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 — Federal Study Reveals Key Insights into Marijuana Use Preferences of Men and Women

A recent federal report sheds light on how Americans use cannabis, highlighting clear differences in consumption habits between men and women. Smoking continues to be the go-to method for most users, but men are far more likely to choose this route than women. On the other hand, women lean more toward edibles, infused drinks, and products applied to the skin like creams and patches.

According to national survey data collected in 2022 and 2023, about 19.8% of male marijuana users aged 12 and up said they mostly smoked it. In comparison, 14.3% of female users reported smoking as their main method. While men leaned toward smoking, 2.5% of female respondents favored topicals like lotions and transdermal patches, compared to just 1.2% of men.

Women were also more likely to go for cannabis-infused foods and beverages. This difference was consistent across age groups, except for adolescents between 12 and 17 years old, where girls were slightly more likely to drink or eat cannabis, and boys were less likely to favor smoking compared to older age groups.

Other ways of consuming cannabis also revealed gender splits. Products like oral sprays, lozenges, and drops were more common among women, while men preferred more intense inhalation methods like dabbing or vaping marijuana concentrates.

The study also found that nearly 45% of cannabis users stick to one method of consumption. About 27.5% used two methods, while 27.6% reported three or more. Older individuals tended to favor a single method, while younger users were more likely to mix it up. Among young adults aged 18 to 25, smoking remains especially common, regardless of gender.

Another report from the CDC earlier this year backed up these findings. It showed that while smoking continues to be the top choice, alternative methods like eating edibles, dabbing, and vaping are gaining ground. The CDC report analyzed 2022 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which included an optional section on cannabis use.

For the first time since 2016, respondents could select more than one method of cannabis use. Comparing results from 2016 to 2022, the CDC found noticeable increases in the use of edibles and vaping, along with more people reporting multiple methods of consumption.

Another CDC analysis highlighted a decline in marijuana use among high school students, despite the growing legalization trend. SAMHSA also reported a slight drop in marijuana use among minors aged 12 to 20, continuing a long-term downward trend over the past decade.

It would be interesting to learn what actionable insights companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) could pick from this latest study on the marijuana use preferences of males and females in the U.S.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

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420 with CNW — Texas Lawmakers Pass Bill to Ban Non-Medical THC Products

Texas could soon outlaw all THC products that are not medically prescribed. Last Wednesday, the Texas House passed Senate Bill 3 with a 95-44 vote, moving the state closer to banning the sale of non-medical THC items.

Currently, Texas does not permit recreational marijuana. However, the state does allow limited use of medical cannabis, and hemp-based products are legal as long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC. If Governor Greg Abbott signs the measure, any THC product that isn’t used for medical reasons would no longer be allowed, including those derived from hemp.

The bill, introduced by Senator Charles Perry, specifically targets items like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC variants, as well as THC-infused drinks and edibles. It would also prohibit the sale of any cannabinoids apart from CBG and CBD.

Much of the controversy around the legislation stems from the Farm Bill 2018, which made hemp and its derivatives legal across the country. Texas followed suit in 2019 by adopting similar legislation at the state level. Since then, the market for hemp-based THC alternatives has exploded.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stated that the bill was a priority and warned that he’d block progress on the state budget unless SB 3 passed. Patrick claimed in a Facebook video that THC products are being sold without oversight and are reaching school-aged children. He said some of these items are even more potent than illegal cannabis.

Patrick also shared a map showing the rapid rise of vape and smoke shops in the state—more than 8,000 have opened over the last three years, many located near schools.

The video also featured Senator Perry arguing that many of the shops were intentionally located near school zones, and Senator Cesar Blanco highlighted a sharp rise in child THC overdoses—up nearly 500% among children under five from 2017 to 2022, based on state Poison Control data.

Critics of the bill argue that a full ban would have serious consequences. According to the Texas Hemp Business Council, it would hurt farmers, local businesses, and thousands of Texans who use hemp-derived products for their health and well-being. They say the sector supports over 53,000 jobs, generates more than $4 billion in retail revenue, and adds $268 million in state tax contributions.

Rather than a complete ban, the council recommends alternative measures such as limiting sales to adults 21 and older, requiring child-proof packaging, and enforcing distance requirements from learning institutions.

As of now, Governor Abbott has not publicly stated whether he will approve the bill.

The wider marijuana industry, including entities like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be hoping that other states don’t take the prohibitive direction shown by Texas and instead seek to find ways to regulate the new hemp derivatives that have caused a stir in the market.

