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An alcohol industry association urges Congress to revise a spending bill that would ban most consumable hemp products. The association proposes maintaining the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids while prohibiting synthetic items. The bill could eliminate commonly marketed hemp products. Hemp industry stakeholders oppose the proposal, advocating for federal regulations. < Back Major Alcohol Industry Group Pushes Congress To Dial Back Proposed Hemp Product Ban Jun 9, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A leading alcohol industry association is calling on Congress to dial back language in a House committee-approved spending bill that would ban most consumable hemp products, instead proposing to maintain the legalization of naturally derived cannabinoids from the crop and only prohibit synthetic items. Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA), which has backed federally legalizing marijuana and regulating hemp products, said on Friday that it generally supports the effort to ban synthetic cannabinoids such as delta-8 THC that have proliferated since the federal legalization of hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill. But the hemp provision of the spending bill that cleared the the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies on Thursday is a bridge too far, the association said. “WSWA supports the subcommittee’s action to eliminate synthetic, unnatural cannabinoids that are a threat to public health and safety,” WSWA President and CEO Francis Creighton said in a press release. “But prohibition of all cannabinoids is not the answer—it risks sweeping up state regulated and Farm Bill compliant hemp-derived products that have driven a new and dynamic market.” “Under attempted complete prohibition, bad actors dealing in potentially harmful products will continue to operate and thrive in the shadows, while state regulatory structures that protect public safety will be put in conflict with Federal law,” Creighton said. WSWA put forward a policy recommendations for lawmakers to consider—namely removing the a provision redefining hemp in a way that’d prohibit products with any quantifiable amount of THC so that the federal government could instead “preserve state authority, protect compliant businesses, and ensure clarity for consumers and regulators.” WSWA urges Congress to revise language in the FY2026 Ag-FDA bill that could unintentionally ban compliant, naturally derived Delta-9 hemp products. 🔗 Read More: https://t.co/cj5M0WzfbC pic.twitter.com/245Tup8UPO — WSWA (@WSWAMedia) June 6, 2025 The consumable hemp product crackdown isn’t exclusive to the federal government, as multiple states—from California to Florida to Texas—have moved to ban intoxicating cannabinoids in recent months. “States have stepped up to fill the regulatory vacuum, and Congress must be careful not to undermine their progress,” Creighton said. Shawn Lederman of the Florida-based Greenlight Distribution said the company has “invested in jobs, infrastructure, and compliance to bring accountability to this space—efforts that would be wiped out overnight, handing the market to unregulated bad actors. We urge Congress to respect our business and citizens. A total ban would be devastating.” John Giarrante, president of Show Me Beverages in Missouri, said the committee’s “proposal to ban naturally occurring hemp-derived products like Delta-9 will undermine the legitimate and responsible work we’ve done to meet consumer demand while prioritizing public health and safety.” “We’ve built a compliant, transparent business to bring structure and legitimacy to this fast-growing market,” he said. “This action would not only undo that progress but also have a harmful economic impact—putting jobs at risk and handing the entire category over to unlicensed, unregulated actors with no regard for safety or accountability.” Members of WSWA also met with lawmakers and staffers in April to advocate for three key policy priorities that the group says is based on “sound principles of alcohol distribution.” They include banning synthetic THC, setting up a federal system for testing and labeling products and establishing state-level power to regulate retail sales. In an op-ed for Marijuana Moment this month, Creighton echoed that point, reiterating the organization’s position that regulation is superior to prohibition. This is also consistent with WSWA’s earlier message to House and Senate Agriculture Committee last session, where the association implored congressional leaders to create a regulatory framework for hemp-based intoxicating cannabinoids—rather than impose an outright ban. Meanwhile, key GOP congressional lawmakers—including one member who supports marijuana legalization—don’t seem especially concerned about provisions in a new spending bill that would put much of the hemp industry in jeopardy by banning most consumable products derived from the plant. Under the measure that’s being contested, hemp would be redefined under federal statute in a way that would prohibit cannabis products containing any “quantifiable” amount of THC or “any other cannabinoids that have similar effects (or are marketed to have similar effects) on humans or animals” as THC. The provisions in the bill now heading to a full committee vote would effectively eliminate the most commonly marketed hemp products within the industry, as even non-intoxicating CBD items that are sold across the country typically contain trace amounts of THC. Under current law, those products are allowed if they contain no more than 0.3 percent THC by dry weight. Hemp industry stakeholders rallied against that proposal, an earlier version of which was also included in the base bill from the subcommittee last year. It’s virtually identical to a provision of the 2024 Farm Bill that was attached by a separate committee last May via an amendment from Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL), which was also not enacted into law. *— Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.