Laws News & Guides
October 11, 2024Parts of New Jersey Hemp Law Ruled Unenforceable by Judge A significant victory was recently logged for the hemp industry as a New Jersey judge decreed that parts of New Jersey's recently passed hemp law cannot be enforced. The law tries to differentiate between in-state and out-of-state hemp products in certain aspects. The Implications of…
- October 10, 2024
In an awe-inspiring operation demonstrating the ongoing crackdown on illegal marijuana cultivation, two sprawling mansions in Maine were seized by federal authorities. The Undercover Operation The federal government, in a strategic and discrete operation, confiscated two luxurious properties alleged to be hub spots for illegal cannabis cultivation. This seizure not only reinforces the commitment of…
- October 9, 2024
In Nebraska, proponents of medical marijuana are challenging allegations from the secretary of state regarding the legitimacy of nearly 100,000 signatures that were gathered in support of two separate petitions. This charge, if it is found to have credibility, could potentially obstruct the proposed ballot initiatives related to expanding medical marijuana access in the state.…
October 8, 2024In a significant step towards improving access to medical marijuana in Arkansas, the state's top election official has confirmed that a voter initiative has garnered sufficient public support, with 91,000 signatures, to qualify for the ballot in November. Implications for the Medical Marijuana Program The verification of these signatures indicates an overwhelming response from the…
- October 3, 2024
In a potentially momentous move, the Supreme Court of Arkansas overruled a key government official, instructing him to continue the tallying process of approximately 18,000 signatures favoring the expansion of the state's medical marijuana scheme. This decision has reignited hope of possible voting for this amendment. Stalled Progress for Medical Marijuana Originally, the ballot initiative…
- October 2, 2024
Legislative history is in the making as U.S. Senator Rand Paul from Kentucky outlines an adventurous initiative to transform the hemp industry. Known as arguably the most potent supporter of cannabis reform on the Republican side of the Congress, Senator Paul has introduced a groundbreaking bill. This bold measure aims to increase the level of…
- October 2, 2024
Legal Battle Ensues Over Dismissed Ballot Proposal in Arkansas The contentious issue of medical cannabis has once again been brought to the forefront in Arkansas. This time, a lawsuit has been filed against the state's Secretary over a dismissed ballot initiative. The proposal was aimed at expanding the medical marijuana (MMJ) program throughout Arkansas. This…
October 2, 2024The Deep South has traditionally been conservative in its policies toward marijuana legalization. However, recent groundbreaking changes have drawn attention to two unexpected states in the region: Alabama and Kentucky. These states are at the forefront of the "Southern Green Revolution," leading the way in pioneering medical marijuana policies. The Emergence of Medical Marijuana in…
September 30, 2024Positive winds of change are blowing across the American political landscape with an increasing number of candidates endorsing the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana. Notably, leading the charge is a prominent political figure, Vice President Kamala Harris, who has strongly positioned herself as a major advocate for the legalization of marijuana. Marijuana Stance Clear No…
September 30, 2024The Legal Battle Surrounding Medical Marijuana in Nebraska A potentially decisive legal battle in the struggle over the legalization of medical marijuana in Nebraska has taken a significant step forward. A District Court judge has ruled that a lawsuit targeting two ballot initiatives, which aim to make medical marijuana legal in Nebraska, can go ahead.…
- September 30, 2024
Lab Regulations in Cannabis Markets Raising Safety Concerns More than half of America’s leading cannabis markets lack a reference lab as per analysis by MJBizDaily, which brings up significant queries about product safety and labeling. Regulatory Oversight in Cannabis Laboratories In the booming arena of cannabis markets, regulation and testing have become paramount. A significant…
- September 27, 2024
In a major development in the cannabis industry, the parent company of West Coast Cure, a highly established Californian cannabis brand, has recently filed an appeal in court to dismiss the class action lawsuit lodged against them. The lawsuit alleges the company's breach of state regulations and its sale of unsafe vaping products containing prohibited…
- September 27, 2024
In a recent report sponsored by federal health authorities, experts argue that there is an urgent need for Congress to delineate that hemp-derived Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other intoxicating cannabinoids extracted from hemp belong under the governance of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Experts believe that taking this step is crucial to manage the regulatory complexities…
- September 27, 2024
The Future of Florida Adult-Use Cannabis With the impending national election, the fate of adult-use cannabis in Florida seems to hang in the balance. Recent polls show a divided opinion, suggesting that the state's leap into legalizing adult-use marijuana could go either way. Understanding the Odds Recent polls suggest a 50-50 split amongst Florida voters…
- September 26, 2024
The Los Angeles County Showdown with Online Illicit Cannabis Ads A significant battle is ensuing in Los Angeles County as officials step up their efforts to combat illicit cannabis businesses. Their primary strategy: the removal of online advertising for these unregulated and illegal stores from popular platforms like Google and Yelp. Offline Illegality Mirrors Online…
- September 26, 2024
A Shift in Marijuana Legalization Viewpoint In a recent pivotal interview, the Democratic VP candidate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, declined to endorse nationwide marijuana legalization. His stance is that the question of marijuana legalization is a matter best left to individual states to decide, underscoring a significant shift in political opinion. States Leading the Charge…
