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 — Cannabis Industry Gears Up for a Shake-Up as ‘Gifting’ Shops Transform in D.C.

Medical cannabis dispensaries are rapidly expanding in D.C. as authorities transition former “gifting” stores into licensed operations.

In 2014, D.C. voters passed Initiative 71, which legalized recreational cannabis possession, use, and sharing among adults but prohibited direct sales. However, a loophole allowed businesses to sell non-cannabis products while including marijuana as a complimentary gift. Many consumers preferred this method to avoid being listed in a registry as medical dispensaries required patient registration.

Now these gifting shops had until the end of March to obtain a medical cannabis license or face closure. Before this transition, only eight cultivation facilities and seven dispensaries were officially licensed in D.C. after medical cannabis was legalized in 2010. However, the actual number of shops selling marijuana far exceeded this count. Regulatory enforcement has already resulted in the shutdown of 42 stores.

One such shop, Monko, previously sold items like T-shirts and pens before converting into a licensed medical cannabis dispensary. Owner Terrence White, who has been navigating the licensing process for six months, is preparing to begin legal sales.

His long-term vision includes expanding into a vertically integrated cannabis business. With an estimated customer base of 26,000 in D.C., he believes the transition levels the playing field for legal operators.

Obtaining approval to buy medical cannabis in D.C. is relatively simple as registration is open to anyone over 21, regardless of residency. Visitors can opt for a three-day medical cannabis card for $10 or a year-long card for $100.

The local cannabis industry faced challenges when Maryland expanded access to recreational marijuana in 2023, allowing former medical-only businesses to serve all adults. Many consumers preferred Maryland’s system to avoid appearing in a registry while still purchasing legally.

Unlike other jurisdictions, Washington, D.C., operates under congressional oversight, which has historically prevented local authorities from fully regulating cannabis sales. Congress has also blocked D.C. from allocating tax funds toward legalizing recreational sales.

The presence of gifting shops and competition from Maryland initially made national cannabis brands hesitant to enter the Washington, D.C. market. However, recent regulatory changes have attracted major players.

Cookies has now partnered with Alternate Solutions to establish a presence in the district, while Khalifa Kush has been collaborating with District Cannabis for over a year.

With gifting shops disappearing, licensed dispensaries anticipate better business prospects. Although D.C. is a relatively small market, serving its nearly one million residents remains a priority for cannabis businesses.

Successful companies like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) operating in other markets will be hoping that the reforms being instituted in D.C. result in a more vibrant marijuana industry that is better able to serve its customers.

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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 — Narcotics Officials Say Oklahoma’s Black Market Cannabis Exceeds $100bn in Value

The illegal cannabis market in Oklahoma has ballooned to billions of dollars, according to recent data from the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.

According to Donnie Anderson, director of the bureau, the state’s tracking system missed about 70 million pounds of cannabis between March last year and this year, which is roughly 30 times more than what is required to meet the demand of the state’s 300,000 registered medical cannabis patients. This is a sharp rise from the 22 million pounds unaccounted for between 2022 and 2023, showing a nearly threefold increase in just two years.

Despite ongoing enforcement efforts, Oklahoma’s underground cannabis trade continues to grow. A state official suggested that the rising numbers may not indicate a spike in production but rather improved compliance with reporting requirements due to stricter oversight.

The newly released report, commissioned by U.S. Senator James Lankford, links the surplus production to unlawful operations run by Chinese criminal networks.

During a press conference on Friday, officials stressed the need for stricter legislative action. Anderson recommended that lawmakers conduct a formal investigation to ascertain the state’s actual medical cannabis needs and establish production limits accordingly. Unlike most states, Oklahoma does not cap the amount of cannabis growers can produce, contributing to unchecked growth.

However, not all state leaders share this viewpoint. Lonnie Paxton, the state Senate President Pro Tempore, stated in February that law enforcement already has the necessary resources to handle the issue and does not believe additional legislation is required.