About CNW420

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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Cannabis Means Business – Conference & Expo, The New York Global Edition

Date: June 4-5

Location: New York City

Cannabis Means Business, formerly CWCBEXPO, is proud to announce the New York Global Edition of its premiere business-to-business (“B2B”) cannabis conference. Scheduled for June 4-5 at the Javits Convention Center in New York City, this expo will offer attendees an opportunity to get hands-on with cannabis technology, hear from a fantastic line-up of speakers, network, and forge business deals with leading entrepreneurs in the space.

Some of the speakers will include cannabis entrepreneurs, policymakers, and celebrity advocates, all of whom will share insights that are shaping the industry’s future and would be integral to growing attendees’ businesses. The event’s experience is second to none, with attendees interacting in person with pioneers in the industry, regulatory experts, and other successful entrepreneurs who are significantly shaping the future of cannabis with proven strategies.

Cannabis Means Business has held this expo consistently since 2015. Over the years, it has been lauded for its incredible networking opportunities for attendees. In addition, it has been praised for the quality of insights and information shared throughout the event, with some attendees referring to it as a “firehose of information for anybody fortunate enough to show up.”

There will be pre-show workshops on June 3, and the main event will kick off officially on June 4 with the main expo and conference, as well as the O2VAPE Industry yacht party. The last day will feature another expo, conference, and a Women In Cannabis business luncheon. 61% of attendees are expected to be decision-makers for their organizations, 70% are expected to be well-established cannabis professionals, and 75% will represent the East Coast cannabis business.

  • The pre-show workshops and rooftop party will be held on June 3, 2025.
  • The Expo & Conference & O2VAPE Industry Yacht Party will be held on June 4
  • The Expo & Conference & Women in Cannabis Business Luncheon will be held on June 5

The Cannabis Means Business Conference & Expo is a must-attend for anyone in this space. With a track record spanning over a decade, this event offers value to each attendee and exhibitor. It also offers a platform where, collectively, attendees can shape the industry for the better and scale it to much higher heights.

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

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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420 with CNW — Tribally Owned Cannabis Stores Register 24% Growth from May 2024

In the last year, Native American tribes have played an increasingly important role in the legal cannabis industry across the U.S.

As of April, tribal communities operate 77 marijuana stores across nine different states. This marks a 24% increase from 2024, showing that cannabis remains an important avenue for economic development. These shops are run by 59 federally recognized tribes, up 18% from 2024.

On average, tribal cannabis stores are around 4,600 square feet, but they range widely in size, from compact shops under 1,000 square feet to expansive facilities over 10,000 square feet.

Over 80% of the tribes that run cannabis stores also manage casinos, and more than a third of them are situated near a tribal gaming facility.

Tribes operate under their own sovereign laws, which means their cannabis regulations may differ from those of the surrounding state. In some instances, tribal laws are more restrictive; in others, they allow cannabis where the state does not.

For instance, in North Carolina where cannabis remains illegal under state law, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has opened the state’s only legal marijuana store—The Great Smoky Cannabis Co.—offering adult-use cannabis under tribal jurisdiction. Similarly, Washington leads the country in tribal cannabis retail with 25 stores operated by 18 tribes. California has overtaken Nevada as the second-largest hub for tribal cannabis businesses, boasting 15 stores run by 12 tribes.

New York and Minnesota have seen a burst of activity, largely because of delays in state-level licensing. With few or no licensed dispensaries available, consumers in these states have turned to tribally owned stores. These businesses have stepped in to meet demand, offering legal alternatives to the illicit market. In Minnesota, for instance, tribal dispensaries are currently the only legal option for recreational cannabis buyers.

Beyond retail, the tribes are also building out cultivation and manufacturing operations. Some of these are fully integrated businesses like Great Smoky Cannabis Co., while others focus on one part of the supply chain. In Minnesota, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe is concentrating on developing a large-scale cultivation facility, while White Earth Nation has sold surplus product to other tribal stores and signed a deal to open up to eight more outlets.

Some tribes have taken another approach by licensing individual tribal members to operate marijuana businesses. New York’s Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe has approved over 20 marijuana retailers.

With more tribes entering the market, expanding operations, and forming strategic partnerships, tribal involvement in cannabis is expected to grow significantly in the coming year.

The reform movement and cannabis firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) are likely to applaud the contribution of native tribes in helping to provide legal marijuana products in different communities and thereby preventing the population from depending on products supplied by black market actors.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

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420 with CNW — Studies Suggest Medical Cannabis Could Help Lupus Sufferers

Lupus is a long-term autoimmune condition that affects over 1.5 million people across Canada and the United States. It can lead to widespread inflammation and discomfort, often causing exhaustion, aching joints, rashes, and in more severe cases, damage to internal organs. There’s currently no cure, and the available treatments don’t work for everyone. This has led many people with lupus to seek alternative approaches to managing their symptoms, including medical cannabis.

