420 with CNW — Report Indicates California Registered Significant Marijuana Production Increase

California’s legal marijuana production rose by 11.8% in 2024, reaching 1.4 million pounds, according to a newly released report by the state’s Department of Cannabis Control (DCC).

Despite this growth, the illegal cannabis trade remains dominant, with unlicensed production estimated at 11.4 million pounds. Although its exact destinations remain unclear, a significant portion of this illicit marijuana finds its way outside California.

The report highlights a significant gap between legal production and total marijuana consumption within California, which stands at 3.8 million pounds annually. Illegal sales within the state nearly double those of licensed retailers, indicating that while the legal industry has room for growth, major policy changes are necessary to shift consumer preferences away from unauthorized sellers.

DCC director Nicole Elliott acknowledged the progress made in stabilizing California’s legal market. She emphasized that expanding access, lowering costs, and tightening enforcement efforts are key strategies to create a more sustainable and regulated industry.

The report, prepared by ERA Economics, a California-based research firm specializing in water and agriculture economics, sheds light on ongoing challenges in the state’s cannabis sector. Despite California maintaining its position as the largest legal marijuana market in the U.S., signs of industry struggles persist.

The number of surrendered or inactive business permits has surpassed active licenses, raising concerns about the sector’s long-term viability.

Encouraging trends include a nearly 5% rise in wholesale cannabis prices, a 7.5% increase in the industry’s total value, and the continued growth of legal production. However, the overall market still faces difficulties, with persistently low prices and challenging business conditions. The situation may worsen if a proposed increase in California’s excise tax—potentially rising from 15% to 19%—takes effect by mid-year.

Although the legal cannabis market’s total production value rebounded to $1 billion last year, it remains below the $1.2 billion peak seen in 2021. By contrast, the estimated wholesale value of illegal operations is significantly higher, reaching $7.9 billion. Meanwhile, the number of state-issued retail licenses rose, yet many businesses have exited local markets. For instance, licensed retailers in Alameda County dropped from 157 in 2022 to 100 in 2024.

Statewide cannabis sales declined by 4% in 2023, with several counties seeing notable drops. Los Angeles County’s sales fell from $1.5 billion to $1.3 billion, while Alameda County dropped from $296.95 million to $263.11 million. Orange County, however, remained stable at approximately $279 million.

The report suggests that supply restrictions, including Governor Gavin Newsom’s ban on hemp products, could help stabilize prices for the remaining licensed operators.

The general marijuana industry, including enterprises like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), hopes that California and other states with legal marijuana programs find effective ways to deal with the black market so that licensed firms can have a chance to thrive and consumers can be protected from the risks associated with unregulated products.

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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 — New Poll Finds Majority in Utah Support Recreational Marijuana Legalization

A recent poll conducted on behalf of a Utah medical marijuana advocacy group indicates that most Utah residents would support a ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana. The survey results show that 52% of voters favor such a measure—the same percentage that approved medical marijuana in the state in 2018.

Despite the survey results, Alex Iorg, co-founder of Wholesome Co. and a member of the newly formed group “Keep Utah Medical,” believes the state is not yet ready for recreational cannabis.

He suggested that unless the medical program is improved, broader legalization may become inevitable. “If we don’t make it easier for patients to access medical cannabis here, it’s only a matter of time,” Iorg said, pointing out that similar trends have played out in neighboring states that started with medical programs before fully legalizing.

The group is not planning to push for recreational legalization, even as surrounding states have already done so. The group aims to improve the state’s medical marijuana program by making it more accessible for patients and reducing barriers that drive people to illegal sources or out-of-state purchases.

The poll, conducted earlier this month by Noble Predictive Insights, sampled 609 Utah registered voters. It found that 52% of respondents would support a measure to legalize recreational marijuana, while 38% were against it, and 9% remained undecided. These numbers reflect a shift in public attitude toward marijuana use since the legalization of medical marijuana.

The poll results may serve as a wake-up call to Utah lawmakers about potential future shifts in marijuana laws. Although the state legislature recently passed modest expansions to the medical marijuana program, the proposals faced strong opposition from socially conservative groups, many of whom were against medical legalization from the start.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a significant influence in Utah politics, opposed medical marijuana in 2018 and has also resisted recreational legalization efforts in other states.

