420 with CNW — Trump’s Cuts to Funding Put Marijuana Research at Risk

The federal government’s decision to reduce funding for research is jeopardizing 565 cannabis-related studies. In addition, a freeze on new grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is slowing down future studies at a critical time, raising concerns about cannabis policy changes and potential consequences for the industry.

Earlier this month, the NIH announced that there would be a significant cut in research grants allocated for indirect costs, such as facility and administrative expenses, capping it at 15%. Universities responded by filing lawsuits to block the cuts, leading to a temporary halt in their implementation while legal challenges unfold.

Researchers are now left in uncertainty, continuing their work despite the looming threat of funding termination, which could have long-term effects on the $32 billion cannabis industry.

Without solid scientific studies, the legal cannabis sector faces difficulties countering claims about the negative effects of marijuana, including lawsuits concerning high-potency cannabis products. Additionally, without substantial research backing, industry advocates may struggle to persuade legislators who remain skeptical or opposed to marijuana reform, including changes to its federal classification.

While federal grants are not the sole financial resource for marijuana studies, institutions like UCLA receive funding from state marijuana tax revenue. However, in most cases, NIH grants remain essential as they support larger, more impactful research projects.

The federal government has also halted the review process for new studies, leaving many projects stuck indefinitely.

This disruption contradicts previous indications that the administration would take a supportive stance on cannabis and goes against a call made by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in September. The organization urged the government to lift existing research restrictions to better understand marijuana legalization’s public health implications.

Although cannabis research accounts for only a fraction of the $47 billion the federal government spends annually on biomedical studies, it has seen significant growth. In 2012, when recreational cannabis was legalized for the first time in Washington and Colorado, researchers published approximately 1,200 cannabis-related studies. By 2021, that number had surged to over 4,200, with an increasing focus on marijuana’s potential benefits rather than just its risks.

The uncertainty surrounding funding could also impact the ongoing cannabis rescheduling process. The DEA has paused rescheduling hearings, with the decision now resting solely in the agency’s hands. If Trump’s choice for DEA director, Terrance Cole, a known marijuana critic, is confirmed as DEA chief, the chances of rescheduling could diminish.

Marijuana businesses like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) inside and outside the U.S. are likely to take a keen interest in the way Trump’s administration supports or hinders marijuana policy reform at the federal level.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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420 with CNW — Texas Judge Rejects AG’s Request to Block Dallas’ Cannabis Decriminalization

A judge in Texas has ruled that Dallas can continue implementing a voter-approved measure decriminalizing cannabis, rejecting an effort by the state’s attorney general to halt the policy while a lawsuit against it moves forward.

Judge Dale Tillery denied Attorney General Ken Paxton’s request for a temporary injunction. Paxton sought to block the city from moving forward with the reform, which prevents law enforcement from enforcing marijuana-related criminal penalties. The judge’s brief ruling stated that after reviewing the case’s arguments and evidence, the request for an injunction was denied.

The ruling does not dismiss Paxton’s lawsuit, but it allows the city’s decriminalization policy to remain active as legal proceedings continue. Dallas officials placed the decriminalization measure on the ballot last year after activists gathered enough signatures to qualify it for a vote. The law, passed with strong voter support last year, prevents arrests and citations for possession of up to four ounces of cannabis.

Following the decision, Adam Bazaldua, a Dallas City councilmember, expressed his support, emphasizing that the law was backed by more than two-thirds of voters. He criticized the attorney general’s attempt to overturn the decision, arguing that minority communities had historically faced disproportionate enforcement of marijuana laws.

He stated that voters made a rational choice to redirect law enforcement resources toward more pressing issues and applauded the court’s decision to let the law stand.

Ground Game Texas executive director Catina Voellinger praised the ruling as a win for democracy. She argued that the attorney general should not have the power to override the will of the people. According to Voellinger, the measure was designed to align with state laws, and blocking its enforcement would have harmed the community by allowing unnecessary criminalization to continue.

The decision comes a month after the city’s Police Department announced that officers would stop citing or arresting individuals for possession of small amounts of cannabis per the approved measure.

Paxton had quickly moved to challenge the law in court following the November elections, seeking to overturn it. His lawsuit is part of a broader effort to use the legal system to invalidate similar marijuana reforms in multiple Texas cities.

In previous cases, Paxton attempted to block decriminalization measures in San Marcos, Austin, Killeen, Denton, and Elgin. However, judges have dismissed lawsuits in San Marcos and Austin while Elgin officials settled, noting that decriminalization had not been enforced there despite voter approval.