Research in recent years has begun to highlight the potential of cannabis to offer relief for individuals dealing with autoimmune diseases like lupus. Some findings suggest it might help reduce pain, improve sleep, and lower inflammation—three key challenges for lupus sufferers.

The compounds found in marijuana, especially THC and CBD, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system helps regulate immune activity and inflammation. Since lupus involves the immune system becoming overactive and attacking healthy cells, adjusting this system’s function could be useful in keeping symptoms in check. By influencing immune response, cannabinoids may help reduce the intensity and frequency of lupus flares.

One study featured in Frontiers in Pharmacology looked at how cannabinoids affect inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. The findings suggested that cannabis compounds may lower the production of molecules that drive inflammation. At the same time, they may encourage the activity of cells that help maintain immune balance. This makes cannabis a potentially helpful tool in managing an overactive immune response like the one seen in lupus.

Pain is one of the most common and difficult symptoms for lupus patients. According to research in the Journal of Pain Research, people with chronic pain—including those with autoimmune disorders—often report meaningful relief when using medical cannabis. Many also said they were able to lower their use of opioid medications, which carry significant risks of addiction and other side effects.

Beyond physical symptoms, many individuals with lupus struggle with sleep problems and emotional stress. CBD, the non-intoxicating part of cannabis, has shown some promise in helping people sleep better and feel less anxious. According to a review in Current Neuropharmacology, CBD might help those who suffer from sleep disruptions related to pain, mood instability, and stress.

While more focused studies are necessary, early signs show that medical cannabis might offer lupus patients a supplemental tool for managing their condition. However, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment, especially one like cannabis that can affect people differently and is subject to legal restrictions depending on where you live.

The medical marijuana products from licensed enterprises like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CNX: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) could just be what patients diagnosed with different diseases need to address their symptoms either in conjunction with their conventional medications or, hopefully, as a standalone treatment.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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Cannabis Means Business – Conference & Expo to be Held as a B2B Conference in New York City

The Cannabis Means Business Conference & Expo will be held on June 4-5, 2025, in New York City as a two-day B2B event. Formerly known as CWBExpo, CMB has been operational since 2015.

CMB highlights include:

  • The pre-show workshops and rooftop party will be held on June 3, 2025.
  • The Expo & Conference & O2VAPE Industry Yacht Party will be held on June 4
  • The Expo & Conference & Women in Cannabis Business Luncheon will be held on June 5

CMB caters to the innovative, business, and creative needs of the vibrant cannabis industry in New York City. It offers tremendous growth and learning opportunities by connecting members of the cannabis community to interact and discover the latest trends and opportunities in the cannabis sector. Experts of global acclaim gather at the CMB events to discuss and share insights on the evolution and challenges faced by the cannabis industry. Participants can connect with the experts to get answers to their queries and expert advice on several topics. Industry stalwarts will conduct sessions to share insights on the latest regulatory and legal complexities. They also suggest viable solutions and effective strategies for the rapidly changing cannabis landscape. Thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts can showcase their knowledge and expertise to a crowd of enthusiasts from the cannabis spectrum.

Whoopi Goldberg, EGOT winner and entrepreneur, will make a special appearance at CMB for a live fireside chat and discuss her new hemp-derived THC mocktail, Whoop-Tea, created in partnership with Pure Genesis. Moderated by CNBC’s Tim Seymour, the conversation will explore Whoopi’s entry into the cannabis beverage space, her wellness vision, and the industry’s explosive growth.

CMB is renowned for providing an unparalleled platform for networking, education, and business development. With an expansive exhibit floor and a diverse slate of industry-leading speakers, CMB attendees can expect an array of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to address the complexities of operating within the regional, national, and global cannabis marketplace.

To learn more, please visit https://cnw.fm/SYd0j.

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Senate Rejects Law Seeking to Operationalize Medical Marijuana Program Approved by Voters

A bill in the Nebraska Legislature aimed at helping put voter-approved medical marijuana laws into action did not pass on Tuesday. Despite strong support from voters last November, lawmakers couldn’t overcome a filibuster in the chamber. Legislative Bill 677 fell short of the 33 votes needed to end debate, with a narrow 23-22 vote failing to move it forward.

Senator Ben Hansen, who introduced the bill, tried to appeal to his colleagues’ compassion, arguing that medical marijuana could offer real help to suffering patients. He stressed that even if they were hesitant about marijuana, they could still support relief for those in need.

