420 with CNW — Nebraska Commission Finalizes Emergency Medical Marijuana Regulations

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission recently signed off on emergency rules that would let the state begin accepting applications for medical marijuana licenses once Governor Jim Pillen gives the official go-ahead. State law requires the governor to act by July 1.

The emergency guidelines were revealed just minutes before the commission’s 10 a.m. meeting. The temporary rules, which closely resemble a bill that stalled in the Legislature last month, could be in effect for up to 90 days, depending on Pillen’s approval. The voter-approved measures legalizing medical marijuana require that applications start being accepted by July 1.

Commissioner Lorelle Mueting said the commission is open to public input on the regulations until July 15. Anyone wishing to comment can email the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, which will forward the messages to the medical marijuana commission.

Commission chair Dr. Monica Oldenburg plans to send a letter to Governor Pillen outlining the urgency of adopting the emergency rules. She warned that without them, residents might turn to unregulated and potentially unsafe alternatives.

A spokesperson for the governor confirmed that Pillen is currently reviewing the regulations and expects to make a decision by the July 1 deadline.

State law requires the licensing process for cannabis businesses to begin by October 1. Under the emergency framework, licenses could be issued for growers, processors, retailers, and delivery services, but each applicant can only apply for one type of license.

Emergency rules can be justified under state law if there’s an immediate threat to public safety or welfare. Meanwhile, Oldenburg and Mueting will lead a subgroup to continue refining the rules.

The commission also voted to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services and the governor’s policy office to get legal support through DHHS.

A recent bill (LB 677) that would have added tighter regulations narrowly failed in the legislature. It would have permitted up to 30 dispensaries statewide. The emergency rules instead allow only one dispensary per judicial district—totaling 12—which has raised concerns from some marijuana advocates.

Additional restrictions include a ban on dispensaries near schools, churches, hospitals, or daycares. Applicants must have had majority ownership based in Nebraska for at least four years and be U.S. citizens. Background checks, including fingerprinting, are also required.

The rules don’t list qualifying health conditions, unlike LB 677, which named 15. Instead, patients must get a detailed recommendation from a licensed provider. Approved products include tablets, tinctures, lozenges, gels, creams, suppositories, patches, and oils for nebulizers or inhalers. Raw flower, edibles, flavored items, and anything designed for smoking or vaping are not allowed.

While LB 677 would have required strict testing before products reached patients, the emergency rules only suggest that products may be tested. The commission currently doesn’t have the authority to mandate testing without legislative changes.

Packaging must be tamper-proof, child-safe, and free from images or branding that could appeal to minors, including cartoon characters or celebrity likenesses.

Senator Ben Hansen, who introduced LB 677, said many elements of the emergency regulations appear to have been lifted from his bill. He noted the real test would come with the final version of the rules. He also raised concerns about potential lawsuits from the state Attorney General, which could challenge the commission’s authority and burden taxpayers.

Senator John Cavanaugh, co-sponsor of LB 677, noted that the commission lacks the power to limit marijuana product forms. Crista Eggers, who leads the group behind the ballot initiative, agreed, stating the law legalized all forms, including flower. She also noted it’s still unclear where applicants should send their completed paperwork.

After the meeting, Eggers said she sees positive steps being made, especially the commission’s openness to public feedback. Final regulations will be subject to a public hearing with at least 30 days’ notice. The next commission meeting is set for August 4, with a possible hearing on permanent rules to follow in September.

The broader marijuana industry, including leading firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be following how the legalization process plays out in Nebraska to enable qualifying patients to access licensed cannabis-based products to help them to address their symptoms.

About CNW420

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.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Poll Finds Most Texas Voters Oppose Banning Hemp Products

A new poll shows that most Texas voters are not in favor of a full ban on hemp-based THC products. The survey revealed that 53% of voters were against the ban that state lawmakers had passed under SB 3. In contrast, just 31% said they were in favor of it.

The Republican base appeared split on the issue, with 46% in favor of banning the products, while 39% were against it. These opinions were collected in early June, shortly after the legislative session wrapped up but before Governor Greg Abbott vetoed the bill.

The veto immediately sparked backlash from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who had strongly pushed for the ban throughout the legislative process. Patrick, who leads the Texas Senate, also rejected Abbott’s idea to regulate THC products more strictly instead of banning them outright.

With lawmakers now gearing up for what may be a tense extra session, the poll highlighted how divided the public remains on this topic.

Senate Bill 3 aimed to outlaw consumable hemp products containing THC. Since hemp sales were legalized in Texas back in 2019, THC-infused products have become widely available in smoke shops and convenience stores.