Moreover, two of Utah’s top legislative leaders, House Speaker Mike Schultz and Senate Leader J. Stuart Adams, have already expressed their opposition to a recreational cannabis initiative.

The survey further highlights that conservative and LDS voters generally disapprove of legalizing recreational cannabis, while non-LDS, liberal, independent, and moderate voters, are more likely to support it.

Mike Noble of Noble Predictive Insights noted that Utah’s conservative base is more politically organized than progressives, meaning any push for full legalization could face strong resistance from traditionalist groups determined to block such efforts.

The cannabis industry around the region, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be watching how the policy reform efforts in Utah play out over the coming months and years.

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.

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420 with CNW — Maryland Senate Approves Bill Protecting Rights of Rescue Workers, Firefighters Using Medical Marijuana

The Maryland state Senate has approved a measure aimed at protecting rescue and fire workers from being penalized for using medical cannabis while off duty. The legislation, introduced by Senator Carl Jackson, passed with a 36-8 vote and now moves to the House of Representatives, where a parallel measure has been introduced but has yet to progress.

If enacted, the bill would amend state law to ensure that firefighters and other rescue personnel registered as medical cannabis patients are not penalized for their legal use of the substance or for testing positive for marijuana. Employers would be prohibited from disciplining, terminating, or discriminating against these employees based solely on a positive test result for THC metabolites.

Additionally, the bill specifies that employers cannot restrict or classify employees in a manner that would limit job opportunities or negatively impact their employment status. However, organizations would still be allowed to enforce zero-tolerance rules regarding on-duty intoxication from cannabis use.

Paul Armentano, the deputy director of NORML, praised the bill’s advancement, noting that the group has worked with rescuers and firefighters to advocate for these safeguards. He pointed out that other states and local governments have already implemented similar measures and argued that Maryland should follow suit. According to Armentano, no employee should face discrimination for using medical marijuana as prescribed by a doctor.

The measure was approved by the Senate Finance Committee with a few amendments last week.

Initially, the proposal included a clause allowing employers to ban cannabis use within 12 hours of a shift. However, concerns over enforcing this restriction led to the removal of the specific time frame. The amended text also makes it clear that businesses can forbid employees from using marijuana for recreational or medical purposes while they are on the clock.

During a previous hearing, Sen. Jackson underscored the importance of the legislation, stating that rescue and fire personnel risk their lives daily to protect the public. He argued that these workers should have access to physician-recommended medical treatments, including cannabis, without fear of workplace consequences.

The companion bill in the House is currently under review by the Economic Matters Committee.

The measure’s development follows a recent move in Maryland’s largest county to ease cannabis restrictions for prospective police officers. Officials hope that loosening these policies will help address recruitment challenges in light of staffing constraints.

The bill protecting the rights of rescue workers and fighters who wish to use medical cannabis is also bound to elicit applause from the broader marijuana industry, including leading enterprises like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL). This is because the law eases a restriction that has been denying a section of the population that could benefit from the therapeutic use of marijuana.

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.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Use Could Trigger Epigenetic Changes, Study Finds

A recent study involving more than 1,000 adults suggests that marijuana use may influence changes in the body’s epigenome, which acts like a series of switches turning genes on or off to regulate bodily functions.

According to Northwestern University epidemiologist Lifang Hou, the study discovered connections between long-term cannabis use and various epigenetic markers over time. While several U.S. states and countries have legalized its use, the full impact on health remains unclear.

According to Hou and her team of researchers from the U.S., about half of all Americans have at least one cannabis experience. Its full health impact is yet unknown, despite numerous U.S. states and other nations having approved its usage.

The research examined individuals who had taken part in a long-term study tracking their cannabis use for two decades. Participants, aged 18 to 30 at the start, provided blood samples twice—once at the 15-year mark and again at 20 years.

