Author: CannabisNewsWire (CNW)

About CannabisNewsWire CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge. To receive SMS text alerts from CannabisNewsWire, text “CANNABIS” to 21000 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

420 with CNW — How Top Brands, Politicians Celebrated Marijuana’s 4/20 Holiday

April 20, widely known as 4/20, has become an informal holiday associated with cannabis use. As public attitudes continue to shift and legalization spreads across the U.S., more public officials and companies are openly acknowledging the day. This year, messages shared online reflected a mix of celebration, policy advocacy, and public safety reminders.

Lawmakers used the occasion to highlight economic and legislative arguments tied to marijuana policy. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro pointed to the financial impact of prohibition in his state, noting that residents are traveling elsewhere to purchase cannabis, taking significant tax revenue with them. He urged lawmakers to act and move legalization legislation forward.

California Governor Gavin Newsom reflected on a decade since voters approved legalization in the state. He emphasized steps taken to address past inequities and regulate the industry more effectively, while also signaling that further improvements are underway.

In Kentucky, Governor Andy Beshear focused on the economic and medical benefits of cannabis, citing job creation and business growth tied to recent policy changes.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis took a different approach, reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and avoid impaired driving. Similar concerns were echoed by Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis, who argued that delays in legalization continue to cost the state substantial annual revenue.

Democratic groups in several states reiterated support for legalization, with Wisconsin Democrats linking the issue to electoral outcomes and Wyoming Democrats contrasting their stance with Republican opposition.

At the federal level, lawmakers used 4/20 to push for sweeping changes. Senator Cory Booker called attention to ongoing disparities, noting that while cannabis is legally sold in many areas, people with past convictions still face barriers to employment and housing. He advocated for expunging records and establishing a national regulatory system.

Other members of Congress echoed similar themes. Senator John Hickenlooper highlighted Colorado’s approach as a model for potential nationwide legalization. Senator Tina Smith argued that federal laws have not kept pace with state-level changes, while Representative Dina Titus promoted legislation aimed at easing restrictions on cannabis research.

Calls for criminal justice reform were also prominent. Representative Ilhan Omar urged the passage of legislation to decriminalize marijuana and clear past convictions. Representative Jerry Nadler emphasized the need to address the uneven impact of past drug policies, particularly on marginalized communities.

Meanwhile, government agencies focused on public safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminded the public that impaired driving remains illegal nationwide. Cannabis state regulators issued similar warnings, encouraging individuals to plan ahead and avoid getting behind the wheel after consuming cannabis.

Major brands, meanwhile, leaned into the day with marketing campaigns and themed promotions. Companies across the food, beverage, and retail sectors used social media to connect with audiences, often incorporating lighthearted references to cannabis culture. Some opted for subtle nods, while others took a more direct approach.

Ben & Jerry’s, for instance, tied its 4/20 messaging to criminal justice reform, calling attention to racial disparities in marijuana arrests and urging federal legalization that addresses those inequities. The company encouraged its audience to view the day as both a cultural moment and an opportunity for advocacy.

For entities like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), the day offered an opportunity to reflect on how far these businesses have come and on what more they need to do to not only survive but also thrive in the evolving market.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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420 with CNW — How Federal Reclassification Could Reshape Marijuana Taxes

Last December, President Trump signed Executive Order 14067, titled “Increasing Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research.” The directive calls for marijuana to be reclassified from Schedule 1 to 3 under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), a move that could reshape the financial landscape for cannabis businesses.

The proposal is not yet in effect. It must pass through a federal rulemaking process and may face legal challenges along the way. Even so, industry participants are already evaluating what a lower tax burden could mean for their operations, long-term planning, and expansion strategies.

A key issue is Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, which currently blocks companies involved in controlled substances from claiming standard business deductions.

Under current rules, cannabis companies cannot deduct routine expenses like rent, payroll, marketing, or legal services. This restriction significantly raises their effective tax rates. Businesses can, however, subtract the cost of goods sold when calculating income.

These costs include items such as raw materials, packaging, and certain labor tied directly to production. Since these are treated as adjustments rather than deductions, they fall outside the limits of 280E.

This distinction has encouraged companies to allocate as many expenses as possible to inventory under Section 263A. However, this strategy has limits. Larger firms, especially those with annual revenues above $25 million, face restrictions that reduce the benefits of this approach.

