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 — Survey Suggests Most American Teens Are Shunning Alcohol, Tobacco, and Marijuana

Drug use in teenagers has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to findings from a recent survey.

This year, nearly two-thirds of high school seniors reported abstaining from e-cigarettes, cannabis, alcohol, or cigarettes over the past month. This marks the highest abstinence rate since the annual nationwide survey began tracking this data in 2017.

Additionally, 80% of students in grade 10 said they had not used any of these substances recently, setting another record. Ninety percent of those in grade 8 said they did not use any of the substances, which is the same percentage as in the prior study.

The only notable rise in substance use was in nicotine pouch consumption, with approximately six percent of high school seniors using them in the past year, up from about three percent in 2023. However, it’s uncertain if this indicates the start of a larger trend. Richard Miech, the lead researcher for the survey conducted by the University of Michigan, commented, “It’s difficult to determine whether this is the beginning of a broader issue or not.”

The Monitoring the Future, funded by the federal government, has been collecting data since 1975. This year’s results are based on responses from roughly 24,000 students in grades 12, 10, and 8 across the U.S.

During the pandemic, schools shifted to remote learning, and gatherings like parties were discouraged. With teens staying home under parental oversight, experimentation with substances dropped significantly. Experts suggest that peer pressure, often experienced in group settings, plays a key role in initiating substance use.

When restrictions were lifted, many anticipated a partial return to previous levels of use. However, even before COVID-19, rates of drinking, smoking, and the use of certain drugs had been declining. Analysts attributed this trend to teenagers spending more time at home and connecting with peers through smartphones rather than in social gatherings, where substance use might occur.

Interestingly, cannabis and vaping, which had been increasing before the pandemic, also saw declines during this period—declines that have persisted since. Some analysts speculate that the lockdowns disrupted a cycle where older students introduce substances to younger ones. Teens who were in grade 9 during the pandemic may have missed opportunities to experiment, which also limited their influence on younger peers, according to Miech.

Mental health might also have contributed. Reports of anxiety and depression surged among teens during the pandemic. While depression can sometimes lead to substance use, some anxious teens avoid drugs, fearing their effects.

This survey dampens prohibitionists’ argument that legalizing marijuana and licensing companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) would result in a spike in underage users of this substance.

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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 — South Carolina Legislator Files Bill to Legalize Medical Marijuana

A senator in South Carolina has proposed a measure aimed at legalizing medical marijuana for individuals suffering from certain medical conditions. The measure was pre-filed by Senator Tom Davis (R) in preparation for next year’s legislative session.

The legislation closely mirrors earlier legislation introduced by Davis that gained approval in the state Senate earlier in the year but failed to progress in the House of Representatives. If passed, it would allow patients diagnosed with specific debilitating or terminal conditions to access medical marijuana. Conditions covered under the bill include Crohn’s disease, cancer, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, PTSD, and terminal illnesses where patients are expected to have less than a year to live. It also applies to chronic conditions typically treated with opioids.

Patients would need a recommendation from a licensed physician to access medical cannabis. However, the legislation explicitly prohibits the smoking of marijuana and its home cultivation. The state Department of Public Health, in coordination with the Board of Pharmacy, would be responsible for creating regulations regarding the cultivation, distribution, licensing, and oversight of medical marijuana businesses.

The proposed regulations include strict labeling and packaging requirements, particularly to ensure products do not appeal to children.

Local governments would retain the authority to regulate or prohibit the operation of medical marijuana in their jurisdictions. Cities, towns, and counties could also impose specific restrictions, such as limiting the number of marijuana businesses or setting operational hours.

According to Attorney David Ullian of Vicente LLP, a nationwide legal practice that focuses on psychedelics and cannabis, South Carolina has encountered many obstacles in its efforts to legalize cannabis. Ullian pointed out that despite the state’s robust public support for legalization, legislative action has been sluggish. It is unclear if the present plan will receive the required approval to become law because a previous version of this legislation cleared the Senate but stalled in the House.

Ullian noted that South Carolina residents have waited a long time for access to tested and regulated marijuana for managing their medical symptoms. He believes that passing the bill would provide them with a safe and legal way to obtain the treatment they need.

Senator Davis hopes the narrow focus and conservative approach of the measure will persuade hesitant members of the House to support it. The bill mandates physician oversight for patient authorizations and requires pharmacists to handle cannabis distribution, which Davis says aligns with what South Carolinians prefer.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be hoping that this time round, lawmakers in South Carolina pass a medical marijuana law so that patients who need these treatments can access them legally.