After the veto, Patrick expressed strong frustration with Abbott, marking a rare public disagreement between two of the state’s highest-ranking leaders who typically see eye to eye. “This conflict was avoidable,” Patrick said. “Where has he been all this time? He shows up after midnight with reasons we just don’t agree with.”

Patrick warned that a recent court ruling in Arkansas could lead to consequences in Texas. He claimed that as many as 8,000 vape and smoke shops might be forced to close if similar legal decisions are made in the state.

Abbott referenced the Arkansas lawsuit in his veto announcement, saying the Texas bill likely wouldn’t hold up in court and would cause years of legal delays. He wrote on social media that, unlike Arkansas’s version, Texas’s proposal had legal flaws.

“Even with a stronger law in Arkansas, it sat unenforced for two years and is still being fought in court,” Abbott said. “We need action now to protect our children. That effort starts next month.” While Abbott has defended his decision online, he has not directly responded to Patrick’s public criticisms.

The recent poll also showed a shift in how Republican voters feel about cannabis laws. Ten years ago, 31% of GOP voters in Texas said cannabis should stay illegal. That number is now at 21%. At the same time, support among Republicans for legalizing small amounts of cannabis rose from 23% in 2015 to 31% as of April.

As public attitudes shift in Texas and other holdout states still having prohibitionist marijuana policies, the industry and leading firms like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) will be watching and hoping that a time will come when adults in those jurisdictions who wish to consume marijuana will have legal sources for the substance.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Congress Promises to Consider Marijuana Banking Reform Once the Budget is Passed

Congress is expected to revisit cannabis-related issues this fall, including banking access for marijuana businesses, according to political experts in Washington.

David Culver, a top executive at the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable, a leading advocacy group, said he believes there’s a strong chance that Congress will approve the SAFE Banking measure before the current session ends. “This is the most promising window we’ve had so far,” Culver said in an interview.

However, the bill’s progress is on hold until Congress handles a top priority: President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Lawmakers from both parties agree that this bill takes precedence.

Senator Bernie Moreno, who is leading GOP support for the Senate version of the cannabis banking bill, said the Senate will likely turn its attention back to SAFER Banking sometime in the fall.

Currently, most congressional action is stalled as Republican legislators remain divided over Trump’s broad immigration and tax bill. GOP leaders in the Senate have said they aim to send the finalized bill to Trump by Independence Day. But complications arose when House Republicans pushed back on changes introduced in the Senate.

Representative Andy Harris, who heads the conservative House Freedom Caucus, stated that the House version must be the final framework. “Our red line is clear,” he told the Washington Post. “It needs to match what we passed in the House.”

Delays in reaching an agreement on Trump’s bill could stall other bills, including cannabis-related legislation.

Meanwhile, Harris is also backing a separate proposal that would change the legal definition of hemp at the federal level to ban products containing hemp-derived THC and THCA flower. However, the odds of that measure passing are low, especially since several GOP lawmakers represent states with booming hemp markets.

Cannabis banking had been at the top of the legislative agenda until the Biden administration moved to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to III under the CSA in 2022. That change would offer immediate tax benefits to cannabis companies—something that banking reform alone wouldn’t provide.

But with rescheduling efforts currently stalled, attention is once again turning to the need for financial access. While the House has passed banking reforms several times under Democratic control, the Senate has yet to follow through.

Advocates say passing SAFER Banking could pave the way for more reforms, including standardized THC regulation and nationwide cannabis commerce.

Major marijuana industry players like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) will be hoping that some regulatory reforms are enacted sooner rather than later given the numerous headwinds that the industry is currently facing.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

CannabisNewsBreaks – Golden Triangle Ventures Inc. (OTC: GTVH) Restructures $7 Million in Legacy Debt, Secures Repurchase Option

Golden Triangle Ventures (OTC: GTVH) (“GTV”) has completed a major restructuring of its capital structure and legacy debt obligations through an agreement with a new third-party investor, who acquired all outstanding notes previously held by the Company’s largest creditor, T&K Zarro, LLC. The transaction consolidates five debt instruments totaling over $7 million and grants GTVH the exclusive right to repurchase the full balance for $4 million, offering a significant discount. The move simplifies GTVH’s balance sheet, supports disciplined growth and strengthens financial positioning.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/t9t2O

About Golden Triangle Ventures Inc.