The combined effect of these tax rules has placed heavy financial pressure on cannabis operators, particularly retailers. If cannabis is moved to Schedule III, those limitations would no longer apply. Businesses would be able to deduct ordinary expenses like other industries, improving profitability and cash flow.

The timing of any tax relief remains unclear. The order does not set a firm deadline, and it is uncertain whether changes would apply retroactively. Most companies are expected to continue filing taxes under existing rules until new guidance is issued.

In the meantime, operators should review their financial structures and consider how different business entities could affect future tax outcomes. Choices such as operating as a C corporation, LLC, or S corporation may carry more weight under a revised system.

Despite the potential tax benefits, other challenges are unlikely to disappear quickly. Recreational cannabis would still lack federal approval, and state regulations would remain in place. Access to banking services, major investment markets, and payment systems is expected to improve only gradually. Legal risks tied to financial regulations may ease in practice, though formal rules may not change significantly.

For larger marijuana firms like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF), the rulemaking process couldn’t have come at a better time because the industry has for so long been hamstrung by the existing regulations, and any reforms would be a welcome development.

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420 with CNW — CNN Documentary Explores How Medical Marijuana is Helping Women

According to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, his long-running documentary series “Weed” has grown far beyond its original scope, evolving into an ongoing examination of cannabis, medicine, and patient experience.

When filming began in 2012, the intention was to produce a single documentary exploring a controversial plant and its possible medical uses. Instead, the project became a continuing series, with each installment revisiting the topic as new evidence and personal stories emerged. The latest chapter, titled “Weed 8,” turns its attention to women and their increasing reliance on cannabis for health concerns.

Across months of reporting and travel, a consistent theme emerged. Many women are turning to cannabis after exhausting conventional options. They included older patients coping with cancer therapies, professionals dealing with menopause-related symptoms, and athletes managing chronic conditions such as endometriosis. Again and again, the accounts echoed a similar frustration—standard treatments had failed to deliver relief.

This reflects a broader issue in medicine. Women’s health concerns have long faced skepticism within the medical system. Symptoms are often minimized or misinterpreted, leaving many without clear diagnoses or effective care. Even today, women are underrepresented in clinical research, despite clear biological differences that influence how treatments work. The result is a knowledge gap that continues to affect outcomes.

Menopause highlights the gap sharply. Hormone therapy once appeared to offer answers, but safety concerns shifted public perception and limited its use. With few alternatives, increasing numbers of women are exploring cannabis. Data now suggests that women, particularly in midlife and beyond, are using it at higher rates than men.

In places like Oklahoma, this shift is especially visible. A state once known for strict drug policies has seen rapid growth in its medical marijuana industry. Within that space, women are playing a leading role. Many have built small businesses centered on cannabis products tailored to women’s needs. Their work ranges from pain management solutions to sleep aids and wellness education.

What stands out is the intent behind these efforts. For these entrepreneurs and advocates, cannabis represents more than a product. It offers a sense of control in situations where they once felt overlooked. Their approach combines personal experience with emerging science, often developed outside traditional institutions.

Research is beginning to catch up, with medical organizations calling for a reassessment of cannabis classification, citing growing evidence of its therapeutic potential. Studies are exploring its role in managing neurological disorders, chronic pain, and autoimmune conditions. Female researchers are contributing significantly to this work, helping expand understanding in areas that directly affect women.

Still, policy changes lag behind scientific progress, creating real consequences for patients seeking access.

“Weed 8” builds on that legacy by focusing on how women are navigating their health choices today. Across different communities, many are choosing to rely on their own experiences while also engaging with emerging research. They are sharing information, comparing results, and holding one another accountable.

While cannabis is not a universal solution, it represents a starting point for many women. It offers a way to manage symptoms, regain balance, and engage more actively in healthcare decisions.

What is unfolding now is both a cultural and personal shift. As attitudes toward cannabis continue to change, so too does the conversation about women’s health. “Weed 8” captures this moment, showing how progress is unfolding not only in laboratories and policy discussions but also in everyday lives, where individuals are finding new paths forward.

Medical marijuana firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) could capture a bigger fraction of the market by developing more medical cannabis products that are specifically designed to address the unique health challenges that women face.