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420 with CNW — New York Marijuana Firms Call for Tax Reforms as They Struggle to Survive

New York marijuana cultivators and processors are pushing Governor Kathy Hochul to approve a measure that would simplify how they handle tax filings, switching the system to an annual basis.

Currently, businesses are required to pay a 9% marijuana excise tax on wholesale prices every quarter. The change would be a minor adjustment to existing regulations but one that could offer significant relief to those struggling in an already challenging market, according to Jaunty co-founder and CEO Nick Guarino.

Companies like Jaunty, alongside Ayrloom and Alliance, collaborated with Park Strategies to draft the measure, receiving support from Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and State Senator Jeremy Cooney. The measure already passed through the state legislature.

The proposed annual tax structure is similar to the approach that has been successfully implemented in the craft alcohol industry, according to Aryloom president Mack Hueber. He maintained that it makes sense to use the same strategy for cannabis businesses if it is effective for craft beers.

According to Hueber, the current quarterly tax schedule creates unnecessary financial strain for cultivators, wholesalers, and processors who are required to submit their tax payments within 20 days after the quarter ends, yet retailers have 30 days to settle their invoices. This misalignment often forces businesses to pay taxes before they’ve received the revenue needed to cover the payments, leaving them vulnerable to late fees.

Hueber pointed out that this adjustment would give businesses the time to collect funds, making it easier to pay taxes without jeopardizing cash flow. Many cannabis businesses are already under significant financial pressure, and he believes fixing the tax payment timing is a logical and easy solution. Guarino added that shifting to annual payments would alleviate the struggle of meeting quarterly deadlines while juggling business expenses and outstanding invoices.

The push for tax reform comes after significant changes earlier in the year when the state replaced its potency-based tax with a flat 9% excise tax. Hueber described the previous tax structure, which calculated payments based on the THC content of products, as extremely complicated and burdensome.

While the shift to a flat tax was a step in the right direction, many businesses, including Jaunty, are still dealing with the consequences of past policies. Guarino shared that his company is on a state payment plan, paying $65,000 monthly to cover back taxes. When combined with current tax liabilities, Jaunty expects to owe approximately $400,000 this month alone. He contrasted the situation with personal income taxes, where the IRS provides longer repayment terms, noting that the excise tax system offers much less flexibility.

Beyond the tax reform bill, two other marijuana-related proposals are awaiting the governor’s decision. One aims to officially classify cannabis as an agricultural crop, while the other seeks to allow farmers to hold market-style events to increase sales. Both the tax legislation and the agricultural bill have gained attention from the governor’s office, raising hopes that action will soon be taken.

The challenge of unfavorable tax policies isn’t only affecting cannabis firms in New York State. Even established companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have to contend with tax systems that hamstring their potential for growth in many jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — DEA Requests Judge to Compel FDA Officials to Testify During Cannabis Reclassification Hearings

The DEA is requesting approval from an agency judge to issue subpoenas compelling officials from the FDA to testify at forthcoming hearings regarding the Biden administration’s proposal to reschedule cannabis.

Friday was the deadline for parties involved in the hearing to submit additional materials, including evidence and witness information, to DEA Judge John Mulrooney as part of the pre-hearing process.

The DEA stated in its filing that it plans to subpoena four FDA officials, even though the HHS previously stated that it wouldn’t voluntarily participate in the proceedings. Additionally, the DEA announced its intention to introduce thousands of comments from the public submitted during the rulemaking process as evidence. This is despite the judge’s prior ruling that public comments are not admissible as evidence, warning the agency against attempting to use them inappropriately.

Judge Mulrooney cautioned that overwhelming the court with inadmissible comments could create the impression of a delay tactic, even if unintentional. The DEA defended its position by arguing that including public comments as evidence is crucial for decision-makers, given their significance to the proposed rulemaking. To address the logistical challenges posed by the volume of comments, the agency requested permission to submit them in electronic form rather than as physical documents.

In its recent filing, the DEA also provided details about the anticipated testimony of the four FDA officials it seeks to subpoena. According to the agency, the officials would provide critical information about the medical and scientific evaluations conducted as part of the HHS Eight-Factor analysis, which forms the foundation of the proposed rescheduling.

The analysis examines several aspects of a substance, including its potential for abuse, known pharmacological effects, current scientific knowledge, history and patterns of misuse, risks to public health, dependence liability, and whether it is a precursor to other controlled substances.

The DEA further explained that witnesses would discuss cannabis’ medical use, including its widespread application in states and the recognition of such use by regulatory entities overseeing medical practice. Additionally, witnesses are expected to address how medical marijuana is currently used in the U.S., despite its designation as a Schedule I drug.

