Laws News & Guides
September 11, 2024Hemp Operators Enthused by Pivotal Federal Appeals Court Ruling
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, 2024Veteran MJ Nonprofits Missing from the Forefront of the 2024 Marijuana Legalization Campaigns
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
Massachusetts Treasurer Uproots State’s Leading Marijuana Authority
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
Thousands Flock to Tribal Lands for Recreational Marijuana Sales in North Carolina
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
Trump Gives Nod to Florida’s Marijuana Legalization: An Unexpected Turn Towards Rescheduling
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
California Courts Clear 13 Marijuana Testing Labs off Lawsuit Allegations!
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
Unraveling Congressional Ambiguities: The Essential Role of THC Clarification in Paving the Way for Marijuana Reform
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
Alabama Judge Contemplates Easing Up on Medical Marijuana Licensing Rules
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, 2024Ohio Puts a Lid on the Number of Cannabis Stores in its Major Cities – A Slimmer Green Scene Ahead!
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
Trump or Harris – Who is our Cannabis Champion? A Spirited Debate Unfolds Between Stakeholders
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
Teenager’s Lawsuit Alleges Psychosis Triggered by Stiiizy, Igniting Second Legal Battle for Cannabis Giant
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
Trump Sparks Controversy Over His Stance on Florida’s Recreational Marijuana Vote
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
Nebraska edges closer to certifying ballot measures for legalizing medical marijuana
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
The Clock is Ticking for Missouri Cannabis Operators: Plain Packaging Required by September 1st!
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
Discover Why the DEA is Pushing Back the Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing Until After the General Election!
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
New York Marijuana Crackdown: Are Legal Hemp Operators the Unintended Casualties?
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
Missouri’s Ban on THC from Hemp Threatened by Internal Clash Among Republicans
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
After a Minor Snag, Nevada Clears the Way for Six More Cannabis Consumption Lounges!
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’s Republican Rift Stalling the Ban on Hemp-Derived THC: A Tug of War Unfolding
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 Battle of the Buds: California’s Hemp Dilemma and The Continuing Saga with Marijuana
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
Hemp Advocates in California Rejoice Over Temporary Easing of Restrictions
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
Wyoming’s Hemp-Derived THC Products Ban Stays: Judge Brushes Off Challenge
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
Why is Missouri Upping the Limits for Toxic Additives? NORML Finds No Rational Explanation!
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…
- August 15, 2024
Massive Bust: California Authorities Confiscate Whopping 2.2 Million Illegal Cannabis Packages in a Surprising Los Angeles Toy District Raid!
An Unexpected Discovery: California Authorities Seize a Record Number of Illegal Cannabis Packages In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, officers from the California Department of Consumer Affairs’ Bureau of Cannabis Control made an unprecedented discovery. During a meticulously coordinated operation in the Toy District, the team intercepted a staggering 2.2 million illegal cannabis packages.…
- August 12, 2024
The Farm Bill Rescheduling Sparks a Frenzy of Lobbying Activity in the Thriving Cannabis Industry
Within the thriving cannabis industry, lobbyists' efforts have been rewired drastically due to proposed changes to the Farm Bill, a substantial federal legislation which notably integrates cannabis-related matters. Such legislative modifications, particularly the rescheduling of cannabis under federal laws, seem to be invigorating the industry's lobbying activities with new vigor. The Stimulant: Farm Bill's Revisions…
- August 9, 2024
Legal Marijuana on Trump’s Radar: Promises to Deliver Verdict on Florida’s Adult Use Soon
The Proposed Legalization of Adult-Use Marijuana Awaits Presidential Commentary Speculation and anticipation fill the air of the Sunshine State as Donald Trump, the Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election promises to share his thoughts on Florida's adult-use marijuana legalization effort imminently. This significant development has placed Florida's marijuana industry firmly under the spotlight, prompting…
- August 9, 2024
Despite Hitches in Process, Alabama Gears Up to Grant Two Medical Cannabis Grow Licenses
An Unprecedented Step Forward The state of Alabama, known for its conservative views, surprised many by moving forward in its medical marijuana program, poised to issue business licenses to two medical cannabis cultivators. This historic step forward has been taken based on the recommendations of an administrative law judge. The Resolution of Legal Hiccups The…
- August 8, 2024
Discover the Consequences Awaiting Those Who Break Michigan’s Marijuana Business Laws
For Michigan's emerging marijuana industry, understanding and abiding by the state's established business regulations is paramount. In a proactive move aimed towards ensuring continued compliance, the state has introduced specific penalties for those who breach these statutes. Firm Stance on Regulation Violation The law changes serve to further embed marijuana business practice in a legal…
- August 7, 2024
Exciting Leadership Change in Connecticut’s Cannabis Social Equity Group!
