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 — UN Human Rights Commissioner Condemns War on Drugs as a Total Failure

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) has urged the global community to reconsider punitive and criminal approaches to drug policy, declaring that the “war on drugs” has been a profound failure.

Speaking at a Warsaw conference that brought together experts and leaders from across Europe, Commissioner Volker Türk noted that current strategies have neither curbed drug use nor deterred drug-related crimes. He called for a shift toward evidence-based policies that center on human rights and prioritize compassion over punishment.

Türk argued that treating drug use as a criminal issue rather than a health matter has marginalized and discriminated against individuals struggling with substance use. He highlighted how punitive approaches often strip people of their rights and dignity, leaving them excluded from society.

According to Türk, these individuals should be included in the policy-making process to create strategies that genuinely reduce harm. Without their input, he warned, efforts to address drug-related issues are unlikely to succeed.

In a video shared on social media, Türk reiterated these views, condemning the destructive impact of punitive drug policies on individuals and communities worldwide. He noted that these policies have failed to address the root causes of drug use while exacerbating harm for those already at risk.

The Commissioner called for transformative solutions guided by the International Guidelines on Drug Policy and Human Rights. He advocated for evidence-driven, gender-sensitive measures rooted in public health, including voluntary access to social and healthcare services. Scapegoating and stigmatization, he emphasized, only deepen the challenges faced by individuals and communities affected by drug use.

Türk’s remarks align with a statement issued earlier by UN experts, working groups, and special rapporteurs. That statement criticized the war on drugs for contributing to severe human rights abuses documented by various UN entities. The experts called for a shift from punishment to support and urged governments to invest in evidence-based programs like prevention, harm reduction, and treatment. These efforts, they stressed, must adhere to human rights norms and prioritize community welfare.

The UN experts also referenced reports encouraging governments to move away from criminalization and adopt harm-reduction strategies. These include drug-checking services, supervised consumption areas, and the availability of naloxone and other overdose-reversal medications. The reports suggested that over-criminalization and stigma are significant barriers to achieving better health outcomes. By addressing these systemic issues, policymakers can develop more effective approaches to drug-related challenges.

Switching from prohibition to legalization and allowing companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) to operate can be a good beginning which can then be followed by other measures to undo the harms caused by prohibition policies.

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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 — Study Suggests Marijuana Use Could Trigger Epigenetic Changes

A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry has explored how marijuana use might influence the epigenome in the human body. The epigenome, often described as a system of switches, regulates how genes are activated or deactivated, shaping bodily functions.

According to Lifang Hou, a Northwestern University epidemiologist, the study identified a connection between multiple epigenetic markers and long-term cannabis use.

The researchers examined more than 1000 participants who had been involved in an earlier long-term study, which included surveys about their marijuana use spanning two decades. Participants who were between 18 and 30 years old at the study’s outset provided blood samples during two specific intervals—15 years and 20 years into the study.

These samples allowed the researchers to analyze changes in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism where methyl groups are added or removed from DNA. While this modification does not alter the DNA sequence, it can influence gene activity by affecting how easily cells can interpret genetic instructions.

Lifestyle and environmental factors, including marijuana use, can induce such methylation alterations, which can have far-reaching implications, including potential transmission to future generations. Blood samples provide a snapshot of both recent and historical exposures to such factors, making them a valuable tool for this kind of research.

The study revealed associations between cannabis use and numerous epigenetic markers. For instance, in blood samples collected at the 15-year mark, 22 markers were linked to recent marijuana use, while 31 were linked to long-term use. By the 20-year point, researchers identified 132 markers tied to recent cannabis use and 16 linked to long-term use.

Interestingly, one of these markers had previously been associated with tobacco use, suggesting a potential overlap in how the body regulates epigenetic responses to both substances.

Hou and her team noted that some of the epigenetic changes identified have been connected to processes such as cellular growth, hormone signaling, immune responses, substance use disorders, and neurological conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. However, the study does not establish a direct causal relationship between marijuana use and these changes or health issues.

The findings offer new insights into how marijuana may influence epigenetic factors, according to Drew Nannini, another epidemiologist involved in the study. He emphasized the need for additional research across diverse populations to confirm these associations. Investigating how marijuana affects age-related health issues could also shed light on its long-term health impacts.

This call for additional research is partly the reason why the broader marijuana industry, including firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), has for long advocated for sweeping regulatory changes at the federal level so that it is easier to study marijuana and enable state-level and federal authorities to tweak marijuana laws based on the available science about the benefits and actual risks of this substance.