Senator Glen Meyer echoed Hansen’s sentiment, urging fellow legislators to trust in each other’s judgment and humanity to find a path forward. Six other Republicans joined Meyer and Hansen in backing the bill, but it wasn’t enough to counter the opposition led by prominent GOP figures like Governor Jim Pillen, Attorney General Mike Hilgers, and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts.

Their public pushback convinced enough lawmakers to block LB 677. They argued that the newly established Medical Cannabis Commission, created by voters and given full authority to regulate medical marijuana, should be allowed to work independently before any legislative changes are made.

There are also legal battles still playing out. Hilgers’ office is pursuing a case questioning the legality of how the cannabis laws made it onto the ballot. At the same time, he has rallied support from law enforcement groups, including sheriffs and police chiefs, against the bill.

Still, advocates like Senator John Fredrickson pushed back, arguing that the fears surrounding marijuana were outdated. He argued that lawmakers should focus on putting effective guardrails in place rather than blocking what the voters supported.

Senators like Dan Quick and Megan Hunt shared personal stories and frustrations, emphasizing that medical cannabis could be life-changing for families struggling with addiction or chronic health issues. Others noted the inconsistency of opposing this bill while supporting changes to other voter-approved initiatives on paid leave and minimum wage.

LB 677’s failure has frustrated many who believe the proposal is necessary to make the voter-approved reforms a reality. Some see it as another example of lawmakers ignoring the public’s will, while others view it as a deliberate delay tactic to weaken support or force legal battles.

Despite the setback, activists and supporters of medical cannabis have vowed to keep pressing forward. Many believe that the rejection of LB 677 could drive momentum toward full legalization in future elections, possibly as soon as 2026.

The failure to advance an enabling law creating a regulated medical marijuana program in Nebraska adversely affects the opening of broader economic activity, such as the sprouting of companies that offer services along the model of Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) operating in other jurisdictions.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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420 with CNW — New Delaware Bill Seeks to Regulate THC Drinks Like Alcohol

A new measure making its way through Delaware’s state legislature could change how and where THC-infused beverages are sold. House Bill 98, introduced by Representative Debra Heffernan, proposes moving these drinks out of bars and restaurants and limiting their sale to licensed package stores. The bill has already passed the committee stage, and Heffernan expects it to become law before the legislative session ends.

The legislation aims to shift THC drinks into Delaware’s traditional alcohol distribution model, known as the three-tier system. This structure includes producers, distributors, and retailers like liquor stores. By fitting THC beverages into this established framework, the state hopes to bring clarity and oversight to a product category that currently exists in a legal gray zone.

The bill also includes provisions for other hemp-derived consumables, such as edibles and vapes. These products would be restricted to cannabis facilities that don’t yet operate in Delaware. Heffernan said work on the legislation started back in 2024, though it wasn’t formally introduced until May 2025.

Her motivation, she says, is rooted in public health and safety. She pointed out that there are currently no training standards for serving THC drinks in hospitality settings, making it difficult for servers or consumers to know safe consumption limits.

Most of the drinks in question are made with hemp, not marijuana. While both contain Delta-9 THC, the legal distinction hinges on concentration. Under U.S. law, anything with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is considered hemp. Anything stronger is legally classified as cannabis.

Due to the vague language in the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp products have faced far fewer restrictions than marijuana. As a result, hemp-based THC drinks are widely available across the U.S., including in Delaware, where they’re sold in liquor stores and elsewhere. In 2024, the market for these beverages surpassed $3 billion globally.

HB 98 also directs Delaware’s cannabis regulatory office to collect and test samples of the beverages before they reach distributors. This is meant to ensure they meet safety standards. Lawmakers argue that liquor stores are better equipped to handle these sales because they already have safeguards to prevent underage access.

In recent years, Delaware state agencies have started cracking down on unauthorized THC sales. The Department of Justice issued warnings in 2024, and alcohol regulators admitted they lacked the knowledge to properly advise businesses on the legality and safety of THC-infused drinks.

Cannabis attorney Peter Murphy weighed in saying that while legal uncertainty remains, the legislation could benefit both liquor stores and future cannabis dispensaries. According to him, the bill may reshape who controls THC-infused products, moving them from loosely regulated sellers into a more defined—and likely more competitive—market.

This progressive approach being undertaken in Delaware is likely to attract commendation from the wider marijuana industry, including from major companies like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF).