Scientists analyzed these samples to detect changes in DNA methylation, a key epigenetic process. DNA methylation involves adding or removing methyl groups from DNA, which alters gene activity without modifying the genetic sequence. These modifications can be triggered by lifestyle and environmental factors and might even be inherited by future generations. Blood biomarkers serve as indicators of both long-term and recent exposures.

Hou explained that previous research had already linked cannabis use to DNA methylation patterns associated with aging. The new study aimed to explore whether specific epigenetic changes related to cannabis use could influence health outcomes.

The researchers compared cumulative and recent marijuana use with DNA methylation indicators in participants’ blood. At the 15-year mark, they identified 22 markers tied to recent cannabis use and 31 linked to long-term use. Five years later, at the 20-year point, they found 132 markers associated with recent use and 16 related to long-term use.

One particular marker repeatedly appeared in the study, which had also been linked to tobacco use. Hou noted that this could suggest a common epigenetic response to both substances. Other marijuana-related epigenetic changes had been previously associated with processes like cell growth, hormone regulation, infections, and neurological conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

However, the study does not confirm that marijuana directly causes these epigenetic changes or leads to specific health problems. Drew Nannini, also a Northwestern University epidemiologist, stressed that more studies are needed to verify the findings across different populations.

There is a lot more that needs to be studied about marijuana, which is why the entire industry, including firms like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) have for long wanted to see reforms in marijuana policy made at the federal level so that it is easier to conduct studies on this plant and its products. The findings can help to address some of the concerns arising or dispel some misconceptions about this plant.

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.

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420 with CNW — This New THC-Free Marijuana Compound Could Replace Opioids

A recent study from the University of Arizona Health Sciences suggests that terpenes found in the marijuana plant may offer a new way to manage post-surgical and fibromyalgia pain. The study expands on prior research conducted by Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction member Dr. John Streicher, who previously explored the pain-relieving properties of terpenes in cases of inflammation and nerve pain caused by chemotherapy.

According to Streicher, terpenes do not seem effective for immediate pain relief, such as injuries from burns or stubbing a toe. However, they show promise for pathological or long-term pain conditions. This study marks the first preclinical examination of terpenes in treating post-surgical and fibromyalgia pain, expanding potential non-opioid treatment options.

The research team focused on four terpenes commonly found in marijuana: alpha-humulene, geraniol, beta-caryophyllene, and linalool. In mouse models, all four provided significant pain reduction, with geraniol showing the most substantial effect.

Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition affecting muscles and soft tissues, impacts up to 5% of the global population, according to a 2023 study. In the U.S., approximately 4 million adults suffer from the condition, with women being more affected than men. Current treatments for fibromyalgia are limited, making new approaches like terpene-based therapy particularly important.

Post-surgical pain exists between chronic and acute pain, typically resolving in a short time but sometimes leading to complications due to heightened pain sensitivity and inflammation. While opioids are commonly prescribed for such pain, they can cause side effects like constipation, which may increase the risk of adhesions.

Streicher and his team are investigating alternative solutions, and their findings suggest terpenes could serve as a new therapeutic option.

Each year, around 310 million major surgical procedures take place worldwide. Given the widespread need for post-surgical pain management, identifying non-opioid treatments is a critical area of research.

The Comprehensive Center for Pain and Addiction’s director, Dr. Todd Vanderah, stressed the value of basic research in the development of novel therapies. He pointed out that many chemical compounds with unrealized medical potential are produced by plants, including marijuana. To illustrate how nature still produces surprising medical advances, he likened this to semaglutide (Ozempic), a drug created from a chemical found in the Gila monster.

The study also confirmed that terpenes interact with the adenosine A2a receptor, the same target as caffeine. This finding suggests that terpenes may have sedative effects, opening avenues for further research into their broader therapeutic potential.

Marijuana firms, such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQB: CURLF), are likely to take an interest in such studies since they could open opportunities for them to develop products geared at addressing the medical needs of specific symptoms afflicting their clients.

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.

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420 with CNW — Divisive Colorado Cannabis Potency Bill Withdrawn at Committee Stage

contentious bipartisan measure aimed at addressing the high potency of cannabis in Colorado was withdrawn by its sponsors during a committee hearing. The measure faced immediate backlash, particularly over proposed regulations on specific edibles and age restrictions.