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420 with CNW — How Cannabis Firms Can Leverage the Ongoing MJBizCon

Marijuana industry leaders have countless opportunities to form connections and secure business deals at this year’s MJBizCon. MJBizCon 2024 kicked off on Tuesday at the Las Vegas Convention Center, starting with preshow sessions and running through Friday.

To make the most of the world’s largest marijuana business event, it’s essential to arrive with a strategy but also stay adaptable for unforeseen opportunities, according to seasoned attendees who’ve successfully navigated the event.

According to Azuca CEO Kim Sanchez Rael, flexible scheduling is vital since some of the best opportunities come from unexpected encounters. For instance, an impromptu conversation during a preshow lunch at a prior MJBizCon led to a partnership with Wana Brands, a major edibles manufacturer.

Exhibitions have also proven beneficial for Azuca as they provide visibility and a base for meetings. Sanchez notes that being present at a booth allows her company to showcase products, engage with attendees, and even test interest in items not yet launched.

Before the event, Azuca engages in targeted outreach through email campaigns, social media platforms like LinkedIn, and word-of-mouth connections. Sanchez and her team also prearrange meetings with businesses they’re interested in partnering with, ensuring their time at the event is productive.

Another MJBizCon veteran who emphasizes the need for planning is Joe Salome, CEO of Georgia Hemp Co. He recommends researching the exhibitor map in advance to prioritize specific companies and objectives.

However, both Sanchez and Salome agree that maintaining some flexibility is crucial, as chance meetings can result in valuable connections. Salome recounts instances where unplanned interactions at a bar or networking event turned into meaningful business discussions.

Networking at MJBizCon is not limited to the show floor. Preconference breakfasts, lunches, and after-parties are prime opportunities to meet industry professionals. Sanchez Rael advises teams to split up during these events to maximize their networking reach. Salome underscores the importance of attending these gatherings, even when exhaustion sets in, as they often yield unexpected benefits.

MJBizCon is especially valuable for businesses from emerging marijuana markets. Salome points out that in regions like Georgia, where industry infrastructure is still developing, the event offers a chance to connect with suppliers, manufacturers, and other key players. He recalls his first MJBizCon experience in 2015, which helped his company build long-lasting relationships and gain insights from more established markets.

Sometimes, connections made at the event don’t bear fruit until much later. For instance, Jon Spadafora, who launched Flower Union, credits a product introduction at MJBizCon 2022 as the inspiration behind his new edibles line. Conversations with Sanchez on the exhibit floor and at after-parties helped shape his vision, ultimately leading to the creation of a unique product line.

Although MJBizCon is an excellent venue for finding potential partners, industry veterans caution against rushing into agreements. Salome recommends thoroughly evaluating potential collaborators to ensure they align with long-term goals. He suggests holding off on finalizing deals at the event, as emotions can run high in such an environment. Instead, use the convention as an opportunity to gather information and ideas to implement later.

For established firms like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), every opportunity to interact with other members of the cannabis industry is welcome since avenues for brand promotion can arise.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Prices Gradually Reduce as Ohio’s Legal Market Grows

Data released by the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control shows that the price of marijuana has slowly been reducing since adult-use sales were launched this past summer. Dispensaries have reported slow-starts to the recreational program, indicating that vendor costs, confusion among consumers, and the state’s regulations may have contributed to this.

Under state law, licensed dispensaries aren’t allowed to sell marijuana cultivated or purchased outside the state. This has led to a decrease in vendor prices. State records also show that when adult-use sales were launched in August, the manufactured sales average for marijuana product was $31.06 while the average cost of one-tenth ounce of flower was $26.59.

As of last week, the manufactured sales average was $28.70 while the average cost of one-tenth ounce of flower was $21.72.

Terrasana’s director of marketing Nikki Stanley revealed that while they were seeing more traffic after recreational use of marijuana was launched, it still didn’t meet the expectations. Prior to the state approving Issue 2 which allowed individuals aged 21 and above to legally cultivate and use cannabis, most Ohioans were travelling to Michigan to get their marijuana fix.

Even after the recreational-use law going into effect, it appears residents in Ohio are still travelling to Michigan for marijuana. Data from Headset shows that in the last 2 years, Michigan’s marijuana market has recorded over $263 million in total sales.

With regard to sales, $178.5 million in total product sales had been recorded in Ohio as of last week.

Stanley has revealed though that dispensary marijuana prices have also been affected by potency, with higher THC content pushing prices higher. This has made products with higher potency very popular among consumers and while there’s a lot that makes a product good, new consumers seem hell bent on getting products with the highest THC.

The state’s recreational use program imposes a 10% excise tax on all adult-use purchases, with towns that have dispensaries operating in their jurisdictions receiving 36% of the funds generated.

