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 – Demand for Medical Cannabis Skyrockets on Rhode Island

As legislators on Rhode Island are thinking about legalizing recreational cannabis, the data on medical cannabis sales shows that the volume of products sold is setting state records year by year.

Currently, the state has three licensed dispensaries selling medical cannabis products. These dispensaries are on course to sell medical cannabis products worth about $56 million during the 2019 fiscal year.

If that target is hit, it will mark a 46.6 percent increase from the total sales of the previous fiscal year (2018). Medical cannabis sales for 2018 were also approximately 33.3 percent higher than what was registered in 2017.

As you can see, the medical cannabis industry on Rhode Island seems to be growing at an unstoppable pace year by year.

Rhode Island has a fairly short list of medical cannabis qualifying conditions when compared to other states where similar programs exist. However, the definition of those conditions is broad and it allows anyone with the symptoms of the listed conditions to access medical cannabis.

The state has about 18, 200 patients who are active on the medical marijuana program. Active patients are those who regularly buy medical cannabis products from the licensed dispensaries.

The uptick in medical cannabis sales has given the state a much-needed boost to its revenue. For example, the state earned $2.75 million as taxes on various aspects of the medical cannabis industry.

In this fiscal year, the state expects to earn almost double what it earned during the last fiscal year. Projections indicate that the state will collect about $5.4 million in taxes from the medical cannabis industry.

In the meantime, there are proposals to legalize recreational cannabis and also expand the medical cannabis sector. One of the proposals seeks to increase the number of dispensaries to nine.

Previous attempts to increase the number of dispensaries have been successfully resisted by the existing three dispensaries who argued that bringing in more players would hurt their businesses and result in possible closures.

However, those who want more dispensaries to be licensed argue that patients aren’t having sufficient access to dispensaries since the existing ones aren’t equally spread out across the state. Additionally, the lack of robust competition in the medical cannabis sector has denied patients competitive prices and access to a broader variety of products.

Advocates are therefore asking regulators to give priority to dispensaries that wish to operate in areas where none currently exists, and new operators should be brought on board before the existing ones are allowed to open additional compassion centers (medical cannabis dispensaries).

These reforms seem reasonable enough, and the regulators would be well advised to act upon the suggestions made. Cannabis Strategic Ventures, Inc. (OTC: NUGS) and Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSX.V: RIV) (OTC: CNPOF) hope that the state will act on the proposed reforms so that patients can have easier access a wider variety of products at competitive prices.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our 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. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. 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 – Cuomo Insists Recreational Weed Will Be Legal By June

When the $17 billion state budget was adopted without marijuana policy reflected in it, cannabis advocates were crestfallen because they realized that their dream of seeing marijuana legal for adult-use had just taken a major hit. However, Governor Andrew Cuomo has vowed that he will do everything possible to pass the law by June when the legislative session ends.

The Governor said that the problem wasn’t the lack of political will to pass the law. Rather, there were differing opinions regarding the way in which legalization would be implemented in the state.

Because of those differing views on implementation, it wasn’t possible to reach an agreement on the matter while getting a budget ready for adoption. Now that the budget is out of the way, Cuomo feels that his full attention can now be devoted to hammering out the details of how recreational cannabis will be taxed, regulated and social justice attained.

Many lawmakers aren’t as optimistic as the Governor regarding the chances of the bill now that it isn’t included in the budget. For example, State Sen. Diane Savino points to what happened in neighboring New Jersey where marijuana advocates thought they had a done deal but voting on the legalization bill was cancelled due to fears that not enough “yes” votes had been secured in the State Senate.

That sobering example from New Jersey shows how tough things could get in New York State now that marijuana policy wasn’t included in the state budget.

It should also be remembered that out of the 10 states and Washington, D.C. that have legalized recreational pot, only one did so by legislative means. All the other states relied on ballot measures or referenda to legalize recreational cannabis.

This statistic shows that the general populace is always ahead of the lawmakers who have the responsibility to make decisions on behalf of the people that they represent.

It is therefore going to be a great deal harder for a majority of the lawmakers in New York State to pass a standalone marijuana legalization bill.

Already, there was intense opposition even while there was a chance that marijuana legalization would be included in the state budget. For example, the leaders in two of the New York suburbs with the largest population have already indicated that the sale of recreational cannabis will not be allowed in those jurisdictions.

