Virginia Cannabis News

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger vetoed legislation to legalize recreational marijuana sales after lawmakers rejected her proposed amendments, which included tax increases and new criminal penalties. The decision leaves Virginia with legal possession and cultivation but no regulated retail market, a move criticized by advocates and bill sponsors for allowing the illicit market to continue unchecked.

Louisiana lawmakers passed HB 568, a bill that would impose up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine for smoking or vaping marijuana within 2,000 feet of school property, including college campuses. The legislation now heads to Governor Jeff Landry, while other measures regarding medical marijuana access and a potential recreational legalization pilot program continue to move through the legislature.

Colorado regulators acknowledged that the illegal sale of chemically converted hemp as marijuana has become an existential threat to the state’s legal market, fueled by fraudulent data and a failing tracking system. Despite these concerns, legislative efforts to overhaul product testing and oversight collapsed due to industry disagreements over taxes and regulation levels.

The U.S. Army reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy for all cannabis products, including hemp-derived CBD and synthetic cannabinoids, warning soldiers that use can lead to positive drug tests and disciplinary action. Despite federal rescheduling efforts and state legalization, the military maintains a blanket ban to ensure mission readiness and avoid risks from the unregulated consumer market.

House leaders introduced the BUILD for America’s 250th Act, which directs federal agencies to study marijuana impairment and develop evidence-based standards for driving. The bill also proposes establishing a national drug-involved crash data collection system funded with $110 million through 2031.

The FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation to Vertanical's VER-01, a non-opioid cannabinoid extract for chronic low back pain, following successful Phase 3 trials demonstrating superior pain reduction compared to opioids. The company has initiated a U.S. pivotal trial with a planned New Drug Application submission in 2028, aiming to address the global need for effective, non-addictive pain management.

The Minnesota House and Senate passed HF4203, an omnibus cannabis bill designed to streamline industry regulations and "right-size" medical cannabis licensing. Key provisions include reducing indoor plant canopy caps for combination licenses to 38,000 square feet, creating a new microbusiness license for 2027, allowing dual hemp and cannabis licensure, and initiating a therapeutic psilocybin program.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed legislation providing resentencing relief for individuals with marijuana convictions, following the legislature's rejection of her efforts to scale back the reform's scope. The move aims to address past convictions even as the state continues to navigate the complexities of its legal cannabis framework.

Colorado is implementing a dual-track system for psychedelic medicine that combines a fast-tracked pharmaceutical pathway with a community-based natural medicine program. Dr. Shannon Hughes argues that both pathways are essential and compatible, urging state officials to protect community access while cautioning practitioners to ensure proper training before medicalized rollout.

Alabama is nearing the launch of its medical cannabis program, with Callie’s Apothecary in Montgomery set to be the state's first dispensary to open. While the program allows for the treatment of about 15 conditions using non-smokable forms like tinctures and gummies, the rollout has been delayed by litigation and product testing requirements.

The DEA states that requiring cannabis businesses to disclose unauthorized dealings on registration forms is intended to fairly evaluate their ability to comply with the federal framework. This information helps the agency assess applications for Schedule III registration based on current operational capabilities.

Senator John Fetterman praised Donald Trump for his administration's efforts to reschedule marijuana and expand access to therapeutic psychedelics, aligning these moves with his own long-standing libertarian views on substance legalization. Fetterman also emphasized his support for the legal use of products like Zyn and criticized lawmakers for delaying cannabis reform.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed amendments to allow military veterans to receive medical cannabis recommendations and to promote research into psychedelic therapies. Meanwhile, the House Appropriations Committee approved a bill to block federal marijuana rescheduling while maintaining protections for state medical cannabis programs.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed legislation providing automatic resentencing hearings for individuals with past marijuana convictions after lawmakers rejected her amendments to make the process petition-based. The new law applies to those convicted of certain felony offenses prior to July 2021, requiring the state to identify and notify eligible individuals.

The National Advertising Division recommended that Grove Bags modify advertising claims for its TerpLoc cannabis storage products regarding humidity control and terpene preservation. While the division found a reasonable basis for some performance claims, it determined that specific humidity ranges and guaranteed outcomes require clearer disclosure of necessary use conditions.

