420 with CNW — Congressional Committee Passes Measure Blocking DOJ from Reclassifying Marijuana

A congressional subcommittee has passed a new federal spending measure that includes language aimed at preventing the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) from reclassifying cannabis. The measure would also continue existing protections for state-run medical marijuana programs, although it introduces stricter rules for cannabis activity near parks and schools.

The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) advanced the bill with a 9-6 vote. The measure will now move forward to the full committee for review and potentially be sent to the House floor.

This marks the second time lawmakers have inserted language into the spending bill that seeks to block efforts to reclassify cannabis.

The bill specifically states that no funds from the legislation can be used to move marijuana to a different category under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) or remove it from the schedule entirely. The process has faced long delays, partly due to legal objections raised during administrative hearings.

A similar provision was included in a previous version of the CJS spending measure, but it never became law. Additionally, Republican senators tried to pass a separate bill in 2023 that would have blocked the administration’s rescheduling efforts, but that proposal never made it to a vote.

Meanwhile, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) informed an administrative judge that cannabis rescheduling remains at a standstill. The hearings have been paused for over six months. A joint report submitted this month by both DEA lawyers and advocates shows that the two sides have yet to resolve their differences.

Still, advocates can take some comfort in knowing the new spending measure maintains language that prevents the DOJ from interfering with state-level medical cannabis laws. This safeguard has been included in every federal budget since 2014.

However, new language allows the DOJ to enforce penalties for selling marijuana within 1,000 feet of schools, colleges, playgrounds, and public housing, potentially increasing legal risks in those zones.

In addition to medical cannabis protections, the bill also upholds a separate clause that restricts federal interference in state-led hemp research, referencing the 2014 Farm Bill’s definition of legal industrial hemp.

In related developments, a former NFL player turned cannabis advocate met with Trump administration officials last week to discuss marijuana reform. Separately, a group of athletes and celebrities, led by former boxing champion Mike Tyson, urged President Trump to outpace former President Joe Biden on cannabis reform, including expanding pardons and improving access to banking for legal marijuana businesses.

The entire marijuana industry, including companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CNX: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), will be watching how efforts to block marijuana rescheduling pan out, and how advocacy to advance marijuana policy reform helps in shaping federal drug policy.

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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 — Senate Advances Proposal Banning Most Hemp Derivatives Containing THC

Federal lawmakers are taking steps to crack down on intoxicating THC products made from hemp, signaling their intent to close the “hemp loophole” that has allowed these products to thrive in a gray area.

On Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously approved a measure, introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley and Mitch McConnell, that would redefine hemp under federal law. Though the changes wouldn’t kick in for a full year, hemp industry groups warn that the new rules would effectively outlaw the vast majority of hemp-based products currently on the market.

There is growing bipartisan momentum in Washington to tighten regulations on hemp products. Since the passage of the Farm Bill 2018, which legalized hemp, products containing psychoactive compounds like delta-8 and delta-10 THC have become widely available in the form of gummies, drinks, and vapes.

Some states have taken steps to crack down on these products, but federal regulations have yet to catch up. Now, Senator McConnell is pushing to close what he sees as a major gap in the law—one he helped create when he championed the 2018 bill.

The newly passed fiscal 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Bill introduces new language that draws a line between “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” and “industrial hemp.” It also updates how total THC content is measured, including compounds like THCA, which had previously slipped through due to a lack of clarity in the original legislation.

Under the measure, “industrial hemp” is defined as cannabis sativa with a total THC concentration (both THC and THCA) of no more than 0.3%. It must also be grown for uses such as textiles, fuel, food, or other purposes that do not involve cannabinoids.

On the other hand, “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” include anything that delivers synthetic THC, such as delta-10 and delta-8, and would be banned under the proposed rules.

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable chair, Jonathan Miller, said the bill would outlaw over 90% of current hemp products. While the one-year delay offers time to make changes, he argued that a total ban isn’t the answer.