TransCanna Holdings Inc. (CSE: TCAN) and Vivo Cannabis Inc. (TSX.V: VIVO) (OTCQX: VVCIF) hope that the lawmakers can put aside their political differences and put the interests of New Yorkers first when discussing the way forward on marijuana legalization.

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Hemp Market Drives Hydroponics Growth

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: A surge in hemp production means big business for hydroponic suppliers.

Hemp production set to massively increase in the United States this year.
Increased production driving high demand for hydroponic supplies.
Hydroponics companies are responding with expansion and acquisitions.

Sugarmade Inc. (OTC: SGMD) (SGMD Profile) has strategically acquired several companies to meet demand and expand its foothold. Canadian-based Tilray Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) has expanded production in both Canada and Europe while Canopy Growth Corporation (NYSE: CGC) (TSX: WEED) is developing projects in the United States, and Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) has received massive outside investment to fuel its growth. Companies such as Aphria (NYSE: APHA) (TSX: APHA) are enlarging their indoor grow operations as they too rush to meet demand.

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

Hemp Bonanza

The legalization of hemp in the United States has ignited further growth in a massive new industry. Already under development through state laws and federally approved test sites, this historically valuable cash crop is now legal for cultivation across the country. With demand for CBD soaring, growers are scrambling to capitalize on an unprecedented opportunity.

However, sudden growth means a sudden need for supplies, skills and experience, none of which can be conjured from thin air. Obtaining these creates challenges for growers and opportunities for suppliers, and the match between those two varies across the map. As the hemp rush unfolds, some are doing better than others at rising to the challenges of hemp farming.

Challenges for the Hemp Industry

December 2018 saw the passing of the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill and with it the legalization of hemp cultivation in the United States. While the crop had previously been cultivated on test sites and through state-level laws, this was the first time in a century that this once-important cash crop was officially allowed by the U.S. government again. The move has created a whole new playing field, thrusting Sugarmade Inc. (OTC: SGMD) into the spotlight.

Sugarmade is a hydroponics supply company catering to the hemp market. As such, it has seen an extraordinary few years of growth. Even before the Farm Bill, the hemp industry had been growing. CBD, an active ingredient extracted from hemp, has become an incredibly popular product in the last few years. The plant is used in foods, oils, vaping fluid, drinks and health treatments. Research indicating its potential to support health and well-being has fueled consumer interest. The existing producers of hemp have seen profits soar, and now that the floodgates have opened, other businesses are rushing to get in on the act.

This creates massive challenges both for the industry and for individual businesses. Though hemp is now legal, it is tightly controlled, and producers must be able to grow hemp in accordance with strict rules, as well as to validate that both their facilities and their products meet these standards. That means employing skilled staff and using high-quality equipment.

The challenge of obtaining that equipment is made all the greater by the sudden and widespread nature of the expansion. Scores of companies all looking for equipment at once puts pressure on suppliers. If they have the supplies and the reach to widely distribute those supplies, then there’s a huge opportunity for growth. If they don’t, they’ll struggle to meet customer demand.

The struggle to meet that demand is likely to create a situation of haves and have-nots, in which some growers are able to expand while others fail to fulfil their objectives. Who succeeds and who fails will be decided to a large extent by who can find a reliable hydroponic supplier.

Equipping Growers

Despite the romantic image of farmers turning over a patch of land to a new crop, most hemp farming occurs indoors using hydroponic systems. That’s why companies such as Sugarmade are such a critical link in the hemp-farming process.

The hydroponic equipment needed to grow consistent high-grade hemp is varied and complex. A broad range of lighting equipment is needed to control photosynthesis. Specialized nutrient mixes provide plants the food they need to grow. And measurement solutions and environmental controls are necessary for staff to measure, monitor and control the myriad of factors that determine the quality, strength and health of the plants.

Given the circumstances, companies with expertise in hydroponics are imperative to provide supplies, but due to the previously restricted market, they’ve been relatively small. All that is changing in the rush to meet the needs of the burgeoning hemp market. Larger companies are desperately needed, and Sugarmade appears set to become one of those companies.

Sugarmade’s strategic intent is growth on two fronts, organically by brand expansion and through acquisitions. The company has a few deals in the pipeline that are pending audit and funding.