Cannatrol is a Vermont-based company that designs drying, curing, and storage systems for cannabis cultivators and retailers using its proprietary Vaportrol technology. Their product line serves a wide range of clients, from home growers with the Cool Cure system to large-scale commercial operations and dispensaries.

MJ Unpacked’s East Coast conference emphasized that cannabis operators should compete on customer experience rather than price to build lasting brand-retailer partnerships. Industry leaders highlighted the importance of consistent digital messaging, inventory organized by consumer "moments," and operational excellence to maintain trust and loyalty in a competitive market.

A Louisiana House committee unanimously advanced a bill allowing terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana in hospitals, provided it is not smoked or vaped and is handled by the patient or a caregiver. The legislation also includes provisions for hospitals to opt out if federal officials take action against facilities in the state.

Rep. Ilhan Omar highlighted the prevalence of cannabis use among members of Congress and advocated for full federal legalization. She emphasized that reform must include social justice measures like expunging records and community reinvestment while noting ongoing legislative actions regarding medical marijuana for veterans and federal rescheduling.

A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that California adolescents view daily cannabis use as less harmful than daily cigarette smoking, nicotine vaping, or alcohol use. While harm perceptions for other substances increased with age, the perception of harm for cannabis decreased as students got older.

Michigan’s adult-use cannabis sales reached $258.17 million in April, bolstered by a record $20.4 million in sales on 4/20. Despite a new 24% wholesale tax, the market is showing signs of recovery from previous lows, with the average price of flower seeing a slight increase.

Apollo Global Management is acquiring Emerald Holding Inc. for $1.5 billion and Questex LLC to form a massive B2B experiential media platform. The deal, which takes Emerald private, is expected to close in the second half of 2026 and includes MJBizCon as part of a broader industry consolidation.

A University of Pennsylvania study found that providing affordable medical cannabis significantly reduces opioid use and pain levels in chronic pain patients. Over five months, mean daily opioid consumption dropped by approximately 65%, with nearly a quarter of participants discontinuing opioid therapy entirely.

The Level Up case resulted in a $3,000 fine and a $10,000 penalty for future violations, while a federal court upheld Maryland's authority to regulate intoxicating hemp. Additionally, FBI agents executed search warrants on a Virginia Senate leader’s office and a hemp-THC business.

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control is requiring medical cannabis manufacturers and distributors to register with the DEA following federal reclassification to Schedule III. Licensees have until January 1, 2027, to comply before facing enforcement actions, with registration offering benefits such as tax relief and access to traditional banking.

A study in JAMA Network Open found that most first-time cannabis buyers aged 60 and older in Colorado prefer CBD-only or combination products to manage pain and sleep without seeking a high. Researchers emphasize the importance of using these findings to develop better clinical resources and support for older adults seeking alternative symptom relief.

Telemedicine is revolutionizing medical cannabis access by offering faster, more convenient virtual evaluations that reduce traditional barriers like travel and wait times. Despite challenges such as varying state regulations and lack of insurance coverage, digital healthcare is becoming a permanent fixture in the industry by meeting modern patient expectations for efficiency and privacy.

Rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III could prompt the EPA to establish federal pesticide standards for the industry, potentially replacing the current fragmented system of state-level rules with a unified national framework. This transition is expected to improve product safety and consumer confidence but may also increase compliance costs and take 12 to 24 months to implement.

Chicago-based THC brand 1906 has entered a multiyear partnership with Navy Pier, the Midwest’s most visited attraction.

FBI agents raided a medical cannabis dispensary co-owned by Virginia State Senator Louise Lucas, leading to three arrests and claims of political intimidation. Meanwhile, Governor Abigail Spanberger is weighing a decision on legislation to establish a legal adult-use cannabis market in the state.

The Kentucky Office of the Inspector General concluded an investigation into the state's medical cannabis licensing process, finding it to be fair and transparent. Governor Andy Beshear praised the findings, while the program continues to serve patients with qualifying conditions since its launch last December.

North Carolina Democrats proposed a bill to put two constitutional amendments on the November ballot to legalize medical and adult-use cannabis. If approved by voters, state lawmakers would be required to develop the legal frameworks for both programs.

Indiana Governor Mike Braun has reaffirmed his support for legalizing medical cannabis in Indiana following federal rescheduling, though he remains opposed to adult-use legalization. Braun noted that law enforcement input and significant cross-border cannabis traffic will be key factors in future policy considerations.