* *Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access. —* Jonathan Miller, general counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, told congressional lawmakers in April that the market is “begging” for federal regulations around cannabis products. At the hearing, Rep. James Comer (R-KY) also inquired about FDA inaction around regulations, sarcastically asking if it’d require “a gazillion bureaucrats that work from home” to regulate cannabinoids such as CBD. A report from Bloomberg Intelligence (BI) last year called cannabis a “significant threat” to the alcohol industry, citing survey data that suggests more people are using cannabis as a substitute for alcoholic beverages such a beer and wine. Last November, meanwhile, a beer industry trade group put out a statement of guiding principles to address what it called “the proliferation of largely unregulated intoxicating hemp and cannabis products,” warning of risks to consumers and communities resulting from THC consumption. New Hampshire House Advances Bills To Reduce Psilocybin Penalties And Legalize Medical Marijuana Homegrow By Patients The post Major Alcohol Industry Group Pushes Congress To Dial Back Proposed Hemp Product Ban appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The September 2025 horoscopes welcome a mellow but meaningful energy as Virgo season helps people return to routines. < Back Star signs and cannabis strains: September 2025 horoscopes Aug 28, 2025 Carmen Ramirez Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Welcome to the September 2025 horoscopes, Stargazers! September brings a mellow but meaningful energy as Virgo season helps us return to routines. The post Star signs and cannabis strains: September 2025 horoscopes 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

A Florida senator introduced a bill to legalize home cultivation of marijuana for qualified medical patients, allowing up to six plants, while the Smart & Safe Florida campaign is pushing a revised legalization amendment for the 2026 ballot. Despite polling showing strong voter support for legalization, the measure faces opposition and legal challenges, including skepticism from Governor Ron DeSantis, and the state is also revoking medical marijuana registrations for patients with criminal drug records. < Back Medical Marijuana Home Cultivation Would Be Legalized In Florida Under Senator’s New Bill Dec 8, 2025 Kyle Jaeger Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A Florida senator has introduced a new bill for the 2026 session that would legalize home cultivation of marijuana for registered medical cannabis patients in the state. Sen. Carlos Smith (D) filed the legislation on Friday—one of the latest attempts to give patients a home grow option that’s allowed under most medical marijuana programs in other states across the country. This latest measure would permit qualified patients who are at least 21 years old to cultivate up to six flowering plants for personal, therapeutic use. Those patients could also buy seeds and clones from licensed dispensaries. “A qualified patient who cultivates cannabis shall ensure that the plants are secured in a manner to prevent access by unauthorized persons,” the bill text says. “The sale of patient-cultivated cannabis plants and products and cultivation of cannabis by patients beyond the limits specified in this section is subject to the penalties outlined” under existing law. If enacted into law, the bill would become law on July 1, 2026. A similar proposal was introduced at the beginning of this year by Sen. Joe Gruters (R), who is now chairman of the Republican National Committee, but it did not advance. Gruters and Kim Rivers—the CEO of Trulieve, a medical marijuana company that provided the bulk of funding for an unsuccessful cannabis legalization ballot initiative last year—also met with Preident Donald Trump ahead of his endorsement of the constitutional amendment, as well as federal rescheduling and industry banking access. Notably, Amendment 3 would not have legalized home cultivation of marijuana—a detail seized on by some critics of the industry-backed proposal. The campaign behind that initiative, Smart & Safe Florida, recently said it’s collected more than one million signatures to put a new version of the legalization measure on the 2026 ballot—and so it voluntarily declined to appeal a legal case in which a judge allowed state officials to invalidate about 200,000 petitions over a largely procedural issue. Smart & Safe filed a separate lawsuit with the state Supreme Court over another issue last month, alleging that officials are violating election laws by stalling a required review process for the measure without justification. The state has since agreed to move forward with the processing. A federal judge in August separately delivered a win to the campaign—granting “complete relief” from provisions of a law the governor signed to impose other serious restrictions on signature gathering. In March, meanwhile, two Democratic members of Congress representing Florida asked the federal government to investigate what they described as “potentially unlawful diversion” of millions in state Medicaid funds via a group with ties to Gov. Ron DeSantis (R). The money was used to fight against a citizen ballot initiative, vehemently opposed by the governor, that would have legalized marijuana for adults. The lawmakers’ letter followed allegations that a $10 million donation from a state legal settlement was improperly made to the Hope Florida Foundation, which later sent the money to two political nonprofits, which in turn sent $8.5 million to a campaign opposing Amendment 3. The governor said in February that the newest marijuana legalization measure is in “big time trouble” with the state Supreme Court, predicting it will be blocked from going before voters next year. “There’s a lot of different perspectives on on marijuana,” DeSantis said. “It should not be in our Constitution. If you feel strongly about it, you have elections for the legislature. Go back candidates that you believe will be able to deliver what your vision is on that.” “But when you put these things in the Constitution—and I think, I mean, the way they wrote, there’s all kinds of things going on in here. I think it’s going to have big time trouble getting through the Florida Supreme Court,” he said. The latest initiative was