The ongoing proceedings have sparked concerns among marijuana reform advocates about potential bias within the DEA’s handling of the rulemaking process. Some view the agency’s dual role as both the proponent of the proposed rule and the entity overseeing the hearings with skepticism.

The marijuana industry, including enterprises like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), looks forward to the next steps of the rescheduling process and the final ruling that will be made on the CSA status of marijuana.

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420 with CNW — Elton John Thinks Marijuana Legalization in Canada, the US is a Grave Mistake

Elton John has been vocal about his stance on the legalization of cannabis, openly criticizing its approval in parts of the United States and Canada. The legendary musician expressed strong concerns about the drug, reflecting on his own experiences and observations during a Time magazine interview.

According to him, marijuana is undeniably addictive and often acts as a gateway to more dangerous substances. Recalling his own struggles, he admitted, “When you’re under the influence—and I’ve been there—you don’t think clearly or make rational choices.” He went on to describe the legalization of marijuana as one of the worst decisions ever made.

John’s opinions are rooted in his journey to sobriety, which he has maintained for many years. During this time, he has also become an advocate for others battling addiction, helping numerous artists along their recovery paths. Notably, he acted as a sponsor for rapper Eminem and encouraged British singer Robbie Williams to seek professional help by attending rehab.

Despite his efforts, there are regrets. One such regret involves the late George Michael, who passed suddenly in 2016 at the age of 53 from liver and heart problems after battling substance misuse.

In retrospect, John said of his efforts to assist Michael, “It’s really difficult to confront someone about their destructive behavior, and even more difficult to accept when you’re the one being confronted.”

John first encountered cocaine in the 1970s through his then-lover and manager, John Reid, which marked the beginning of a long battle with substance abuse.

Looking back, he acknowledges how those years of addiction led to poor decisions and damaging relationships. “When you’re using drugs, your judgment is clouded,” he admitted. “I was so desperate for love that I clung to people and didn’t give them space. It pains me to think about how many people I might have hurt during that time.”

Bernie Taupin, John’s longtime collaborator and lyricist, also reflected on the singer’s struggles during that era. Taupin described feeling immense fear for his friend, calling those years “horrible.”

He noted that John’s substance abuse affected not only their connection but also their creative work. “The projects we worked on during his worst periods weren’t a true reflection of our best abilities,” Taupin explained. “It wasn’t until Elton found his way back to himself that I could draw inspiration from our shared experiences and channel them into meaningful material.”

The sentiments expressed by Elton John aren’t new, and cannabis firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) have heard similar views expressed by those opposed to marijuana legalization. However, the reform movement continues to gain momentum around the world.

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420 with CNW — New Lawsuit Aims to Invalidate Nebraska’s Medical Marijuana Ballot Measures

A top medical marijuana opponent in Nebraska has initiated a new legal challenge aiming to nullify two recent ballot initiatives to legalize and regulate marijuana in the state.

John Kuehn, a former state senator from Heartwell and a past State Board of Health member, filed a second lawsuit this year targeting the Nebraskans for Medical Cannabis campaign and Bob Evnen, the Secretary of State. The recent case comes after Kuehn lost a related lawsuit in late November, a decision he is currently appealing.

The new lawsuit also involves Governor Jim Pillen and argues that state cannabis legislation is unconstitutional and unenforceable. It further challenges the proposal to create a new agency to oversee cannabis regulation, claiming this approach is prohibited under the law.

According to the lawsuit, the measures created by activists have not undergone proper judicial scrutiny to ensure compliance with the Nebraska and U.S. Constitutions. Kuehn argues that action must be taken now to avoid wasting taxpayer money on what he describes as a doomed effort.

Nebraska law requires the governor to formally declare which ballot measures succeeded in the November 5 election. This includes Initiative Measures 438 and 437, which relate to medical cannabis. Kuehn’s lawsuit seeks to stop the governor from performing this duty.

Crista Eggers, a campaign manager and one of the ballot measures’ sponsors, noted the broad public support for regulated access to medical marijuana, citing overwhelming approval during last month’s vote. She pointed out that 48 states already permit some form of marijuana use, highlighting the state’s right to address its citizens’ needs. Eggers reiterated the campaign’s commitment to defending the state’s medical marijuana legislation to ensure access for patients.

Kuehn’s legal challenge, if successful, could set a precedent for questioning cannabis measures in other states. While the federal government is considering reclassifying cannabis to a less severe category, Kuehn has previously argued that these measures violate federal law.

