A court order has stopped the New York Office of Cannabis Management from enforcing directives that might have closed licensed businesses. < Back NY Court Grants Preliminary Injunction, Blocking OCM Directives Threatening 150 Cannabis Businesses Sep 29, 2025 Source: Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The court order halts the New York Office of Cannabis Management from enforcing directives that could have shuttered licensed businesses. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

This press release announces CannaCon's first-ever cannabis industry B2B conference and expo in Missouri, scheduled for August 28–29 at the America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis. The event will feature networking opportunities, educational seminars, an official regulatory update from the state, and guest speakers Craig and Marc Wasserman. < Back CannaCon is finally heading to Missouri this August, and they're bringing the Pot Brothers at Law along for the ride Jul 29, 2026 Source: Ganjapreneur Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Midwest cannabis scene is hitting a massive milestone as CannaCon prepares for its first-ever gathering in Missouri. Scheduled for August 28–29 at the America’s Center Convention Complex in downtown St. Louis, this premier trade show is set to establish a brand-new regional anchor for the industry. Missouri has quickly grown into one of the most exciting and dynamic cannabis markets in the nation, making this the perfect time for cultivators, dispensary owners, entrepreneurs, and casual enthusiasts looking to break into the space to connect and learn. The extensive main floor will feature hundreds of exhibitors unveiling the latest industry breakthroughs, including cutting-edge cultivation tech, advanced extraction machinery, custom packaging, and modern retail software. Beyond the impressive product displays, the event offers a packed educational lineup. Attendees can join expert-led seminars detailing retail best practices, brand marketing, and cultivation techniques. Crucially, a featured session hosted by the Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation will deliver direct updates regarding state compliance and licensing laws, providing attendees with a clear blueprint for operating successfully in this fast-changing legal framework. Adding a heavy dose of star power to the weekend, the legendary legal duo Craig and Marc Wasserman, better known as the Pot Brothers at Law, will take the stage as special guest speakers. Renowned for their viral, common-sense advice on protecting your rights, the brothers will share essential legal perspectives, compliance strategies, and guidance on handling interactions with law enforcement. For anyone building a cannabis venture or simply wanting to see where the industry is heading next, this convention is an invaluable opportunity to talk shop with suppliers and investors. Tickets and registration details are officially live on the CannaCon website, so plan your trip to St. Louis to secure your spot in the crowd. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

Missouri regulators revoked the license of C&C Manufacturing LLC, a marijuana manufacturer, after it was found to have used unregulated THC to create products, leading to a recall of 135,000 products. The company also destroyed product and records, violated state and federal law by transporting marijuana outside the state, and sold products not originating from Missouri marijuana. < Back Missouri Cannabis Regulators Pull License from Concentrate Maker After Big Product Recall Jul 20, 2025 Source: Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Missouri regulators just dropped the hammer on Springfield-based C&C Manufacturing LLC, officially revoking their license following a massive recall of 135,000 cannabis products. The company was caught using unregulated THC—likely chemically converted from hemp-derived CBD—to create distillates used in popular brands like Rove and Zen. To make matters worse, officials say the facility destroyed inventory and video records to cover its tracks, while also illegally transporting products across state lines. While news of a recall sounds sketchy, it’s actually a win for the community that the state is actively rooting out bad actors who skip the rules. Missouri has some of the toughest testing standards around, and even though these specific products passed initial safety checks, keeping the supply chain strictly "seed-to-sale" within the state ensures transparency. For everyday tokers, this enforcement is a great sign; it means the legal market is working to protect your health and ensure that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in your bag. Stay safe and keep supporting those clean, local grows! < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