filed with the secretary of state’s office just months after the initial version failed during the November 2024 election—despite an endorsement from President Donald Trump. Smart & Safe Florida is hoping the revised version will succeed in 2026. The campaign—which in the last election cycle received tens of millions of dollars from cannabis industry stakeholders, principally the multi-state operator Trulieve—incorporated certain changes into the new version that seem responsive to criticism opponents raised during the 2024 push. For example, it now specifically states that the “smoking and vaping of marijuana in any public place is prohibited.”Another section asserts that the legislature would need to approve rules dealing with the “regulation of the time, place, and manner of the public consumption of marijuana.” Last year, the governor accurately predicted that the 2024 cannabis measure from the campaign would survive a legal challenge from the state attorney general. It’s not entirely clear why he feels this version would face a different outcome. While there’s uncertainty around how the state’s highest court will navigate the measure, a poll released in February showed overwhelming bipartisan voter support for the reform—with 67 percent of Florida voters backing legalization, including 82 percent of Democrats, 66 percent of independents and 55 percent of Republicans. *— 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. —* In the background, a recent poll from a Trump-affiliated research firm found that nearly 9 in 10 Florida voters say they should have the right to decide to legalize marijuana in the state. Meanwhile, a pro-legalization GOP state lawmaker recently filed a bill to amend state law to codify that the public use of marijuana is prohibited. Rep. Alex Andrade (R), the sponsor, said earlier this year that embracing cannabis reform is a way for the Republican party to secure more votes from young people. Separately, Florida medical marijuana officials are actively revoking the registrations of patients and caregivers with drug-related criminal records. The policy is part of broad budget legislation signed into law earlier this year by DeSantis. The provisions in question direct the state Department of Health (DOH) to cancel registrations of medical marijuana patients and caregivers if they’re convicted of—or plead guilty or no contest to—criminal drug charges. The post Medical Marijuana Home Cultivation Would Be Legalized In Florida Under Senator’s New Bill appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Natural Medicine Alaska has submitted signatures to get a measure on the 2026 state ballot to legalize certain psychedelics, including psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT. The proposal builds on Colorado's 2022 Natural Medicine Health Act and would establish a licensed psychedelics industry, legalize non-commercial use, cultivation, and sharing of these substances, and protect traditional healers. The system would be overseen by a Natural Medicine Control Board and a Natural Medicine Advisory Committee. A poll last year showed nearly half of Alaskan adults supported removing criminal penalties for psilocybin mushrooms, with support rising to 65% when mental health benefits were mentioned. Oregon and Colorado have already implemented similar psychedelics programs. < Back Alaska Activists Submit First Signatures To Put Psychedelics Legalization Measure On 2026 Ballot Jul 8, 2025 Ben Adlin Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Proponents of a plan in Alaska to legalize certain psychedelics—including psilocybin, mescaline and DMT—have submitted an initial round of voter signatures as part of the campaign’s effort to put the proposed measure on 2026 state ballot. Last month the group Natural Medicine Alaska, which is behind the would-be ballot initiative, announced on social media that organizers had submitted 230 voter signatures to state officials for validation. “A heartfelt thank you to all our incredible volunteers across Anchorage, the Valley, and Talkeetna!” it said. “We couldn’t have done it without you!” Provided that at least 100 of the filed signatures are deemed valid, state Lt. Gov. Nancy Dahlstrom (R) would then have 60 days to decide whether to certify the proposal for further signature gathering in order to qualify for the state ballot. A policy outline explains the proposal as “building off of” Colorado’s voter-approved 2022 Natural Medicine Health Act, under which facilitators recently administered the state’s first legal dose of psilocybin. In addition to establishing a licensed psychedelics industry in the state, the Alaska measure would legalize non-commercial use, cultivation and sharing of DMT, non-peyote mescaline, psilocybin and psilocin among adults 21 and older under a so-called “grow, gather, gift” model popular among psychedelic reform proponents. The measure “shifts away from a restrictive healing center model, allowing individual practitioners to provide [natural medicine] in their offices and at-home facilitation, increasing accessibility in rural communities” common in Alaska, the organizers’ policy outline says. Cultivation would need to take place in a space no larger that 12 feet by 12 feet and remain out of public view, and growers would be required to take reasonable steps to prevent access by minors Transfers of psychedelics between adults, meanwhile, would need to occur without any form of payment. Public consumption of the substances would be forbidden, subject to a civil fine of up to $100. On the commercial side, Alaska would license healing centers—where certified facilitators would supervise psychedelic administration—as well as testing labs, cultivation facilities, product manufacturers, handlers and other related businesses. The application round for licenses would need to begin no later than July 1, 2028. Facilities would need to be majority Alaska-owned, with at least half of ownership held by residents of the state. Traditional healers would also be protected under the proposed initiative for “ceremonial, spiritual, or cultural use of plant medicines” through legal exemptions to state drug laws. They would not need to hold a state license, the proposal says, “but