Before the first reading, Senator Judy Amabile indicated she planned to revise the measure significantly. However, when the hearing took place, she instead requested the panel to reject it. The bill had already stirred debate, prompting its sponsors to promise changes before the official discussion even began.

Currently, Colorado law limits THC levels in edibles to 10 milligrams per serving. The bill sought to extend that restriction to vaping and smoking cannabis products. Additionally, it proposed a new labeling scheme to help provide users with a deeper understanding of potency levels.

One of the most controversial aspects of the measure—initially included but later abandoned—was a cap on the quantity and potency of marijuana that individuals under the age of 25 could purchase. That provision drew the most resistance from the public, particularly in online discussions.

Lawmakers justified the age-related restriction by citing concerns about brain development, referencing CDC findings that suggest cannabis may have long-term effects on memory, attention, and learning, though further research is needed.

Since cannabis was legalized in Colorado, THC levels in marijuana flower have significantly increased. According to the NIH, between 1990 and 2015, the average THC potency in marijuana flower rose by 212%. The industry has also introduced highly concentrated products like edibles, wax, and vape oils, contributing to growing concerns over potency.

Another provision in the measure sought to prevent holders of natural medicine licenses—such as those handling psilocybin—from manufacturing, transferring, or distributing infused candy items, including chocolates and gummies.

Supporters of the measure argued that such products are more appealing to children. However, psilocybin therapy advocates countered that the restriction was unnecessary since retail sales of the substance are not allowed in Colorado, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Senators Amabile and Byron Pelton introduced the measure after schools and parents raised concerns about the impact of highly potent cannabis on young people. Amabile also cited personal experience, explaining that her child developed schizoaffective disorder and psychosis after early and consistent cannabis use.

Jon Spadafora, CEO and founder of Flower Union Brands, a marijuana edibles company, argued that measures like these contribute to negative stereotypes about cannabis. He also warned that limiting purchases for younger consumers could hurt the industry by cutting off a significant portion of its users.

Acknowledging the backlash, Amabile confirmed that the age restriction would be removed. The measure would still require producers to adopt a new color-coded labeling system to indicate potency, with dispensaries posting signs explaining the meaning of the colors.

The overall marijuana industry, including enterprises like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), could be glad that efforts to add another layer of complexity to the legal marijuana industry in Colorado has fizzled out in the dust.

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.

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420 with CNW — Idaho Senate Passes Bill Giving Legislature Power Over Cannabis Legalization

The Idaho State Senate has approved a proposed constitutional amendment that would give the legislature sole authority to legalize cannabis and other drugs. The measure, known as House Joint Memorial 4, will be put to a vote in the November 2026 elections.

If passed by a majority of voters, the amendment would eliminate the ability of Idaho residents to legalize cannabis through citizen-led ballot initiatives. The language of the proposed amendment states that only the state legislature would have the power to permit the use, possession, cultivation, sale, and production of cannabis and other psychoactive substances.

Supporters argue that the measure reinforces Idaho’s strict stance on cannabis, setting it apart from neighboring states that have embraced recreational or medical marijuana. Senator Scott Grow, co-sponsor of the amendment, believes it is necessary to prevent the legislature from being pressured by repeated ballot initiatives.

He emphasized that lawmakers have a duty to uphold the state’s values and referenced a section of the Idaho Constitution that prioritizes morality and temperance in governance.

Critics, however, see the measure as a way to strip power from voters. Opponents argue that Idaho’s initiative process is a fundamental part of democracy, allowing citizens to directly propose and enact laws. They believe the amendment reflects a lack of trust in voters and undermines direct democracy.

Sen. James Ruchti, D-Pocatello, voiced concerns that the amendment undermines the principle that political power ultimately resides with the people, stating that voters should retain their right to decide on important legislative matters.

For over a decade, advocates have struggled to gather enough signatures to place a cannabis decriminalization measure on the ballot. Currently, efforts are underway to qualify a ballot initiative for the 2026 election, though it remains uncertain whether it will meet the necessary criteria.