Starting on 4/12 and lasting until 4/20, High Profile will be offering big discounts on top of everyday low prices. < Back Escape to paradise this 420 with High Profile Mar 25, 2025 Source: Leafly Staff Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Starting on 4/12 and lasting until 4/20, High Profile will be offering big discounts on top of everyday low prices on their wide selection. The post Escape to paradise this 420 with High Profile appeared first on Leafly. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

A cannabis news roundup details a new Medicare program covering CBD for certain patients, a poll showing bipartisan support for marijuana rescheduling, and a federally funded study on cannabis use by disabled people for pain relief. Policy developments include Ohio activists launching a referendum against a bill that scales back legalization, new Florida bills on medical patient fees and public consumption, and a Massachusetts legislative committee approving psilocybin legalization for veterans and certain medical conditions. < Back New Details Emerge on Medicare’s Move to Cover CBD Costs for Patients Dec 29, 2025 Source: Tom Angell Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The cannabis landscape is shifting fast as 2025 wraps up, with federal and state news keeping the community on its toes. A major highlight is a new Medicare initiative to cover CBD costs for specific patients, signaling a huge win for medical accessibility. On the legislative front, Florida is looking to slash fees for veteran medical cards, while Massachusetts is moving toward legalizing therapeutic psilocybin. However, it’s not all smooth sailing; Ohio activists are currently fighting to save their voter-approved legalization rules from being watered down by state officials. For everyday tokers, this wave of updates is mostly great news. Federal rescheduling is gaining serious bipartisan support, which could soon mean better research and fewer legal headaches. While state-level recalls in California and Oklahoma remind us to stay vigilant about product safety, the push for consumption lounges in places like Santa Cruz shows the culture is becoming more social and accepted. Whether it's cheaper access for veterans or better protections for consumers, these policy shifts are finally starting to prioritize the people over the red tape. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

The Omaha Tribe of Nebraska has become the first government in Nebraska to fully legalize and regulate both medicinal and adult recreational-use cannabis. This historic decision, a unanimous vote by the Omaha Tribal Council, aims to assert the tribe's sovereign right to govern, protect its community, and build a sustainable economy. The new Title 51 Cannabis Control Code establishes extensive regulations, including licensing, advertising, testing, and seed-to-sale tracking. The tribe hopes to generate revenue, create employment, and invest in health, education, housing, and infrastructure, while also expunging prior cannabis offenses and repairing harms of past criminalization. The code prioritizes tribal sovereignty and aims to protect the health, safety, and welfare of tribal members, promote economic development, and ensure effective oversight of cannabis activity. The tribe plans a phased rollout of Title 51, starting with licensing, compliance, and public education. < Back Nebraska Tribal Nation Votes to Legalize Recreational and Medical Cannabis Right Away Jul 16, 2025 Source: Marijuana Moment Marijuana Moment Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The Omaha Tribe of Nebraska just made a major power move by fully legalizing both medical and recreational cannabis on their lands. While the rest of Nebraska has been stuck in a cycle of bureaucratic delays and legal threats from state officials, the Tribal Council took a unanimous stand to assert their sovereignty and kickstart their own regulated market. Their new "Title 51" code is a serious blueprint, covering everything from seed-to-sale tracking to social equity and expunging past records. Adults 21 and over can now possess up to an ounce, and there’s a heavy focus on using revenue to support tribal health and education. This is a massive win for the local community because it bypasses the "broken systems" that have kept patients waiting for access. For tokers in the region, it’s a refreshing example of leadership that prioritizes health and economic freedom over prohibition. It proves that when the state drags its feet, tribal nations are ready to step up and provide the safe, accessible medicine the people actually voted for. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

Serving medical & non-medical cannabis customers in Ohio, Story Cannabis is licensed by the Division of Cannabis Control. The post Story Cannabis: Serving medical & non-medical cannabis customers in Ohio appeared first on Leafly. < Back Story Cannabis: Serving medical & non-medical cannabis customers in Ohio Mar 25, 2025 Source: Leafly Staff Leafly Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Serving medical & non-medical cannabis customers in Ohio, Story Cannabis is licensed by the Division of Cannabis Control. The post Story Cannabis: Serving medical & non-medical cannabis customers in Ohio appeared first on Leafly. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