The DEA clarified that synthetic HHC is an illegal Schedule I substance, while Maryland and Pennsylvania officials advanced psychedelic and cannabis-related initiatives. Additionally, Texas faced conflicting court rulings on hemp products, and California streamlined license changes to help businesses benefit from federal rescheduling moves.

The West Virginia Supreme Court is considering whether the smell of marijuana alone provides sufficient probable cause for a search warrant of a person's home. The case follows a lower court's decision to suppress evidence seized from a residence, citing the drug's evolving legal status and the heightened privacy protections afforded to homes over vehicles.

Shelley Johnson, a 73-year-old former occupational therapist and cancer survivor known as A Good Witch, uses social media, tarot, and sculpture to promote mindfulness and self-acceptance. Her unconventional approach emphasizes nervous system regulation and the intentional use of cannabis to help individuals stay present and overcome personal limitations.

California regulators are streamlining the process for marijuana businesses to switch from recreational to medical licensing. This change allows businesses to qualify for federal tax deductions and other benefits following the federal rescheduling of medical cannabis to Schedule III.

A class action lawsuit in Missouri alleges that Good Day Farm and a network of companies formed a cartel to illegally control over 60 dispensaries and manipulate the state's cannabis market. The plaintiffs claim the group bypassed licensing caps to suppress wholesale prices and unfairly exclude independent products from retail shelves.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed legislation allowing off-duty medical cannabis use for fire and rescue public safety employees, protecting them from employment discrimination. The law prohibits reporting to duty under the influence and requires employers to report on-duty impairment to the State Emergency Medical Services Board starting October 1.

Congressional amendments regarding hemp THC products stalled in the House, while Maryland's governor signed legislation allowing firefighters to use medical cannabis off-duty. The newsletter also highlights potential medical cannabis progress in North Carolina, archaeological evidence of ancient cannabis cultivation in China, and various federal and state regulatory updates.

States are responding cautiously to federal marijuana rescheduling, which may have unintended legal consequences for medical cannabis in South Carolina.

Virginia lawmakers rejected Governor Abigail Spanberger's proposed amendments to a retail cannabis market bill, leaving her with 30 days to either sign the original legislation or veto it. The impasse centers on disagreements over the regulatory framework, licensing limits, and social equity provisions, prolonging the state's legal uncertainty regarding cannabis sales.

North Carolina Senate leaders are reconsidering medical marijuana legalization following federal rescheduling efforts, while a state advisory council recommends a broad regulatory framework for adult-use and medical cannabis. The push for reform aims to replace the state's currently unregulated market with a system focused on public health and safety.

The West Virginia Supreme Court is reviewing a case to decide if the odor of cannabis alone justifies a home search, following a lower court ruling that suppressed evidence found in a 2020 search. The court's decision, expected by June 11, will determine whether the smell of marijuana provides sufficient probable cause for police to enter a residence.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed SB1603, which blocks an automatic state-level review of marijuana's classification that would typically follow federal rescheduling. The law now requires the state General Assembly to establish a regulatory framework before any changes to the drug's status can be made at the state level.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Senator John Fetterman welcomed the federal reclassification of medical marijuana to Schedule III, viewing it as a critical step toward state-level recreational legalization. While public polls show strong support for legalization, Republican leaders and local advocacy groups expressed opposition or caution regarding the potential public health and economic impacts.

The Virginia General Assembly rejected Governor Abigail Spanberger's proposed amendments to an adult-use cannabis sales bill, sending the original legislation back to her desk unchanged. While the governor's amendments sought to delay the market launch and increase penalties, it remains unclear if she will sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature.

The House Appropriations Committee has directed federal agencies to assess the adequacy of state marijuana regulatory frameworks and develop strategies to prevent product diversion into jurisdictions where cannabis remains prohibited. The committee's spending legislation also maintains a long-standing rider blocking Washington, D.C. from legalizing recreational marijuana sales, despite local opposition and broader bipartisan calls for federal reform.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche has rescheduled medical cannabis to Schedule III, providing 280E tax relief while introducing significant federal oversight through a mandatory DEA buy-back mechanism and new administrative fees. Although the reclassification is effective immediately for medical use, the compliance infrastructure remains undefined, and broader rescheduling for the adult-use market is not expected until at least 2027.