Under Oklahoma cannabis law, every marijuana plant must be tagged for tracking purposes. Authorities explain that illegal growers often tag plants initially to appear compliant but later remove these tags before diverting the product to unregulated markets. To estimate the volume of marijuana entering the illegal market, officials analyze tracking data and production assumptions.

Prices in the illicit market fluctuate but typically range between $1,800 and $3,500 per pound. Based on these estimates, the diverted cannabis supply could range from $126 billion to $245 billion. For perspective, the state oil sector generated about $55.5 billion in 2023.

The report also outlines significant concerns beyond financial losses. Illegal marijuana operations have led to extensive human trafficking, potential national security threats, and environmental damage. Thousands of foreign workers have been subjected to abuse and exploitation on these farms, and some individuals involved in the state’s cannabis industry have connections to Chinese government-linked activities within the United States.

Licensed cannabis firms like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) have long had concerns about the disruptive and risky effects of the continued existence of black market marijuana. They are therefore likely to support every undertaking taken to curb illicit marijuana proliferation not just in legal markets but in all communities.

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ZJ Events to Connect the Global Counterculture Community at the Alternative Products Expo, Miami

The ZJ Alternative Products Expo will be held from April 3-5, 2025, at the Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami. The expo showcases the latest trends and the finest products and services of the counterculture community, tapping a worldwide audience. With Miami emerging as the epicenter of flavors, cultures, and smoke shops, the event aims to blend the local flavor of Florida with the rest of America.

ZJ Events organizes networking events by compiling valuable data on alternative products and presenting to leading brands, manufacturers, and dealers. They provide the counterculture community with a robust platform for exciting learning and business experiences in a safe and conducive environment. For the first time, the expo will offer B2B experience at the Alternative Products Expo.

The Alternative Products Expo offers unique experiences where local and global traders can network, strike deals, and learn about new innovations. Veterans and newcomers showcase exciting trends and products on the exhibition floor. The eclectic vibe, top-tier smoke shops, culinary adventures, vibrant nightlife, and confluence of cultures offer attendees an unforgettable experience.

Investors and enthusiasts can discover new avenues of business and opportunities, with immense new talent from the counterculture spectrum making a foray at the expo. The Alternative Products Expo in Miami offers business opportunities for newbies as well as veterans of the local smoke-shop community to expand their reach to global frontiers. Businesses and traders can network and connect on the event floor, fostering long-term relationships.

The attendees list consists of consumers, businesses, and enthusiasts from the local and international counterculture community. They not only come to discover new industry trends and products; they also enjoy the buzz and vibe of the Alternative Products market.

To learn more, please visit https://cnw.fm/JBINB.

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420 with CNW — Bills Improving Medical Marijuana Oversight in Pennsylvania Advance Following Media Investigations

Pennsylvania lawmakers are stepping up their scrutiny of the state’s medical cannabis program following investigative reports by Spotlight PA.

A recent measure aimed at increasing oversight of doctors involved in the program gained strong bipartisan support in the state House, moving forward in March.

Additionally, state Senator Rosemary Brown cited the newsroom’s reports while questioning officials from the Shapiro administration. Brown raised concerns about medical cannabis prescribing practices during a budget hearing in February, asking what measures were in place to prevent potential abuses.

Her concerns align with investigations revealing that some doctors approve a disproportionately high number of medical cannabis certifications. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Health Department has rarely barred physicians from joining the medical cannabis program, even when they had prior disciplinary issues.

State Representative Tim Twardzik used the Spotlight PA reports to advocate for stronger oversight powers for the state’s health department. He argued that clear authority is needed to ensure patients receive proper care.

Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis law requires patients to obtain a doctor’s certification to access marijuana from dispensaries. Doctors must complete a training course and register with the state to issue these approvals.

Twardzik’s measure would give the state’s health department greater control over participating doctors. In addition to limiting the number of certificates a physician can grant, the agency may enforce reporting requirements, impose probation, and demand supervision by another medical practitioner. The department would also have the authority to introduce additional regulations as needed to protect patient safety.

