420 with CNW — California Lawmakers Send Bill Seeking to Halt Cannabis Tax Hikes to Governor

A measure to temporarily stop a recent tax hike on cannabis products in California has cleared the legislature and now awaits the governor’s decision.

The Assembly voted unanimously, 57-0, to accept amendments made in the Senate to the bill by Assemblymember Matt Haney. With that vote, the measure now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until October 12 to either sign or reject it.

If enacted, the bill would stop the increase in cannabis excise taxes for five years. Haney said the change is designed to give relief to an industry already dealing with high costs, reversing what he called an “unprecedented” 25% increase. Lawmakers from both parties have strongly backed the measure throughout the process.

One of the changes approved in the Senate pushes back the starting date to October rather than having the pause take effect immediately. The tax hike took effect in July, following state officials’ announcement in June that the marijuana excise tax would increase from 15% to 19%. At the time, supporters of the industry had hoped that ongoing budget discussions would include a freeze similar to Haney’s measure, but those talks fell short.

Although Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas supported including a freeze in the budget process, Senate leader Mike McGuire reportedly opposed the move, leaving Haney to continue advancing his separate bill.

Haney’s measure originally would have locked in the lower 15% rate until 2030, with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) adjusting rates afterward every two years. Regulators would have been required to set tax levels to generate revenue comparable to what the state used to collect from the discontinued cultivation tax, but not above 19%.

The Senate Appropriations Committee later scaled back that timeline, shortening the period at the lower rate and adding requirements for annual reporting. Under the revised bill, the CDTFA, working in conjunction with the Finance Department, must determine tax adjustments annually.

They are tasked with estimating how much revenue the old cultivation tax would have generated and then setting the excise rate to raise a similar amount from retail cannabis sales.

The law’s stated purpose is to provide immediate financial relief for marijuana operators. To measure whether the change is effective, CDTFA will need to submit annual reports to the Legislature starting in December 2026, outlining gains or losses in tax revenue compared to expectations.

Separately, the Senate Appropriations Committee recently advanced another bill to regulate hemp-derived cannabinoids in California. That legislation would bring hemp-based products into the state’s cannabis framework, prohibit synthetic cannabinoids, and clarify rules for hemp items such as topical salves. The same committee also backed a measure allowing licensed cannabis microbusinesses to ship products directly to patients.

Most likely, other licensed firms like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) operating in other states would appreciate any efforts taken to provide some relief from the heavy tax load that they carry.

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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 — Texas Lt. Governor Releases Statement on His Disagreement with THC Ban Veto

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has issued a statement criticizing Governor Greg Abbott’s recent executive order on THC, saying it creates the impression that the state has endorsed the existing THC market.

Patrick stated that his dispute with the governor is not personal but centered on policy. He noted that while he and Abbott have worked together on many issues, they remain far apart on THC regulation.

According to Patrick, the order has been widely interpreted by the hemp and THC industry as a green light from the state. He pointed to public statements from business groups celebrating the decision as a major victory, arguing it legitimizes products that remain dangerous and often mislabeled.

“These are the same companies that have been marketing to minors and opening shops near schools,” Patrick said. He added that many of the products on the shelves are still illegal and, in some cases, carry ingredients not disclosed to buyers.

He warned that the governor’s action could pave the way for recreational cannabis use, despite Abbott’s repeated claims that legalization is not on the table. He emphasized that the Legislature has never voted to approve recreational cannabis. Instead, he said businesses have exploited loopholes in hemp laws to flood the market with high-potency products, now available in thousands of stores across Texas.

The lieutenant governor noted that Senate Bill 3, passed earlier in the year, would have banned such products outright, but the measure was vetoed. He said only a full ban can protect children since age limits on alcohol and tobacco have not prevented underage use. He also cited undercover police footage from Dallas showing smoke shop employees cautioning customers that overdosing on certain THC products could be deadly.

Patrick explained that during a special session, state leaders tried but failed to reach an agreement on safe limits for THC potency, serving size, and retail sales. Without clarity on those points, he said, lawmakers could not support moving forward.

