420 with CNW — North Dakota to Permit Edibles, Tweak Medical Cannabis Eligibility Requirements

North Dakota will roll out several updates to its medical cannabis program, starting August 1, making it easier for patients to access treatment and offering new product choices. These changes come after lawmakers passed multiple bills to improve the state’s approach to medical cannabis.

One of the key changes includes the approval of low-dose THC edibles. Under HB 1203, dispensaries can now offer soft or hard THC-infused square-shaped lozenges. The edibles should contain no more than 5mg of THC per serving, with a package cap of 50mg. However, other THC-infused food and drinks will remain banned.

Jake Mittelsteadt, who oversees retail operations at Pure Dakota Health in Bismarck, noted that allowing edibles could significantly improve patient experience. He explained that while tinctures and capsules are already available, many patients prefer edibles for their ease of use.

Not everyone supported the edibles measure. Stephanie Engebretson, speaking for the North Dakota Chiefs of Police Association, expressed concerns about children’s safety. She pointed out that edibles often appeal to kids and that their delayed effects might lead users to overconsume.

The association recommended stronger safety measures, like locking edibles away when children are present and removing any appealing flavors. However, none of those suggestions made it into the final version.

The legislation also allows patients to use telehealth for their initial appointments—something that was previously only permitted for renewals. This change is expected to help more people enter the program, especially in areas where finding a supportive doctor has been a challenge.

According to Mittelsteadt, some patients in rural areas like Williston struggle to find a healthcare provider willing to approve medical cannabis use. In those cases, patients often have to travel to places like Watford City to get the documentation they need.

According to Jason Wahl, the state’s medical cannabis program director, the state cannot require any healthcare provider to participate in the program. He noted that involvement is entirely at the provider’s discretion.

Another legislative update, SB 2294, extends the validity of medical cannabis cards from one to two years. This change could reduce the administrative burden on both patients and providers.

As of 2024, North Dakota had issued over 10,000 medical cannabis cards, including for caregivers. Although the patient base has grown steadily since 2017, when the law first passed, that growth has recently plateaued. The program’s funding now comes solely from application and permit fees.

Additionally SB 2293, also effective in August, sets a 1-gram limit for THC concentrate containers. It also allows patients without state IDs, due to medical issues, to use alternative documentation to qualify.

These progressive changes are welcome developments to the wider marijuana industry in the country, including leading enterprises like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), since they are aimed at increasing medical marijuana accessibility.

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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 — Proposed Florida Law Could Deny Patients Access to Medical Marijuana

A new law in Florida is causing concern among medical cannabis users as it threatens to strip patients of their access to treatment simply for facing drug-related charges. The law, Senate Bill 2514, has stirred backlash from patients and doctors who believe it unfairly punishes those relying on cannabis for legitimate medical needs.

John Mendez, a resident of Fort Myers, has used medical cannabis for the past three years to help manage daily life. “It helps me stay calm and focused. I can function better with it,” Mendez explained.

Now, under the new legislation, individuals with active medical cannabis prescriptions could lose their cards if they’re charged with certain drug offenses. That loss could be temporary or permanent, depending on the case.

“They’re trying to take away what helps me live my life,” Mendez said. “It feels like those in power are just playing games with people’s health.”

Attorney John Morgan, a major supporter of the 2016 campaign to legalize medical cannabis in Florida, says the move is less about safety and more about political strategy.“Governor DeSantis seems to think opposing cannabis is a smart political play,” Morgan said. “I think he’s completely off base.”

Morgan argues that big pharmaceutical companies are likely behind the push to limit marijuana access. “The same people pushing pills are the ones fighting marijuana access,” he said.

However, Florida’s GOP chair Evan Power supports the law and notes that medical cannabis should be seen as a special allowance, not a guaranteed right.

“We have to prevent people from taking advantage of the system,” Power stated. “This program was designed for specific health conditions, not as a loophole for other purposes.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Barry Gordon, who regularly prescribes medical cannabis, says the state has failed to provide any real guidance on how the new law will be enforced.

“There’s been zero clarification from health officials,” Gordon said. “We don’t know at what point enforcement begins or how different databases will be linked to monitor patients.”

Despite the uncertainty, Mendez and others plan to continue speaking up. “Somebody needs to tell the state what this means for people like me,” he said.

Florida voters may still get a chance to reshape the conversation. A proposed ballot measure for 2026 aims to legalize recreational cannabis. If it gains enough support, at least 60%, it could roll back some of the tough new rules now in effect.

The discussions in Florida on how best to protect the needs of medical marijuana patients will be closely watched by the broader cannabis industry, including Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) as the debates there are of interest to the entire pro-marijuana movement.

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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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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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