Cannabis industry firms like Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF) will be following how this case in Texas evolves later in the year to see whether local ballot measures to decriminalize marijuana possession can spur change at the state level over time.

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420 with CNW — Air Force Personnel in Massachusetts Receive Strong Warning on Cannabis Use

Staff at Massachusetts’ Hanscom Air Force Base have been reminded of the stringent rules governing the use and possession of marijuana products on the base.

A recent memorandum clearly states that individuals are prohibited from using, possessing, distributing, or bringing marijuana onto the base. However, the 66th Air Base Group Legal Office emphasizes that this restriction extends to all personnel, including federal employees, military members, dependents, contractors, and anyone attempting to enter the base. The rule also covers CBD and THC-containing products.

The policy aligns with federal law and the Defense Department (DoD) regulations, which classify cannabis as a restricted substance under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). While CBD is a non-intoxicating compound that can be derived from hemp—a plant legally recognized federally—some CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, making them subject to the ban.

The statement explicitly includes hemp-based products in the prohibition, banning the use, possession, or distribution of any substances derived from hemp.

The Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) strictly prohibits the wrongful possession and use of controlled substances. Under Article 112A, this includes a range of drugs such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, and cannabis, among others. Notably, no legal distinction is made between hemp and cannabis, despite federal law defining hemp as marijuana containing no more than 0.3% THC concentrate by dry weight.

Regardless of the legal debate over CBD, those who violate these regulations can face serious consequences under military law. Federal employees may be subject to disciplinary measures outlined in Department of the Air Force Instruction 36-148, which covers actions against civilian personnel. Additionally, federal workers, military personnel, and DoD contractors could be banned from the base or lose their security clearance.

Another factor that could jeopardize security clearance is direct financial involvement in the cannabis industry. The legal office warns that knowingly investing in businesses or stocks related to cannabis cultivation and retail could have negative repercussions.

Despite the strict restrictions, the policy does not extend to hemp-based durable goods such as clothing, which remain permissible.

The ban also applies to Fourth Cliff Annex, FamCamp, Patriot Golf Course, and Sagamore Hill.

The DoD has continuously reaffirmed its opposition to service members and related people using cannabis. Even seemingly innocuous items, such as hemp-based cereal or CBD-infused hand sanitizer, could endanger military readiness, the Air Force said in 2022.

The cannabis industry, including enterprises like Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF), looks forward to a time when federal drug laws will evolve so that even service members who need marijuana products, such as medical marijuana, can access them without risking their jobs.

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Get Ready for The Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention: A Hub for Cannabis Innovation and Networking

The Pennsylvania Cannabis Convention (“PACC”) is gearing up to bring together growers, traders, brands, and enthusiasts to explore the legal cannabis sector in Pennsylvania on March 30, 2025. This event is a must-visit for those involved in the local cannabis industry, offering attendees in-depth insights into every aspect of the PA medical program. Registrations are open, and PA patients can attend the PACC for free.

For the March 30 event, PACC has partnered with NECANN, a renowned leader in hosting cannabis networking events. NECANN events are recognized as some of the premier cannabis gatherings on the East Coast, providing high ROI B2B opportunities. Each year, these events draw over 9,000 attendees, offering a platform for discovering new business and investment opportunities across the cannabis sector.

The event will take place at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, covering nearly eight acres of space in downtown Pittsburgh. The venue offers an exceptional environment for events, meetings, and exhibitions, ensuring an unparalleled experience for all attendees.

With the expertise of NECANN, PACC is poised to create a vibrant and sustainable networking and business platform for local cannabis brands, growers, and retailers. The attendee list will include both startups and seasoned cannabis players, as well as key decision-makers within the industry. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services while pitching their brands across various industry verticals. Licensed cultivators will present their innovative ideas and technologies, while investors can use the platform to discover new investment opportunities. Small businesses and newcomers will also have the chance to connect with industry veterans and forge lasting business relationships.

Ethos, the event’s presenting sponsor, includes a family of brands such as Natural Selections and Eleven, and will provide valuable insights on how enhanced cannabis products can help individuals improve their well-being.

To learn more, please visit https://cnw.fm/RAf2D

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420 with CNW — 2025 Could See University and Marijuana Industry Partnerships Blossoming

The year 2025 is set to mark a turning point in collaborations between universities and the marijuana industry, both in the U.S. and around the world. While partnerships between academia and businesses are nothing new, the marijuana sector has been slow to accept them, largely due to cannabis’ federal illegality in the U.S.

However, as the sector evolves, forming alliances with academic institutions presents an opportunity to influence policy, drive research, and shape the sector’s future.