Everything about The Loops: effects, typical THC, lineage, and terpenes — plus hands-on product reviews and bud photos from Toker's Guide's DMV experts. < Back The Loops Strain Review Type Indica THC % 20% Dominant Terpene Energy NA Relaxed, Happy Overview The Loops is a potent, indica-dominant strain known for its profound sedative properties and ability to provide a deep sense of calm. Created by Insanity Strains, it is a heavy-hitting variety specifically bred for relaxation and stress relief. Effects The Loops is a potent indica-dominant strain that provides a powerful body high and significant sedative effects, often resulting in a deep "couch-lock" state. Due to its heavy-hitting nature, it is best suited for low-energy activities or nighttime use, as it effectively erases mental worries and physically anchors the consumer. This strain is highly therapeutic for individuals seeking relief from chronic stress, restlessness, and insomnia. Its complex terpene profile is led by myrcene, which drives its herbal scent and sedative properties, followed by pinene, which adds a forest-like freshness and may help with memory retention, and caryophyllene, which contributes spicy notes and potential anti-inflammatory benefits. Together, these characteristics make The Loops an ideal choice for managing physical pain and achieving deep relaxation. Positive Effects Side Effects Common Uses Relaxed 100% Happy 75% Euphoric 0% Uplifted 0% Talkative 0% Creative 75% Energetic 0% Focused 0% Giggly 0% Tingly 0% Hungry 50% Sleepy 50% stress, depression, insomnia, headaches, inflammation Dry Mouth 25% Dry Eyes 0% Dizzy 0% Paranoid 0% Anxious 0% Hungry 50% Tingly 0% Sleepy 50% Appearance The buds of The Loops are characterized by a frosty, crystalline coating of trichomes over dark green foliage. Deep purple hues are often visible throughout the flowers, which are accented by vibrant, bright orange pistils. Aroma This strain features a complex and pungent aromatic profile. Users can expect a blend of sweet, earthy notes inherited from its Kush and Granddaddy Purple lineage, often accompanied by a spicy, hash-like undertone. Flavor On the palate, The Loops delivers a rich and smooth experience. The flavor is dominated by sweet berry and grape notes with a distinct earthy finish and a lingering spicy or herbal aftertaste upon exhaling. Lineage The Loops is a powerful three-way cross of Granddaddy Purple, OG Kush, and Volcano Hash. This genetic combination results in a strain that carries the iconic sweetness of GDP and the fuel-like potency of OG Kush, bolstered by the resinous intensity of Volcano Hash. Terpene Profile - Myrcene: The primary terpene, responsible for the strain’s herbal scent and significant sedative "couch-lock" effects. - Pinene: Adds a touch of forest-like freshness and may help counteract some memory loss associated with high THC. - Caryophyllene: Contributes to the spicy notes and provides potential anti-inflammatory benefits.Effects As a heavy indica, The Loops is renowned for its ability to "erase" mental worries while physically anchoring the consumer to the couch. It provides a powerful body high that is highly effective for treating restlessness, chronic stress, and insomnia. Cultivation Preferences - Flowering Time: Typically 8 to 9 weeks. - Yield: Moderate to high. - Climate: Prefers a controlled indoor environment where temperature and humidity can be closely monitored to prevent mold in its dense buds.Origin The Loops was developed by Insanity Strains, a breeder focused on creating high-potency, resin-heavy varieties that offer intense physical effects and unique terpene profiles. Seed Suppliers Seeds for The Loops can occasionally be found through specialty breeders and West Coast-based seed banks that carry Insanity Strains genetics, though it is often found as a clone-only variety in certain dispensaries. Conclusion The Loops is an ideal choice for evening use or for those seeking therapeutic relief from physical pain and mental tension. Its striking purple appearance and heavy sedative profile make it a standout selection for fans of classic indica genetics. Previous Next