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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420 with CNW — New Mexico Uses Cannabis Tax to Fund Monthly Stipend for Vulnerable Families

Albuquerque, New Mexico, has launched a new basic income initiative aimed at helping families in areas with high needs. Starting this month, selected households will receive monthly payments with no strings attached. This effort is being partially funded by tax revenue generated from recreational marijuana sales.

Back in March, city officials approved a $4.02 million budget for the program. Of that, over $2 million is coming directly from the city’s recreational marijuana revenue. The plan currently supports 80 families living in two school districts where students face significant academic challenges. Each family will receive $750 every month, and the program also offers financial counseling to help participants manage and plan their finances more effectively.

The initiative is part of a broader trend of guaranteed income programs being tested across the country. Unlike universal basic income, which provides monthly payments to everyone regardless of need, guaranteed income programs are usually targeted. These initiatives often focus on groups that face systemic disadvantages, such as low-income families, single mothers, communities of color, and transgender individuals.

Supporters argue that giving people regular cash payments helps stabilize their lives. Research from similar programs has shown that recipients often experience less stress, improved mental well-being, more secure housing situations, and better job opportunities—mainly because they can take time to seek employment or gain new skills.

However, not everyone is on board with this approach. Legislators in states like Idaho, South Dakota, and Iowa have pushed back, passing laws to prevent local governments from implementing these types of programs. Critics claim that guaranteed income discourages people from working and leans too far into government dependency.

Despite this criticism, leaders in Albuquerque are standing firm. They say the purpose of this effort is to help close the economic gap that disproportionately affects marginalized groups. According to the city, families impacted by cannabis-related criminalization, especially Black, Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander communities, as well as women and low-income households need this support.

City Councilor and Cannabis Equity and Community Reinvestment Fund head Klarissa Peña stressed the importance of accountability. She noted that the initiative was not just about handing out money but also about producing real, measurable improvements for people who have faced systemic barriers for years. Peña added that in the long run, the approach could lead to healthier communities, lower addiction rates, and savings for taxpayers.

Such programs show the far-reaching extra benefits that cannabis legalization brings to jurisdictions which license various marijuana companies like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) to operate within their markets.

About CNW420

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 — PA Senate Panel Rejects Provision to Sell Recreational Cannabis Using State Stores

A proposal backed by Pennsylvania Democrats to allow adults to buy recreational marijuana from state-run stores has been blocked by a Senate panel. The bill was voted down 7-3 by the Senate Law and Justice Committee, with one Democrat siding with Republicans to oppose it.

State Senator Dan Laughlin, who leads the committee, supports the idea of legalizing cannabis. However, he voiced strong opposition to selling it through government-operated shops. Laughlin argued that this model would sideline small businesses and entrepreneurs, pose logistical complications, and potentially invite legal trouble given the federal ban on cannabis.

What happens next in Pennsylvania’s ongoing debate over recreational cannabis remains uncertain. Matt Bradford, the state House Majority Leader, urged Senate Republicans to bring forward a legalization plan that could gain enough support to pass. While the House has already taken a clear position, Bradford noted that it’s now the Senate’s turn to propose a version that can secure the necessary 26 votes.

The bill, sponsored by Democratic Representatives Rick Krajewski and Dan Frankel, aimed to keep the cannabis market from being overtaken by large corporate players. Supporters argue that public health and consumer interests would be better protected under state management.

Critics, however, say the model is untested and risky—no other state has implemented a government-run cannabis system. They also argue that expanding the existing medical marijuana framework would be a more practical path.

Some Democrats on the Senate committee signaled they could support a compromise approach similar to one Laughlin proposed during a previous legislative session. That version would establish an oversight board and allow already-licensed medical marijuana providers, most of which are large firms, to begin selling recreational products.

Laughlin noted that his proposal isn’t ready for a vote yet.

After the committee’s decision, Krajewski expressed disappointment that Laughlin dismissed the bill without offering amendments or engaging in serious discussion, especially with budget deadlines looming. “We followed his lead and sent a bill,” Krajewski said. “Disagreeing is fine, but that’s why negotiation exists.”

Laughlin said he scheduled the vote quickly to make it obvious the measure lacked enough support to advance. “I knew it wasn’t going anywhere,” he said. “Better to show that now than drag it out.”

He also raised concerns about the expense of creating state-controlled cannabis dispensaries, saying it could cost hundreds of millions before any revenue is generated. “That’s a hard sell when private businesses are already prepared to step in once legalization happens,” he added.

Leading marijuana firms like Cresco Labs Inc. (CNX: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) will be watching how lawmakers in Pennsylvania reach a consensus on adult-use marijuana sales as the reform movement makes progress in different jurisdictions.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

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