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420 with CNW — Bipartisan Congressional Bill to Let States Have Their Own Hemp THC Rules

A new bipartisan effort in Congress is offering states a way to sidestep an upcoming federal crackdown on hemp-derived THC products, instead of forcing an immediate nationwide ban. The proposal, introduced last week, would let individual states maintain their existing regulatory systems rather than adopt a stricter federal standard scheduled to begin in November.

The measure is backed by Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar and Republican Senator Rand Paul. While the full legislative text has yet to be released, the intent is to create a patchwork approach similar to how marijuana laws currently operate across the country.

This move reflects growing hesitation in Washington over the sweeping hemp policy approved last fall. Under that law, any hemp product containing at least 0.4 mg of THC would no longer qualify as legal hemp. Industry representatives argue that this threshold would effectively eliminate a large share of products now sold nationwide.

In anticipation of the federal change, several states have already begun tightening their own rules. Many did so despite pushback from industry participants who warn that the shift threatens a sector valued at more than $28 billion.

The Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to review the proposal as part of broader discussions tied to the long-delayed update of 2018 Farm Bill.

Paul has publicly urged colleagues to incorporate the opt-out provision into the larger farm legislation. In a recent video, he described hemp as a valuable agricultural product and pointed to Kentucky’s own approach, where lawmakers passed rules treating certain hemp-based beverages like alcohol. The framework mirrors how some states regulate recreational or medical cannabis despite federal prohibition.

He argued that state authority should take precedence in these cases, suggesting that local governments are better positioned to manage the industry.

Still, the proposal may face resistance, particularly in the House. Representative Glenn Thompson, who leads the House Agriculture Committee, has indicated that oversight of hemp-derived cannabinoids may fall outside his panel’s scope.

Despite the uncertainty, industry leaders have welcomed the effort. Thomas Winstanley of Edibles.com praised Paul’s role in advancing policies that reflect both the original intent of federal farm legislation and current market conditions. He said the bill could help preserve consumer access, support domestic producers, and establish clearer safety standards.

Questions also remain about how the new federal limits would interact with a separate initiative introduced by Trump. That program allows certain Medicare participants to receive reimbursement for CBD-based treatments, raising potential conflicts if those products no longer meet the federal definition of hemp.

The cannabis industry, including other ecosystem players like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR), will be following how these discussions proceed and the policy decisions that emerge on the issue of hemp THC regulation.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Medical Marijuana Regulations Now Await AG and Governor’s Approval

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission has approved a set of rules governing the state’s emerging cannabis supply system, almost a year after first adopting temporary guidelines.

The framework has operated under short-term extensions lasting 90 days at a time. The measures, repeatedly renewed, outline how medical marijuana businesses must operate. They address licensing limits, security standards, approved product types, and the qualifications required for physicians who recommend cannabis to patients.

The newly adopted rules now move to State Attorney General Mike Hilgers, who must review them for constitutional and legal compliance. Final approval rests with Governor Jim Pillen.

Both officials have previously raised concerns about the voter-backed measures that legalized medical cannabis and established regulatory oversight. When the laws took effect in December 2024 following strong voter support, Pillen and Hilgers questioned whether they aligned with federal law and the state constitution.

Marijuana remains classified by the federal government as a Schedule I drug, a category reserved for drugs considered to have high abuse potential and no accepted medical use.

This classification places Nebraska in an unusual position as it lacks federal protections that shield most other states with medical marijuana programs from interference. Currently, nearly every other state has some level of protection, though Nebraska was excluded from the most recent federal update earlier this year.

Despite earlier criticism, Pillen has taken steps to support the program’s administrative rollout. He approved temporary rules ahead of a July deadline set by voters and allocated over $2 million in the state budget to support operations within the Liquor Control Commission, which also oversees the cannabis program. The governor has framed medical cannabis access as a way to reduce reliance on recreational use.

Still, uncertainty remains. Advocates voiced concern during the recent commission meeting that the program may struggle to function following the collapse of a legislative proposal that would have protected physicians who recommend cannabis.

Patients can legally possess up to five ounces of marijuana with a recommendation from a licensed provider, even if that provider is based outside Nebraska. However, the commission has limited access to state-licensed dispensaries for patients with recommendations from in-state practitioners. So far, no Nebraska-based doctors have issued such recommendations, creating a major barrier for patients.