Cornbread Hemp co-founder Jim Higdon echoed those concerns. He pointed to state-level regulations that have established strict age restrictions and safety rules while still giving adults legal access to hemp-based THC. “We agree that the hemp market needs work,” Higdon said. “But banning nearly everything isn’t the solution.”

The Senate’s move closely follows a similar proposal from House Republicans in June, which also called for tough restrictions on hemp-derived THC products.

The marijuana industry, including firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching the discussions in Congress and how those regulations could reshape the hemp and cannabis markets.

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420 with CNW — Calls to Regulate THC in Marijuana Products Grow in Canada

Emergency rooms across Canada are seeing a significant increase in visits from marijuana users suffering from repeated, severe vomiting—a condition called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). According to a recent study, cases of CHS have grown thirteenfold over an eight-year period, making up over 8,000 of nearly 13,000 marijuana-related ER visits during that time.

Experts believe the spike is largely due to rising levels of THC, the compound in marijuana responsible for the high. They are urging for tighter regulations, clearer labeling, and more scientific research.

THC is just one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in marijuana, with delta-9-THC being the most recognized and studied. Canada currently restricts delta-9-THC in edibles to 10mg per piece and 1,000mg per package for topicals and extracts. However, dried marijuana doesn’t have a cap, though producers must list THC content on the label.

Other variants like delta-8-THC aren’t held to the same standards. Some manufacturers use these less-regulated compounds to boost potency while skirting delta-9 limits. Health Canada warned against this in 2023, although the guidance carries no legal weight.

THC levels in today’s cannabis are much higher than in previous decades. While products in the 1960s had around 4% THC, many now average 25%, with some reaching up to 90%. This rise in potency is linked to a range of health problems, especially in younger users whose brains are still developing. High THC exposure in adolescents may interfere with brain development and increase the risk of long-term mental health issues.

Meanwhile, the huge variety of marijuana products available makes it harder for users to gauge how much they’re consuming, especially with high-potency options dominating the market.

Ruth Ross, a University of Toronto professor, believes a standardized THC unit would help. For example, if one unit equaled one milligram, consumers could more easily understand their intake. She also stresses the need for more research reflecting the potency of today’s cannabis.

Quebec is currently the only Canadian province with strict THC caps and strict marketing controls. The province bans products that look like candy and operates a government-run retail system focused on safety and education. All profits are reinvested in research and prevention.

Ontario researchers are now studying whether Quebec’s policies are reducing cannabis-related harms. Dr. Daniel Myran, a physician and researcher at the University of Ottawa, supports adopting similar national limits on THC, along with better labeling and pricing structures that discourage ultra-potent products.

Leading marijuana firms like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) could provide valuable input when the country decides to receive feedback on how best to address the possible harms arising from the increasingly potent marijuana products available in the country.

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420 with CNW — Delaware Governor Ponders Whether to Sign Marijuana Zoning Bill into Law

As Delaware gears up to launch adult-use cannabis sales next month, a bill under consideration could shift the balance of power between state and local governments when it comes to cannabis zoning. Governor Matt Meyer is currently reviewing Senate Bill 75, which would establish statewide zoning rules for marijuana businesses and override local regulations.

Meyer acknowledged the conflict between two priorities. On one side, he wants to ensure the new cannabis market gets off the ground quickly. But as a former county executive, he also recognizes how important it is for cities and counties to maintain control over land use decisions. He noted that he was having conversations with various stakeholders to reach an agreement.

Meyer has several options on SB 75: he can approve it, veto it, or allow it to pass into law without signing it.

SB 75 is backed by Senator Trey Paradee, who also championed the original legalization push. The proposed law would set statewide zoning rules for marijuana businesses, effectively overriding existing regulations in the state’s three counties. Supporters argue this step is necessary to prevent local governments from placing excessive restrictions that could limit public access to legal cannabis.