must be certified or credentialed as a traditional practitioner.” The system would be overseen by a Natural Medicine Control Board a “regulatory and quasi-judicial agency” that would be housed within the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development. It would include members from the public safety and public health sectors, as well as someone from a rural area, a representative of the natural medicine industry, an Alaska Native traditional healer, a professional practitioner of psychedelic-assisted therapy and someone either from the general public or the natural medicine industry. A separate Natural Medicine Advisory Committee consisting of 15 members would make recommendations around the program. That body would include mental heath professionals, natural medicine therapists or researchers, tribal representatives, a physician, a military veteran, a first responder, healthcare experts and others. As for traditional use, the measure would also create a Traditional Use Council to develop best practices and educational materials around Indigenous-based psychedelic use and harm reduction principles. That would include a separate credentialing or certification process that “may include consideration of lineage, apprenticeship, community recognition, and cultural practice, rather than formal clinical or academic training.” In a social media post, Natural Medicine Alaska said it’s currently launching “a full statewide campaign to educate voters, build coalitions, and secure the support needed to pass this measure.” It’s seeking $49 donations from supporters—intended to recognize Alaska as the 49th U.S. state—to help fund the effort. “Alaska has always been the Last Frontier. With your support, we can make it the Next Frontier for healing-centered psychedelic policy reform,” the post says. In a campaign video from February, the campaign said it sees “a future where natural medicines are available as an option to all who are seeking out healing and well-being, a future where education on these medicines empowers the Alaskan community with legalized personal use of psilocybin and other natural psychedelics.” A poll last year found that nearly half (49.4 percent) of Alaska adults would support a ballot measure to more broadly remove criminal penalties for using substances such as psilocybin mushrooms. That support rose markedly—to nearly two thirds (65 percent)—when participants were told that Alaska has high rates of mental illnesses that could potentially be treated with psychedelics. Last year, Alaska lawmakers passed legislation to create a state task force to study how to license and regulate psychedelic-assisted therapy. The measure took effect without the signature of Gov. Mike Dunleavy (R). So far two other states have facilitated psychedelics programs that are fully operational. Oregon voters legalized therapeutic psilocybin in 2020, and Colorado’s program was passed at the ballot box in 2022, with the state’s governor signing legislation a year later to create the regulatory framework for the program. In Oregon, more people could eventually access legal psilocybin following a recent federal court ruling in favor of plaintiffs who argued that the state’s first-in-the nation psilocybin law wrongfully prevents homebound patients from seeking care. Four care providers—three licensed psilocybin facilitators and a physician specializing in advanced and terminal illnesses—sued the state about year ago, alleging that the state Psilocybin Services Act (PSA) discriminates against disabled individuals who can’t travel to designated service centers where the substance is administered. In Maine, meanwhile, lawmakers earlier this month reversed course and rejected a bill to legalize possession of up to one ounce of psilocybin by people 21 and older. At the federal level, attorneys for a doctor seeking to reschedule psilocybin so he can administer it to terminally ill patients recently demanded an update from the Drug Enforcement Administration, which previously agreed to submit a request for a scientific review of the psychedelic from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Separately in Alaska, a federal judge ruled late last month that state officials did not violate the constitution when restricting intoxicating hemp products in 2023. *Read the full language of the ballot initiative proposal below:* *Photo courtesy of Wikimedia/Mädi.* The post Alaska Activists Submit First Signatures To Put Psychedelics Legalization Measure On 2026 Ballot 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

Gov. Kim Reynolds vetoed a bill allowing synthetic psilocybin prescription and distribution, citing concerns about moving ahead of state systems and potential misuse. The bill's sponsor expressed surprise, while the governor emphasized the need for federal approval and a cautious approach to ensure safe therapeutic use. < Back Iowa Lawmaker Surprised By Governor’s ‘Unexpected’ Veto Of Psilocybin Bill Jun 18, 2025 Staff Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *“I look forward to having a conversation with the Governor to learn more about her concerns regarding the bill.”* *By Cami Koons, Iowa Capital Dispatch* A key lawmaker said he was surprised by Gov. Kim Reynolds’s (R) veto last week of a bill that would have allowed for the prescription and distribution of synthetic psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms” following federal approval of the drug. Reynolds said the bill “moves ahead” of public health systems, law enforcement and regulatory systems in the state. “This decision is not a dismissal of the emerging science or the sincere advocacy behind this legislation,” Reynolds said in her explanation of the veto. “Rather, it is a call for a more deliberate and Iowa-centric approach.” House File 383 was one of two bills from the Iowa House this year that sought to legalize the use of psychedelics as a treatment for mental health issues, like post-traumatic stress disorder. The bill’s floor manager, Rep. Brett Barker (R-Nevada) said the veto from the governor was “unexpected” considering the bill passed with unanimous consent in both chambers. “I look forward to having a conversation with the Governor to learn more about her concerns