Some individuals have sought alternatives by traveling out of state, either to obtain recommendations or to purchase cannabis. Industry representatives warn that without local physician participation, access to regulated dispensaries could remain out of reach. The commission has indicated it may consider exceptions in the future, but currently maintains its preference for in-state oversight.

Meanwhile, the commission is moving forward with building its internal structure. Members voted to hire independent legal counsel rather than rely on the attorney general’s office, citing concerns about public perception. Plans are also underway to recruit an executive director and operational staff.

Delays in the final approval of the regulations could slow the rollout of licenses for dispensaries, manufacturers, and transporters, potentially disrupting supply later this year. For patients, who live with serious health conditions, the wait is increasingly difficult.

The commission is scheduled to meet again on May 11. Marijuana companies from far and wide, including SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), will be hoping that the governor signs off on these rules and the medical marijuana program stabilizes.

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420 with CNW — Michigan Reports Increased Monthly Marijuana Sales Despite Price Increases

Legal cannabis sales in Michigan rebounded sharply in March, even as retail prices continued to edge higher for a third month in a row, according to newly released figures from the state’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency.

Consumers spent more than $255 million on both recreational and medical marijuana products in March. That total represents a 9 percent increase compared to February, when sales reached $234.5 million. The month-to-month gain is the strongest recorded since March 2025. State data also shows a recurring pattern, with March sales climbing significantly each year since 2023.

The strong performance follows a weak start to 2026. In January, the market experienced its steepest decline in recent years, with total cannabis sales falling by nearly 16 percent from December levels. It marked the lowest monthly total since February 2023. Seasonal trends appear to play a role, as January has consistently brought slower sales since 2022.

This year’s downturn also coincided with the rollout of a new 24 percent wholesale tax on cannabis, which took effect at the start of 2026. The levy was approved as part of budget negotiations between Governor Gretchen Whitmer and state lawmakers in late 2025.

Revenue from the tax is intended to support road repair projects across Michigan. However, the policy has sparked legal challenges and remains under scrutiny in court.

Despite concerns about the new tax, sales in March suggest that demand remains resilient. At the same time, pricing trends are drawing attention. The average cost of an ounce of recreational cannabis flower rose again in March, reaching $61.67.

While that figure is still far below the $516.21 seen when recreational sales first launched in 2019, it reflects a gradual increase that began in late 2025. Prices are also slightly lower than they were a year ago, when the average stood at $65.14.

The recent upward movement in prices could indicate that some of the added wholesale costs are being passed along to consumers. Still, the impact appears limited so far. One reason may be the large supply currently held by the industry. According to regulators, businesses are carrying substantial inventories, including thousands of pounds of concentrates as well as infused products and cannabis flower.

Meanwhile, the marijuana wholesale tax continues to face opposition from within the industry. Lawsuits filed by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association argue that the measure violates constitutional provisions.

The overall marijuana industry, including multi-state operators like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), will be happy that the industry is going strong in Michigan despite the unique challenges firms face in that state.

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420 with CNW — Alabama to Finally Launch its Medical Marijuana Program

Alabama is preparing to roll out its long-awaited medical cannabis program, with the first dispensary set to open in the state capital next month.

Callie’s Apothecary in Montgomery is scheduled to begin serving patients on May 4, marking a milestone for a system that has faced repeated setbacks. The shop is the first of nine dispensaries expected to be operating by the summer, according to updates shared during an April 9 meeting of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission.

Commission Chair Dr. Sam Blakemore said progress is ongoing but not yet complete. One additional license remains tied up, delaying the full rollout. He expressed hope that all 12 approved dispensaries would be functioning by the final quarter of the year.

So far, roughly 40 doctors have been cleared to recommend medical marijuana, and 66 patients have received official authorization cards.

The launch comes five years after the state legalized medical cannabis in 2021. What was initially expected to move forward quickly became entangled in legal challenges. Several companies that were denied licenses filed lawsuits, questioning how permits were distributed. Those disputes forced regulators to revisit their decisions multiple times, pushing the program’s debut far beyond its original timeline.

Even now, as the first sales approach, scrutiny of the commission continues. A recent audit highlighted a series of concerns, including issues with documentation practices, adherence to open meetings rules, and questions surrounding fee policies. The audit also pointed to an overpayment exceeding $204,000 to an external law firm.