State Representative Arvind Venkat, a physician who doesn’t issue medical cannabis certifications, voiced support for the measure, emphasizing the need for better oversight. He acknowledged that addressing these concerns may be difficult for doctors, but necessary.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the House Health Committee as an amendment to a bill focused on cannabis lab testing, sponsored by state Representative Dan Frankel.

Frankel highlighted that while laboratories are required to test cannabis products, the health department currently lacks the power to oversee their operations and verify results. The amended bill was approved by the House and is now under review by the Senate Law and Justice Committee.

State Senate leaders have expressed interest in amending the state medical cannabis program. Joe Pittman, the Senate Majority Leader, acknowledged the need for a detailed review of the bill but noted that action on the measure is possible within the current legislative session.

Minority Leader Jay Costa voiced his caucus’s support, stating that stronger oversight would protect patients from unethical practices and contaminated products. Costa also reaffirmed his ultimate goal of legalizing recreational marijuana.

Governor Josh Shapiro has included recreational marijuana legalization in his budget proposal, despite previous efforts to pass such legislation having stalled.

It is important to ensure that legal marijuana markets adhere to all the set rules and that observed loopholes are addressed by the authorities. Firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) operating in other regulated markets are therefore likely to applaud the increased oversight envisioned in the bills being considered in Pennsylvania.

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420 with CNW — Why M&A Activity Could Be Declining in the Marijuana Industry

According to statistics from Viridian Capital Advisors, a data analytics and investment banking firm based in New York, there was a 33% drop in the value of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from the $1.74bn in 2023 to the $1.16bn registered last year. Frank Colombo, the MD of Viridian discussed a number of factors that could explain this trend.

Colombo explains that the cash situation within the marijuana industry is very tight. He adds that many M&A deals have tanked because firms have been trying to conserve cash during the recent two years.

He explains that the motivation behind marijuana M&A activity has also changed. Previously, companies were in a race to buy out every business they could find in states with legal marijuana markets. However, that “land grab” soon taught companies that it wasn’t profitable to have a presence everywhere. Having just a pair of retail outlets in a state proved to be untenable. Emphasis has now shifted to consolidating a company’s footprint with a specific market rather than being spread out thin all over the place.

Colombo cites the example of Acreage Holdings that went into a frenzy buying up every small marijuana business that was on sale. Their approach failed to bring in profits, and Acreage itself was acquired by Canopy Growth.

Another reason he cites for declining M&A activity is the current decline in cannabis stock prices. Many M&A deals are completed using stock or cash. Given that cash is tight and stock prices aren’t at their best, it is hard for companies to negotiate mergers and acquisitions based on stock since shares aren’t as attractive in this current environment as they once were. Since firms are reluctant to get further into debt and stocks aren’t a good option, companies have decided to scale down or halt M&A activity.

Colombo also points out that there are a number of challenges involved in integrating businesses, not just in the cannabis industry but in all industries, after a merger or acquisition. For example, the different businesses have their own financial systems and cultures and it becomes difficult to merge those elements.

He points out that M&A activity is likely to stay down for a while given the existing market conditions. However, consolidation within markets is bound to continue as businesses invest in deepening their presence in specific markets. Markets will continue to have a few big firms dominating that area and there will be many small players also trying to make their mark. Those that fail will still end up being acquired by the larger and more successful players, and the trend will continue.

It remains to be seen how companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) will navigate these market conditions and leverage available opportunities to cement their presence in their chosen markets.

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Alt Products Expo Concludes in Medellín, Sets Sights on Miami in April

The Alternative Products Expo successfully wrapped up its 2025 event in Medellín, Colombia, on March 1-2, reinforcing its position as a premier gathering for the counterculture industry. This year’s event brought together thousands of attendees, including leading manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers, to explore innovations, foster connections, and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Originally launched as the USA CBD Expo, the event rebranded in 2017 to reflect the expanding landscape of alternative products, including cannabis derivatives, CBD, vape products, smokeables, functional mushrooms, herbal supplements, and other cutting-edge innovations. Since then, it has become a must-attend event for businesses looking to scale internationally, leveraging its strategic location in Medellín to bridge North and South American markets while attracting buyers from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Organized by ZJ Events, the expo provides a powerful launchpad for startups while also serving as an expansion vehicle for established businesses looking to strengthen their presence across new regions. With a well-structured B2B environment, attendees benefited from exclusive networking sessions, business matchmaking, and insights from top-tier speakers discussing the future of the counterculture industry.