“Sugarmade plans to integrate these businesses fully as soon as is possible, making us one of the larger suppliers to this growing marketplace,” said Jimmy Chan, CEO of Sugarmade. “Additionally, we are in the process of vetting other possible acquisitions to further enhance the portfolio of hydroponic and cultivation supply products. We are certainly excited about our prospects for the remaining part of this year and into next year.”

The Local Picture

Even with such bold moves, it’s not possible for a company to expand everywhere at once, and hydroponic suppliers must choose where to focus. A focus on states with a strong presence in hemp is a good way to ensure a large market for supplies.

One area that’s rich in potential is Kentucky. A state with a strong history of tobacco growing, Kentucky is facing the reality that people are moving away from smoking. Hemp offers an alternative cash crop that some of the state’s farmers have been quick to leap upon. Approximately 16,000 acres of hemp were planted in Kentucky last year, and this is expected to nearly triple to 42,000 acres in 2019. The state has already received five times more applications to grow hemp this year than last. Sugarmade is catering to this boom through a supply agreement with Kentucky-based Hempistry Inc., which will help Hempistry achieve the nearly tenfold increase in hemp growing it has planned this year.

Sugarmade is also developing strong distribution channels in California, one of the first states to change its laws and embrace the rise of hemp. California’s large population and positive attitude towards CBD and hemp makes it another prime target for expansion.

By becoming an integral link in hemp production in these high-production states, Sugarmade grows organically by brand expansion, locks in revenues and is positioned to capture an outsized market share across the United States.

Competition Heats Up

The rapid rise of hemp and hemp-related markets has meant that a growing number of companies are jockeying for position in the hemp and CBD sectors, and some of them are seeing serious expansion.

Tilray Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY), a Canadian company, has been expanding through acquisitions. The company recently acquired Manitoba Harvest, the largest hemp foods company in the world, to give it a position in a strategically important portion of the hemp market. This comes alongside other initiatives such as a move into Europe. These strategic moves have won praise for Tilray’s leadership team.

Another Canadian company and one of the largest in the sector, Canopy Growth Corporation (NYSE: CGC) (TSX: WEED) is making strong moves to expand south in the wake of the Farm Bill. It has established a hemp-production facility in New York state and acquired hemp enterprise AgriNextUSA. This allows the company to make the most of America’s swing towards hemp and work to become a leading player as the market heats up across North America. Canopy Growth already has an extensive range of licenses and distribution deals north of the border, giving it a strong base from which to build its U.S. business.

The excitement around hemp has drawn interest from companies outside the sector. Altria, the tobacco giant behind the Marlboro brand, is looking to expand its opportunities as tobacco faces ongoing challenges. Like many Kentucky farmers, Altria is looking to hemp and related products for potential solutions. It recently closed a deal to invest C$2.4 billion in Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON), providing Altria with a way into the hemp sector. The funds will give Cronos resources to expand during this critical phase of market growth in the States.

In testament to value, Aphria (NYSE: APHA) (TSX: APHA) is fending off a hostile takeover by Green Growth Brands. In addition, Aphria recently received a license amendment to expand its growing space, which makes it an appealing prospect for other companies looking to increase their capacity.

The hemp bonanza has just begun. Like every new market, shakeouts and consolidations are bound to happen. The strong will survive while the weak will fail. The same holds true for the hydroponic suppliers. Given the circumstances, it’s inconceivable that many small suppliers will survive. The victors will be those who can get to markets early and scale through agreements and acquisitions. Sugarmade is making all the right moves to not just survive but also thrive.

For more information on Sugarmade, visit Sugarmade, Inc. (OTCQB: SGMD)

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.

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DISCLAIMER: CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is the source of the Article and content set forth above. References to any issuer other than the profiled issuer are intended solely to identify industry participants and do not constitute an endorsement of any issuer and do not constitute a comparison to the profiled issuer. The commentary, views and opinions expressed in this release by CNW are solely those of CNW. Readers of this Article and content agree that they cannot and will not seek to hold liable CNW for any investment decisions by their readers or subscribers. CNW is a news dissemination and financial marketing solutions provider and is NOT registered broker-dealers/analysts/investment advisers, hold no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security.