The state has also allocated some taxes towards a substance abuse and addiction fund and a social equity fund, among others.

In addition to this, the program applies a sales tax to cannabis purchases. While the base tax rate is about 5.2% in the state, counties are allowed to impose additional sales taxes on purchases. In Green County, the total tax rate as of this year is 6.75% while in Montgomery County, it’s 7.5%.

The trend being witnessed in Ohio mirrors to a large degree what other jurisdictions in which leading firms like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) operate saw as the markets in which they are licensed had just launched.

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420 with CNW — Study: Utah’s Medical Cannabis Legalization Lowered Opioid Use by Patients with Chronic Pain

A recent study examining the use of prescribed opioids in Utah after medical cannabis legalization in the state highlights a significant reduction in opioid consumption among patients managing chronic pain. The findings also show a substantial decline in opioid prescription-related deaths since Utah authorized medical marijuana in 2018.

The study highlights the increasing use of cannabis for pain relief and its potential to lessen opiate dependence. It concludes that cannabis could be a promising option as healthcare providers explore safer methods for managing pain, especially for individuals with chronic pain conditions.

The Utah study analyzed 186 chronic pain patients, using data from medical cannabis dispensary transactions and corresponding medical records. The information was de-identified and processed using a HIPAA-compliant system developed by MSA.

The participant group included slightly more females (54%) than males (45%), with the majority (87%) being white. Ages ranged between 23 and 89 years, with an average age of 49. Nearly all participants (98.9%) resided in Utah, while a small portion came from New Mexico and Oregon.

The patients in the study experienced various types of chronic pain. Over half (57%) suffered from musculoskeletal pain, while others dealt with visceral pain (19%), orofacial pain and headache (13%), primary pain (4%), neuropathic pain (3%), and postsurgical or post-traumatic pain (2%).

More than 84% of participants decreased their morphine milligram equivalents (MME), a measure of opioid use. In particular, there was a 53.1% average reduction. Before starting on medical marijuana, the mean opioid use was 3,832 MME per month, which fell to 1,798 MME per month after beginning cannabis treatment.

Patients with musculoskeletal pain accounted for the majority of those who reduced opioid use, while individuals with neuropathic pain experienced the most significant reductions.

Interestingly, the study found that patients with orofacial pain or chronic headaches showed a 20.6% increase in opioid use, while other conditions saw reductions ranging from 10.9% to 73.5%. Additionally, individuals who smoked tobacco before using cannabis reported higher opioid use after starting cannabis treatment. This suggests that specific conditions and behaviors may influence the effectiveness of marijuana as a substitute for opioids.

While the findings show promising results linking medical cannabis to fewer overdose deaths and lower opioid use in Utah, the researchers stressed the need for further investigation. They recommend larger and more diverse studies to validate the findings and improve marijuana-based treatment regimens. They also recommended future research to explore optimal cannabinoid dosages and their effects on different populations.

As more of these studies are undertaken and published, the full extent to which medical cannabis products from various licensed companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) are helping patients will gradually be documented.

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420 with CNW — Federal Court Upholds Ban on Cannabis Advertising in Mississippi

Mississippi’s medical cannabis businesses are prohibited from advertising on billboards or any other platforms due to marijuana’s federal status as an illegal substance, according to a recent decision by an appeals court.

The owner of Tru Source Medical Marijuana, a medical cannabis store operating in Olive Branch, Mississippi, contested this restriction. He claimed that since state law allows the sale of marijuana, the First Amendment should protect medical cannabis businesses’ advertising rights.

However, on Friday, a three-judge bench from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the dispensary owner. The court referred to the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which has classified marijuana as an illegal drug since 1970, banning its production, distribution, and possession. The ruling emphasized that federal law takes precedence and that Mississippi’s restrictions on advertising are consistent with this overarching legal framework.

“Mississippi is not subject to constitutional barriers in limiting commercial speech that pertains to unlawful activities,” the judges stated in their decision.

The state attorney general welcomed the ruling, describing the state’s advertising restrictions as reasonable. MaryAsa Lee, a spokesperson for the office, highlighted that the decision reinforces the state’s efforts to regulate medical cannabis advertising through various media, including broadcast, digital platforms, and print.

Tru Source CEO and founder, Clarence Cocroft II, filed a lawsuit in 2023 to contest the ban on advertising through text messages, mass emails, social media, broadcast, billboards, or print.

Cocroft expressed frustration over the decision, noting that the restrictions make it challenging to reach potential clients and educate the public about the state’s medical cannabis program. Despite the setback, Cocroft stated that he remains determined to continue advocating for equitable treatment of medical cannabis businesses.