At Stone Brewing in Richmond, the after-hours crowd of small cannabis entrepreneurs looked like a support group that had just survived an ambush. Hours earlier, many of them sat through a General Assembly session meant to gather community input on Virginia’s long-awaited framework for adult-use cannabis sales. But by the end of the hearing, it didn’t feel like the community had been heard, it felt like maybe the verdict was already written... < Back Who Benefits From Virginia’s Cannabis Chaos? Small Businesses Want Answers Oct 8, 2025 Source: R. Anthony Harris RVA Magazine Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link ***Originally published by RVA Magazine*** Editor’s note: A quick distinction matters here. When Virginia lawmakers talk about “cannabis,” they’re really talking about two overlapping but very different markets. Hemp, low-THC cannabis that’s federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill signed by President Trump, is what thousands of small Virginia retailers currently sell in the form of CBD or THCA products. Marijuana, which contains higher levels of THC, remains illegal to sell for adult use. The confusion between the two has created a gray area of regulation and confusion among lawmakers, law enforcement, business and consumers. At Stone Brewing in Richmond, the after-hours crowd of small cannabis entrepreneurs looked like a support group that had just survived an ambush. Hours earlier, many of them sat through a General Assembly session meant to gather community input on Virginia’s long-awaited framework for adult-use cannabis sales. But by the end of the hearing, it didn’t feel like the community had been heard, it felt like maybe the verdict was already written. “It was orchestrated,” one small-business owner said, still visibly frustrated. “They made us look like criminals, and then called it safety.” Inside the General Assembly Building earlier that day, lawmakers, state officials, and invited presenters had gathered for what was billed as a public listening session on how Virginia should move from decriminalization to a functioning retail market. On paper, it sounded like progress. In practice, the microphone seemed to belong to only one side, the big players in medical cannabis, known as multistate operators, or MSOs. Representatives from Virginia NORML, Columbia Care, and several industry consultants framed their testimony around public safety and regulatory control, ideas that, depending on who you ask, either protect Virginians or protect a monopoly. For many in attendance, this was the first time MSOs had shown up so visibly, and with such coordinated messaging. The Safety Narrative One of the most talked about moments of the day came from Dr. Michelle Peace, a forensic toxicologist from VCU whose lab has become the state’s go-to source for analyzing vape and hemp products. Her presentation was, as one lawmaker put it, “frightening.” She described recent multi-jurisdictional raids that turned up hundreds of pounds of illegal product, firearms, and, according to early reports later retracted by law enforcement, what was initially described as an “improvised explosive device.” Her lab, she said, had tested many of the seized materials and found potent synthetic cannabinoids, mislabeled THC concentrations, and contaminated vape oils, including one sample that contained fecal matter. Dr. Peace called the situation “widespread” and “deeply concerning,” and urged lawmakers to expand funding for testing and enforcement. She made the case that her lab, the only one in Virginia with the capability to keep pace with the fast-moving hemp and vape market, should be the one to lead that work. Lawmakers on the panel seemed receptive, nodding as she described the need to “capture more schools” and “close gaps” in the state’s testing infrastructure. Then came the exchange that summed up the mood in the room. “If I go into a store that says ‘vapes’ or ‘hemp CBD,’ what percentage of those stores would you say are fully compliant, meaning they’re not selling anything illicit or illegal?” one delegate asked. “No,” Peace replied. “That is not my experience, this is everywhere. This is widespread.” The implication: according to the state’s leading forensic expert, nearly every vape or hemp shop in Virginia was breaking the law. For the small business owners in the audience, many of whom had spent the past year registering products, paying fees, and complying with every shifting state rule, it felt like a public indictment. “They’re exploiting those stories,” one Richmond advocate said afterward. “No one’s denying there are bad actors. But to paint every shop as a criminal enterprise? That’s not safety, that’s strategy.” By the end of the session, the message was clear: Virginia’s hemp market was unsafe, enforcement needed to expand, and the clearest path to regulation ran straight through state-funded labs and large, licensed medical operators. The Crackdown Before the Law Dr. Peace’s testimony didn’t spark Virginia’s cannabis crackdown, it simply confirmed what small business owners have already been living through. In recent weeks, state and local authorities have carried out coordinated raids on vape and hemp retailers across the Richmond region, turning what was once a regulatory gray area into criminal territory. On September 24, police raided multiple vape shops, seizing hundreds of pounds of marijuana and THC edibles, along with firearms and cash. A week later, Henrico authorities executed ten more search warrants, charging eight