The event featured six key pillars designed to support international growth: market entry guidance, distributor introductions and logistics support, regulatory and legal compliance assistance, monetary exchange and direct B2B introductions, live translation services, and import-export consultation. These elements provided attendees with a comprehensive roadmap to navigate global markets and expand their brand reach beyond domestic borders.

In addition to its strong business focus, the expo embraced Medellín’s vibrant culture and energy, offering attendees a dynamic and immersive experience. With exclusive B2B priority hours, professionals had dedicated time to forge meaningful partnerships before the expo opened to a broader audience. Meanwhile, attendees enjoyed interactive exhibitor booths, product tastings, live demonstrations, and exciting lifestyle elements, all set against a backdrop of live music and entertainment.

As the alternative products industry continues to evolve, Medellín remains a key location in shaping its future, fostering new trends, and strengthening international collaborations. The success of the 2025 edition further solidifies the expo’s role as an essential business hub for those looking to tap into new markets and expand their global footprint.

With the Medellín event now concluded, the Alternative Products Expo is gearing up for its next major stop in Miami, Florida, on April 3-5, 2025. The Miami expo will build on the momentum from Medellín, offering an even larger platform for businesses to connect, expand, and gain industry insights in one of the most dynamic markets in North America. Attendees can expect global networking opportunities with top manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers, exclusive B2B hours for meaningful business interactions, expert-led speaker sessions covering market trends, regulations, and innovation, unparalleled brand exposure with thousands of attendees and media coverage, and an immersive experience featuring live entertainment, interactive exhibits, and product showcases.

Join Us in Miami!

Get your tickets: https://altproexpo.com/tickets/
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420 with CNW — How California Keeps Legally Grown Marijuana Safe for Consumption

Walking into Vibe Cultivators, an indoor marijuana farm in Sacramento, California, the first thing you notice is the strong, unmistakable smell of marijuana. The facility is filled with rows of plants stacked on two levels, bathed in artificial light.

“Every plant here is tagged,” explains Brian Prichard, Vibe’s founder. The state-mandated tags prove the farm is fully licensed and not part of an underground operation. Each tag includes the grower’s name, license number, and a unique ID for tracking purposes.

Prichard reflects on how much the industry has changed since California legalized cannabis. In the past, secrecy was a necessity, making it difficult to ask for advice or share information. Now, he can openly communicate with others in the industry, including state regulators.

The state’s Cannabis Control Department (DCC) was established in 2021 to consolidate oversight of California’s legal marijuana market. One of its key responsibilities is ensuring consumer safety, a challenge that many states face due to a lack of federal guidance.

Contaminants in cannabis, such as heavy metals, mold and bacteria, pose health risks. THC potency can also be inconsistent, sometimes failing to match what’s indicated on the packaging. To address these concerns, several states have joined forces through the Cannabis Regulators Association, sharing insights and best practices.

However, regulations vary widely, with some states testing for hundreds of contaminants while others focus on a select few. Without extensive research, experts remain unsure which contaminants pose the greatest risks.

California has seen its share of cannabis recalls, with 63 cases in 2024, the highest since the DCC was formed. These recalls resulted in the removal of 25,000 marijuana products due to issues such as mislabeling or microbial contamination.

Vibe Cultivators has never faced a recall, and Prichard credits strict regulations for maintaining high-quality products.

Edible products, including cannabis-infused drinks, gummies, and brownies, also fall under regulation. Inaccurate THC labeling or bacterial contamination in these products can lead to health concerns, particularly when consumers ingest higher doses than expected.