Although direct advertising is heavily restricted, the state does allow businesses to maintain social media profiles and websites that provide information about their locations and product offerings. Additionally, businesses can list their information in business directories and phone books and include marijuana imagery in their logos. They are also permitted to sponsor advocacy or charitable events.

Cocroft’s legal representation, the Institute for Justice, a not-for-profit law firm, is exploring further legal options. The firm is considering asking the appeals court to review the case or potentially escalating the matter to the apex court. Ari Bargil, an attorney from the firm, criticized the contradictory stance of the state, arguing that it’s unreasonable to create a legal market for medical cannabis while relying on federal law to restrict communication between businesses and consumers.

Established marijuana firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) operating in other jurisdictions understand the frustrations that come with marijuana advertising restrictions in a highly competitive environment. The industry hopes that firms in Mississippi find creative ways to reach their potential clients without breaking any existing laws.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – AROYA Showcasing Future of Cultivation at MJBizCon 2024

AROYA by Addium, a leader in data-driven cultivation solutions, is unveiling groundbreaking innovations at the Marijuana Business Conference (“MJBizCon”), taking place in the Las Vegas Convention Center from Dec. 4–6, 2024. As a leading innovator in cannabis cultivation, AROYA is reimagining precision substrate irrigation and positioning a bold new brand tailored to the future.

“AROYA continues to push boundaries with pioneering technology that empowers growers to maximize their yield and operate more efficiently,” said AROYA VP of Marketing, Christian Hertel. “We are excited to showcase our new irrigation solutions to MJBizCon 2024 attendees and demonstrating a simpler, smarter way to cultivate.”

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

About AROYA

AROYA, based in Pullman, Washington, is the leading Cannabis Production Platform. The company combines advanced sensor technology, software and data-driven insights to empower cultivators. With 30 years of experience in sensor development, AROYA aims to help the cannabis cultivation industry increase yield, scale operations and ensure consistent quality, enabling cultivators to make more purpose-driven decisions for their businesses. For more information, visit www.AROYA.io.

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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 — FDA OKs Study Exploring Marijuana Use for Treating PTSD in Veterans

This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted long-awaited approval for a clinical trial exploring whether cannabis can help manage veterans’ post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The trial, which is being led by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has faced delays since 2021 due to various objections raised by the FDA. Concerns included the potential risks associated with smoking high-potency marijuana and the study’s dosing method, which allows participants to regulate their intake within set daily limits.

MAPS said on Wednesday that the FDA had lifted its objections, allowing the study to move forward. Notably, the agency no longer opposes smoking as a consumption method or allowing participants to determine the amount they use, provided they stay within a maximum daily dose.

The FDA also approved the use of marijuana with a THC potency equivalent to what is legally sold in states where cannabis is permitted for recreational or medical use. One stipulation from the FDA is that participants must already have experience using marijuana.

According to Allison Coker, MAPS’ director of marijuana research, the study is designed to reflect how veterans might use marijuana in their everyday lives. This includes the method of consumption and the dosage.

Coker explained that many users prefer vaping or smoking marijuana because its effects are immediate—something particularly important for managing PTSD. The FDA had been hesitant about allowing these methods, but MAPS emphasized that these forms of consumption align with real-world usage.

The FDA’s decision marks a significant shift in the federal government’s stance on marijuana research. Coker believes it reflects a growing acknowledgment of its potential benefits rather than focusing solely on its risks. Broader changes in cannabis policy have also influenced this decision. The Biden administration, for example, proposed reclassifying cannabis to reduce its regulatory restrictions, though the process is complex and subject to political shifts.

The MAPS trial will receive $12.9 million in funding from Michigan’s marijuana agency, which allocates revenue from marijuana taxes toward research on its medical uses. It will include 320 veterans diagnosed with PTSD. Researchers will use cannabis sourced from Canada, selected for its high THC levels to match products commonly available in the U.S. legal market.

Coker expressed hope that this approval signals a turning point for marijuana research. MAPS has made all its communications with the FDA publicly available to help guide other researchers navigating similar studies.

Marijuana firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) will be waiting to see the findings from this clinical trial since they could contribute to cementing the place of marijuana as a treatment for some conditions for which conventional medicine has proved ineffective.

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420 with CNW — Study Finds That Adolescents Suffer More Severe Psychosis Symptoms if They Use Marijuana

A recent study by researchers from St. Louis’ Washington University has found that teenagers who use marijuana experience more signs of psychosis spectrum and higher levels of distress due to the symptoms. This suggests that both self-medication and shared vulnerability play a role in linking marijuana use to an increased risk of psychosis.