He further argued that the governor’s order leaves major gaps. It does not stop the sale of synthetic variants such as Delta-8 or Delta-10, nor does it restrict the sale of potent Delta-9 products. He also faulted the order for allowing stores to remain near schools and for leaving enforcement responsibilities to already stretched law enforcement agencies.

Patrick further rejected claims in the order that states cannot ban THC under federal law. He pointed to multiple federal court rulings confirming states’ authority to impose bans and added that Congress is currently considering a nationwide prohibition on consumable THC.

The lieutenant governor closed his statement by reaffirming his support for the state’s Compassionate Use Program, which allows doctors to prescribe THC for medical purposes, as well as for legal CBG and CBD products. But he warned against what he sees as a path toward broader legalization. “We do not want to follow Colorado’s example,” he said, adding that he remains open to further discussions with the governor.

The debates surrounding the way to regulate hemp-sourced THC products in different jurisdictions will be closely watched by marijuana companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) as it could have diverse implications for the legal marijuana industry.

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420 with CNW — Illinois Could Offer Solutions to What Happens if Holders of Social Equity Licenses Die

The U.S. legal marijuana market has been operating for more than a decade, and new challenges are beginning to surface that lawmakers did not anticipate when drafting regulations for the multibillion-dollar industry.

One issue currently grabbing attention in Illinois is what should happen if the holder of a cannabis social equity license passes away. For advocates of equity programs, the bigger question is whether the rules should ensure that ownership remains in the hands of people and communities that were harmed by decades of marijuana prohibition.

The matter recently gained attention after John Rushing, the licensee behind three Cookies-branded dispensaries in Illinois, passed away in December. Rushing was a Vietnam veteran and longtime resident of Palatine, Chicago. His company, Project Equity Illinois, had been awarded three retail permits in 2022. The licenses allowed the opening of Cookies shops in Pontoon Beach, Bloomington, and Peoria. Each store later received a $240,000 forgivable grant from the state.

The uncertainty now is whether those permits can transfer to his heirs or whether they must remain in the hands of someone who independently qualifies under Illinois’ social equity rules. Current law does not clearly spell this out, and regulators have avoided direct comment, pointing only to the existing statutes.

Public records confirm Rushing held the licenses, but state law provides only vague direction on how succession works if the original permit holder dies. Some observers argue that nothing prevents the permits from being sold, even to buyers who do not meet social equity qualifications.

This isn’t the first time death has complicated cannabis licensing in Illinois. When recreational sales began in 2020, some applicants passed away before their licenses were granted, which automatically voided those applications. Rushing’s case, however, is the first widely known instance of a license holder dying after the dispensaries were already operational.

Illinois’ social equity program is meant to repair some of the harm caused by decades of cannabis criminalization, especially for communities heavily targeted by drug laws. However, its requirements are looser compared to some other states. An applicant may qualify if they have lived in an area designated as disproportionately impacted, if they or a close family member have a marijuana-related conviction, or even through employees if a business has enough qualifying workers.

Experts question how long such programs will remain in place. Robert Silverman, a professor at the University of Buffalo, noted that equity permits were always intended as a temporary form of restitution. As fewer people meet the criteria over time, states may eventually decide that the special licenses are no longer needed and revert to standard business permits instead.

Cannabis firms around the country, such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be watching how Illinois resolves the issue of an existing social equity license after its holder passes on. This decision could set a precedent that other states take a leaf from when handling a similar situation.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Commission Heeds Governor’s Request and Sets Medical Marijuana Plant Limit

Nebraska’s Medical Cannabis Commission will restrict the number of plants medical growers can cultivate, setting the cap at 1,250 flowering cannabis plants per operation. The move followed pressure from Governor Jim Pillen, who stated that the new program must have firm boundaries before he approved emergency guidelines.

In a letter to the commission, the governor noted that without such a restriction, the risk of excess production could lead to illegal sales and undermine regulation. He indicated he would back the rest of the proposal if the adjustment were included.

The commission recently announced that it will authorize only four licenses for cultivators, with applications due by September 23 and licensing expected to start October 1. The discussion over limits was guided by Bo Botelho, legal counsel for the state’s Health and Human Services Department.