The Article and content related to the profiled company represent the personal and subjective views of the Author, and are subject to change at any time without notice. The information provided in the Article and the content has been obtained from sources which the Author believes to be reliable. However, the Author has not independently verified or otherwise investigated all such information. None of the Author, CNW, or any of their respective affiliates, guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any such information. This Article and content are not, and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action; readers are strongly urged to speak with their own investment advisor and review all of the profiled issuer’s filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission before making any investment decisions and should understand the risks associated with an investment in the profiled issuer’s securities, including, but not limited to, the complete loss of your investment.

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CBD Industry Set to Explode as New Products, Consumers Enter Market

CannabisNewsWire Editorial Coverage: The U.S. Farm Bill that recently passed into law is a game-changer for the CBD space. While it is unknown when nationwide cannabis legalization may occur, incredible opportunities exist right now for CBD-focused companies that can deliver products to the marketplace.

Demand is growing for organic CBD products in markets where such products are legal.
Youngevity has made a series of strategic acquisitions to help establish the company’s position
Companies ready to deliver CBD products to market at scale are in ideal position to capitalize on growing demand.

Passage of the latest U.S. Farm Bill marked a watershed moment for CBD producers in the United States. Not only does the new body of law allow these producers to commercialize existing CBD products, the door is now open for a new generation of research into what CBD can do for consumers. Youngevity International Inc. (NASDAQ: YGYI) (YGYI Profile) is a leading producer of consumer-focused CBD products that is expanding its reach into other areas of the CBD supply chain. It joins companies such as CV Sciences Inc. (OTCQB: CVSI), Isodiol International Inc. (CSE: ISOL) (OTCQB: ISOLF), GW Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: GWPH) (OTC: GWPRF), and Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (OTCQX: CURLF) (CSE: CURA), which are all working to commercialize CBD products in both the consumer and pharmaceutical sectors.

To view an infographic of this editorial, click here.

CBD Offers New Opportunities for Bold Thinkers

The market for CBD products is exploding and likely will continue to grow as these products become more available. Because CBD can be made in a laboratory, an increasing amount of synthetically produced CBD has been entering the market. However, many CBD proponents contend that organic CBD (CBD extracted from hemp plants) is superior to synthetic CBD.

Youngevity International Inc. (NASDAQ: YGYI) produces a range of consumer-focused CBD products, but the company is growing its reach via strategic acquisitions. Sourcing organic CBD has been an issue for many manufacturers, which may be why Youngevity recently acquired Khrysos Global — a CBD producer based in Florida.

Following the announcement of this acquisition to the public, YGYI president and CFO Dave Briskie commented, “We set out a plan to create a vertical opportunity in the hemp space. This is a significant step as it relates to the production, cultivation, and extraction of hemp, CBD oil, as well as other CBs (cannabinoids). . . . We proudly welcome Dwayne Dundore, as the President of newly formed Khyrsos (sic) Industries along with his entire and very capable team at Khrysos and INX Labs.”

Dundore was equally enthusiastic about the announcement, saying, “I am really excited to be a YGYI shareholder and part of the Youngevity Family. I look forward to making a meaningful contribution to both the top and bottom line of the company and feel strongly that our capabilities and plans for expansion should create additional value for myself and all shareholders.”

CBD Ready to Take the Market by Storm

Unlike THC, which is a highly psychoactive alkaloid found in cannabis, CBD has a calming effect in most people. In addition, CBD can be legally sold without a prescription and is being integrated into many consumer products.

CBD companies that can create good connections with their client bases should be able to grow into this burgeoning market. Recognizing this, Youngevity has made a series of strategic acquisitions that could help establish the company’s position as a leader in 21^st-century cannabis development. The company’s takeover of Khrysos Global netted it a solid supply of organic CBD, as Khrysos has both cannabis cultivation property and facilities to refine CBD oil.

With that backdrop, Youngevity recently launched HempFX to sell its products directly to consumers. For the moment, the company is offering hemp oils. Its product line may increase as additional research and development brings more ideas to market.

A Coffee Door Opener

Youngevity is also ready to bring a CBD-infused coffee to market. Its recent acquisition of Khrysos Global brought CBD-testing laboratories to the company, looking to leave Youngevity in a position to take full advantage of the new U.S. CBD laws. One of the biggest hurdles for manufacturers of CBD products is making sure the products contain a repeatable dose of CBD. Through careful testing, Youngevity has overcome this obstacle in its coffee, which reliably delivers 10mg of CBD in every cup.

The new coffee will be made by Youngevity’s wholly owned subsidiary CLR Roasters. According to the company, the new product will be sold in four flavors and will be available to consumers later this year.