Sussex County, for instance, currently requires dispensaries to be at least three miles away from schools, churches, and rehab centers. The new bill would lower that requirement to 500 feet and ensure dispensaries aren’t clustered closer than half a mile from each other.

Meyer recognized the concerns of local officials, noting that counties are typically responsible for deciding what types of businesses are appropriate in certain areas. “Land use has always been a core responsibility of local governments,” he said.

Councilmember Janet Kilpatrick from Newcastle County voiced strong opposition to the bill, arguing that the state should either handle all zoning issues or leave it entirely to local authorities. “We can’t have the state stepping in only when it wants control over specific industries,” she said.

Retail cannabis sales in Delaware are scheduled to begin on August 1. Thirteen shops are expected to open on day one, with a total of 30 planned in the months ahead. All of the state’s current medical cannabis dispensaries will also sell to recreational customers.

When asked during a recent radio interview why the launch has been delayed, Meyer said the choice was between waiting even longer or allowing medical dispensaries to take the lead since they were already set up to begin selling.

The broader marijuana industry, including key players like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF), hope that the market launch proceeds as scheduled in Delaware and residents can access approved adult-use products without having to travel long distances.

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420 with CNW — Worker Dies After Feds Raid Cannabis Farms in California

A tragic incident unfolded during immigration raids on two marijuana farms in Southern California, resulting in the death of a farmworker. The worker, identified as Jaime Alanis, passed away from injuries sustained after falling nearly 30 feet during one of the operations.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that 200 individuals suspected of being in the country unlawfully were detained at two farms located in Camarillo and Carpinteria. Agents also discovered at least 10 minors who, according to DHS, may have been at risk of forced labor or trafficking.

Four U.S. citizens were also arrested following clashes between immigration agents and protestors outside one of the farms. Authorities are also offering a reward of $50,000 for tips aiding the arrest a suspect that is alleged to have fired at the officers while the raid was executed.

One of the targeted locations was Glass House Farms in Camarillo, a licensed marijuana cultivator that also produces cucumbers and tomatoes. Officers in military-style gear entered the farm, prompting community members and workers’ families to gather outside, seeking information and expressing their opposition to the raid.

Alanis, who had worked at Glass House for about a decade picking tomatoes, reportedly contacted his family in Mexico during the raid, saying he was hiding. Later, his relatives were informed he had been hospitalized with severe injuries, including multiple fractures and a broken neck.

Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson Andrew Dowd stated that a dozen people sustained injuries during the confrontation between agents and demonstrators.

Glass House Farms stated that it had no knowledge of any violations related to hiring practices or the employment of minors. The company also said it is working to help detained employees obtain legal support.

The crackdown is part of a broader immigration enforcement effort by the Trump administration. Since taking office again, Trump has directed immigration teams to pursue undocumented immigrants and, in some instances, has transferred alleged gang members to prisons overseas without a trial.

Following the raids, a federal judge temporarily blocked immigration arrests across seven California counties. The order, issued by Judge Maame E. Frimpong, came after civil rights groups filed a lawsuit claiming that federal agents were using discriminatory and unconstitutional tactics.

Judge Frimpong’s ruling emphasized that stopping individuals without reasonable cause violates constitutional protections. She instructed federal agents to cease racial profiling and to ensure that those detained have access to legal representation. The temporary halt on immigration stops remains in effect for ten days while the court reviews the broader claims.

Leading cannabis companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) within the North American region will be hoping that U.S. federal authorities find more acceptable ways to conduct their work without needlessly creating situations that result in the loss of life.

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420 with CNW — New Federally Financed Research Finds Medical Marijuana Helpful in Combating Anxiety

A recent study partially funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has found that medical cannabis use is linked to noticeable improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms.

The research, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, followed 33 adults from Maryland dealing with clinically diagnosed depression and/or anxiety. The study monitored their progress over six months, checking in at the start and again after one, three, and six months of using medical marijuana.