When drafting the initial framework, Botelho used Missouri’s program, which allows cultivation for both medical and recreational markets. His early suggestions were far lower than Missouri’s thresholds: 200 plants indoors, 300 in greenhouses, 500 outdoors, and 200 for mixed setups. He admitted the figures were only placeholders and not based on detailed calculations.

Commissioner Bruce Bailey led efforts to increase the limits, pointing out that not all plants survive or pass testing and that supply should be sufficient to meet patient demand. Estimates suggested that if about 1% of Nebraska’s population sought medical marijuana, roughly 20,000 patients could enroll. Using a simple formula of one plant for every two patients, the need would reach 10,000 plants statewide.

Other commissioners, including Lorelle Mueting and Kim Lowe, agreed that demand might not reach that level immediately but supported reviewing numbers later. Mueting noted that based on her research, 2,000 indoor plants could potentially produce adequate tinctures for approximately 2,300 patients annually. She, however, stressed that yields vary depending on how plants are grown.

Ultimately, Bailey suggested a single flat limit of 1,250 plants per cultivator, regardless of facility type. With four licensed growers, this would allow up to 5,000 plants in production at one time, with two harvests annually, meeting the target of 10,000 plants annually.

However, not everyone supports the restriction. Crista Eggers, who led the petition drive for medical marijuana legalization in the state, argues the program is being weakened before it even starts. Medical marijuana patients like Lia Post are urging the commission to recognize real medical needs rather than imposing what she sees as artificial restrictions.

The commission is set to meet again on September 30 at 1 p.m. Licensed cannabis companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) operating in other markets will be watching how the market in Nebraska finally rolls out.

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420 with CNW — Pro-Cannabis Legalization Tycoon Becomes PM of Thailand

Thailand’s parliament has appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country’s new prime minister after days of tense political maneuvering. Lawmakers voted for him following long negotiations sparked by the dismissal of former leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Only a week prior, Paetongtarn was removed from office when the Constitutional Court declared that she had violated moral principles in managing a boundary dispute with Cambodia. She is the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to be forced out of power before completing a term.

The ruling set off fierce bargaining among parties, with Anutin’s Bhumjaithai party and Pheu Thai working hard to rally support.

Anutin, aged 58, has been in politics for years but first made headlines as the driving force behind Thailand’s decision to decriminalize marijuana. His family controls one of the country’s most influential construction firms, responsible for major projects including Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and even the national parliament building.

Over the years, he has held several cabinet positions, including Health Minister and Interior Minister. His most controversial role came during his health ministry tenure when he championed marijuana legalization. Critics argued that the laws were passed too quickly, opening the door to widespread recreational use, but Anutin has consistently maintained that the law was meant for medical purposes.

Speaking outside parliament, Anutin pledged to dedicate himself fully to solving the country’s challenges. He told reporters that he plans to give his full energy to the job and treat every day as an opportunity to deliver results.

To secure his win, Anutin reached an agreement with the reformist People’s Party. Although the People’s Party does not share political values with Bhumjaithai, its leaders argued that the path offered the fastest way to push for reforms. However, the party has declined to join his administration, and some of its supporters remain skeptical that Anutin will keep his word.

Anutin won against 77-year-old lawyer Chaikasem Nitisiri of the Pheu Thai with a 311-152 vote.

The outcome is another setback for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose once-dominant influence has weakened since his controversial return from 15 years abroad in 2023. His deal with conservative elites, which allowed his homecoming, has since collapsed. His popularity has slipped, while ongoing legal battles continue to haunt him.

Writing on X, Thaksin said he was in Dubai for medical treatment and meeting old friends, adding that he would return to Thailand to attend court.

Will Anutin’s ascendance to the office of PM result in marijuana policy reforms given his previous efforts to legalize the substance? A policy change would create a large market for marijuana in the country and trigger opportunities for many businesses, not just those directly dealing in marijuana but also other ecosystem players operating akin to Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) in the U.S.