CLR Roasters president Ernesto Aguila commented, “We are extremely pleased with the taste of the product, and the samples that we have provided to a host of retailers have led to strong reviews as well. It is very exciting to bring a new product to market that has so much interest within the coffee beverage category. I have not seen a door opener like this since Javalution Coffee Company created the first fortified coffees.”

Market Viability Looks Strong

CBD has essentially been illegal since modern medicine began. Now that it is legal to produce and distribute CBD in the United States, early movers in the space are setting themselves up for potentially massive profits. Numerous companies are focusing on developing better CBD-infused products, creating new forms of consumer-focused CBD consumables and getting those products to consumers as quickly and easily as possible.

CV Sciences Inc. (OTCQB: CVSI) is working to commercialize CBD products for both consumers and the medical community. Its pharmaceutical division is looking to create a CBD-based medicine that can be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Now that CBD is 100 percent legal at a federal level in the United States, the company should be able to make progress on this project. Its consumer division is developing a range of products that can be sold to health food stores or directly to its customers. As CBD use has become more widespread, there is a growing amount of feedback from users to support its continued development.

Isodiol International Inc. (CSE: ISOL) (OTCQB: ISOLF) has built a CBD-focused business with operations in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. Kevin Swadish, the company’s chief revenue officer, commented, “The legalities of hemp-based CBD are becoming more favorable, and consumer awareness of CBD is rapidly rising. As a result, we believe the greatest growth opportunities in the industry, and for Isodiol, lie in the consumer packaged goods marketplace.” The company has built up an operation with more than 200 employees and consultants globally, which demonstrates the interest CBD has generated in recent years.

GW Pharmaceuticals plc (NASDAQ: GWPH) (OTC: GWPRF) developed the first marijuana-derived pharmaceutical to be approved by the FDA. Epidiolex, which contains CBD, was designed to treat Dravet syndrome and was the first drug ever approved to treat this rare form of epilepsy in the U.S. Sales of the drug began last November, and according to recent financial results posted by the company, Epidiolex has garnered substantial interest. Epidiolex sales totaled around $4.7 million in the last quarter, with more than 4,500 new patient enrollment forms during the first two months the drug was available. The positive results from Epidiolex sales were well received, and investors bid the company’s shares higher after they were announced.

Getting CBD products into the hands of consumers is also a focus for savvy companies looking to the future. Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (OTCQX: CURLF) (CSE: CURA) recently announced a distribution deal with CVS Health Corp. Under the new deal, the retail pharmacy and healthcare company will begin selling products infused with the trendy, nonintoxicating hemp component at more than 800 of its stores nationwide. CVS confirmed that it has started selling CBD creams, sprays and lotions in eight states, including California, Illinois, Colorado and Alabama. The products will be sold in store aisles. “We’ve been having dialogue with national retailers for many months now,” said Curaleaf chief executive officer Joseph Lusardi. “We’ve got a number of potentially exciting partnerships in the pipeline.”

Growing hemp and refining it into CBD could become profitable for companies that can do it efficiently, especially if public demand grows faster than production capacity. Youngevity may be picking up on this emerging market dynamic and securing its supplies of organic CBD while the industry is still in its infancy.

For more information on Youngevity, visit Youngevity International, Inc. (NASDAQ: YGYI)

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420 with CNW – Ontario Marijuana Stores Open as Fines Loom

When recreational marijuana was legalized across Canada on October 17, 2018, Ontario decided to start by only availing cannabis through a website run by the provincial government. Brick-and-mortar stores were slated to open in April this year, and yesterday (April 1) was the first day of storefront sales.

The provincial government decided to use an unconventional way to select which applicants would be granted the first 25 recreational cannabis retail licenses early this year. It used a lottery to select the lucky 25 businesses to be first to open retail stores. Originally, the plan was to license as many retailers as needed.

However, the persistent countrywide supply shortages compelled the government to change its plan and issue only 25 licenses in preparation for the April 1 deadline for the commencement of brick-and-mortar retail sales of pot.

The entities that participated in the lottery were fully aware that the licenses they received were subject to strict conditions, such as being ready to open by April 1.

Those that didn’t open their stores on that first day would face a fine of $12,500, and the fines would escalate the longer the business didn’t open. This penalty would be deducted from the $50,000 letter of credit that the applicants submitted as part of the preconditions for participating in the lottery.