people and confiscating more than sixty pounds of flower, twelve pounds of edibles, and roughly $100,000. Early reports of an “explosive device in progress” were later retracted, but the damage was done. Vape shops had become a convenient symbol of public danger. Around the same time, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration announced Operation Vape Trail, a nationwide effort that seized more than two million vape devices and over one hundred firearms. That federal show of force gave Virginia political cover to push harder. The message was simple: this was about safety. The timing, however, was hard to ignore. What changed in Virginia wasn’t the law, it was its enforcement. The state’s definition of hemp, expanded in 2023 to include “total THC” rather than just delta-9 THC, had been on the books for over a year. But for months, officials with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) told retailers they were not enforcing the flower provisions. That changed abruptly this fall. For small retailers, the shift felt like a trap. “Right above your signature, it asks if you sell inhalable hemp products,” said one Richmond hemp business owner who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation. “So people told the state yes, sent in their thousand dollars, and now that list is being used to target them.” The same agency that collected those registration fees is now leading enforcement, applying edible standards to smokable flower and using total-THC limits so strict that even federally compliant hemp qualifies as marijuana: no more than two milligrams of THC per package or a 25-to-1 CBD-to-THC ratio. As lifelong grower Nicolas Austin explained, those limits are scientifically impossible to meet. “The math just doesn’t make sense,” he said. “THC and CBD occur naturally in opposite proportions, the more THC you have, the less CBD you’ll naturally have in it. A 25-to-1 ratio is really dumb. Plants just don’t grow that way.” Even the best-balanced hemp strains top out near 1-to-1 or 2-to-1, meaning that under Virginia’s new rules, “even federally legal hemp becomes illegal overnight.” “They told us for eight months they weren’t enforcing flower,” the Richmond retailer added. “Then suddenly, they decided to. Even the inspectors admitted it came from above.” For many, the experience has been disorienting, and punishing. Shops that registered in good faith are now facing fines of $10,000 or more. Some have been raided; others have simply closed their doors. “They told us one thing, we followed it, and now we’re getting hit,” the owner said. “The people who didn’t register might actually be safer. They’re using our own registration list as a hit list.” Compliance, in other words, became self-incrimination. What’s happening isn’t just bureaucratic confusion, it’s market engineering. By redefining hemp, criminalizing products that were once legal, and punishing the very retailers who tried to play by the rules, Virginia is quietly clearing the field. When adult-use cannabis sales finally begin, the survivors will be few, and they won’t be small businesses. Who Benefits from the Chaos That reality wasn’t lost on Chelsea Higgs Wise, executive director of Marijuana Justice, who’s been watching the same forces shape the policy conversation in real time. When small businesses get squeezed, someone always profits. In this case, it’s the same few players who’ve been waiting for the door to open. “They were pro-medical, pro-big cannabis,” said Wise. “To say particularly that big cannabis should be the rollout startup folks, and they should be able to basically click on a switch and become adult-use… They’re also asking to keep that monopoly structure, with all nine of their licenses, while new operators will be limited to five.” Those nine licenses belong to the multistate operators that already control Virginia’s medical cannabis program. Under the framework being discussed, they would be the first, and possibly the only, businesses allowed to make the jump into adult-use sales when legalization takes effect. Wise pointed out that the issue isn’t just the number of licenses, it’s the structure itself. The proposed system would allow those same companies to vertically integrate, meaning they could grow, process, and sell their own products while smaller operators are restricted to just one piece of the supply chain. “It locks everyone else out,” she said. “They can control everything from seed to sale, and they already do.” “Virginia will never be Michigan,” Wise added. “We have such a hard stronghold on wanting to make sure that the number of cannabis dispensaries do not outnumber the number of ABC stores. We have about 400 ABC stores, so that’s where folks got the number from, about 350 licenses for dispensaries, particularly.” That ratio, 350 dispensary licenses for the entire state, sets the stage for a tightly controlled, highly centralized market. The corporations that already hold the nine medical