- September 25, 2024
A New Era for Hemp Regulations The United States Congress recently unveiled a dramatic new bill aimed at overhauling the regulations on lawful use of hemp-derived products across the nation. The new regulations, if enacted, could potentially have far-reaching implications on the cannabis industry and its users. A key aspect of the proposed reform is…
- September 24, 2024
The countdown to implementable regulations on intoxicating hemp in California concluded recently, as new rules issued by the Governor, Gavin Newsom, came into effect. The issuance had initially been declared as an emergency measure aimed at controlling and limiting the production and sale of intoxicating hemp products in the state. What This Means for Cannabis…
- September 24, 2024
Connecticut Cannabis Equity Agency Faces Criticism Following State Audit The Connecticut Cannabis Equity Agency, responsible for cannabis social equity funding and license approval, has been highlighted in a recent state audit. The report reveals a series of questionable practices and depicts a dysfunctional workplace lacking a coherent strategic plan. State Audit Reveals Lack of Strategic…
- September 24, 2024
Florida marijuana advocates are all set to blaze a new trail, as the state edges closer to legalizing adult marijuana sales. The development has sparked a glimmer of hope among marijuana companies operating in Florida, particularly with regard to Amendment 3, the adult-use cannabis ballot referendum. A successful passing of this amendment could signal a…
- September 23, 2024
Software Employee Denied U.S Visa for 'Aiding' Marijuana Law Breaches In highlighting the recent global movement towards the decriminalization and even legalization of marijuana, a unique case has arisen which showcases the persistent rift between state and federal laws regarding cannabis consumption and sales. A prominent worker engaged in developing software specifically designed for the…
- September 16, 2024
Deciphering the Legalese: Federal Stance on Mailing Cannabis The overarching federal stance on the mailing of marijuana remains quite clear: it's illegal. More specifically, mailing marijuana falls under the jurisdiction of the United States Postal Service, a federal entity, thus making the law nationally applicable regardless of varying state legislation on the use or possession…
September 16, 2024The medical marijuana industry in Missouri is demonstrating its resilience despite facing challenges. Recently hit by a wide-scale product recall, marijuana operators are nonetheless successfully adapting to new plain packaging regulations introduced this month. Recall Impact on the Industry The recall event, one of the largest of its kind in Missouri's relatively young medical marijuana…
September 13, 2024It's been a roller-coaster ride for marijuana in Virginia. What once promised a thriving market for adult-use cannabis has sadly become overshadowed by political intricacies, currently leaving the program in a stagnant state. The potential growth and benefits of a well-regulated marijuana market are undeniable, but the question arises: How can Virginia get its marijuana…
- September 12, 2024
In a shocking revelation, recent secret shopper activities within the state of Delaware have found hemp-derived products sold to contain a wide variety of undisclosed contaminants, ranging from potentially harmful substances to psychedelic compounds such as psilocybin. Potentially Hazardous Hemp Products These undisclosed contaminants can pose a strong health risk to unwary consumers seeking to…
- September 11, 2024
The United States hemp industry is poised for significant growth following a significant federal appeals court ruling. The decision by the court has given rise to a renewed sense of optimism among hemp operators, largely due to the far-reaching implications it potentially has for hemp-based businesses across the nation. Understanding the Decision The 9th U.S.…
- September 11, 2024
Notably absent from the 2024 marijuana legalization campaigns are several veteran marijuana nonprofits - organizations that have been imperative in advocating and educating about medicinal marijuana usage over the decades. As the marijuana industry burgeons and takes control of the driving seat for legalization initiatives, the shadow of these nonprofits is flickering. The Changing Landscape…
- September 10, 2024
Shannon O'Brien Dismissed as Chairperson of Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission In an unexpected turn of events, Massachusetts Treasurer Deborah Goldberg dismissed Shannon O’Brien, the former chairperson of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) on Monday, causing ripples through the state's cannabis industry. Goldberg, who oversees the CCC, made the announcement that comes amidst a pioneering…
- September 10, 2024
As skies cleared in North Carolina this past weekend, more than 4,000 consumers made their way to Great Smoky Cannabis Co, marking a milestone for recreational marijuana sales on tribal lands. Nestled within the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, visitors from across the country found themselves in a shifting landscape where they could purchase marijuana, a legal…
- September 9, 2024
In an unexpected turn of events, Donald Trump, the former US President, has publicly announced his approval for Florida's marijuana legalization. This announcement comes as a surprise, considering Trump's past stance on the legal status of marijuana. Out of office, however, Trump seems to be changing his tune to reflect the evolving attitude of the…
- September 9, 2024
Dismissal of a Pivotal Lawsuit Against 13 Marijuana Testing Labs In a significant turn of events, 13 marijuana testing labs found themselves relieved of lawsuit allegations. Anresco Laboratories and Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs, the plaintiffs in the case, voluntarily withdrew their complaint, which accused the defendant labs of manipulating marijuana testing results to secure clients…
- September 6, 2024
Understanding Congressional Intent: THC Clarification and Marijuana Reform The complexities of policy making often cloud clear interpretation, as evidenced by recent developments following the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. The primary objective was to legalize hemp, not its derivative, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Yet, as lawmakers soon realized, they had inadvertently done just that. In the…