Results showed significant reductions in depression and anxiety, with many patients reporting improvements significant enough to drop below clinical thresholds within the first three months. Patients continued to report relief throughout the six-month period.

Most participants opted for marijuana products that were high in THC. While many experienced mental health benefits, they also reported feeling more intoxicated and less confident in their ability to drive safely. Researchers noted that the effects varied with the dose, and the most noticeable symptom relief came from using at least three puffs of vaporized marijuana or up to 15mg of oral THC.

Among those involved in the study, 75% had used cannabis at some point in the past, and around 37% had consumed it within the last year. Although medical cannabis was legal in Maryland during the study, recreational use was still against the law at that time.

The research team included experts from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Medicine, School of Public Health, and Cancer Center, along with collaborators from the Center for Alcohol Policy Research in Australia. Some of the researchers had ties to the cannabis industry, which was disclosed in the study’s conflict of interest section.

Despite the encouraging findings, the authors stressed the need for more rigorous clinical trials to better understand how safe and effective medical marijuana is for treating depression and anxiety.

There’s growing interest in the mental health effects of cannabis, especially as psychedelics and other alternatives gain traction. Past studies suggest that access to legal cannabis might reduce the need for prescription medications like antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety drugs. Other studies point to CBD as a potential treatment for depression and anxiety, with fewer side effects.

More broadly, people using medical marijuana for chronic pain have reported better sleep and improved mental health, adding to the growing evidence that cannabis could play a supportive role in treating emotional and psychological challenges.

These research findings support the medicinal use of marijuana products sold by numerous companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) in outlets found in jurisdictions that have reformed their marijuana laws to permit medical and/or recreational cannabis sales.

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420 with CNW — How Marijuana is Bringing Variety to Cuisine

Cannabis has come a long way from the days of basic pot brownies. With legalization spreading and chefs exploring new frontiers, marijuana is finding its place in modern kitchens as a versatile and flavorful ingredient. Rather than focusing just on the psychoactive effects, today’s cannabis cuisine emphasizes taste, aroma, and the unique characteristics of each compound.

Here are seven ways marijuana is changing the food world:

Infused Bases Like Tinctures, Oils, and Butters

Cannabis compounds such as CBD and THC can be infused into alcohol, oils, or butter, allowing for precise control over dosage and effects. The infused bases can then be used in a variety of recipes, from baked snacks to pasta sauces. The secret lies in activating the plant’s compounds through decarboxylation before adding them to recipes.

Flavor Pairing with Terpenes

Cannabis has natural scent compounds called terpenes, which are also found in fruits, herbs, and spices. These give each strain its distinct aroma and flavor, whether it’s citrusy, piney, earthy, or floral.

Chefs are learning how to match the terpene profile of a strain with specific ingredients in a dish. For example, a citrus-heavy strain might enhance a lemony chicken dish, while a strain with earthy tones could pair well with a mushroom risotto.

Savory Cannabis Recipes

Cannabis isn’t just for desserts anymore. Cooks are bringing it into main courses and sides. From salad dressings with cannabis-infused oils to roasted vegetables brushed with THC-rich butter or grilled meats marinated with cannabis blends. The plant’s herbal, sometimes peppery flavor can add subtle depth to savory foods.

Elevated Edibles and High-End Dining

Gone are the days of mystery brownies with unpredictable potency. Today’s cannabis edibles are crafted with care, focusing on taste, appearance, and consistent potency. Fine dining restaurants now serve multi-course meals infused with cannabis, where each plate is made to highlight the plant’s flavors and effects.

CBD-Infused Foods for Wellness

CBD, the non-intoxicating compound in cannabis, is gaining popularity in the health and food scenes. From CBD smoothies and teas to savory meals with a relaxing twist, the compound is being used to create dishes that offer calming benefits without the high.