Representative Jason Powell is calling for a special session in Tennessee to establish a medical marijuana framework as the drug undergoes federal rescheduling. This request follows recent state legislation that blocks the automatic legalization of medical cannabis at the state level until the General Assembly creates its own regulatory system.

The Trump administration is reportedly moving forward with marijuana rescheduling as several states advance legislation on research, sales, and potency limits. Alabama is set to begin medical cannabis sales soon, while new research highlights the therapeutic potential of cannabis and psychedelics.

Virginia's adult-use marijuana market launch depends on Governor Abigail Spanberger's decision after state lawmakers rejected her proposed amendments to a retail sales bill.

Illinois has granted $32 million in loans to help social-equity cannabis businesses, such as growers and dispensaries, overcome financial barriers to starting operations.

Virginia lawmakers rejected Governor Spanberger's proposed amendments to recreational marijuana sales and resentencing relief legislation, sending the original measures back to her desk for potential veto. The rejected changes included delaying the start date of sales and introducing stricter criminal penalties for consumers.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated that bipartisan support exists for federal marijuana reform, potentially within the current or next Congress. Meanwhile, the USDA reported a significant increase in hemp crop value for 2025 as various states navigate evolving regulations, public health studies, and legal challenges to licensing.

Sponsors of Virginia's marijuana legalization bills are urging colleagues to reject Governor Abigail Spanberger’s proposed amendments, which include new criminal penalties and a delayed start date for sales. Although rejecting the changes risks a gubernatorial veto, lawmakers argue the amendments undermine social equity efforts and years of bipartisan work.

Green Grow has filed a lawsuit over a failed $1.6M buildout, while Maryland reported $27.6M in cannabis tax revenue. Additionally, D.C. regulators are scheduled to meet on April 22, and Virginia officials face mounting pressure regarding their market rollout.

On April 20, 2026, various politicians, government agencies, and major brands used social media to celebrate cannabis culture, advocate for legalization, and promote public safety. While political figures called for federal reform and social justice, agencies focused on responsible consumption and brands offered themed promotional deals.

The House Appropriations Committee is directing federal agencies to evaluate the adequacy of state marijuana regulatory frameworks and develop strategies to prevent the diversion of legal cannabis into states where it remains prohibited. Included in a fiscal year 2027 spending bill, the directive also maintains a federal block on recreational marijuana sales in Washington, D.C.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order to expand psychedelics research and urged the Department of Justice to accelerate marijuana rescheduling. The newsletter also highlights a study showing medical cannabis significantly reduces prescription drug use and details various state-level legislative developments regarding hemp and marijuana regulations.

Colorado's Marijuana Enforcement Division is cracking down on businesses illegally substituting chemically-treated hemp for marijuana to avoid taxes and safety regulations. The agency plans to implement emergency rules and increased testing to address public safety risks and fraudulent reporting that has cost the state millions in tax revenue.

A study of over 3,500 patients found that medical marijuana significantly reduces the use of prescription drugs, with 58.9 percent of participants stopping other medications entirely. Patients reported an average 84.5 percent reduction in prescription drug use across all categories, leading to fewer side effects and improved quality of life.

President Trump is reportedly planning an executive order to boost research on the psychedelic ibogaine, while bipartisan federal lawmakers are introducing a bill to protect state hemp industries. Meanwhile, Virginia's governor defended amendments to a marijuana sales bill as several other states advance regulatory changes and scientific reviews highlight the therapeutic potential of MDMA and cannabis.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger proposed several amendments to a recreational marijuana legalization bill, including delaying the sales launch to mid-2027 and increasing criminal penalties, following consultations with leaders in other states. The move has faced significant criticism from the bill's sponsors and reform advocates for potentially restricting the legal marketplace and departing from the original legislative framework.

The IRS clarified that cannabis industry workers are currently ineligible for tip tax write-offs until federal legalization, while Maryland's governor signed a bill protecting veterinarians who recommend medical cannabis for animals. Other developments include Pennsylvania's budget incorporating projected marijuana revenue and ongoing legal disputes over licensing in Rhode Island.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives passed a 53.2 billion dollar budget proposal that anticipates revenue from recreational marijuana sales despite the drug not yet being legal in the state. While the plan faces opposition in the Republican-controlled Senate, recent polling indicates that nearly 70 percent of Pennsylvania voters support adult-use legalization.