Golden Triangle Ventures is a multifaceted consulting company, which operates as the parent business pursuing ventures in the health, entertainment and technology sectors, along with others that provide synergistic value to these three core divisions. The company aims to purchase, acquire and/or joint venture with established entities within these areas of business. The goods and services represented are driven by innovators who have passion and commitment in these marketplaces. The company plans to utilize relationships and create a platform for new and existing businesses to strengthen their products and/or services. The three points of the Golden Triangle exclusively represent the three sectors in which this company aims to do business. Golden Triangle Ventures is highly focused on acquiring a well-diversified portfolio of companies under one umbrella, which are all managed and owned by the company. An amazing team of professionals supports each division and continues to help the company grow daily. Being a publicly traded company gives the ability to provide the support needed to help each subsidiary grow into the business that management believes it can and will become. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.GoldenTriangleInc.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to GTVH are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/GTVH

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Austin, Texas
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
512.354.7000 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Ohio GOP Lawmaker Suggests Efforts to Legalize Cannabis Could Be Paused

State lawmakers in Ohio are likely to head into their summer recess without passing any revisions to the current cannabis regulations.

Senate Bill 56 (SB 56), which proposes revisions to Ohio’s recreational cannabis laws, has been stalled in the House Judiciary Committee for two consecutive weeks. The committee canceled a scheduled meeting this week, which only listed SB 56 on its agenda, and previously removed the bill from the agenda altogether.

“We’re hitting pause for the summer,” Representative Brian Stewart said. “We might come back to it later and try again.”

The Senate approved the bill in February, but it needs approval from the House before it can become law. House Speaker Matt Huffman explained that while the Senate is eager to move forward, the House doesn’t want to compromise its legislative goals just to pass the legislation quickly.

Currently, legislators are finalizing the state’s two-year budget, which must be finalized by July 1. Once that’s done, the legislature will begin its summer recess.

SB 56 proposes lowering the THC cap in recreational cannabis extracts from 90% to 70%, capping dispensaries at 400 locations, and restricting smoking in most public areas. It keeps the existing home-grow rules at six plants per adult and 12 per household. The bill, introduced in January by Senator Steve Huffman, originally aimed to cut the home-grow limit in half.

Voters approved recreational cannabis in 2023 through a citizen-led initiative, which passed with 57% support. Retail sales began in August 2024. Since the law originated from a citizen petition and not an amendment, lawmakers have the authority to amend it.

House Democrats argue that the bill undermines the will of the voters. Representative Dani Isaacsohn said, “Ohioans chose to legalize recreational cannabis. They understood the measure and supported it.”

Among the most debated provisions are new restrictions on hemp products. Currently, the bill states that only licensed dispensaries can sell the products, which would need to meet strict advertising, packaging, and labeling rules. However, stores like groceries, restaurants, and convenience shops can still sell hemp-infused beverages. Oversight would fall to the state’s Commerce Department.

Isaacsohn agrees that hemp rules are necessary but wants them handled separately. Meanwhile, Representative D.J. Swearingen, who had planned to present changes to the hemp portion of the bill, was unable to do so due to the canceled committee meeting.

He worked with the American Republic Policy on proposals that would let existing hemp businesses keep their doors open. Dakota Sawyer from the group said the goal was to prevent monopolies and allow small businesses to continue operating outside the dispensary model.

Governor DeWine and some lawmakers have voiced concerns about minors accessing hemp products. But Sawyer pointed out that the average Ohio hemp consumer is about 40 years old. He accused some legislators of exaggerating risks to justify restrictions.

Sawyer suggested splitting marijuana and hemp legislation into two separate bills, arguing that combining them only complicates progress.

The discussions in Ohio are likely to attract interest from far and wide, including from firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), given how high the stakes are, including the regulation of hemp products within state borders.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Finds Healthcare Professionals Ill-Equipped to Discuss Medical Cannabis with Patients

A recent study from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) reveals that many healthcare providers in the U.S. feel they aren’t equipped to talk with patients about medical marijuana. Despite its growing acceptance, many in the medical field report they haven’t received enough education or training to advise patients confidently.

Currently, cannabis is categorized as a Schedule 1 drug in the U.S., meaning it is considered to have a high abuse potential and no recognized medical benefit. However, in 2023, the DHHS recommended moving it to Schedule 3, recognizing its possible use in treating conditions like cancer-related symptoms, infections, neurological issues, and skin disorders.

At present, medical marijuana is legal in 38 states. Of these, 14 have full-scale medical marijuana programs. An additional nine states only permit the use of cannabis products that are low in THC or high in CBD, and only for certain qualifying health conditions. Because of federal regulations, healthcare providers cannot write traditional prescriptions for cannabis. Instead, they may recommend it when patients meet specific criteria, with rules differing significantly from state to state.