These collaborations could take many forms, including research initiatives, sponsored studies, and joint ventures. Universities are essential in innovation, while businesses provide the infrastructure and funding necessary for commercial success.

Across the U.S., institutions are responding to the industry’s rapid growth by introducing specialized programs to meet students’ interests. Most of these schools are eager to collaborate with marijuana companies, leveraging their research capabilities, access to medical cannabis patients, and expertise. In return, industry partners contribute their entrepreneurial experience to bring these innovations to the market.

Agricultural schools in the U.S. have taken the lead in forming cannabis-related collaborations, especially in hemp cultivation and research. Universities like Cornell and Clemson have worked alongside hemp farmers to address challenges in pesticide use, genetic engineering, and crop optimization.

With the expansion of medical marijuana across Europe, Germany’s move toward legal recreational use, and the possibility of cannabis being rescheduled in the U.S., it’s time to strengthen ties between the cannabis sector and academia. These partnerships could foster groundbreaking advancements and provide businesses with access to research and patented technologies.

Europe may emerge as the driving force behind a surge in academia-private sector collaborations this year, given its focus on medical marijuana legalization. For businesses looking to enter the European market, working from the medical marijuana approach has become crucial, making academic partnerships a strategic entry point into the highly regulated space.

For instance, Germany’s approach to recreational marijuana sales is more structured and research-oriented compared to the U.S., where medical and recreational sales often overlap. The country recently introduced a pilot program that integrates university research into its framework, similar to models in Switzerland and the Netherlands.

The initiative, set to run for five years in select cities, will closely monitor consumer behavior through partnerships with companies like Sanity Group and Canadian retailer High Tide.

While universities are not directly involved in product commercialization, they are innovation hubs with significant potential for revenue generation through intellectual property. Technology transfer agreements allow institutions to retain control of their research while facilitating commercialization. These collaborations blend academic expertise with business acumen, creating mutually beneficial opportunities for advancing the industry.

Regulatory barriers still limit the extent of these collaborations and available funding, but the potential rescheduling of cannabis in the U.S. could change this dynamic. If rescheduling occurs, it may unlock institutional funding and public-private investments, making 2025 a landmark year for groundbreaking cannabis-related academic collaborations.

One can only watch and wait to see what partnerships, if any, leading cannabis firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) enter into with the academia in order to lay the groundwork for their future products and strategic direction.

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420 with CNW — Major New Mexico Cannabis Firm Files for Bankruptcy

In spite of the widespread use of cannabis, businesses in the industry have faced significant challenges. Despite the continued growth in retail sales, many brands find it challenging to differentiate themselves in a market that largely views cannabis as a commodity. Even some of the biggest players have filed for bankruptcy due to these difficulties.

A prime example is Planet 13, a well-known cannabis retailer in Las Vegas that features a massive retail space, a restaurant, and a consumption lounge. However, despite its success in Nevada, the company has had trouble replicating that achievement in other locations. No cannabis brand has achieved dominance; rather, most brands resemble generic stores.

One of the key obstacles is pricing. Consumers, who are typically well-informed about cannabis, prioritize the product’s quality—such as its strain and THC content—over brand names. As a result, companies find it difficult to charge premium prices when buyers perceive little difference between brands. Celebrity-backed products, such as those from Tommy Chong or Mike Tyson, often fare better because they leverage name recognition rather than relying on a standalone brand identity.

While demand for marijuana remains strong, brands still face the challenge of convincing consumers to choose them over competitors. This struggle for differentiation has been a major factor in Bright Green Corporation’s recent financial troubles, which recently filed for bankruptcy.

Bright Green Corporation, founded in 2019 and based in New Mexico, specializes in the production of legal marijuana and marijuana extracts. The company operates in manufacturing, research, and medical marijuana production.

Unlike most other cannabis businesses that have gone bankrupt, Bright Green Corporation has found a way forward. The company has reached a Restructuring Support Agreement (RSA) with Lynn Stockwell, a key shareholder, to facilitate a reorganization. Under this agreement, Stockwell will take over as CEO upon court approval. The restructuring plan includes a 1-for-50 reverse stock split and provisions for unsecured creditors to receive a mix of equity and cash.

Stockwell, who also founded Drugs Made in US Acquisition Corp I and II, aims to bring pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing back to the U.S.

The company is the first publicly traded company in the U.S. to have direct involvement with marijuana cultivation. It plans to collaborate with the HHS to support cannabis research at its New Mexico facility. Additionally, it is exploring a franchise model to expand its agricultural operations in Central New Mexico, East Arizona, and West Texas.