licenses would likely be among the first to secure those coveted positions. For thousands of hemp retailers, it’s a losing equation: the state shrinks the market, calls it safety, and hands the future to those already holding the keys. The result is a two-tier system: safety for some, enforcement for others. Monopoly by Other Means The debate over safety and compliance has become one of Virginia’s most effective tools for controlling who stays in the market. While lawmakers frame new rules as consumer protection, small operators see something else: a quiet consolidation of power. When Dr. Michelle Peace told legislators that her VCU lab was the only one in Virginia capable of properly testing hemp and vape products, and that it needed more funding to expand, she was making a scientifically valid point. But the policy implications of that argument are far-reaching. Concentrating testing, certification, and enforcement within a single institution raises costs and limits access for smaller businesses. For large, vertically integrated medical operators, those expenses are manageable. For independent hemp retailers, they’re often prohibitive. “We’re not against regulation,” said Barbara Biddle, co-founder of the Cannabis Small Business Association. “We just want it to be fair. We pay taxes. We follow labeling rules. We don’t sell to kids. But right now, it feels like they’re writing laws to get rid of us.” Biddle said most small hemp retailers supported basic consumer safeguards like childproof packaging, dosage limits, and clear labeling but that enforcement has gone far beyond those intentions. “They took it too far,” she said. “They are using safety to push small businesses out.” An internal VDACS email obtained by RVA Magazine reflects that tension. Staff privately acknowledged to several retailers that recent inspection directives “came from above.” According to Biddle, that top-down pressure aligns with a broader shift toward corporate consolidation. “VDACS didn’t want to do this,” she said. “They were forced.” For many small operators, the message is clear: enforcement isn’t just about protecting consumers. It’s about deciding who gets to stay in business. As Biddle put it, “Every new rule sounds reasonable until you realize who can actually afford to comply.” Lessons from Other States In the middle of all this noise, some voices are calling for a bigger view. Max Jackson, founder of Cannabis Wise Guys and a consultant who’s worked with cultivators across the country, says Virginia is on track to repeat the same mistakes made elsewhere, overregulating in the name of control while pretending it’s about safety. “Michigan’s open-license model showed what happens when you let people compete,” Jackson said. “They were doing about $12,000 in cannabis sales per 10,000 adults, just in flower, back in August. Compare that to Connecticut, which is heavily restricted and only hits around $3,400, or Colorado, which is closer to $8,500. The math speaks for itself.” Jackson warned that the difference isn’t just about sales volume, it’s about access and policy design. “You can’t overtax and overregulate at the same time,” he said. “If you gatekeep the market, people just go right back to the illicit one. You don’t eliminate it, you just make it smarter.” He’s seen the pattern across the map. “Florida’s medical program is a perfect example, it’s fully vertically integrated, and one company just opened its 82nd dispensary. They’re sitting there waiting for adult-use to pass, because the market’s already taken,” he said. “Arizona did the same thing, they gave out 26 social equity licenses, and now almost all of them have been bought up by corporate operators. You can hand someone a license, but you can’t stop a corporation from buying it.” Jackson said that’s the quiet danger in so-called “limited license” states: scarcity makes the licenses themselves a commodity. “One company can hold sixty licenses in California,” he said. “You can protect small farmers on paper, but if you don’t cap ownership or restrict transfers, corporations will just buy them all up.” For Jackson, the real lesson is simple: don’t let the people who profit from the monopoly write the rules. “Corporations do what corporations do,” he said. “You can’t fault them for that. But we don’t have to hand them the pen to write the legislation that keeps them in power.” That point hits close to home. Richmond’s hemp scene has always been a mix of hustlers, healers, and innovators, the kind of small-scale entrepreneurs who turn warehouse districts into neighborhoods. Many saw hemp as a way to finally operate above ground. Now, some are asking whether the state’s crackdown is pushing them right back below it. Back Where It Started By the time the conversation at Stone Brewing wound down, there was frustration, but also clarity. “We know what’s coming,” one business owner said. “They’ll say it’s about safety. But what they really want is control.” In private group