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420 with CNW — On-Tap Drinks Containing THC are Transforming the Bar Experience

A new type of drink is making its way into U.S. bars. Beverages infused with hemp-derived THC, which were once only sold in bottles and cans, are now being served straight from taps in several states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Carolina.

While some states have drawn firm lines around hemp-derived THC products, others permit them not only in liquor stores but also in restaurants and bars. The result is a new drinking experience that feels familiar—grabbing a pint at a bar—while skipping alcohol altogether.

Pharos Brands is one of the companies leading the charge. Each pour contains about 5 milligrams of THC, offering a light, approachable effect. For bar owners, this helps make use of empty taps while pulling in new customers who are curious about marijuana.

Currently, Pharos sells its kegs only in Wisconsin. Co-founder Mary Bernuth says the state made sense because of its deep beer culture and reputation as the nation’s brewing hub. The kegs are produced in partnership with Upstate Beverage Consultants, a South Carolina company also behind the Rebel Rabbit brand, another THC drink brand.

The partnership comes as alcohol consumption trends downward. Gallup recently reported that 54% of American adults say they drink alcohol, down from 58% in 2024.

Industry research also highlights the potential growth of this sector. The global marijuana beverage market, valued at $1.3 billion in 2024, is projected to more than double by 2030. Wisconsin bars like The Phoenix Taproom in Eau Claire and Orsetta in De Pere are already on board, bringing in customers interested in trying the new trend.

Rebel Rabbit is only available in keg form in a few Carolina bars due to distribution hurdles, though canned versions are sold in more than a dozen states. Its founder, Pierce Wylie, has launched a program allowing customers to suggest flavors and offer feedback. Popular creations can become permanent products, such as Blackberry Lemon, which blends THC with caffeine for a more energized effect. New versions, like a tea-based THC drink, are already in the pipeline.

Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain. THC doesn’t dissolve in water, which means drinks rely on emulsions to keep the cannabinoids evenly spread. Over time, these can separate, a problem that’s harder to solve with kegs than with bottles. Packaging also creates issues, since some can liners may strip away potency or affect flavor.

Experts are pushing for national guidelines that cover stability, packaging, and even clearer labeling so consumers know exactly what they’re drinking.

Will leading marijuana industries like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) get in on the act? Many factors are likely to come into play, such as regulatory uncertainty around THC drinks made from hemp, so this is a trend that one should keep an eye on.

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420 with CNW — Governor Abbott Signals Texans to Await Action on THC-Rich Hemp Products

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has hinted that more action could soon be taken on THC-infused hemp products, despite lawmakers failing to move the issue forward this year.

Speaking on Friday, Abbott suggested the discussion is far from over and told reporters to “stay tuned” when asked whether he would wait until the 2027 regular session or call another special session as early as next year.

While some Republican legislators have pushed for a full ban on intoxicating hemp products, Abbott has resisted that approach. Instead, he has leaned toward rules centered on age restrictions and protecting public health. Earlier in the year, he vetoed a measure that would have outlawed THC-infused hemp products entirely.

The state’s special legislative sessions were primarily called for election redistricting measures, but both also featured bills targeting THC-infused hemp products. In August, during the second special session, the Senate again passed a hemp ban and sent it to the House. But progress stalled as many Democratic representatives left the state to block a redistricting measure, preventing the chamber from taking up the hemp legislation.

Abbott has stated that he is open to a revised plan, but not one that shuts down the industry completely. His stance has placed him at odds with Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Charles Perry, the bill’s sponsor, who argue that banning THC-infused hemp products is necessary for public safety.

Supporters of regulation, on the other hand, maintain that the state should focus on preventing youth access while continuing to allow adults 21 and over to purchase and use hemp responsibly.

Democratic lawmakers also introduced alternative measures. Representative Nicole Collier proposed HB 42, a short bill aimed at protecting consumers who unknowingly purchase hemp items that test above legal THC limits. The measure would prevent criminal charges if a person bought what they reasonably thought was a legal hemp product from a licensed retailer.

Representative Jessica González filed HB 195, which would go further by legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and over, permitting possession of up to 2.5 ounces, with stricter limits on concentrates. Another proposal, HB 198, called for a state-led study on testing methods to detect THC impairment.

