved cannabis program is targeted by the federal government. Bondi noted during the hearing that transporting cannabis across state or tribal lines would violate federal law. In an October 9 statement, EBCI Principal Chief Michell Hicks said Tillis’ suggestion that the North Carolina-based tribe “would endanger children through marketing or sales practices is inaccurate and it is offensive to the values that guide” the tribe. He added that Tillis’ comments mischaracterize “the Tribe’s lawful and transparent activities related to the cultivation, transportation, and marketing” of the products on EBCI land. “Senator Tillis described the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians as an ‘island’ in a far, forgotten corner of the state. He’s right about one thing: We are an island, and we are a stronghold of culture, integrity, and self-determination.” Hicks said in the statement. “Yet, we are not afforded real representation from his office. From the heart of our ancestral homeland, we stand as a model of how sovereignty and economic development can coexist with respect for state and federal law, the environment, and our neighbors.” < 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 former Nebraska state senator, John Kuehn, has appealed a second case to the Nebraska Supreme Court, seeking to invalidate the state’s voter-approved medical cannabis laws. Kuehn argues the laws are unconstitutional due to federal marijuana laws and that the creation of the Medical Cannabis Commission is an unlawful delegation of lawmaking authority. A district judge previously ruled Kuehn lacked "standing" to sue. The Nebraska Supreme Court will also hear a separate appeal from Kuehn regarding the validity of petition signatures for the ballot measures. Supporters of the medical cannabis laws view these challenges as an "abuse of power." < Back Former Nebraska Senator Seeks High Court Review In Medical Marijuana Case Seeking To Scrap Voter-Approved Legalization Law Jul 8, 2025 Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“This latest appeal is just another desperate attempt to silence the will of Nebraskans, who overwhelmingly support safe, legal access to medical cannabis.”* *By Zach Wendling, Nebraska Examiner* A former state senator appealed a second case to the Nebraska Supreme Court seeking to invalidate the state’s voter-approved medical cannabis laws. Former state Sen. John Kuehn of Heartwell, a former member of the State Board of Health and a longtime marijuana opponent, filed the brief appeal request Saturday. Kuehn has asked the Nebraska Supreme Court to step in without going through the intermediate Nebraska Court of Appeals. The courts have not yet decided whether to take up the appeal. Kuehn seeks to argue that the 2024 voter-approved laws to legalize and regulate medical cannabis are unconstitutional because of federal laws against marijuana. “Plaintiff has a right to appeal directly to the Supreme Court because his case challenges the constitutionality of Nebraska laws,” the one-page filing states. Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong on June 26 ruled that Kuehn could not prove “injury in fact,” known as “standing,” as a direct result of the medical cannabis laws. Strong disagreed with Kuehn’s arguments that he should be able to sue because taxpayer funds would help carry out the laws, such as employee time, and that the laws were a “matter of great public concern.” “Nebraska, like other states, has no shortage of citizen-taxpayers with strong political opinions. That is not necessarily a bad thing,” Strong wrote. “But it would be bad if all those citizens could sue whenever a law requires a government employee to do something.” Among Kuehn’s main contentions is that Nebraska shouldn’t be able to create a medical cannabis program because of federal law classifying marijuana as a Schedule I drug. A Schedule I drug is one that the federal government says has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical uses. A bipartisan swath of advocates has called for rescheduling the drug for decades. Nearly 40 states, including Nebraska, have laws on the books for some form of medical cannabis program. Kuehn also argues that the creation of the new Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission, the members of which are named in the lawsuit, is an unlawful delegation of lawmaking authority. The preemption case also names Gov. Jim Pillen (R), Secretary of State Bob Evnen, State Treasurer Tom Briese, Tax Commissioner Jim Kamm and the ballot sponsors who ushered the laws through the 2024 election. Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers (R) and his office, who are representing the state defendants, had asked for the case to be dismissed. However, the AG’s Office did so after pledging to sue the Medical Cannabis Commission once it begins licensing medical cannabis establishments while making similar preemption arguments as Kuehn. Licensing must begin by October 1. The Nebraska Supreme Court, as early as September, will hear a separate appeal from Kuehn, Evnen and Hilgers that seeks to invalidate the medical cannabis laws. That case, targeting Evnen and the ballot sponsors, argues there were not enough valid petition signatures for the ballot measures to have been placed on the 2024 ballot in the first place. Strong presided over that earlier case and ruled last November in favor of the ballot measures. About 71 percent of Nebraskans voted to legalize the drug, and about 67 percent voted to regulate it. Crista Eggers, executive director of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, the 2024 campaign that ushered in the new laws, said the continued legal challenges “are nothing short of an abuse of power.” “This latest appeal is just another desperate attempt to silence the will of Nebraskans, who overwhelmingly support safe, legal access to medical cannabis,” Eggers said in a statement. “We will not be intimidated.” *This story was first published by Nebraska Examiner.* *Photo courtesy of M a n u e l.* The post Former Nebraska Senator Seeks High Court Review In Medical Marijuana Case Seeking To Scrap Voter-Approved Legalization Law 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