His initial lawsuit, filed in September, claimed that the initiatives lacked sufficient valid signatures and included concerns of petition fraud. That case, however, was dismissed. Despite the setback, Kuehn has continued his efforts, filing the current lawsuit shortly after the Nebraska Canvassing Board certified the election results.

As it stands, Measures 437 and 438 would respectively allow up to five ounces of medical marijuana with a doctor’s recommendation and establish a regulatory commission by October 2025. Kuehn argues that the governor cannot allocate taxpayer resources to support what he views as federally illegal activity. The case has now moved to Judge Susan Strong, who will hear an initial request to block Governor Pillen from finalizing the measures.

Marijuana companies, such as Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) from various jurisdictions will be watching how this latest legal challenge to the medical cannabis measures in Nebraska pans out.

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420 with CNW — Portugal Looks Forward to Standing Out as a Medical Marijuana Hub

Portugal is rapidly emerging as a leading center for medical marijuana in Europe. Its mild, temperate, subtropical environment, frequently likened to that of California, makes it an excellent location for cultivating cannabis.

“No other European country offers better environmental conditions,” said Martins of FAI Therapeutics, a Portuguese pharmaceutical firm. Located near the hills of Serpa, surrounded by cork oaks and olive trees, FAI Therapeutics’ 13.3-acre farm produces approximately 30 tons of marijuana flowers annually. The operation began in 2022 following a surge of interest from international marijuana producers drawn to Portugal’s ideal climate and supportive legislation.

Currently, over 60 companies have received authorization to cultivate, distribute, or process medical marijuana products in Portugal, with an additional 170 companies waiting for approval. Last year, the country exported about 12 tons of marijuana-based medical products, primarily to Germany, Europe’s biggest market, and to countries such as Australia, Poland, and Spain.

The industry has ambitious goals as demand for medical marijuana grows globally. According to Jose Tempero, medical director of Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), a global corporation based in Canada with a marijuana farm close to Cantanhede, Portugal is leading among European producers of medical cannabis. Tilray’s facility has packaging and processing facilities as well as labs, with its marijuana oils selling even in Latin America.

The expanding market for medical marijuana is driven by its applications in managing chronic pain, cancer treatment side effects, and certain forms of epilepsy, among other medical conditions. Over 50 countries have approved marijuana-based medications, with the number expected to increase in the coming years. Market analysts predict the global medical marijuana industry will grow from $16.6 billion in 2023 to more than $65 billion by 2030.

Beyond its favorable climate, Portugal offers a robust regulatory framework established under its 2019 cannabis legislation, which enforces strict quality standards. These regulations have bolstered confidence among international buyers, ensuring the safety and reliability of products exported from Portugal.

Despite Portugal’s leadership in production, many Portuguese patients face challenges in accessing cannabis-based medications. Most doctors are hesitant to prescribe these treatments, and their costs are not fully covered by the nation’s healthcare system. Lara Silva, whose young daughter suffers from severe epilepsy, highlighted the difficulty of accessing CBD products locally. She initially had to source them from Spain due to insufficient availability in Portugal.

Tempero acknowledged the stigma surrounding medical cannabis but expressed optimism about its growing acceptance, particularly beyond recreational use.

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420 with CNW — Pennsylvania House Democrats Give Marijuana Legalization Another Go

Democrats in Pennsylvania are making another attempt to legalize cannabis through new legislation spearheaded by state Representatives Dan Frankel from Allegheny County and Rick Krajewski from Philadelphia. They are currently seeking co-sponsors for their proposal, marking the latest effort in a series of attempts over recent years to address cannabis legalization in the state.

The proposed legislation aims to expunge criminal records for individuals with past cannabis-related offenses, reinvest funds into communities disproportionately impacted by drug policies, and implement safeguards to prevent predatory marketing and accidental exposure to children. The bill also seeks to set reasonable limits on marijuana potency and create business opportunities within Pennsylvania’s growing cannabis sector.

Krajewski, who chairs the House Health Subcommittee on Health Care, has conducted five hearings to study marijuana programs in other states. The hearings examined the benefits, challenges, and lessons learned from those initiatives. Reflecting on these sessions, Krajewski noted that they included insights from public health professionals, advocates for criminal justice reform, and proponents of social equity.

“We’ve gathered knowledge from experts and observed successes across the country,” Krajewski stated. “Now is the time for Pennsylvania to act, ensuring we don’t fall further behind while creating an opportunity to generate substantial public revenue.”

Recreational cannabis is already legal in 24 other states, including nearly all of Pennsylvania’s neighbors. Public opinion polls indicate widespread bipartisan support among Pennsylvanians for marijuana decriminalization, reflecting the growing demand for change.