During a Virginia CCA Board meeting, stakeholders urged regulators to address gaps in the state's adult-use cannabis rollout, including equity licensing, supply chain timing, and workforce readiness.

Virginia Delegate Rozia Henson, Jr. will accept Governor Abigail Spanberger's amendments to a marijuana resentencing bill, despite concerns that shifting from automatic relief to a petition-based process may exclude eligible individuals. While the governor’s changes also address violent offense exclusions and hearing deadlines, the lawmaker emphasizes the need for legal aid resources to help incarcerated individuals navigate the new requirements.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger proposed delaying the start of adult-use cannabis sales until July 2027 and introduced new tax proposals for the market.

Virginia lawmakers are opposing Governor Abigail Spanberger's proposed amendments to recreational marijuana legislation, which include delaying the sales launch to July 2027, increasing excise taxes, and introducing stricter criminal penalties. Critics argue these changes will hinder the legal market and benefit illicit sellers, while the governor also seeks to redirect tax revenue from dedicated equity funds to the general fund.

Tennessee lawmakers passed HB1972 and SB1603 to prevent the automatic legalization of medical marijuana in the state if the drug is rescheduled at the federal level. The legislation requires the General Assembly to establish a regulatory framework before any state-level reclassification can occur.

Pennsylvania lawmakers are advancing HB 2254, a bill that would require healthcare facilities to allow terminally ill patients to use medical cannabis. The legislation, which recently passed the House Health Committee, aims to provide consistent access to symptom relief while the state also considers broader proposals for recreational marijuana legalization.

Maryland lawmakers have passed legislation to protect firefighters and emergency responders from employment discrimination for off-duty medical marijuana use. Under the bill heading to Governor Wes Moore's desk, registered medical patients in these roles cannot be penalized for testing positive for cannabis metabolites.

Federal officials are seeking to dismiss a lawsuit against hemp product coverage, and Virginia's governor is requesting amendments to a marijuana legalization bill. Other key developments include a Pennsylvania poll showing 69 percent support for legalization and Target obtaining 72 hemp edible licenses in Minnesota.

Governor Abigail Spanberger requested amendments to Virginia's recreational marijuana sales bill, including delaying the market launch by six months to July 1, 2027. The governor aims to ensure a safer implementation of the legal market while strengthening enforcement against illicit sales and youth-targeted products.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed legislation protecting the parental rights of cannabis consumers and allowing medical marijuana use in hospitals. She also proposed amendments to a bill for resentencing relief, shifting the process from automatic hearings to a petition-based system.

The District of Columbia is using a Ninth Circuit ruling to argue that the dormant Commerce Clause does not apply to cannabis markets, supporting its residency-based licensing rules.

The 2026 Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention (PACC) arrives in Philadelphia amidst strong political momentum for adult-use legalization, spearheaded by Governor Shapiro's budget proposal. The event will focus on navigating Pennsylvania’s transition from a robust $1.7 billion medical market to a potential $5 billion fully regulated industry, featuring sessions on operational readiness and social equity.

A recent poll by the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition shows that 69% of likely Pennsylvania voters support the regulation and taxation of adult-use cannabis. The survey highlights strong bipartisan support for a regulated framework, like SB 49, that prioritizes safety standards and restricts unregulated intoxicating THC products.

A new poll reveals that nearly 70 percent of Pennsylvania voters across all party lines support legalizing adult-use marijuana as Governor Josh Shapiro continues to urge lawmakers to pass reform legislation for its significant revenue potential.

Cleveland City Councilman Richard Starr has proposed legislation to allocate half of the city's marijuana tax revenue toward council members' discretionary neighborhood equity funds. The proposal aims to direct funds specifically to community projects, though it faces potential review and past opposition from the mayor's administration regarding budget impacts.

Max Jackson argues the hemp industry caused its own decline by exploiting legal loopholes to sell high-potency THC products. This behavior triggered a wave of strict state and federal bans, leaving the non-intoxicating wellness market as collateral damage.