If a licensee is unable to start operations by this month’s end, that business risks losing the entire $50,000 covered by that letter of credit.

That threat is likely to hit several businesses, since only 10 were able to fulfill all the licensing conditions in order to open on April 1. The race is therefore on for the remaining 15 businesses to reduce the fines that they will suffer as a result of their inability to open on the first day of storefront sales.

Meanwhile, Ontario residents have been waiting eagerly for the retail stores to open. This can be evidenced by the hundreds who started queuing as early as 4 a.m. in order to be among the first to buy pot in a “real store”.

Why would one sacrifice their sleep and yet recreational marijuana is already available online in the province? Each person has his or her own reasons, but a few seem to cut across.

For example, many are excited and want to be witnesses to the making of history in the province. To such people, the experience of walking into a store and paying for cannabis is something that truly marks the end of prohibition, and they wanted to experience it firsthand.

Many other people say that they are lining up at the stores because it gives them a better shopping experience. For instance, one can smell a product before deciding whether to buy it, something that isn’t possible when you order online. Stores also give you a chance to get up close and personal with the different products before you take your pick of what is available. This is worth lining for, they say.

ChineseInvestors.com (OTCQB: CIIX) and Choom Holdings Inc. (CSE: CHOO) (OTCQB: CHOOF) hope that the residents of Ontario can enjoy buying from these retail outlets without being hindered by supply shortages.

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420 with CNW – 50 Marijuana Dispensaries in Michigan Get Temporary Reprieve in Court

On Thursday last week (March 28), Judge Stephen Borrello of the Michigan Court of Claims issued a temporary order stopping the state from implementing its decision to close down any medical marijuana dispensary that hadn’t received its license by March 31.

The restraining order gives the businesses in question another 14 days within which to get their operations legalized in accordance with the licensing requirements of the state.

For long, players in the Michigan medical marijuana industry have been complaining that the state takes an inexplicably long time to process and issue a license to an applicant. This slow bureaucratic pace has affected growers, manufacturers and dispensing outlets.

For example, in early February alone, about 150 dispensaries were still awaiting the outcome of their applications for licenses. Similarly, 130 prospective medical cannabis cultivators were also awaiting the fate of their applications for grow licenses.

Because of those complaints, the state decided to allow medical cannabis businesses to open while their applications were still being processed.

However, the state eventually set deadlines for all unlicensed dispensaries to close, but these deadlines have either been unilaterally postponed by the regulators or courts have intervened and forced the state’s hand.

This recent extension is an example of the judiciary stepping in and compelling the state to refrain from implementing its decision to close medical marijuana businesses without licenses.

In response to the restraining order issued by the Court of Claims, the state published a statement in which it revealed that it will hit the brakes on its decision to close unlicensed medical cannabis businesses until court issues further orders or the pending litigation is disposed of by the courts of law.

In a bid to put an end to the endless delays in the licensing process, the Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, has established a new agency to superintend over the marijuana industry.

The persistent problems over licensing issues have also come to a head as the state is working to start recreational cannabis sales after voters approved adult-use marijuana during the midterm elections towards the end of last year.

Cannabis advocates worry that if the problems in the medical cannabis sector aren’t fixed in time, then those problems will get worse once recreational cannabis is added to the menu. Wildflower Brands Inc. (CSE: SUN) (OTCQB: WLDFF) and Youngevity International, Inc. (NASDAQ: YGYI) call on the regulators to study what other states have done to streamline the licensing process. Creating new agencies to oversee the industry may not fix the problem if a proper diagnosis of the issues isn’t done.

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420 with CNW – Colorado House Bill Could Make Marijuana Consumption Lounges Legal

Recreational marijuana has been legal in Colorado since 2012, but the people who buy legal pot have been having a hard time finding where they can consume their purchase. This is now set to change if a bill that has been approved by a House Committee eventually gets the nod from the entire State Assembly and Senate.

Under current law, recreational cannabis can only be consumed in private residences and private establishments. The ban on public and open consumption of cannabis remains in place even if the law legalizing recreational cannabis intended to regard recreational cannabis in the same way that alcohol is treated by the law.

In the past, all efforts to create a system by which the social consumption of marijuana could be licensed have failed. However, the sponsors of HB 1230 feel that the time may now be right for an enabling to law to be enacted so that businesses can get licenses for the social consumption of marijuana on their premises.