chats among hemp retailers, the tone has shifted from frustration to strategy. Some are now talking about forming a coalition, not just to survive, but to fight back politically. “We need a unified case for THCA flower,” one wrote. “Right now, it’s anti-all of us. I’d even take a tax if it meant fairness.” Others voiced frustration that only a few were communicating openly, warning that splintering would hand victory to the same forces trying to erase them. One message put it bluntly: “We’re really entering a realm of civil rights.” The irony of Virginia’s cannabis crossfire is that everyone says they want the same thing: safety, fairness, a functioning market. Yet each step toward regulation seems to come at the expense of the people who built the industry from the ground up. If the current trajectory continues, the Commonwealth’s “adult-use” rollout may arrive to find an empty playing field, one where the only survivors are the companies that could afford to wait for the storm to pass. For now, Virginia’s hemp business owners are watching, waiting, and quietly preparing for whatever comes next. Because in this version of legalization, staying in the game might be the hardest part. Photo by Matteo Paganelli Support RVA Magazine. Support Independent Media in Richmond. At a time when media ownership is increasingly concentrated among corporations and the wealthy, RVA Magazine has remained one of Richmond’s few independent voices. Since 2005, the magazine has provided grassroots coverage of the city’s artists, musicians, and communities, documenting the culture that defines Richmond beyond the headlines. But we can’t do this without you. A small donation, even as little as $2, one-time or recurring, helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support keeps us going and keeps RVA’s creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

The new location enhances in-store and online ordering and increases access to Curaleaf's national brands. < Back Curaleaf Opens 2nd Erie Dispensary in Millcreek, Pennsylvania Dec 29, 2025 Source: Staff Cannabis Business Times Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The new location features an enhanced in-store and online ordering experience, expanding access to Curaleaf's leading national brands. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

One farm worker died and 361 were detained after ICE immigration raids at two cannabis farms in southern California, operated by Glass House Farms. The raids prompted an investigation into Glass House Farms for potential child labor violations, which the company denies. Protesters disrupted the raids, and some were arrested. The FBI is offering a reward for information about an unknown subject who allegedly fired a pistol at federal agents. < Back Worker Killed, Hundreds Arrested During ICE Raids on California Cannabis Farms Jul 14, 2025 Source: Graham Abbott Ganjapreneur Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link One farm worker has died and 361 were reportedly detained following ICE immigration raids last week at two cannabis farms in southern California, the LA Times reports. The July 10 raids were carried out by federal immigration agents at cannabis grows operated by Glass House Farms — the state’s largest licensed cannabis producer — in Camarillo and Carpinteria. During the chaos of the Camarillo raid, 57-year-old Jaime Alanís Garcia fell 30 feet through a greenhouse roof while fleeing federal agents, sustaining fatal injuries, his family said in a statement on Saturday. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claimed that federal agents detained 361 unlawful immigrants and also discovered 14 minors during the raids, which has prompted an investigation into Glass House Farms for potential child labor violations. “Glass House has never knowingly violated applicable hiring practices and does not and has never employed minors,” the company said in a statement issued following the raids. Meanwhile, protestors sought to disrupt the raids at both locations, and DHS officials said four U.S. citizens were arrested for allegedly assaulting or resisting officers. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward “for information leading to the conviction of an Unknown Subject who appeared to fire a pistol at Federal Law Enforcement Officers near Camarillo,” United States Attorney Bill Essayli tweeted on July 10, although no gunshot injuries have been reported. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5