In response, state legislators have introduced several proposals this session aimed at reshaping the commission’s structure and revising how its members are appointed.

The current framework permits up to five vertically integrated companies, each able to operate as many as five storefronts. In addition, the state may license 12 cultivators, four processing facilities, and four standalone dispensary operators, with each of those allowed up to three locations.

So far, regulators have issued licenses to four dispensary operators, four processors, and nine growers. The retail permits were finalized in December.

Advocacy groups say the launch is only one part of the challenge. The Alabama Cannabis Coalition is urging officials to begin a statewide education effort, arguing that many patients who qualify for treatment still do not understand how to access it legally.

Under state rules, patients must first register in an official database and obtain certification from an approved physician before they can purchase cannabis products. Despite these rules being in place for a while, advocates say public awareness remains limited.

Those desiring marijuana policy reform around the country will be pleased that concrete steps are now taking shape in Alabama and patients could soon access MMJ legally. Firms like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) will be hoping that the program stabilizes and no further setbacks hinder its implementation.

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420 with CNW — Federally Funded Research Reports Breakthrough in Marijuana Breathalyzer Development

A newly published study points to a possible step forward in efforts to create a cannabis breathalyzer, offering early evidence that a compact and affordable device could detect recent cannabis use without requiring laboratory testing.

The research, led by Virginia Commonwealth University’s Emanuele Alves, focuses on addressing a long-standing gap in roadside testing. While alcohol impairment can be measured quickly with breath-based tools, law enforcement has lacked an equivalent method for THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. As legalization expands across multiple states, the demand for fast and dependable roadside screening methods has grown more urgent.

The team experimented with cartridges produced through 3D printing, combining gelatin with Fast Blue chemical dye. This setup allowed researchers to observe color-based reactions when exposed to cannabinoids. According to the findings, the system successfully identified delta-9 THC, as well as CBD and CBN, across different sample types.

The device detected cannabinoid concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 nanograms. Researchers used color-space modeling to interpret the results, identifying distinct visual patterns. Two main groupings emerged, indicating that samples containing CBN and delta-9 THC could be distinguished from those containing CBD based on color variation.

The study describes these results as an early foundation for developing a portable testing tool. While further validation and real-world trials are still required, the researchers say the concept shows promise for use in roadside or on-site screening scenarios.

Funding for the project came in part from the U.S. Department of Justice, which also made the findings publicly available through its National Criminal Justice Reference Service. The agency noted that the conclusions presented in the study do not necessarily represent its official views.

Encouraged by the results, the research team has filed a patent application with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office outlining a proposed prototype. The envisioned device includes three main components: a mouthpiece to capture exhaled breath, a cartridge where airborne particles interact with the testing material, and a detection chamber that produces a visible color change when THC is present. A positive result is indicated by a dark red coloration.

The study also highlights the broader public safety context, noting that while awareness of alcohol-related driving offenses is widespread, many people remain less informed about the legal risks of driving under the influence of cannabis, whether used alone or alongside other substances.

Researchers say their work establishes a chemical and technical starting point for future development. They suggest that with further refinement, such a device could support efforts to improve road safety and provide a practical way to monitor recent THC use outside of laboratory settings.

The marijuana industry, including established companies like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTC: CURLF), is likely to be cautiously optimistic about this device until it proves its efficacy in the field.

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420 with CNW — Pennsylvania is Handing Revenue to Neighboring States as Marijuana Legalization Stalls

On a cold Friday afternoon near the New York–Pennsylvania border, cars begin to line up outside Organic Blooms, a recreational cannabis shop that has quickly become a regional draw. Vehicles with New York plates share space with those from Pennsylvania, a sign of a growing cross-border market fueled by differing state laws.

Organic Blooms opened in September 2025, and nearly half its business comes from customers crossing state lines, particularly from Ohio and Pennsylvania. While Ohio legalized recreational cannabis following a 2023 ballot vote and launched retail sales the following year, Pennsylvania remains one of the few states in the region without a similar law.

Advocates for legalization argue that this gap is costing Pennsylvania millions. Neighboring states are collecting tax revenue from residents who cross state lines to purchase cannabis legally. New York reported $155 million in tax income during its first full year of legalization, while Ohio brought in $56 million. Maryland and New Jersey also posted strong figures.