Representative Jonathan Singer, the sponsor of the bill, says that his intention is to fix two major issues in the law.

First, his bill will provide more clarity about the meaning of “open and public” so that cannabis businesses and consumers can know the limits of where cannabis consumption is allowed or not. Currently, marijuana seems to be in no man’s land on this issue, he added.

By defining what “open and public” means, it will be possible to license premises where tourists and residents can consume recreational marijuana. This is especially important because many people who live in rented premises cannot consume recreational cannabis at home because the landlords don’t permit its consumption on the premises.

HB 1230 seeks to create two kinds of licenses that businesses can apply for in order have cannabis users consume their stuff in the premises.

The first kind of license will enable consumption lounges and other public places to have a limited amount of cannabis that people can buy and consume while in the premises.

The second type of license wouldn’t allow on-site cannabis sales, but people can come in with their own cannabis and consume it from those premises.

However, any business that is licensed to sell or facilitate the consumption of alcohol wouldn’t be eligible for any of the cannabis social consumption licenses. Under the proposed law, local authorities would also have the right to decide whether to permit or ban cannabis consumption lounges and other such facilities within their jurisdictions.

Now that the bill has passed the first hurdle in the Business Affairs and Labor Committee of the House, it now heads to the House Finance Committee. The Green Organic Dutchman (TSX: TGOD) (OTCQX: TGODF) and Therma Bright, Inc. (TSX.V: THRM) (OTC: THRBF) hope that this bill is enacted into law so that the dilemma of where people can consume legal weed in Colorado can be solved sooner rather than later.

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420 with CNW – Congressional Committee Approves Marijuana Banking Bill

On Thursday last week (March 28), the House Financial Services Committee voted to pass a bill that will make it easier for cannabis businesses to access banking services. The bill will now be scheduled for consideration by the entire House after it passed at the committee level when 45 legislators voted in favor while 15 voted against the bill.

Marijuana advocates see this committee action as a sign that the Democrats who dominate the House are finally making good on their support for cannabis law reform.

The bill seeks to make it possible for marijuana businesses to get access to banking services without any fear of federal action against them. Some of these businesses are working with some banks, but the majority of the financial services providers are reluctant to accept cannabis businesses as clients for fear of violating federal money laundering or illicit drug laws.

The SAFE Act was passed after being debated for several days in which a number of amendments were considered and either passed or rejected when a vote on them was called.

For example, one amendment sought to compel the federal government to conduct research on inclusion and diversity in the cannabis industry so that the damage caused by the war on drugs on minorities can be corrected.

Another amendment that was included in the bill added insurance companies to the list of entities that would be protected by the SAFE Act. It should be remembered that cannabis businesses have also been finding it hard to access insurance services that are vital for any business. If the bill becomes law, then marijuana companies will be able to access insurance services in the same way that other legitimate businesses can.

Another amendment added will compel the Government Accountability Office to study the reports banks are required to file about the marijuana businesses they have as clients. This examination is intended to find out how effective those reports are in helping the authorities to unearth illegal activity.

Those reporting requirements have previously been mentioned as one of the major reasons why it is very expensive for cannabis businesses to access banking services even when some banks are willing to accept these businesses as clients.

One proposed amendment tabled by a Republican legislator wanted to delay the implementation of the SAFE Act until the federal government rescheduled marijuana. Sensing that the amendment wouldn’t pass, the mover withdrew it before it could be voted on.

Many of the amendments that were rejected were mainly proposed by Republicans who wanted to cleverly water down the impact of the proposed law or even render it unenforceable. But the Democrats used their majority on the committee to sidestep all those traps.

Supreme Cannabis Company Inc. (TSX.V: FIRE) (OTCQX: SPRWF) and The Flowr Corporation (TSX.V: FLWR) (OTC: FLWPF) are glad that Congress is finally acting to enact laws that bring U.S. cannabis businesses into the fold of all other legitimate businesses across the country.

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420 with CNW – Michigan Commission Advises the State to Avoid Setting THC Impairment Limit for Drivers

The Impaired Driving Safety Commission, a body that was set up by Michigan’s Governor, has recommended that the state should not set any threshold for the THC content in someone’s blood before that person is regarded as being impaired while driving.