Published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, the NYIT study shows that most doctors, nurses, and other clinical professionals do not feel ready to have informed conversations about cannabis with their patients.

The researchers reviewed 41 separate studies released between 2013 and 2025. These studies included responses from a range of professionals—physicians, trainees, and specialists in various fields—with opinions that often varied depending on their area of practice:

Doctors working in states where medical cannabis is legal, as well as those with more experience, were typically more at ease discussing and recommending it.
A majority of obstetricians were not supportive of its use during pregnancy, and pediatricians were reluctant to support it for children.
Oncologists, primary care doctors, pain specialists, palliative care providers, and emergency physicians generally believe medical marijuana can help treat chronic pain, appetite loss, depression, nausea, and similar issues.
Many physicians felt that marijuana could pose risks to patients with congenital heart conditions.
Neurologists still feel there is social stigma around using cannabis for treating epilepsy.

Lead researcher Dr. Maria Pino, a pharmacist and associate professor, noted that as more states loosen cannabis restrictions, medical professionals need to be better educated. “Training healthcare workers on how to responsibly guide patients using medical marijuana is crucial,” she said. “This not only helps patients get proper care, but also reduces stigma around using cannabis for medical needs.”

The study also pointed out a lack of solid scientific research, which makes it harder to create clear, evidence-based guidelines for medical cannabis treatment.

If healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge they need to have informed discussions with patients regarding medical marijuana, the entire cannabis industry, including entities like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) would have valuable allies in helping patients to make informed decisions about using medical marijuana.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Gov. Abbott Calls for Regulation, Vetoes Bill Banning THC in Texas

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed a measure that aimed at banning all consumable THC products in the state. The move keeps the growing market of THC gummies, vape cartridges, and similar goods open for business. Abbott issued the veto just before the deadline, preventing what would have been one of the strictest THC bans nationwide.

Abbott called on lawmakers to craft tighter regulations for THC products rather than imposing an outright ban. The bill, Senate Bill 3, would have made it a criminal offense to produce, sell, or possess any THC consumables.

The bill followed ongoing efforts in various states to crack down on THC, particularly after the 2018 Farm Bill gave states the power to regulate hemp. Hemp, though non-intoxicating in its natural form, can be synthetically altered to produce THC.

Abbott had not publicly weighed in on the matter while the bill was moving through the legislature, leaving many uncertain about his stance. He explained that the bill likely wouldn’t survive a constitutional test and would clash with existing state and federal laws. He added that pursuing a law destined to be struck down would only delay real solutions to concerns about public safety tied to THC products.

The veto sparked immediate backlash, especially from Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick, who had championed the legislation. Patrick had made the THC ban a top priority and had even threatened to push for a special legislative session if it didn’t pass. In a strongly worded statement on social media, Patrick expressed disappointment, citing overwhelming support among Republican lawmakers, law enforcement, educators, and families affected by substance abuse.

Instead of a ban, Abbott is encouraging lawmakers to treat THC products like alcohol—enforcing age restrictions and limiting marketing aimed at minors. Patrick, meanwhile, has planned a press event in Austin to further address the matter.

The legal gray areas in current laws have allowed a thriving THC market to develop, even in states where cannabis remains illegal. Texas has some of the toughest anti-cannabis laws in the U.S., banning recreational use entirely and offering only limited medical access. The hemp industry, however, has created a way for Texans to legally obtain products that offer similar effects to cannabis.

Republican legislators have voiced concerns over the safety of these products, especially given the lack of consistent federal guidelines on manufacturing practices. While Texas has pursued one of the more aggressive approaches to curbing THC sales, other states like California have focused instead on age restrictions and potency limits.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed a similar measure last year, stating that it would negatively affect small businesses.

Opponents of the Texas legislation argue that the products provide vital relief for individuals unable to qualify for the state’s narrow medical cannabis program. Business owners across the state also stress that the sector supports thousands of jobs and generates significant revenue.

The marijuana industry, including major brands like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), hopes that more U.S. jurisdictions that still implement prohibitionist policies against cannabis rethink their stance and create legal markets for the substance so that jobs, state revenue and general livelihoods can be boosted by the legal marijuana business ecosystem.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Marijuana Firms That Have Weathered the Recent Storms Could Thrive Over the Coming Years

Over the last five years, the marijuana sector has gone through a major shake-up from excessive spending to tough tax burdens and complicated regulations. With all these challenges, a sort of natural selection has taken place: only the most disciplined and resilient companies have survived.