Roger Stone claims the Trump administration is delaying cannabis rescheduling, while Massachusetts, Maryland, Louisiana, Connecticut, and Hawaii advance various marijuana and psychedelics bills. Other updates include federal gun ownership reports for cannabis users, state-level legalization debates, and new research on the therapeutic benefits of CBD and psilocybin.

Virginia lawmakers passed legislation to regulate adult-use cannabis sales, and advocates are urging Governor Spanberger to sign the bills without delay to replace the illicit market with a safe, regulated system. The proposed laws would allow legal retail sales to begin in 2027, ensuring product testing and consumer protections.

The Department of Justice is funding research into 3D-printed marijuana breathalyzers while Massachusetts lawmakers passed a bill to increase legal possession limits and overhaul state cannabis regulation. Meanwhile, Virginia's governor signed a psilocybin legalization bill contingent on FDA approval, and Canadian data shows a shift in consumer preference from alcohol to cannabis.

West Virginia Treasurer Larry Pack will release $38 million in medical cannabis funds for state programs, substance abuse treatment, and law enforcement following a gubernatorial veto of a related distribution bill.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed bills HB 1347 and SB 379 to automatically legalize and reschedule FDA-approved formulations of psilocybin in the state. The legislation coincides with federal efforts by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. to expand therapeutic access to psychedelics, while Virginia also prepares for the launch of recreational cannabis sales.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein endorsed a proposal from the state’s Advisory Council on Cannabis to legalize adult-use cannabis. The council recommends skipping a medical-only program to more efficiently regulate the market and improve public safety.

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have developed a prototype for a low-cost, portable marijuana breathalyzer using 3D-printed cartridges and colorimetric sensors to detect delta-9 THC. Funded in part by the Department of Justice, this tool aims to provide law enforcement with a rapid roadside impairment test similar to alcohol breathalyzers.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is urging lawmakers to legalize adult-use marijuana, highlighting a projected $1.3 billion in revenue over five years to fund education and public safety. While the Independent Fiscal Office estimates even higher annual returns, the proposal remains stalled in the Republican-led Senate despite voter support and recent progress on a regulatory oversight board.

A Sandusky County judge issued a temporary restraining order against Ohio’s ban on intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids, ruling the law likely violates the Dormant Commerce Clause by unfairly favoring the state's licensed marijuana industry.

This weekly cannabis policy roundup covers the closure of unlicensed businesses and beverage proposals in D.C., medical market updates in Virginia, worker protections in Maryland, and national updates on federal policy and industry bankruptcies.

Mayor Muriel Bowser introduced a bill allowing D.C. breweries and distilleries to partner with medical cannabis manufacturers to produce alcohol-free, cannabis-infused beverages for registered patients.

The Cannabist Company is seeking Chapter 15 bankruptcy and selling its ownership interests in several states, including recent deals in Virginia, Ohio, and Delaware.

The FDA issued a guidance memo regarding hemp-derived CBD products, while Massachusetts businesses sued to keep a legalization repeal off the ballot and Texas approved new medical cannabis licenses. Additionally, D.C. proposed cannabis-infused drink legislation and Virginia began hiring for its recreational marijuana market oversight.

Virginia officials are hiring for nearly a dozen new cannabis regulatory roles, including directors for licensing and compliance, as Governor Abigail Spanberger prepares to act on legislation that would launch adult-use marijuana sales in 2027.

The Texas Department of Public Safety conditionally approved three new medical marijuana business licenses as part of the Phase II expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program. This expansion aims to increase the number of licensed dispensaries from three to twelve and broaden qualifying medical conditions to include chronic pain and traumatic brain injury.

The Trump administration is launching a Medicare initiative to cover hemp CBD and THC products after a federal judge denied a request to block the pilot program. Other developments include Colorado's new law allowing medical cannabis in hospitals, Maryland's advancement of a psychedelics task force, and various state-level regulatory updates.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger is being urged to amend legislation imposing a 2mg THC cap on hemp products to prevent small business losses and maintain consumer access before the state's legal cannabis market launches in 2027. Proponents suggest a 5mg limit to sustain the regulated market and protect users who rely on hemp for wellness.

Texas is launching its own ibogaine research program after drug companies failed to meet state requirements for a $50 million investment. The state will partner with medical researchers to develop the psychedelic into an FDA-approved treatment for addiction and brain trauma.