regarding the bill,” Barker said in an email. The other bill, House File 978, would have created a psilocybin licensing board in Iowa, and similar to the state’s medical marijuana program, would have allowed eligible patients access to the drug while it is still federally classified as Schedule I substance. The bill advanced from the House but was not heard in the Senate. HF 383, the bill put before the governor, would have immediately rescheduled any drugs containing crystalline polymorph psilocybin, the synthetic version of the compound, if they were approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Under the bill and conditioned circumstances, it would be legal to prescribe, distribute and market drugs with the ingredient, which is also sometimes referred to as COMP360. Clinical trials of COMP360 as a treatment for PTSD and treatment resistant depression have been conducted and are ongoing. A similar bill was signed into law in Colorado in March. Colorado and Oregon are the only states with legalized medical licensing programs for psilocybin. Reynolds said she does “recognize and respect the growing body of research into the *potential* therapeutic benefits of psilocybin” but she said the compound should be approved by FDA and the Drug Enforcement Agency before Iowa acts to reschedule. “The pathway provided by this bill for legalization of psilocybin at the state level before we have a chance to review federal action…creates legal uncertainty, poses risks for misuse and could undermine broader efforts to ensure safe and effective therapeutic use in the future,” Reynolds said. *This story was first published by Iowa Capital Dispatch.* Psychedelic Therapy Can Help Reduce Problematic Alcohol And Tobacco Use, Scientific Review Shows The post Iowa Lawmaker Surprised By Governor’s ‘Unexpected’ Veto Of Psilocybin Bill appeared first on Marijuana Moment. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

The company’s medical cannabis retail facility is just south of Daytona Beach. < Back Planet 13 Opens 33rd Florida Dispensary in Edgewater Apr 30, 2025 Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The company’s medical cannabis retail facility is just south of Daytona Beach. < 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 Connecticut hemp farmer has filed a federal lawsuit against the state, claiming that the cannabis industry's licensing rules, which prioritize social equity applicants, are discriminatory and unconstitutional. The suit argues that federal law prohibits excluding cannabis applicants based on location or residence, asserting that the state's program amounts to economic protectionism. The lawsuit also references a federal appeals court ruling that found part of New York’s cannabis social equity rules unconstitutional. < Back Connecticut Hemp Farmer Says State Cannabis Laws Are Discriminatory Oct 20, 2025 Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A Connecticut hemp farmer has filed a federal lawsuit claiming that the state’s cannabis industry’s licensing rules are discriminatory and unconstitutional, CT Insider reports. The lawsuit takes particular aim at provisions that prioritize social equity applicants for the state’s cannabis industry licenses. The plaintiff, Brant Smith, who owns and operates an 80,000-square-foot greenhouse in Cheshire that he dedicated to hemp cultivation after the crop was federally legalized in 2018, claims in the suit that federal law prohibits the state from excluding cannabis applicants based on their location or residence. Attorney Genevieve Park Taylor, who represents Smith, suggested that Connecticut’s restrictions on cannabis licensing is “unequal and a little unbalanced.” “Everybody gets a chance or nobody gets a chance, whether it’s cantaloupes, cannabis or cabbage,” Taylor said in the report. “By favoring in-state social equity individual applicants and discriminating against all others, including out-of-state applicants, Connecticut’s marijuana licensing program amounts to economic protectionism, and improperly serves to benefit only in-state economic interests in general and social equity individuals specifically.” — Excerpt from the lawsuit The suit references a federal appeals court ruling from August that found part of New York’s cannabis social equity rules to be unconstitutional. Specifically, the ruling determined that a policy blocking people with federal or out-of-state cannabis convictions from receiving social equity-based priority was unconstitutional. < 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

Learn how to buy weed in the state of Maryland safely with our definitive guide now updated for 2025. Learn everything from the history of legal weed to the current weed laws in the state of Maryland. We'll also show you the best MD dispensaries and marijuana products along with our favorites. Click to learn more. How to BUY weed in Maryland Safely in 2025 Everything You Need to Know About Maryland Medical & Recreational Marijuana LEARN MORE Contents Contents BEST DISPENSARIES BEST BRANDS RECENT REVIEWS This report provides a comprehensive overview of the legal status, history, and accessibility of marijuana in Maryland, including both medical and recreational use. It covers topics such as legal frameworks, purchasing options, quality evaluation, top dispensaries, and prominent cultivators. Quick Reference: Use the links below for a super quick, but thorough, reference guide on how to safely and successfully find the best recreational and medical weed in Maryland. Then check out our Recent Reviews to see what we're toking on right now and where to get it! 01. Is Marijuana Legal in Maryland in 2025? Read All 02. The History of Legal Weed in Maryland Read All 03. How to Buy Marijuana in Maryland Read All 04. How to Buy Recreational Weed in Maryland Read All 05. How to Find the BEST Weed in MD in 2025 Read All Is Weed Legal in MD? Is Marijuana Legal in Maryland in 2025? Yes, marijuana is legal for both medical and recreational adult-use in Maryland for individuals aged 21 and over. The possession, use, and cultivation of small amounts of marijuana were legalized by a referendum passed in November 2022 and took effect on July 1, 2023. History of Weed in MD The History of Legal Weed in Maryland Maryland has a long and complex history with marijuana laws. Decriminalization efforts began in the 1970s, and in 2003, the state became one of the first to allow medical marijuana use. The decriminalization of possession of small amounts for personal use occurred in 2014. Finally, the legalization of adult-use marijuana was achieved in 2022. Timeline of Weed Legalization in MD: 1977: Maryland decriminalizes possession of small amounts of marijuana. 