New Leadership for Connecticut’s Cannabis Social Equity Group Connecticut is making waves in the cannabis industry with fresh and dynamic leadership at the helm of its cannabis social equity group. The state government's team, responsible for administering social equity initiatives for the adult-use cannabis market, has announced a new executive director to drive forward these…
- August 7, 2024
Missouri Regulators Announce Massive Recall of 2,600 Cannabis Products Due to Testing Flaws
Historic Recall of Cannabis Products in Missouri In a development stirring significant concern and dialogue in the medical marijuana community, Missouri regulators have reportedly recalled a staggering 2,600 cannabis products. According to official statements, the recall has been necessitated due to a significant lapse in the state-mandated lab testing protocols. Overlooking Lab-Testing Protocols Missouri law…
- August 6, 2024
Oklahoma Temporarily Halts Cannabis Producer Amidst Health Violations and Tracking Evasion Concerns
In a significant development regarding the cannabis industry in the United States, regulators in Oklahoma have taken stern steps to address alleged public-health and safety violations and lack of product tracking compliance by a prominent medical cannabis processor in the state. Oklahoma Takes Aim at Health Violations and Tracking Evasion The decision to suspend the…
- August 6, 2024
Oklahoma Halts Marijuana Processor Amid Health Violations and Elusive Tracking Practices
Oklahoma Regulators Crack Down on Medical Marijuana Processor for Health and Safety Violations In a bold move aimed at protecting public health and safety, Oklahoma's primary regulatory body took decisive action against a prominent medical marijuana processor in the state. Citing a plethora of violations, the key charges levied against the processor were failure to…
- August 5, 2024
$12 Million Boost for Those Battling Against Cannabis Legalization in Florida
A Significant Monetary Injection to Oppose Cannabis Legalization A prominent Miami-based hedge fund CEO has reportedly made a substantial donation to those fighting against the legalization of recreational cannabis in Florida. According to local sources, the billionaire has, as a way of expressing his opposition, donated a staggering $12 million to assist in the battle.…
- August 5, 2024
Top Democratic Senators Rally for Complete Removal of Marijuana from Controlled Substances List
Leading Democratic senators made a strong statement to federal law enforcement authorities, advocating for the complete removal of marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Their outspoken stance is in stark contrast with those who believe marijuana should merely be reclassified within the CSA into a lower, lesser-policed classification. The CSA - a statute establishing…
August 4, 2024Unraveling the Mystery: Where Does Weed Grow Wild Around the World?
Identifying Ditch Weed: The Features You Should Know Generally found growing in deserted fields, along the roads, and even in one's backyard, wild weed, also recognized as ditch weed, possesses certain distinguishing features that set it apart from its more refined relative - cultivated weed. A robust, fibrous plant, ditch weed often reach heights of…
- August 2, 2024
Missouri Turns Over a New Leaf: Delta-8 and Various Hemp-derived Products Now Prohibited
In a significant move, Missouri's Republican Governor, Mike Parson, issued an executive order on Thursday banning the sale of psychoactive cannabis compounds at retail locations. This includes a wide range of products sold at various outlets such as liquor stores, novelty shops, and others. Collectively known as Delta-8, these hemp-derived products have seen a surge…
- August 2, 2024
Ohio Gears Up to Ignite Recreational Cannabis Sales Starting Next Week
The Dawn of a New Era in Ohio After months of preparation and anticipation, Ohio's recreational cannabis market is said to come into operation as early as August 6, following the voter's show of support for an adult-use market last year. Cannabis enthusiasts, industry insiders, and entrepreneurs are eagerly awaiting the advent of sales, marking…
- August 2, 2024
Get Ready, North Carolina! Tribal Lands Set to Begin Adult-Use Marijuana Sales on September 7th
Adult-use marijuana is about to become a reality for residents in North Carolina, regardless of whether they hold a North Carolina medical marijuana card. Starting from September 7th, a cannabis store owned by the Native American tribe will open its doors to all adults 21 and over, offering a broad range of cannabis products for…
- August 2, 2024
Michigan Marijuana Tycoon Faces Legal Battle for Alleged Illegal Importation of THCA