The DCC closely monitors cannabis from cultivation to sale. Licensed testing labs, such as the state-run facility in Richmond, analyze products for contaminants. These labs help set safety standards and support law enforcement in identifying illicit cannabis operations. As the market evolves, testing methods continue to adapt, ensuring that even infused products like popcorn and hard candies meet safety guidelines.

Over the years, the legal market has become significantly cleaner than its illicit counterpart. Illegal cannabis often contains dangerously high levels of pesticides, sometimes exceeding legal limits by 100 times. In some cases, fentanyl has even been found in unregulated products, reinforcing the risks of buying from the black market.

Ultimately, industry oversight benefits both businesses and consumers by ensuring cannabis is safe and accurately labeled. Businesses like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) and others benefit in many ways, including enjoying consumer trust in the products they sell.

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420 with CNW — Report Indicates California Registered Significant Marijuana Production Increase

California’s legal marijuana production rose by 11.8% in 2024, reaching 1.4 million pounds, according to a newly released report by the state’s Department of Cannabis Control (DCC).

Despite this growth, the illegal cannabis trade remains dominant, with unlicensed production estimated at 11.4 million pounds. Although its exact destinations remain unclear, a significant portion of this illicit marijuana finds its way outside California.

The report highlights a significant gap between legal production and total marijuana consumption within California, which stands at 3.8 million pounds annually. Illegal sales within the state nearly double those of licensed retailers, indicating that while the legal industry has room for growth, major policy changes are necessary to shift consumer preferences away from unauthorized sellers.

DCC director Nicole Elliott acknowledged the progress made in stabilizing California’s legal market. She emphasized that expanding access, lowering costs, and tightening enforcement efforts are key strategies to create a more sustainable and regulated industry.

The report, prepared by ERA Economics, a California-based research firm specializing in water and agriculture economics, sheds light on ongoing challenges in the state’s cannabis sector. Despite California maintaining its position as the largest legal marijuana market in the U.S., signs of industry struggles persist.

The number of surrendered or inactive business permits has surpassed active licenses, raising concerns about the sector’s long-term viability.

Encouraging trends include a nearly 5% rise in wholesale cannabis prices, a 7.5% increase in the industry’s total value, and the continued growth of legal production. However, the overall market still faces difficulties, with persistently low prices and challenging business conditions. The situation may worsen if a proposed increase in California’s excise tax—potentially rising from 15% to 19%—takes effect by mid-year.

Although the legal cannabis market’s total production value rebounded to $1 billion last year, it remains below the $1.2 billion peak seen in 2021. By contrast, the estimated wholesale value of illegal operations is significantly higher, reaching $7.9 billion. Meanwhile, the number of state-issued retail licenses rose, yet many businesses have exited local markets. For instance, licensed retailers in Alameda County dropped from 157 in 2022 to 100 in 2024.

Statewide cannabis sales declined by 4% in 2023, with several counties seeing notable drops. Los Angeles County’s sales fell from $1.5 billion to $1.3 billion, while Alameda County dropped from $296.95 million to $263.11 million. Orange County, however, remained stable at approximately $279 million.

The report suggests that supply restrictions, including Governor Gavin Newsom’s ban on hemp products, could help stabilize prices for the remaining licensed operators.

The general marijuana industry, including enterprises like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), hopes that California and other states with legal marijuana programs find effective ways to deal with the black market so that licensed firms can have a chance to thrive and consumers can be protected from the risks associated with unregulated products.

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420 with CNW — New Poll Finds Majority in Utah Support Recreational Marijuana Legalization

A recent poll conducted on behalf of a Utah medical marijuana advocacy group indicates that most Utah residents would support a ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana. The survey results show that 52% of voters favor such a measure—the same percentage that approved medical marijuana in the state in 2018.

Despite the survey results, Alex Iorg, co-founder of Wholesome Co. and a member of the newly formed group “Keep Utah Medical,” believes the state is not yet ready for recreational cannabis.