As the marijuana industry matures in different jurisdictions, mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcies and other hallmarks of market consolidation are bound to become increasingly common. It is now up to leading brands like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) to study the evolving market and position themselves appropriately to benefit from these shifts.

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420 with CNW — New Hampshire Assembly Passes Adult-Use Marijuana Legalization Bill

The New Hampshire legislature recently approved a proposal to legalize the personal use and possession of recreational cannabis. However, the bill does not include provisions for the regulated sale of marijuana. The legislation, known as HB 75 and sponsored by Representative Kevin Verville, was passed in the House through a voice vote in Thursday’s afternoon session.

If enacted, the measure would eliminate criminal penalties for adults aged 21 and above who possess or use cannabis. Despite this, the proposal does not establish a regulated market for sales. Public consumption would remain prohibited under the law.

Individuals under 21 would still be restricted from possessing or using cannabis. If found in violation, they would face legal consequences, with those under 18 required to undergo a screening.

Before the vote, Representative Jodi Newell voiced her support for the bill. She highlighted the strong public demand for ending cannabis criminalization, noting that many residents of New Hampshire rely on it for various personal uses, such as aiding sleep, enhancing mood, or providing a morning boost.

She also shared personal experiences, revealing that alcohol had taken the life of her brother and that her husband had died from a heroin overdose. “Yet we continue to believe that our citizens cannot be trusted to use marijuana responsibly,” she said. “We are aware that consuming a lethal dose of marijuana is virtually impossible, and we recognize that it poses far less risk than substances that have tragically claimed the lives of my loved ones and perhaps many of yours.”

During last week’s legislative hearing, Representative Jared Sullivan pointed out that the state would not be the first to legalize marijuana use and possession while maintaining restrictions on sales.

Opposing the bill, Representative Terry Roy argued that if cannabis were to be legalized, it should be done in a more structured manner. “We’ve attempted this multiple times, with around 50 different measures over the years. None have succeeded, and this one won’t either,” he said.

“We need a plan that includes safeguards for children and appropriate regulations rather than a haphazard approach.”

The state Senate approved a measure to legalize marijuana last year, despite then-Governor Chris Sununu’s pledge to veto any such cannabis measure. The state’s current governor, Kelly Ayotte, has also expressed opposition to recreational cannabis legalization, making it likely that she would veto HB 75 should it reach her desk.

Leading cannabis industry actors like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) will be watching the developments in New Hampshire and hoping that the adults there who wish to access recreational marijuana products in the state one day get to do so legally.

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420 with CNW — Ohio Residents Voice Their Opposition to GOP Efforts to Thwart Voter-Approved Marijuana Reforms

Several Ohio residents have voiced their opposition to a proposed measure that seeks to alter the state’s cannabis regulations. Senate Bill 56, introduced last month by Senator Steve Huffman, has received pushback, with 40 people submitting testimony against it during a Senate General Government Committee hearing.

“This legislation is not about keeping consumers safe,” stated Don Holztrager of Chronic Wellness LLC. “It’s about enabling corporate monopolies, consolidating control, and stifling competition.”

Committee Chair Senator Kristina Roegner presented a revised version of the bill that eliminates sections related to taxation and revenue allocation. Initially, the legislation proposed increasing the tax on recreational cannabis to 15%, with all revenue directed to the state’s general fund. Currently, cannabis sales tax revenue is distributed among various programs, including 36% to the marijuana social equity and jobs fund, another 36% to the host community marijuana fund, 25% supports substance abuse and addiction programs, and the remaining 3% is allocated to the Tax Commissioner Fund and the cannabis control division.

If passed, the bill would significantly alter existing cannabis laws, including reducing the number of plants allowed for home cultivation from 12 to 6 and lowering the permitted THC potency in recreational cannabis products to 70%.

Other key provisions in the legislation include:

Consolidating Ohio’s medical and recreational cannabis programs under the cannabis control division.
Mandating that cannabis be transported in a vehicle’s trunk.
Specifying that cannabis use is only allowed within private residences.
Limiting the number of operational dispensaries to 350.

Several individuals who testified were particularly concerned about restrictions on home cultivation. Holztrager argued that the law should permit six plants per adult rather than per household. He also advocated for home growers to have opportunities to test their products, sell to dispensaries, and build independent brands, fostering small business growth.

Many critics of the measure argue that it reverses crucial aspects of the voter-approved measure. Gary Daniels, policy director at the ACLU of Ohio, criticized the proposed changes, stating, “This is not only a complete departure from the core policies of the initiative but also follows a decision by the General Assembly to forgo making any modifications to the ballot initiative’s language when given the opportunity.”