- September 5, 2024
The landscape of the medical marijuana industry in Alabama can be expected to undergo significant transformation, as a leading authority in the judicial system contemplates easing licensing rules. The nod of approval would lie within the purview of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC), who may soon anticipate fewer shackles to the process of vetting…
- September 5, 2024
Ohio Implementing Limits on Cannabis Stores Ohio, a player on the US map of legalized marijuana, has taken a surprising step by restricting the number of cannabis stores sanctioned in the state's three major cities. Authorities in the state have decided to put a cap on the number of licenses for adult-use cannabis stores within…
- September 5, 2024
Unpacking the Cannabis Debate: Tracing the Policies of Trump and Harris As cannabis policies further infiltrate the American political landscape, the stance of top-level figures in the White House becomes of growing importance. With neither the incumbent, Trump, nor the Vice Presidential contender, Harris, appearing to pose a risk to the flourishing cannabis industry, it…
- September 4, 2024
Popular Cannabis Company Faces Second Lawsuit Following Teenager's Psychotic Episode In what turns out to be a significant blow to the image of a popular cannabis company, a teenager in California has stepped forward with allegations that their products triggered a psychotic episode for him due to underage use. This is the second such lawsuit…
- September 3, 2024
The hot-button topic of marijuana legalization, specifically as it pertains to recreational use, has once again come to the fore of political discourse. This time, it has been kindled by none other than former President Donald Trump, who has drawn flak and attention for his stance on the Florida's proposed adult-use marijuana ballot initiative. A…
- August 30, 2024
The Cornhusker state of Nebraska appears to be the latest in line to join the growing group of United States territories warming up to the therapeutic benefits of medical marijuana. Based on the latest reports, two significant referendums are likely to meet the qualifying criteria for the November ballot in Nebraska. These proposed initiatives aim…
- August 28, 2024
New Packaging Rules for Missouri Cannabis Operators As the medical and recreational cannabis market continues to grow, various states are implementing new rules and requirements for operators. Missouri is the latest state to introduce a significant change in its regulations. Effective from September 1, Missouri cannabis operators must abide by new packaging rules, phased in…
- August 26, 2024
With the general election on the horizon, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has announced that it will delay the hearing on marijuana rescheduling until December at the earliest. The substance is currently categorized as a Schedule 1 drug, alongside substances like heroin and LSD, which are perceived to have the highest potential for abuse.…
- August 26, 2024
The Not-So-High Times for New York Legal Hemp Operators Law enforcement in New York, along with marijuana regulators, are reported to be conducting raids and shutting down licensed hemp shops across the state. The official reason for these rigorous measures is an increase in the crackdown on illegal marijuana sales. However, many believe that the…
- August 23, 2024
Impending Threat to Missouri's Hemp-Derived THC Ban Missouri's executive order intent on banning hemp-derived THC products is facing a potential drawback. Governor Mike Parson has voiced concerns over the undermining role played by the secretary of state which threatens to throw a wrench in the proposed ban's progress. The Underlying Cause The cause of this…
- August 23, 2024
Nevada Regulators Approve Six Licenses for Cannabis Consumption Lounges In the latest move affirming the state's progressive stance on cannabis, Nevada regulators have progressed a step further in the legalization of cannabis consumption. An intense process stretching nearly two years has culminated in the issuance of six prospective licenses to applicants aiming to establish cannabis…
- August 23, 2024
Missouri Republican Intrasquabbles Impede Hemp-Derived THC Prohibition A whirlpool of controversy is swirling around a proposed ban on hemp-derived THC products in Missouri. The crux of the issue is the purported undermining of the executive order responsible for the ban by none other than the secretary of state, according to Governor Mike Parson. Predictably, this…
- August 19, 2024
The Hemp Struggle The continuous argument over intoxicating hemp regulation in California underscores the long-term fight faced by regulated marijuana markets all over the United States. This prolonged dispute highlights the pressing issue for states who have legalized marijuana both for medical and recreational purposes. The contention lies primarily in the question of how best…
- August 16, 2024
A Collective Sigh of Relief for Hemp Advocates in California The euphoria among hemp enthusiasts in the Golden State is discernible as stringent regulations on intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids failed to pass in the California Legislature. This move brings temporary relief to thousands of hemp cultivators, business entities, and consumers who were anticipating a regulatory crackdown.…
- August 16, 2024
Judge Rules on Wyoming's Hemp-Derived THC Products Ban In a significant abrupt turn for hemp-derived THC product manufacturers and consumers, a federal judge dismissed a legal challenge against Wyoming's standing ban on these items. The ruling essentially ensures Wyoming's commercial restrictions on delta-8 and other hemp-derivatives remain in force. Details of the Legal Dispute The…
- August 15, 2024
In a surprising and somewhat alarming development, the Missouri chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) is in direct opposition to the state's newly implemented regulations regarding cannabis product toxicity levels. Specifically, it has observed that Missouri has increased the acceptable limit for potentially harmful additives, most notably vitamin E…