Infused Drinks

Cannabis beverages are evolving beyond simple sodas. Bartenders and mixologists are crafting infused mocktails, cocktails, sparkling waters, and herbal teas. These drinks often kick in faster than edibles and offer a fun, social way to consume cannabis.

Cooking Classes and Cannabis Education

Interest in marijuana cooking is driving demand for professional training. Private instructors and culinary schools are offering courses that teach the science and art behind cannabis cuisine, covering safety, flavor pairing, dosage, and legal guidelines. This shift is helping legitimize marijuana in the kitchen and giving more people the skills to use it confidently.

The fusion of cannabis and cuisine is changing how people think about both. As knowledge spreads and public attitudes evolve, expect more inventive and flavorful cannabis dishes to take center stage in kitchens worldwide.

If you still thought consuming cannabis required you to walk into a retail outlet of a licensed company like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) in order to pick up flower or prerolls, your options are increasing as the substance finds its way into cuisine in more innovative ways.

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420 with CNW — Anxiety Tops Qualifying Conditions in Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program

Pennsylvania’s move to allow medical cannabis for treating anxiety has significantly influenced how the state’s marijuana program functions, according to a recent University of Pittsburgh study.

Researchers found that anxiety is now the most frequently reported reason patients receive medical cannabis certifications, surpassing chronic pain. Pennsylvania became the third state to officially include anxiety as a valid condition for medical cannabis in 2019.

While more people are turning to cannabis to manage anxiety, the researchers warn that scientific support for its effectiveness in treating anxiety remains limited. Dr. Coleman Drake, a public health expert at Pitt, expressed concern that allowing anxiety as a qualifying condition may lead patients to believe that cannabis is a proven treatment for it, even though evidence is still lacking.

Drake pointed out that although marijuana might help certain individuals depending on their situations, the overall understanding of its medical benefits is still incomplete. He attributed this gap in knowledge to longstanding federal restrictions on cannabis research and limited access to detailed data from both medical and recreational marijuana programs.

The study’s authors reviewed data from the state’s Department of Health covering over 1.7 million certifications for medical marijuana issued between late 2017 and the end of 2023. To obtain these certifications, patients must receive a licensed physician’s recommendation and renew their approval each year.

Before anxiety was added as an approved condition, most patients were using the program for chronic pain (about 67%), followed by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at 16%. But after 2019, anxiety jumped ahead, becoming the most cited reason at 60%, while chronic pain dropped to 41% and PTSD to 11%. During this time, the number of certifications issued each month nearly tripled. Many of these certifications listed more than one qualifying condition.

The study, conducted in partnership with Johns Hopkins University and published in Annals of Internal Medicine, noted that it is unclear how many patients already using cannabis added anxiety to their diagnoses versus how many new patients joined the program specifically for anxiety treatment. Because of this, the exact impact of including anxiety on the overall size and growth of the program remains uncertain.

The researchers emphasized the need for more detailed research, especially as cannabis use continues to grow and regulations evolve. “There is an urgent need to better understand how cannabis is being used and what effects it is having,” Drake stated.

The broader marijuana industry, including firms like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CNX: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), hopes that federal restrictions impeding marijuana research are quickly reformed so that extensive studies can be conducted to document the exact effects that marijuana has on its medical users.

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420 with CNW — Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Start in Delaware on August 1

Delaware’s recreational cannabis sales will officially start on August 1, according to an announcement by state officials. This marks the first confirmed date for the launch of the state’s legal marijuana industry.

On opening day, only existing medical cannabis dispensaries will be allowed to sell to recreational customers. Although licenses have been issued to new businesses focused solely on adult-use cannabis, they are not yet ready to open their doors.

The rollout plan has drawn criticism from both advocates and potential new business owners, who argue that giving current medical dispensaries a head start gives them an unfair advantage. Many of these dispensaries have long denied lobbying for early access, but critics say the outcome speaks for itself.