2003: The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission is established. 2014: Maryland voters approve a referendum for medical marijuana use. 2018: The Maryland Cannabis Commission is created to regulate the medical cannabis industry. 2022: Maryland voters approve a referendum for recreational marijuana use. 2023: Recreational marijuana sales begin on July 1st. Marijuana is now fully legalized in Maryland!!! How to Get Weed in MD How to Buy Marijuana in Maryland Medical marijuana patients can purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries after obtaining a patient registration card. For adult-use, individuals can purchase marijuana from licensed retailers once they verify their age and identity. MD Medical Maryland Medical Marijuana The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) oversees the medical marijuana program, regulating cultivation, processing, dispensing, and patient registration. Qualifying conditions for medical marijuana include cach exia, anorexia, wasting syndrome, severe or chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, severe or persistent muscle spasms, glaucoma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or another chronic medical condition which is severe and for which other treatments have been ineffective. Fast Facts: Patients qualify for medical marijuana with a doctor's recommendation for a qualifying medical condition. There are currently over 140,000 registered medical marijuana patients in Maryland. Medical patients can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries. Medical cannabis dispensaries offer a variety of products, including flower, edibles, and concentrates. How to Get a Medical Card in MD How to Get A Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Maryland involves two main parts, each with its own steps. Part 1 is to register as a patient with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) and Part 2 is to obtain a written certification from a registered provider. Here's a detailed breakdown of Parts and the Steps involved: Part 1: Register as a Patient with MMCC Gather your documents: Valid email address Full 9-digit Social Security Number Electronic copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, etc.) Proof of Maryland residency (utility bill, bank statement, etc.) $50 application fee (payable online) Create an account: Visit the MMCC Patient Registry (OneStop Portal): https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx Click "Create Account" under the Patients heading. Fill in your information and create a password. Complete the online application: Answer questions about your medical condition, desired dosage, and preferred dispensary. Upload your required documents. Pay the application fee. Review and submit your application. Wait for approval: MMCC will review your application and contact you within 30 days. If approved, you'll receive an email with your MMCC-issued Patient ID Number. Print your temporary ID card: Log in to your OneStop account. Click on "My Dashboard" and then "Patient License Number." Click the "Actions" tab and select "Temporary ID Card." Print your temporary ID, which will be valid until you receive your permanent card. Part 2: Obtain a Written Certification from a Registered Provider Find a registered provider: Search the MMCC Provider Registry: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx Consider factors like location, insurance coverage, and provider specialty. Schedule an appointment. Attend your appointment: Discuss your medical condition and why you believe medical cannabis could be beneficial. Bring your MMCC Patient ID Number and any relevant medical records. The provider will assess your eligibility and, if approved, issue a written certification. Submit the certification to MMCC: Your provider will submit the certification electronically through the MMCC portal. You can also upload the certification yourself if you receive a paper copy. Receive your permanent ID card: Once MMCC processes the certification, you'll receive a notification and your permanent ID card will be mailed to you within 10 business days. Additional Res ources: Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission website: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx Patient registration information: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients_regisadult.aspx Provider search: https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/patients.aspx Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): https://mmcc.maryland.gov/Pages/faq.aspx Important Notes: Qualifying medical conditions for medical cannabis in Maryland include chronic pain, severe nausea, seizures, and more. See the MMCC website for a full list. You must be 18 years or older to apply for a medical marijuana card in Maryland. The process typically takes 4-6 weeks, but it could be longer depending on individual circumstances. Maryland Rec Maryland Adult-Use / Recreational Marijuana The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) regulates the recreational marijuana market including licensing cultivators, processors, retailers, and distributors. Adults aged 21 and over, from any state or country, can possess marijuana with the following limits: How Much Weed is Legal in MD? Cannabis weight limits in Maryland are currently set at 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products that does not exceed 750mg of Delta-9 THC per adult (21+). These limits are cross-category which means you may buy a combination of all, but cannot exceed a category limit and buy more. Adults can also grow up to 2 cannabis plants at home, but they must be kept out of public view at all times and be inaccessible to those who are under 21 years old. Marijuana Sales