Some opponents expressed concern that the THC restrictions would push Ohio consumers to purchase cannabis in Michigan instead. Others argued that the legislation should include measures for expunging past cannabis-related convictions.

A committee vote on the bill was originally scheduled for Wednesday but was ultimately canceled.

Marijuana industry players like Aurora Cannabis Corp. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) from different jurisdictions with legal marijuana markets may be unhappy that after voters made their choice known, some lawmakers are planning to modify the stipulations which were voted upon and approved.

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East Coast Cannabis Industry Gets Ready for the New England Cannabis Convention in Boston

Traders, dealers, businesses, and enthusiasts of the cannabis industry are invited to attend the New England Cannabis Convention in Boston from March 21 to March 22, 2025. Operating since 2015, NECANN events are referred to as “MJBizCon East.” The second largest B2B event in the U.S., NECANN witnesses thousands of attendees, with the largest gathering of licensed operators, exhibitors, buyers, and leaders, for the East Coast cannabis market. These events are considered the home base for the Northeast cannabis industry.

The Boston NECANN Convention 2025 will also host the prize-giving ceremony for the Boston NECANN Cup winners on March 22, 2025. Registrations for this close on February 23, 2025. Applications are also invited to judge the NECANN Boston Cup. The NECANN Cup is New England’s only multi-state cannabis competition, a third-party blind evaluation of cannabis and cannabis products (https://cnw.fm/BVeuZ).

NECANN events are considered a major benefit to the Northeast cannabis industry, offering a phenomenal platform for networking and business to the local cultivators, traders, pharmacies, and more. Each year, the event witnesses 9,000+ attendees, interacting, networking, and attending the 60+ programming sessions. Over 300+ exhibitors, with 100+ licensed cultivators, retailers, and brands, exhibit their latest products and technologies on the exhibition floor.

Investors can discover new avenues of investment while entrepreneurs can gain visibility among the leading businesses and experts in the cannabis industry. Cannabis industry stalwarts will conduct the different programming sessions at NECANN Boston. They will address the most compelling cannabis industry topics faced by operators in Massachusetts. Some important topics that will be covered include regulatory compliance services, consumer market study, and advocacy of psychedelic-assisted therapies in conservative states, to name a few.

To learn more, please visit https://cnw.fm/j96dZ.

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420 with CNW — New Florida Bill Wants Patients with MMJ Cards to Grow Cannabis at Home

While the push to legalize recreational cannabis in Florida did not succeed in the November election, lawmakers are now focusing on expanding access to medical marijuana. A proposed piece of legislation, Senate Bill 546, aims to give medical cannabis patients the ability to cultivate their own marijuana plants at home.

If passed, the measure would allow registered patients to grow up to two plants for personal medical use.

For many patients relying on medical cannabis, accessibility remains a challenge, especially in remote areas of Florida. Some people live hours away from the nearest dispensary, making it difficult to obtain their medication conveniently. While delivery services are available, they do not offer the immediate access that a physical store would provide.

Paula Savchenko, a marijuana law attorney pointed out that this delay can be frustrating for patients who need their medication promptly.

The push for SB 546 is gaining traction among patients who see home cultivation as a practical solution. Under the proposed legislation, individuals interested in growing cannabis would be required to obtain a cultivation certificate. This process would involve registering each plant and undergoing inspections, among other stipulations.

“The response to this bill among existing medical cannabis treatment centers has been mixed. Some cannabis businesses support the idea, while others have reservations. However, within the industry as a whole, there is a strong belief that patients should have the right to cultivate their own medicine,” Savchenko explained.

A poll conducted last year for Royal Queen Seeds, a cannabis seed company based in Barcelona, found that 81% of marijuana users in the U.S. believe individuals should have the right to grow cannabis at home. Additionally, 26% of users reported having grown plants in their residence, while 21% of those who have not tried it expressed an interest in doing so.

Based in Fort Lauderdale, Savchenko has helped several dispensary businesses navigate the licensing and regulatory process required to operate legally. She noted that in some cases, businesses have waited over a year for approval, only to receive a denial that then requires an appeal, prolonging the process even further. This lengthy approval period is another reason why some patients and advocates see home cultivation as a beneficial alternative.

“Since the bill only permits two plants per cannabis patient, it is unlikely that this will entirely replace dispensary purchases. Patients will still need to visit stores for additional supply,” Savchenko added.

The measure has only been introduced and must go through further steps before becoming law. The next phase involves assigning the bill to a legislative committee for an initial reading. A specific date for this has yet to be determined.

It remains to be seen what major medical marijuana companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) think about this latest effort to reform the medical marijuana landscape in Florida.

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