A two-thirds majority vote is required in both legislative chambers to advance a constitutional amendment in Idaho. The Idaho Senate passed the proposal with a 29-6 vote, following the House’s 58-10 approval on March 5. When the amendment appears on the ballot in 2026, a simple voter majority will determine whether it becomes law.

The current proposed amendment follows another anti-cannabis measure enacted earlier in 2025. On February 24, Governor Brad Little signed into law a measure mandating a minimum fine of $300 for individuals convicted of possessing cannabis, further reinforcing the state’s firm stance against legalization.

Companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) could be reading the news coming out of Idaho and shaking their heads at how far some lawmakers can go to entrench their own preferences at the expense of those of the people who voted them into office.

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.

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420 with CNW — Coalition Government Talks in Germany Could Be Complicated by Marijuana Policy

Germany’s coalition negotiations could become tense as the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD) clash over the country’s marijuana law. The SPD, which championed the legislation last year, considers it a key achievement, while the CDU has always opposed legalization.

Following initial post-election discussions, CDU leader Friedrich Merz expressed optimism about forming a coalition government with SPD, describing the talks as productive. However, this cooperative atmosphere may not last.

The SPD-led coalition, which included the Greens and Free Democrats (FDP), pushed for the legislation in April last year, bringing Germany in line with the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Malta, and Belgium in decriminalizing marijuana.

Merz previously stated his party’s opposition to the law, telling Tagesschau before the election that the CDU intended to “fix” the law. Their manifesto went further, labeling legalization a failure and pledging to remove it.

The SPD, on the other hand, is still committed to cannabis reform and even called for further changes aligning with European standards.

Ahead of coalition discussions, CDU health policy representative Tino Sorge criticized the law as a “dangerous mistake,” arguing that it should be repealed. However, he acknowledged that coalition talks would ultimately determine the outcome. Given the differing positions and economic factors at play, a compromise appears likely.

The industry remains hopeful that a complete rollback is unlikely. Bloomwell Group CEO Niklas Kouparanis expressed confidence that major changes wouldn’t disrupt Germany’s medical marijuana market. He argued that reclassifying marijuana as a narcotic would be a complex and time-consuming process. Instead, he expects adjustments such as stricter regulations on nonprofit marijuana clubs and home cultivation limits.

From an industry perspective, the SPD’s legalization effort has positioned Germany as a key player in the medical marijuana sector. Any reversal could break an election promise and expose the government to legal challenges.

By November last year, nearly 400 marijuana social clubs had applied for licenses, though only a fraction had received approval. Kouparanis warned that revoking the law could lead to legal claims from already licensed clubs seeking compensation.

Beyond legal concerns, the economic impact is substantial. Sales of cannabis-based medicines covered by health insurance have doubled in three years, with further growth expected. Imports of medical marijuana quadrupled in 2024, with shipments rising to 31.7 tons over the year.

The CDU’s economic priorities might influence future policy. A CDU-led government could take a state-controlled but economically sensible approach to healthcare. Given the SPD’s weaker position in coalition talks, their ability to protect cannabis legislation remains uncertain.

Major North American marijuana companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) are likely to keep tabs on the unfolding situation in Germany in order to assess whether potential market opportunities emerge or the new government scuttles the progress made in reforming the country’s drug laws.

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.

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420 with CNW — States are Scrambling to Get Reliable Tools to Detect Marijuana Impairment in Drivers

Minnesota is among several states testing a new device that detects THC in saliva, similar to a Keurig machine. The pilot program, which ended earlier this year, is now under review by the state patrol, which plans to present its findings to state legislators.

With cannabis now legal in most states, its use has grown and more people are consuming it before driving. States have laws against driving under the influence of substances, but regulating cannabis impairment remains a challenge. Unlike alcohol, where a breathalyzer provides a clear measure of intoxication, THC affects individuals differently based on tolerance, making it hard to set a standard.

Studies suggest that THC impairs driving by reducing reaction time, slowing speed, and causing swerving. However, determining the actual risk remains complex. In Colorado, fatal accidents involving drivers with THC in their system increased post-legalization, yet it’s difficult to confirm if they were impaired at the time of the crash.