Limits in Maryland Dispensaries must not knowingly dispense more than the personal use amount of cannabis to an individual in a single day. Examples of violations include: Selling more than 1.5 ounces of flower Combining the maximum amount of usable cannabis with additional products Exceeding the limits on vape products, edible products, tinctures, lotions, or capsules containing THC MD Clone Sales Sale of Clones & Seeds in MD Dispensaries can sell up to two clones or seedlings to adults over 21 years old, and up to four clones or seedlings to qualifying patients or registered caregivers. Up to six seeds can be sold to adult-use consumers, qualifying patients, or registered caregivers. Fast Facts On Weed Laws in MD: Must be 21 years of age or over. Can be from any state or country. Possess up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower, 12 grams of concentrated cannabis, or a total amount of cannabis products not exceeding 750mg THC. Consumption is prohibited in public places. Home cultivation of up to two mature cannabis plants and two immature plants is permitted. Recreational cannabis can be purchased from licensed dispensaries. Most, if not all, medical dispensaries are now recreational dispensaries as well. MD Weed Delivery Weed Delivery in Maryland Marijuana Delivery is currently legal for medical patients in Maryland, but recreational marijuana delivery is not allowed. According to the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) § 10.62.30.04, licensed medical marijuana dispensaries can deliver cannabis products to patients and caregivers with valid MMCC Patient ID cards. Although the sale of recreational marijuana in Maryland began in July 2023, dispensaries are currently prohibited from delivering cannabis to recreational users. Fast Facts on Weed Delivery in MD: Medical marijuana dispensaries can deliver cannabis products to patients and caregivers with Maryland (MMCC) Patient ID cards. Qualifying cannabis patients must register to use marijuana delivery services. Delivery to recreational users is currently prohibited. How to Get Medical Weed in MD How to Find the Best Marijuana in Maryland Consumers can research and compare different dispensaries and products based on factors such as price, quality, customer reviews, and product variety. Online resources and review platforms can be helpful in this process. At Toker’s Guide , we provide connoisseur reviews of the best, and only the best, cannabis from around the state of Maryland and beyond. Along these lines we’ve produced the following information and Top Five lists for dispensaries and cultivators statewide and by metro region. Find the Best Weed in MD The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in Maryland Several dispensaries have emerged as favorites among Maryland consumers, including RISE Dispensaries, Culta, The Living Room, and Liberty. These dispensaries are lauded for their high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and welcoming atmosphere. Current Top Five : The Living Room : Evermore’s flagship dispensary in Pikesville. Culta Dispensary : Offers a wide variety of products at high quality. Liberty Cannabis : Locations in Rockville and Oxon Hill, known for their luxurious atmosphere and expert staff. RISE Dispensaries : Multiple locations across Maryland, known for high-quality products and customer service. Columbia Care / Cannabist : Wide variety of products and educational resources. Best MD dispos Baltimore The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in Baltimore For Baltimore residents, top dispensary picks include Remedy Baltimore, CULTA, Maggie’s, and The Living Room. These dispensaries offer a diverse selection of products and cater to a variety of consumer preferences. Current Top Five: The Living Room : E vermore’s flagship dispensary in Pikesville. Culta Dispensary : Offers a wide variety of products at high quality. Remedy Columbia : Provides a welcoming and informative environment. Maggies : Now run by Liberty Cannabi s and has a wide variety. Star Buds : Great service, selection, and discounts. Best MD Dispo's Nat. Capital Region The Top Marijuana Dispensaries in the National Capital Region of Maryland The National Capital Region boasts popular dispensaries such as RISE, Liberty, and Columbia Care / Cannabist. These dispensaries are conveniently located and offer a wide range of products for recreational and medicinal needs. Current Top Five: RISE Dispensary - Bethesda : Offers a luxurious atmosphere and expert staff. Liberty Cannabis : Conveniently located in Rockville and Oxon Hill. Columbia Care / Cannabist : Wide variety of products and educational resources. Jova Wellness : Known for their friendly and informative staff. Sweetspot : Has great products and top-notch customer service. Best MD Cultivators Top Maryland Marijuana Cultivators Prominent Maryland cultivators include Evermore, Culta, SunMed Growers, Grow West, and Curio Wellness. These companies are recognized for their commitment to sustainable practices, innovative cultivation techniques, and high-quality cannabis products. Current Top Five: Evermore Culta SunMed Growers Grow West Curio Wellness Conclusion The legal landscape of marijuana in Maryland has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the legalization of adult-use cannabis, Maryland has joined a growing number of states embracing a more relaxed approach to marijuana regulation. Currently, the state boasts a diverse and thriving cannabis industry, offering patients and adult consumers a variety of high-quality products at top-notch dispensaries. As a result, there are more options than ever before for those seeking to consume cannabis. We hope you’ve enjoyed this comprehensive overview of Marijuana in Maryland and found it to be a useful resource. With proper research and planning, individuals can find the best marijuana products and dispensaries to meet their needs right here in the state. At Toker’s Guide, we’re making that mission even easier by identifying the best cannabis across the state and keeping our audience as informed as possible so they can know before they go. As always, remember to consume marijuana responsibly and follow all applicable laws and regulations. Happy toking!