Delaware legalized recreational cannabis in 2023, setting up a system that permits 125 licenses covering growing, testing, manufacturing, and retail. More than 1,200 applicants joined a lottery last year in hopes of securing a license. Applicants had to pay submission fees, with most applications costing $5,000 and license activation fees running up to $10,000.

Medical cannabis operators transitioning to the recreational market had to pay even higher fees—$100,000 for manufacturing or retail licenses and $200,000 for growing rights. Revenue from these fees helped fund a $4 million program to support social equity applicants, particularly those affected by past cannabis-related arrests or enforcement policies.

Many businesses have been in limbo since March, waiting for state officials to clarify when legal sales could begin. The market was originally supposed to launch in April but was delayed after the state couldn’t get FBI approval in time to complete background checks. As of mid-June, 43 applicants have cleared those checks.

Even with the launch now scheduled, Delaware legislators are still adjusting the legal framework. Some towns and counties have used their authority to block cannabis businesses or impose strict location rules. A bill aimed at reducing these barriers has passed both chambers of the legislature and awaits the governor’s decision.

All seven of the state’s medical cannabis companies have made the transition to recreational sales and plan to operate at over ten locations in August. Meanwhile, other businesses face zoning issues, delayed funding, and incomplete approvals, putting them at a disadvantage.

Despite the rocky rollout, Delaware’s cannabis commissioner, Joshua Sanderlin, says the focus remains on building a safe and fair market. He confirmed that the state will continue issuing conditional licenses to help new operators open their doors as soon as possible.

Given all the delays and hiccups that have plagued the planned rollout of recreational sales in Delaware, other industry actors like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) in other markets hope that this time round, sales are launched and any pending issues are resolved in due course.

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420 with CNW — New Study Shows Cannabis Use is Linked to Higher Arousal, Sexual Desire

A new study suggests that cannabis use may be linked to higher levels of sexual interest, increased arousal, and reduced anxiety related to sex. The research, part of a doctoral dissertation from Queen’s University in Canada, is based on two separate studies.

One included an online questionnaire completed by 1,547 marijuana users. The other was a month-long diary study involving 115 participants—87 regular users and 28 who either used it rarely or not at all.

According to researcher Kayla M. Mooney, those who used cannabis more frequently tended to report stronger sexual desire. On days when they engaged in sexual activity, their arousal and desire were significantly higher if they had used marijuana that day. The study also revealed that even on days without sexual activity, cannabis users still noted a higher level of desire and felt less sexual distress compared to days when they didn’t consume marijuana.

Around half of the survey respondents said they used cannabis with sex in mind, often to improve aspects of the experience, such as sensation or connection. The study acknowledges that the link between marijuana and sex is complex, yet it contributes valuable insights to a growing body of work exploring how cannabis affects intimacy and sexual health.

Previous research supports some of these findings. For instance, a study published last year found that marijuana-based vaginal suppositories helped reduce pain during sex for women recovering from gynecological cancers. When combined with mindfulness-based compassion exercises, the results were even more positive.

Another study showed that CBD-rich vaginal suppositories may help ease menstrual symptoms and lessen their disruption to daily life.

In terms of sexual satisfaction, some evidence points to marijuana being more effective than alcohol. While alcohol might make someone feel more outgoing or attractive, cannabis appears to heighten physical sensations and overall enjoyment during sex.

A comprehensive review published in the Psychopharmacology Journal found that marijuana use is generally linked to more frequent sex and higher levels of pleasure. However, the review cautioned that smaller amounts may be more beneficial, as higher doses might reduce desire or impair performance. The review also noted that the effects can differ between women and men.

For women in particular, advocates have suggested that marijuana could potentially be used to treat sexual dysfunctions, such as female orgasmic disorder. In men, the data is less clear—some studies suggest marijuana may hinder performance, while others report improved outcomes.

These studies further cement the beneficial effects of using marijuana products from a variety of sources like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) and make a case for jurisdictions having restrictions to ease them so that people who could benefit from these products can access them legally.

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