Estimates from the state’s Independent Fiscal Office suggest cannabis could generate $140 million in revenue by the 2026/27 fiscal year, potentially rising to more than $400 million within a few years. Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration has proposed an even larger initial return, driven largely by licensing fees, though long-term projections are more modest.

Industry-backed studies present an even more optimistic picture, forecasting at least $2.1 billion in economic activity and 33,000 jobs. Advocates emphasize that those positions would not be limited to major cities but would spread across rural and suburban communities as well.

Public opinion appears to lean toward legalization. A recent poll by Quinnipiac University found that 56% of residents support the idea, though political divisions remain. Democratic lawmakers have largely backed legalization efforts, while many Republicans continue to express concerns about public health, youth access, and broader social impacts.

Legislative progress has been uneven. A proposal passed by the state House stalled in the Senate, and alternative efforts have yet to advance. One current measure would create a regulatory board to oversee cannabis policy, a step some lawmakers see as groundwork for eventual legalization.

Meanwhile, consumer behavior continues to evolve regardless of state policy. Erie County residents regularly travel to nearby states to buy cannabis, citing cost, convenience, and frustration with Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana system. For them, crossing the border has become routine.

Back in New York, Organic Blooms co-owner Michelle Brumagin says business has grown steadily, with transactions increasing significantly in just a few months. She describes strict but manageable regulations and notes that a portion of tax revenue is directed toward local communities.

Even as out-of-state customers boost sales, business owners say they would welcome legalization in Pennsylvania. Some see it not as competition, but as a natural next step in a rapidly expanding industry.

The marijuana industry, including firms like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), hopes that the state will eventually reform its drug policy so that residents no longer have to travel across state lines to access marijuana from licensed outlets.

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420 with CNW — Advisory Council Recommends Marijuana Legalization in North Carolina

A state-appointed advisory panel is urging North Carolina legislators to move toward legalizing cannabis under a controlled system that would permit adult sales. The group argues that regulation would improve public safety and generate significant revenue for the state.

While cannabis remains prohibited under federal law, most states have adopted some form of legalization. North Carolina stands among a shrinking number of states that have not approved either recreational or medical cannabis programs.

According to the newly released advisory council report, residents are already spending billions of dollars on illicit marijuana. At the same time, a growing market of loosely regulated cannabis-derived products continues to expand, often operating outside meaningful oversight.

The report highlights that intoxicating cannabis-related products are widely accessible across the state. It frames the situation as a policy decision: continue allowing an unregulated market to operate or establish clear rules designed to safeguard public health and safety.

The advisory group was assembled by Governor Josh Stein and includes representatives from law enforcement, public health, agriculture, and both major political parties. Members believe a licensed retail system would bring structure to an industry that currently operates with minimal control, improving safety standards and enforcement. A more detailed set of recommendations is expected later in the year.

While cannabis is illegal in North Carolina, hemp is permitted because it contains only trace amounts of THC. However, some producers have developed methods to extract and concentrate THC from hemp, creating products that can produce a high.

These products are often marketed as legal because they contain CBD, but regulators warn they may still have potent effects. Unlike prescription drugs or alcohol, many of these products lack uniform requirements for testing, labeling, or age restrictions. They are frequently sold in vape shops and convenience stores, sometimes even to underage customers.

The council argues that stricter rules, including limiting sales to adults, would help reduce access among minors while ensuring better product quality and transparency. It also recommends aligning regulations for cannabis and hemp-derived substances to eliminate confusion around enforcement.

While medical marijuana remains part of the conversation, the panel cautions against building a system limited only to patients. Such a model, they say, would be costly to establish and maintain, requiring new infrastructure, training, and oversight. There is also concern that restricting access could sustain illegal sales rather than reduce them.

Governor Stein has previously described the current situation as chaotic, noting the lack of consistency in how cannabis-related products are handled. He supports allowing adult use for those over 21 and has suggested creating a regulatory body similar to the state’s alcohol control system.

Despite multiple proposals in recent years, none have cleared both chambers of the legislature. Any significant change would require approval from a GOP-led General Assembly, where opinions remain divided.

Stein hopes the council’s report will prompt action in the upcoming legislative session, emphasizing the need for a system that prioritizes safety while addressing an already active market.

The wider marijuana industry, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be monitoring how drug reform discussions in North Carolina progress and what consensus is reached on the subject of legalizing cannabis sales.

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