The 13-million dollar deal enhances Nabis’ wholesaling ecosystem and technology platform, which generates more scaling opportunities for brands and retailers. < Back Nabis Acquires Humble Cannabis Solutions Assets, Strengthening Commerce Infrastructure Jan 6, 2026 Staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The $13-million deal expands Nabis’ wholesaling ecosystem and technology platform, creating additional scaling opportunities for brands and retailers. < 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

UFCW Local 27 filed unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board against TerrAscend USA Services LLC's Salisbury, Maryland facility, alleging violations concerning union representation and employee rights; the claims are currently pending NLRB review. < Back Maryland union files federal labor charges against TerrAscend over alleged union interference Jan 5, 2026 Editorial Staff Outlaw Report Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link UFCW Local 27 announced it has filed unfair labor practice charges with the National Labor Relations Board against TerrAscend USA Services LLC, alleging violations of the National Labor Relations Act at the company’s Salisbury, Maryland facility. According to the union, the charges stem from alleged actions affecting union representation, communication, and employee rights. The matter is pending review by the NLRB, and the claims outlined in the filing have not been adjudicated. 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

A new white paper by Strategies 64, "The One-plant Solution," recommends ending federal cannabis prohibition by descheduling botanical cannabis and regulating it as one plant through existing federal authorities. The plan proposes replacing the current fragmented approach to "marijuana" and "hemp" with a unified regulatory framework that preserves state autonomy while establishing national guidelines for public health and safety. < Back New White Paper Offers Roadmap for Ending Hemp-Marijuana Divide, Federal Regulation Jan 28, 2026 Mg Magazine Newswire MG Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link *DENVER* — A new white paper by the cannabis policy analysts at Strategies 64 offers a detailed roadmap for ending federal cannabis prohibition and the currently bifurcated approach to federal cannabis policy — the separation of marijuana” and “hemp” — and establishing a coherent, viable national regulatory framework. *The One-plant Solution: Recommendations for Advancing a National Unified Cannabis Policy and Federal Regulatory Framework* is available as a free download. It was publicly presented and discussed at the second annual Cannabis Policy Institute Symposium at University of Nevada at Las Vegas in December, where it received a positive response. It has since been updated to account for President Donald Trump’s executive order on rescheduling. The paper explains how the current federal approach to cannabis has created a fragmented and unstable policy landscape that rewards loophole chasing, weakens consumer protections, complicates enforcement, and undercuts public health research and data collection. States have worked to fill the void, demonstrating that regulated cannabis systems can work, but contradictions embedded in federal law still result is confusion for regulators, businesses, and consumers alike. Strategies 64 lays out a “one-plant solution” — a clear, achievable plan for establishing a fair, familiar, and workable regulatory framework that regulates cannabis as one plant, prioritizes public health and safety, and reflects the realities of today’s market. In summary: Deschedule botanical cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act and regulate it as one plant through existing federal authorities, aligning it with the nation’s typical approach to product safety for food, dietary supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and adult-restricted products. Preserve state autonomy, allowing each state to continue setting its own policies and serving as the primary regulator. Establish national guidelines to support states with clear standards for product safety, youth access prevention, marketing, taxation, and product authentication. The analysis and detailed policy recommendations in the paper were informed by extensive stakeholder input and feedback from across the marijuana and hemp spaces. Over the course of three months, Strategies 64 conducted more than 80 interviews with federal officials, state regulators, policy experts, advocates, trade association leaders, and business operators, including cultivators, manufacturers, retailers, and testing facility operators, to collect and contemplate their perspectives and gain insight into the on-the-ground realities of governments and businesses. The paper also highlights the timeliness of its recommended reforms, as Congress acted in November 2025 to recriminalize most hemp-derived products by November 2026. Paired with Trump’s recent order to reschedule marijuana, the subject of federal cannabis classification is gaining significant attention and a unique sense of urgency among federal officials. “This plan is designed to be realistic and achievable, leveraging existing regulatory infrastructure and respecting political constraints, while delivering durable, enforceable policy that aligns with current market realities,” said Jordan Wellington, managing partner at Strategies 64. “With marijuana rescheduling and hemp-derived product rules in flux, stakeholders across the spectrum are calling the two-track system confusing and unworkable. Federal leaders should seize this moment to reset U.S. cannabis policy and bring clarity, consistency, and a public safety focus to the U.S. cannabis market.” < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cake Boss - Fluent, Clearwater (Florida Medical) Cake Boss, available at Fluent dispensary in Clearwater, Florida, is a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain (60% indica, 40% sativa) th... Cherry AK-47 by Grow West - RISE Dispensary (Silver Spring, Maryland) When a strain name includes both "Cherry" and "AK-47," you can expect two things: a blast of fruity goodness and the kind of impact that... Cookies & Alt Sol "Madrina" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Madrina, cultivated by Alt Sol and available at Takoma Wellness Center in Washington, DC, comes with a reputation as bold as its name. In... 1 2 3 4 5

Flurry of cannabis M&A that followed Trump marijuana rescheduling a sign of things to come... < Back Flurry of cannabis M&A that followed Trump marijuana rescheduling Jan 14, 2026 Margaret Jackson MJbizDaily Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link A flurry of cannabis business transactions came on the heels of President Donald Trump's Dec. 18 executive order - with many more to come once marijuana rescheduling is finalized. Flurry of cannabis M&A that followed Trump marijuana rescheduling a sign of things to come 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