Alcohol breath tests work well because breath alcohol levels closely match blood and brain alcohol levels. THC, on the other hand, can stay in the body long after its effects wear off, making it unreliable as an immediate impairment indicator. This has led private companies, state agencies, and researchers to look for a more accurate roadside test.

Other states, including Wisconsin, Alabama, Indiana, Colorado and Michigan have used or considered saliva-based THC tests. Missouri police have experimented with goggles that analyze pupil movement and size. Meanwhile, Colorado researchers are exploring THC breathalyzers. In Illinois and Vermont, teams have created apps designed to assess cognitive function in real time.

Colonel Matthew Packard, head of the Colorado State Patrol, believes training officers to recognize impairment remains crucial, even without a definitive test. His department has conducted “green labs,” where volunteers use cannabis in front of law enforcement officers to help them identify impairment signs more accurately.

However, some argue that relying solely on police judgment is too subjective. Jordan Wellington, a marijuana policy expert at Strategies 64, points out that officers, like anyone else, are not infallible. While developing a reliable impairment test is an important goal, he believes public education on cannabis and the impact of driving under the influence is even more critical to improving road and public safety.

“If people avoided driving while impaired, we wouldn’t need to focus as much on detecting impairment,” Wellington says. “The real issue is people making poor decisions before they get behind the wheel.”

Major marijuana entities like Verano Holdings Corp. (OTCQX: VRNOF) hope that efforts to get reliable tests for marijuana intoxication yield results soon so that any claims that cannabis leads to increases in traffic accidents can be verified or debunked using concrete data from the field.

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.

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420 with CNW — The Marijuana Industry is Pivoting to Address Women’s Wellness Needs

Women are playing a major role in shaping the marijuana sector, influencing market trends and driving innovation. Brands are adjusting to meet the demands of women who are increasingly using marijuana for wellness advantages, including stress relief, pain treatment, and improved sleep, by providing products that fit with a health-conscious lifestyle.

The industry is seeing a rise in marijuana-infused wellness products, from edibles designed for relaxation to self-care items such as beauty creams and balms. Companies recognizing this shift can tap into a growing consumer base and remain competitive.

According to David Kooi, CEO of Jointly, a Los Angeles-based marijuana discovery app, women are driving the movement toward intentional marijuana use and giving wellness-related objectives top priority.

According to the app, 55% of its consumers are women, and they are more likely than men to use cannabis with a partner. Additionally, women report a higher success rate in using marijuana for pain relief and recovery.

Recent studies highlight the increasing prevalence of cannabis consumption among women. A 2023 study revealed that women between 19 and 30 surpassed men in cannabis use for the first time since 1975.

Creating products that integrate seamlessly into women’s daily routines is crucial, according to Grasslands’ COO Chloe Steerman. She noted that simply branding a product in feminine colors is no longer effective. “Women are discerning consumers who know exactly what they want,” she said. The challenge lies in getting industry executives to take these insights seriously.

Narmin Jarrous, chief development officer at Michigan-based Exclusive Brands, successfully launched Neno’s Naturals to help manage her endometriosis symptoms. Unlike many women in the industry, she had decision-making power and was able to develop a product that addressed a real medical need.

Jarrous urges companies to consider women’s health concerns, such as menstrual pain and endometriosis, when formulating new products. “Women not only make up a significant portion of marijuana consumers, but they also influence household purchasing decisions,” she pointed out.

Veda Warrior CEO Smrita Choubey incorporates Ayurvedic principles into her marijuana-infused butter and cooking oils, with 65% of her customer base being women. While the company maintains gender-neutral branding, it is developing a new line of balms and gummies tailored to women’s needs, including cramp relief.

Other companies are also recognizing the growing influence of female consumers. Connected Cannabis Co. is partnering with Kush Queen for International Women’s Month, launching a product bundle designed to enhance intimacy and wellness.

As women continue to drive demand in the marijuana market, businesses that listen to their needs and create thoughtful, wellness-oriented products will be well-positioned for success. It won’t be surprising when leading brands like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) gradually increase the number of products they offer to meet the specific wellness needs of women in the markets they serve.

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