Frankel highlighted the adverse effects of marijuana criminalization, particularly in minority communities. He underscored the need to not only legalize cannabis but also to address the longstanding harm caused by prior enforcement policies.

Frankel pointed to challenges faced by other states, such as regulatory shortcomings and legal disputes involving out-of-state marijuana companies, as lessons for Pennsylvania to avoid. “Our proposal is designed to benefit taxpayers, prioritize public health, and uplift communities disproportionately affected by prohibition,” Frankel explained.

Some elements of the proposed legislation align with initiatives previously outlined by Governor Josh Shapiro. Earlier this year, Shapiro included cannabis legalization as part of the state’s executive budget measure, envisioning it as a significant source of new revenue for the state. Although the legislature did not approve the initiative at the time, Shapiro’s administration has projected that a regulated cannabis market could generate $250 million annually. His proposal also called for expunging marijuana-related criminal records and allocating $5 million toward restorative justice programs.

The cannabis industry and its leading players like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) will be following the developments in Pennsylvania to see whether it becomes the latest U.S. state to enact cannabis policy reform.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – CannExpo 2025 to Showcase Innovative Products, Trends in Celebration of All Things Cannabis

CannExpo 2025, Toronto’s Cannabis Lifestyle Show, is set to blaze into the Queen Elizabeth Building at Exhibition Place on March 21-22, 2025. The event will bring together enthusiasts, curious newcomers and professionals from the cannabis industry. An eclectic mix of exhibitors will be featured, from cutting-edge growers and innovative product developers to trendsetting accessory makers and wellness experts. The one-stop-shop for discovering the latest and greatest in the world of cannabis will be buzzing with engaging panels and discussions on hot topics.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/m5Kxo

About CannExpo 2025

CannExpo 2025 is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of cannabis. Join us in Toronto as we continue to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes and celebrate the diverse, vibrant world of cannabis culture. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or canna-curious, CannExpo 2025 promises an experience that will expand your horizons and ignite your passion for the plant. For more information, visit www.CannExpo.ca.

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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.

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420 with CNW — Federal Appeals Court Doubtful of Prospects for Suit Challenging Marijuana Ban

A United States appeals court seemed inclined to reject claims made by several marijuana businesses in Massachusetts, which argued that federal laws prohibiting cannabis are no longer constitutional.

The businesses, represented by prominent attorney David Boies, contend that significant changes since the Supreme Court upheld federal marijuana laws in 2005 make the prohibition outdated. Currently, 38 states have legalized medical or recreational cannabis. Boies argued that Congress’s original intent to eliminate cannabis nationwide has shifted, citing legislation and policy changes that reflect a more lenient approach.

Despite his arguments, the judges appeared skeptical. Judge Julie Rikelman, appointed by President Joe Biden, emphasized that Congress still aims to regulate controlled substances, including cannabis, to manage both legal and illegal markets. “That has not changed,” she noted, suggesting that federal regulation remains a valid objective.

The lawsuit, initiated last year, involves Massachusetts-based Canna Provisions, a cannabis retailer; Gyasi Sellers, who operates a cannabis delivery service; Wiseacre Farm, a grower; and Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF), a publicly traded multistate cannabis company. In July, Judge Mark Mastroianni, appointed by former President Barack Obama, dismissed their case, stating that only the Supreme Court could overturn its 2005 ruling.

In the 2005 ruling, the court held that Congress has the authority under the Commerce Clause to criminalize cannabis possession and use, even in states that legalize it for medical use under the CSA.

The plaintiffs argue that the 2005 rationale has been undermined by subsequent legal and policy developments. They cited a 2021 statement by Justice Clarence Thomas in which he questioned whether the reasoning behind the decision still holds.

Boies also highlighted congressional actions that reflect a changing approach to cannabis. In 2014, Congress prohibited the Justice Department from using federal funds to interfere with state medical cannabis programs. Additionally, in 2010, Congress allowed the use of medical cannabis in Washington, D.C. More recently, the DOJ moved to reclassify cannabis as a Schedule 3 substance, a less severe category than its current Schedule 1 status. A hearing on this potential reclassification is set for January 2025.

Despite these changes, Judge David Barron, another Obama appointee, expressed doubt that these legislative carve-outs indicate a complete shift in federal policy. He questioned how these isolated measures prove that the federal government has abandoned its stance, especially when the overarching prohibition on cannabis sales remains in effect.

This case, Canna Provisions Inc. vs. Garland, continues to highlight the tension between state-level legalization and federal prohibition, a conflict that has yet to be resolved.

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