The companies that remain today are generally led by experienced teams who’ve learned to operate with caution and efficiency. The recent downturn has helped reset market expectations, leading to more reasonable valuations.

Unlike previous market peaks in 2019 and 2021, where investors chased rapid expansion and aggressive land grabs, today’s environment favors steady earnings and strong financials. Investors now prioritize capital preservation and want to back businesses that are built to last.

For savvy investors, this presents a window to identify companies with solid leadership, real assets, and operational stability. These are the firms most likely to generate strong, risk-adjusted returns as the market matures.

With valuations down and sellers open to creative deal terms, now could be an ideal time to invest in businesses prepared for the next phase of growth.

Finding the right opportunities in cannabis is still a moving target. This year, investors are showing interest in companies that offer one or more of these advantages: strong consumer brands, distressed assets free from past liabilities, owned real estate or infrastructure, niche market access with little competition, durable market share gains through smart acquisitions, or innovative structures designed to work around federal limitations.

Deals that offer solid downside protection while leaving room for upside are especially appealing. Investors are leaning into structures like convertible notes that offer safety today with equity upside later, preferred equity that ensures priority in returns, and revenue-sharing models that deliver returns through operations rather than relying on uncertain exits.

Some of the most interesting strategies emerging include employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs), which provide liquidity for founders and employees while offering tax perks, and mergers with entities holding large tax losses, which can improve after-tax income when paired with profitable operators.

Policy winds may be shifting as well. For the first time in years, federal cannabis reform seems to be gaining momentum. President Donald Trump has come out in favor of reclassifying cannabis and advancing banking reforms. He’s publicly spoken about the need for more sensible policies that support small businesses and challenge the black market.

If reforms like SAFE Banking or rescheduling move forward, it could spark a return of institutional capital and public market access. That would be a major shift. Over the next one to two years, investors may have a rare chance to get in early on the next wave of cannabis success stories—companies that have already proven their grit and are ready to grow in a more supportive environment.

As that new phase of growth gains steam, plenty of opportunities could be created for companies like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) that address some of the needs of plant-touching companies.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Marijuana Firms That Have Weathered the Recent Storms Could Thrive Over the Coming Years

As that new phase of growth gains steam, plenty of opportunities could be created for companies like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) that address some of the…

420 with CNW — Marijuana Advocates Express Concerns About the Purchase Rules for Missouri Patients

Medical marijuana advocates are raising concerns about new state guidelines in Missouri that restrict how much cannabis patients can legally buy from dispensaries. Under existing rules, dispensaries must monitor patient purchases to make sure they don’t go over their monthly limits.

Earlier this year, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services updated its website with new guidance. It states that once patients hit their allowed amount, they can’t legally switch to recreational purchases to get more marijuana. The department’s cannabis regulation division emphasized that this rule is meant to keep everyone within their legal possession limits.

Currently, patients enrolled in Missouri’s medical cannabis program are limited to 6 ounces of unprocessed cannabis over a 30-day period. Meanwhile, recreational users can buy up to 3 ounces per day, although they’re not allowed to hold more than that at any one time. The law also prohibits tracking purchases of recreational users unless they give consent.

Andrew Mullins, who leads the Missouri Marijuana Trade Association, argued in an April letter that the state’s interpretation of the law isn’t constitutional. He wrote that forcing residents to choose between being medical patients or recreational consumers goes against sound policy and legal principles.

Mullins pointed out that the approach conflicts with what the division told cannabis businesses in 2023, shortly after recreational sales began. At that time, the division had said patients over 21 would also be allowed to make purchases as recreational consumers.

However, department spokesperson Lisa Cox later clarified that the response had been sent in error and did not reflect the finalized rules, which didn’t take effect until August 2023. Cox noted that the department has reviewed Mullins’ concerns and is now reassessing the current policy.

Brennan England, who heads the Missouri chapter of Minorities for Medical Marijuana, says the restrictions hurt communities of color, which were among the earliest to rely on legal medical cannabis for safe and affordable care. England, an advocate and patient himself, launched major reform efforts beginning in 2014 and opened Missouri’s first private cannabis lounge in 2019.

He argues that the current rule not only limits access but also erodes trust in the system. England is calling for a full repeal of the policy, followed by a public dialogue involving patients, business operators, and state regulators. “You can hand out memos,” he said, “but when you sit across from someone whose treatment has been interrupted because of these limits, that’s when real change begins.”

The entire marijuana industry around the country, including leading firms like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CNX: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), will be watching how the concerns of patients in Missouri will be addressed by the regulators there.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (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: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com