Previous research indicates that teenagers who use marijuana have a two to four times higher risk of developing psychosis than their non-user counterparts. Marijuana usage that starts in youth is frequently linked to more intense symptoms, a higher chance of relapse, and an earlier beginning of psychotic illnesses.

Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug among teenagers, and its usage has grown significantly over the last 20 years, doubling from 11 percent to 22 percent. During the same period, teenagers’ perception of the risks associated with marijuana use has declined. For example, the proportion of adolescents who view weekly marijuana use as harmful has dropped from 36.3 percent to 25 percent.

There is ongoing debate about the relationship between psychosis and adolescent marijuana use, with researchers proposing several hypotheses to explain this connection, including self-medication, contributing risk, and shared vulnerability theories.

The contributing risk theory suggests that marijuana disrupts brain development during adolescence, triggering psychosis and worsening its progression. The shared vulnerability theory argues that environmental, genetic, or prenatal factors may increase susceptibility to both psychosis and marijuana use, meaning these two phenomena stem from common origins. Lastly, the self-medication theory proposes that a person may use marijuana to relieve symptoms of psychosis, such as distress or discomfort.

Although previous studies have provided evidence for all three theories, more research on early adolescence is needed. A study in JAMA Psychiatry tracked 11,868 participants aged 9 to 10 and examined psychosis symptoms before and after marijuana use. It found no consistent evidence for the contributing risk theory, as marijuana use did not reliably increase psychosis symptoms.

However, teens who used marijuana at any point in the study reported more psychosis symptoms and greater distress than non-users, supporting the shared vulnerability theory. Additionally, researchers observed an increase in psychosis symptoms and related distress before the initiation of marijuana use, supporting the self-medication theory.

Overall, the recent study suggests that the relationship between psychosis and marijuana use is more likely explained by self-medication and shared vulnerability rather than marijuana being a direct cause of psychosis.

The creation of legal marijuana markets in different jurisdictions not only allows marijuana companies and allied businesses like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) to operate, it also creates safeguards like age restrictions that prevent adolescents from accessing marijuana products. Such measures can avert the risks that come from underage individuals using marijuana.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska AG Pledges That Ongoing Investigations Won’t Impact Cannabis Measure’s Certification

Mike Hilgers, Nebraska’s Attorney General, assured the public on Tuesday that his office’s current investigations into two medical marijuana ballot measures will not affect his decision to certify the election results. Speaking at a press conference on an unrelated lawsuit, Hilgers stated that the election certification process would proceed independently of the marijuana-related legal disputes or the timing of any court ruling.

Hilgers is one of five state constitutional officials who will convene on December 2 to decide if, or not to certify the election results from November 5. This includes the resounding support of two initiatives from voters: Measure 437, which aims to legalize medicinal marijuana with 71% of the vote, and Measure 438, which aims to regulate marijuana with 67% of the vote.

The Board of Nebraska State Canvassers includes Bob Evnen, the Secretary of State, who is being represented by Hilgers’ office in the legal case regarding the measures. Additionally, Governor Jim Pillen and State Auditor Mike Foley, both vocal critics of the medical marijuana initiatives, will participate. State Treasurer Tom Briese, another board member, has also opposed medical cannabis legalization, a stance he shared with Hilgers during their time as state senators in 2021.

Hilgers’s office is actively conducting a criminal investigation related to alleged misconduct in the petition process. This has led to criminal charges against a petition circulator, who entered a guilty plea on November 8, and a notary public, whose case is still pending.

Hilgers’ office has also joined former State Senator John Kuehn in contesting the validity of thousands of petition signatures, citing alleged fraud by circulators and notaries. They argue that such misconduct should have prevented the measures from being on the November ballot. Evnen initially certified the measures on September 13, based on available information.

The ballot sponsors’ legal team has defended the petitions, asserting that allegations of fraud are being misinterpreted. They argue that isolated issues with notaries or circulators do not invalidate all signatures. In response, the Attorney General’s Office maintained that the evidence, including text messages presented in court, clearly indicates fraudulent activities.

Judge Susan Strong, presiding over the case, has received final arguments from both sides and can issue a ruling at any time. However, Hilgers clarified that the court’s timeline does not influence the election certification process.

Regardless of the outcome, many involved in the case, including Judge Strong, expect the matter to be appealed to the state supreme court.

Entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) and other businesses in the marijuana industry both within and outside the U.S. will be hoping that the will of the voters in Nebraska isn’t thwarted by technicalities as the state officials are alleging.

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