He suggested that unless the medical program is improved, broader legalization may become inevitable. “If we don’t make it easier for patients to access medical cannabis here, it’s only a matter of time,” Iorg said, pointing out that similar trends have played out in neighboring states that started with medical programs before fully legalizing.

The group is not planning to push for recreational legalization, even as surrounding states have already done so. The group aims to improve the state’s medical marijuana program by making it more accessible for patients and reducing barriers that drive people to illegal sources or out-of-state purchases.

The poll, conducted earlier this month by Noble Predictive Insights, sampled 609 Utah registered voters. It found that 52% of respondents would support a measure to legalize recreational marijuana, while 38% were against it, and 9% remained undecided. These numbers reflect a shift in public attitude toward marijuana use since the legalization of medical marijuana.

The poll results may serve as a wake-up call to Utah lawmakers about potential future shifts in marijuana laws. Although the state legislature recently passed modest expansions to the medical marijuana program, the proposals faced strong opposition from socially conservative groups, many of whom were against medical legalization from the start.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a significant influence in Utah politics, opposed medical marijuana in 2018 and has also resisted recreational legalization efforts in other states.

Moreover, two of Utah’s top legislative leaders, House Speaker Mike Schultz and Senate Leader J. Stuart Adams, have already expressed their opposition to a recreational cannabis initiative.

The survey further highlights that conservative and LDS voters generally disapprove of legalizing recreational cannabis, while non-LDS, liberal, independent, and moderate voters, are more likely to support it.

Mike Noble of Noble Predictive Insights noted that Utah’s conservative base is more politically organized than progressives, meaning any push for full legalization could face strong resistance from traditionalist groups determined to block such efforts.

The cannabis industry around the region, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be watching how the policy reform efforts in Utah play out over the coming months and years.

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420 with CNW — Maryland Senate Approves Bill Protecting Rights of Rescue Workers, Firefighters Using Medical Marijuana

The Maryland state Senate has approved a measure aimed at protecting rescue and fire workers from being penalized for using medical cannabis while off duty. The legislation, introduced by Senator Carl Jackson, passed with a 36-8 vote and now moves to the House of Representatives, where a parallel measure has been introduced but has yet to progress.

If enacted, the bill would amend state law to ensure that firefighters and other rescue personnel registered as medical cannabis patients are not penalized for their legal use of the substance or for testing positive for marijuana. Employers would be prohibited from disciplining, terminating, or discriminating against these employees based solely on a positive test result for THC metabolites.

Additionally, the bill specifies that employers cannot restrict or classify employees in a manner that would limit job opportunities or negatively impact their employment status. However, organizations would still be allowed to enforce zero-tolerance rules regarding on-duty intoxication from cannabis use.

Paul Armentano, the deputy director of NORML, praised the bill’s advancement, noting that the group has worked with rescuers and firefighters to advocate for these safeguards. He pointed out that other states and local governments have already implemented similar measures and argued that Maryland should follow suit. According to Armentano, no employee should face discrimination for using medical marijuana as prescribed by a doctor.

The measure was approved by the Senate Finance Committee with a few amendments last week.

Initially, the proposal included a clause allowing employers to ban cannabis use within 12 hours of a shift. However, concerns over enforcing this restriction led to the removal of the specific time frame. The amended text also makes it clear that businesses can forbid employees from using marijuana for recreational or medical purposes while they are on the clock.

During a previous hearing, Sen. Jackson underscored the importance of the legislation, stating that rescue and fire personnel risk their lives daily to protect the public. He argued that these workers should have access to physician-recommended medical treatments, including cannabis, without fear of workplace consequences.

The companion bill in the House is currently under review by the Economic Matters Committee.

The measure’s development follows a recent move in Maryland’s largest county to ease cannabis restrictions for prospective police officers. Officials hope that loosening these policies will help address recruitment challenges in light of staffing constraints.

The bill protecting the rights of rescue workers and fighters who wish to use medical cannabis is also bound to elicit applause from the broader marijuana industry, including leading enterprises like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL). This is because the law eases a restriction that has been denying a section of the population that could benefit from the therapeutic use of marijuana.

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