Separately, the Texas Department of State Health Services has moved forward with proposed rules to broaden medical marijuana access, including allowing doctors to recommend cannabis for additional conditions and setting standards for approved inhalation equipment.

Major players in the marijuana industry, such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (TSX: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), will be monitoring how the push to legalize adult-use marijuana in Texas progresses.

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420 with CNW — New Study Finds Delta-8 THC is Highly Used in Prohibitionist States

A new study has revealed that Delta-8 THC, a psychoactive component often marketed as a legal substitute for cannabis, is most frequently used in states where cannabis is illegal and delta-8 products are not regulated.

The study points out that gaps in marijuana regulation have unintentionally encouraged people to turn to less-regulated products. This loophole has allowed companies to bypass restrictions normally applied to cannabis products.

To conduct their analysis, the University of California research team classified states by two factors: whether cannabis was legalized for recreational or medical purposes and whether Delta-8 THC was regulated, unregulated, or banned. They then compared how often people reported using Delta-8 THC across the categories.

The analysis relied on a national survey of 1,523 adults in the U.S. Overall, 7.7% of participants said they had tried Delta-8 THC at some point. However, the numbers varied widely depending on state laws. In states that prohibit cannabis entirely, about 10.9% of adults reported using Delta-8 THC, nearly double the 5.5% reported in states where recreational cannabis is legal.

Similarly, in states where sales of Delta-8 THC are not regulated, usage reached 10.5%. By contrast, in states that either regulated or banned the compound, usage dropped to 3.9% and 4.5%, respectively. States with both medical and recreational cannabis access showed a lower usage rate of 5.5%, while states allowing only medical cannabis had a rate of 8.5%.

Delta-8 THC is chemically related to Delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. While delta-8 occurs naturally in very small quantities, most commercial products are made by converting CBD derived from hemp. This became possible after the 2018 Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% THC.

Due to this loophole, producers argue that Delta-8 THC products are legal hemp products. The FDA, however, has raised safety concerns and stated that delta-8 is not a legalized food additive. Federal enforcement has been limited, leaving states to set their own policies. Some have banned it, others regulate it, but many still provide no guidance at all.

Unlike cannabis sold in licensed dispensaries, Delta-8 THC is often available in gas stations or online, usually without proper labeling or quality checks. Some items are packaged to look like candies, raising the risk of accidental consumption by children.

The findings suggest that Delta-8 THC acts as a substitute in places where cannabis is illegal or difficult to access. While this trend may seem predictable, it complicates public health efforts by driving people toward unregulated alternatives. The researchers argue that nationwide standards are needed, particularly as Congress debates amendments to the Farm Bill that could close the hemp loophole.

They also stress the need for more research into why people choose Delta-8 THC and how policy decisions shape consumer behavior. For now, they believe their study should serve as a warning for lawmakers considering future cannabis regulations.

Creating legal markets where entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) operate can help in protecting public health by giving adults access to licensed products that have undergone safety tests instead of maintaining prohibitionist laws that push people to illicit products whose safety is not checked.

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420 with CNW — Gov. Meyer Vetoes Delaware Law Seeking to Loosen Cannabis Zoning Regulations

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has vetoed a measure that aimed to loosen restrictions on where cannabis businesses can open, a move that may slow down the state’s newly launched recreational cannabis market.

Instead of the bill, Meyer put forward his own proposal that ties zoning reforms to revenue-sharing. His draft proposal would give counties and cities a portion of cannabis sales tax revenue in exchange for relaxing zoning rules.

The vetoed measure, SB 75, would have struck down stricter zoning rules adopted by county governments after legalization passed. Opposition to the bill was strong among state Republicans and county officials, who argued that it undermined local authority.

In his veto message, Meyer said he supports creating a safe and fair marijuana market but criticized the bill for removing local control without offering support in return.