Michigan Cannabis Tycoon in Shocking Legal Battle Michigan's Marijuana Industry was stunned to its core when regulators filed a complaint against one of its most prominent cannabis companies, citing allegations of illicit importation of Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA) concentrate from outside the state. THCA, a non-psychotropic cannabinoid found in raw and live cannabis, becomes the better-known…
- August 1, 2024
Governor Announces New York’s Crackdown on Over 1,000 Illegal Marijuana Outlets
Unprecedented Crackdown on Illicit Marijuana Outlets in New York With marijuana regulations changing across the nation, the need for strict enforcement of new laws has never been clearer. New York state has taken a hard stance on illegal marijuana operations, shuttering a record 1,009 marijuana sellers operating unlawfully since the spring. A significant portion of…
- July 31, 2024
New York Regulators Face Legal Challenge from Anti-Marijuana Activists
A group of New York residents, primarily representing anti-marijuana groups, have recently lodged a lawsuit against the state's marijuana regulatory agencies, along with their highest-ranking officials. This move marks the latest legal obstacle within the emerging adult-use cannabis market. Legal Opposition to Cannabis Regulations The primarily anti-marijuana crowd has raised significant concerns over the potential…
- July 31, 2024
Oklahoma Tightens Reins on Cannabis Testing Labs, Mulls Over THCA Ban
Recent changes made by the Oklahoma medical cannabis regulations exemplify the state's consistent move towards implementing stricter standards for cannabis testing laboratories. The state's new approach includes organizing a secret-shopper program for the acquisition of sample products to confirm results and the establishment of a state reference lab, which will serve as a secondary confirmation…
- July 29, 2024
Questioning the Status Quo: GOP Lawmakers State DEA Still Unsure About Cannabis Reclassification
On Capitol Hill, two prominent Republicans recently voiced their concerns to Biden administration officials regarding the ongoing process to reclassify marijuana. Interestingly, it seems that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) might also be in a state of ambiguity regarding the matter. Republican Concerns About DEA's Approach In a letter, GOP lawmakers outlined the "unusual…
- July 29, 2024
Demystifying Cannabis Cultivation: Laws, Plant Growth, and Personal Yield Limits Across U.S. States
Understanding the Legalities of Cannabis Cultivation Across U.S. States The landscape of cannabis cultivation laws radically varies across the United States, causing confusion and curiosity among potential home growers. The simple query of "is growing weed legal" does not generate a straight answer, as it depends on the specific state's legislation on the matter. Personal…
July 26, 2024Minnesota Kicks Off Exciting New Chapter in Marijuana Equity with Social License Application Launch for Adults
In an historic move, the Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management has recently launched its initial social equity business license application window, marking the beginning of a new era of adult-use marijuana in the state. The arrival of this opportunity demonstrates a significant step forward in bringing social equity to the rapidly evolving cannabis industry. Advancing…
- July 25, 2024
Navigating the Green Maze: The Challenges States Face Implementing Effective Marijuana Environmental Regulations
The cannabis industry is renowned for its high energy and water usage, an issue which is starting to vie for the attention of industry regulators. In response to this growing environmental concern, some states are now formulating and implementing their own environmental regulations that are specifically centred around marijuana cultivation. Marijuana's Environmental Impact It's no…
- July 23, 2024
Nearly 43,000 Voices Chime In on the Controversial Proposal to Reschedule Marijuana
In one of the most considerable outpourings of public sentiment in recent years, close to 43,000 comments were submitted regarding the Biden administration's contentious proposal to reschedule marijuana. The majority of the voices on record were in favor of the proposition, according to a submission count made prior to the Monday night deadline. Understanding the…
- July 22, 2024
Delaware Gives Green Light to Medical Marijuana Enterprises for Recreational Use Conversion!
A New Chapter for Medical Marijuana in Delaware Medical marijuana enterprises in the state of Delaware have received authorization to convert to adult-use sales, marking a new chapter in the progressive legalization of marijuana. The significant move was confirmed when state governor formally endorsed a bill, paving the way for a potentially booming cannabis market…