In winter, the skin needs extra care due to the cold and dryness. Cannabis creams can help hydrate and provide therapeutic effects. The article suggests eight cannabis creams for dry winter skin: Apothecanna Everyday Body Cream, CBD For Life Foot Cream, Flower Power Super Skin Salve, Dixie Elixirs Muscle Relief Lotion, Mary Jane’s Medicinals Body Lotion, Treat Yourself Skin Healing Body Butter, Cannabis Basics Hemp Sole’s Desire Repair Cream, and Kush Creams Aloe-Based Face and Eye Cream. < Back 8 Cannabis Creams for Treating Your Dry Winter Skin Dec 12, 2024 Source: Cannabis Now Cannabis Now Article Link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link It’s winter time and that means the days are short, dark and cold, and your skin is in need of some extra TLC to help combat the dryness that arctic temperatures can bring. During this time of the year, it’s important to switch up your skin routine to incorporate moisturizers that are thicker in texture to help coat any skin that may get exposed to the cold. Cannabis creams offer a way to hydrate, combined with the plant’s therapeutic effects to help get you through winter feeling nourished and less tense. Here are some of our favorite cannabis creams to keep your skin soft until the sun returns in full force. [image: Cream Skin Cannabis Now] 1. Apothecanna Everyday Body Cream You can use this rich, hydrating cream every day to maintain your skin’s moisture, whether it’s right after a shower or anytime throughout the day. Mandarin, cedar and geranium come together in this lotion to make a light, citrusy scent that won’t have you worried that anyone will guess that you’re using a cannabis-infused lotion at your desk. [image: Foot Cream Cannabis Now] 2. CBD For Life Foot Cream With your feet bundled up in socks and shoes, it’s important to give them a little attention at the end of a busy day—especially if you’re been standing or walking around for the majority of it. Essential oils like peppermint and arnica combined with cannabis extract can help you reduce pain, soreness and inflammation while also getting some much-needed moisture. [image: Skin Salve Cannabis Now] 3. Flower Power Super Skin Salve Pull out this salve for those extra dry trouble areas like your elbows, knees, feet and anywhere else that needs some further attention. This salve is made with sungrown cannabis and solar-infused olive oil along with medicinal plants like calendula, comfrey, St. John’s wort, yarrow and plantain to boost the benefits and keep your skin hydrated. [image: Muscle Lotion Cannabis Now] 4. Dixie Elixirs Muscle Relief Lotion For people whose work involves lots of typing or other repetitive movements with their hands, you can solve two problems with this soothing lotion that will keep your hands moisturized and help cut down on tension as you work. The muscle relief lotion is also great for post-shower moisturizing for a relaxed, pain-free body as you prepare for a rejuvenating rest. [image: Body Lotion Cannabis Now] 5. Mary Jane’s Medicinals Body Lotion Repair sun-damaged skin from the summer and help your skin regenerate itself with this lotion that can also salvage dry, dull skin. A medley of oils including grapeseed, avocado, jojoba, sweet almond and coconut all work together to soften your skin, stop itchiness related to lack of moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. [image: Healing Lotion Cannabis Now] 6. Treat Yourself Skin Healing Body Butter This luxurious, whipped body butter is great for dry skin as well as eczema, psoriasis and other skin irritations that might get exacerbated when cold weather comes around. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula makes it easy to apply and absorb. [image: Cannabis Basic Hemp Sole] 7. Cannabis Basics Hemp Sole’s Desire Repair Cream If you deal with cracked heels and rough feet, rubbing this on before bed and letting it absorb overnight can help make a major difference. Cocoa and shea butter give this cream its thick texture paired with tea tree, arnica, lavender and spearmint to provides long-lasting relief. [image: Kush Creams] 8. Kush Creams Aloe-Based Face and Eye Cream Add this fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cannabis cream to your morning and evening skincare routine to keep your face and neck nice and smooth. With hemp seed oil infused in this cream, you can combat acne and reduce wrinkles as well. The post 8 Cannabis Creams for Treating Your Dry Winter Skin appeared first on Cannabis Now. < Previous Next > Recent Reviews Cookies & Alt Sol "Ridgeline Lantz" Strain Review - Takoma Wellness Center Ridgeline Lantz, cultivated by Alt Sol and currently available at Takoma Wellness Center, exudes an impressive pedigree. With its origins... Watermelon Sugar, High: Fade Co.'s Live Resin Gummies Reviewed There's a running joke about Harry Styles' summer smash that the man himself has cheerfully leaned into: nobody is entirely sure what "watermelon sugar" is, only that it sounds fantastic and you want more of it. Fade Co. seems to have taken that ambiguity as a design brief. Their new live resin gummies don't just borrow the fruit - they capture the whole breezy, sun-warmed, slightly-too-good-to-analyze feeling the song trades in, then pack it ten to a tin... Platinum TK - Green Theory Dispensary Platinum TK is an indica-dominant hybrid from the skilled cultivators at Alt Sol that offers a robust and relaxing experience. Currently... 1 2 3 4 5