The bill’s sponsor, Senator Trey Paradee, criticized Meyer’s move, stating that the governor had promised to sign the bill into law in exchange for his support of a future revenue-sharing plan. Paradee argued that breaking that agreement harms trust and damages the chances of cooperation in the future. He also warned that dozens of entrepreneurs who recently won licenses to open dispensaries and grow operations could face serious setbacks.

Over 100 license holders are waiting to open new dispensaries, grow sites, and testing facilities. Many applicants were waiting for the outcome of SB 75, which would have reduced restrictive buffer zones. In Sussex County, for instance, marijuana shops must currently be located at least three miles away from schools, churches, and other sensitive areas.

For now, only the medical cannabis dispensaries that were already operating have been able to expand into recreational sales as of August 1.

Representative Ed Osienski, a top legalization advocate and co-sponsor of SB 75, said he was disappointed by Meyer’s stance. He questioned why cannabis should be treated differently from alcohol or tobacco, since counties do not directly receive tax revenue from those industries. Currently, tax dollars from the two flow into Delaware’s General Fund, with counties receiving a share each year through state grants.

Lawmakers could attempt to override the governor’s veto, though such actions are extremely rare in Delaware. SB 75 cleared both chambers by the three-fifths margin needed, leaving no room for defections. Still, Democrats recently gained a new member in the House, which may provide a slim cushion.

Meyer’s competing measure would direct 4.5% of the state’s 15% cannabis sales tax to the county or city where a cannabis business is located to help offset costs like enforcement, infrastructure, and zoning. Since 7% of the sales tax is already earmarked for a Justice Reinvestment Fund, only 8% of the total revenue would remain for the state and local governments to divide under Meyer’s plan.

If adopted, Sussex County leaders have indicated they may ease some of their restrictions, though the exact details remain unclear.

Industry actors from around the region, such as Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), will be hoping that some consensus is reached so that a workable policy that balances the interests of the industry with the need to protect sensitive sections of the population, such as school locations, is enacted.

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420 with CNW — Oregon Certifies Title for Measure Seeking to Legalize Cannabis Consumption Lounges

The Oregon state attorney general has officially approved a ballot title for a measure that would legalize marijuana consumption lounges, a proposal supporters want voters to consider in the 2026 election.

This step follows the release of a draft version about a month ago, which drew only one public comment. With the certified title now complete, the campaign is closer to beginning the large-scale signature drive needed to secure its spot on the ballot.

The effort is being led by Portland-based advocacy group the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition (OCCC). The group had to gather at least 1,000 valid voter signatures before the state could prepare an official ballot title. In June, organizers submitted over 1,400 signatures, which were verified before issuing the draft.

The single comment submitted during the review argued that “lounges” was too vague a word and suggested “business establishments” instead. State election officials disagreed, saying “lounge” is a neutral and widely understood term, and quotation marks in the text already indicate the measure provides its own definition.

The person has until September 5 to ask the Oregon Supreme Court to review the title. If an appeal is filed, the court could uphold the current version, modify it, or send it back for revisions. Once the title is locked in, the campaign can officially launch its petitioning effort. To qualify, it must collect just over 117,000 valid signatures.

The certified ballot title outlines that a “yes” vote would allow marijuana lounges, limited to microbusinesses, where adults 21 and older could consume marijuana products they bring themselves. Sales of marijuana on-site would not be permitted, though non-cannabis food, drinks, and hemp-derived CBD could be offered.

Alcohol and tobacco use would be banned, and lounges would need to close by 2 a.m. Local governments would have the authority to regulate the establishments, inspect them, and impose additional rules.

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) would regulate the program, handle licensing, and work with public health agencies to provide education on safe use and compliance rules. Lounges would also be required to display visible warnings about marijuana risks and house rules.

Justyce Seith, founder of the OCCC, expressed optimism about the campaign’s progress. She noted that fundraising for professional petitioners, advertising, and community outreach will be a key focus.

If voters approve the initiative in November 2026, it would take effect on January 1, 2027, officially creating a licensed system for marijuana social spaces in Oregon.

The marijuana industry, including major entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching how this ballot measure progresses and hoping that more states create regulations authorizing on-site marijuana consumption since it provides a space where consumers can legally consume cannabis away from their homes.

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