This six-member panel was mandated to find a scientifically-backed limit for THC in blood and suggest what provisions should be put in the law to define when a driver is impaired by cannabis.

The members of the commission include a toxicologist, a law enforcement officer, a medical cannabis patient, doctors and cannabis use and traffic experts.

This panel wrote in its report that there was no scientific information upon which they could base a decision on how much THC in someone’s blood renders that person impaired while driving.

Additionally, the commission stated that there wasn’t any correlation between the amount of THC present in a driver’s blood and driving impairment.

The members also observed that according to the research they reviewed, the THC content in someone’s blood drops rapidly shortly after the person consumes cannabis. Conversely, impairment increases slowly and reaches its peak long after THC levels have dropped in that individual’s blood.

The issue of impairment is also affected by someone’s history of cannabis consumption. For example, a non-regular user of cannabis may become impaired after taking a small amount of marijuana.

However, a more regular user may require a larger dose of the substance in order to be impaired to the same degree as the individual who is an irregular user and consumed a little cannabis. Consequently, the commission recommended that the THC level in someone’s blood was a poor determinant of whether that person was driving while impaired.

The panel then suggested that roadside sobriety tests should be used as a more reliable way to determine if a given driver is impaired or not. This suggestion brings to mind the sobriety tests that are administered to drivers who are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.

How then can a police officer distinguish between impairment due to alcohol and impairment due to cannabis consumption? A blood test administered once a person fails the sobriety tests can help to distinguish between impairment caused by cannabis and that caused by alcohol.

The findings of this commission bring to question the decision of the states that set a THC threshold to determine when a driver is impaired by cannabis.

For example, Colorado, Montana and Washington State put the threshold at 5ng/ml. Nevada put the limit at 2ng/ml while Pennsylvania set its limit at 1ng/ml. How were these limits arrived at?

Redfund Capital Corp. (CSE: LOAN) (OTC: PNNRF) (Frankfurt: O3X4) and SinglePoint, Inc. (OTCQB: SING) applaud the commission for looking at the available scientific data and then making an objective decision without being influenced by what other states have done to define driving while impaired by cannabis.

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420 with CNW – Mexican Government Official Uses Twitter to Measure Public Opinion on Cannabis Legalization

The Mexican Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection took to Twitter on Monday (March 25) to ask citizens to share their opinions regarding whether recreational cannabis should be legalized in the country or not. The cabinet official oversees the federal police, intelligence services and prisons.

Less than 24 hours after the poll was initiated, 81 percent of all the respondents said that adult-use marijuana should be legalized while 19 percent said that it shouldn’t be legalized. More than 82,000 people had participated in this survey by that time, so those percentages should not be taken lightly.

It wasn’t immediately clear what the intention of the government was in doing the survey, and it is not clear what they will use the findings for. Whatever their reasons, the social media poll can be seen as further proof that the federal government in Mexico is serious about reforming its marijuana laws.

Last year, one senator tabled a bill to legalize recreational marijuana in the country. That senator is now the Interior Secretary of the country.

Shortly afterwards, the Senate released a report listing the different aspects that lawmakers should keep in mind when drafting a bill to legalize recreational marijuana. These included product labeling, age-restrictions, modes of consumption to be allowed, THC limits, and so many others.

That report didn’t make any specific recommendations about what the law should stipulate. Instead, it outlined the different areas that the proposed legislation should cover. This report was based on what other jurisdictions around the world have looked at while drafting their own marijuana legalization laws.

It should also be remembered that in 2018, Mexican cabinet members visited Canada in order to talk to officials there about the Canadian recreational cannabis legalization program.

This cabinet visit took place shortly before the Supreme Court in Mexico made a ruling that it was unconstitutional to ban the consumption of marijuana by adults.

The Twitter poll may therefore be regarded as something that will further galvanize the lawmakers to discuss the legalization bill with the knowledge that the public is solidly in support of the legislation.

However, it should be noted that social media polls cannot in any way be seen as representative or scientific, so any findings collected from such a poll may not stand up to rigorous scrutiny. Nevertheless, the cannabis industry, including Sproutly Canada, Inc. (OTCQB: SRUTF) (CSE: SPR) (FRA: 38G) and Sugarmade, Inc. (OTCQB: SGMD) regard the poll by a cabinet member as a signal that robust discussions are taking place to decide what form cannabis legalization in Mexico takes.

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