420 with CNW — Nebraska Commission Heeds Governor’s Request and Sets Medical Marijuana Plant Limit

Nebraska’s Medical Cannabis Commission will restrict the number of plants medical growers can cultivate, setting the cap at 1,250 flowering cannabis plants per operation. The move followed pressure from Governor Jim Pillen, who stated that the new program must have firm boundaries before he approved emergency guidelines

In a letter to the commission, the governor noted that without such a restriction, the risk of excess production could lead to illegal sales and undermine regulation. He indicated he would back the rest of the proposal if the adjustment were included. 

The commission recently announced that it will authorize only four licenses for cultivators, with applications due by September 23 and licensing expected to start October 1. The discussion over limits was guided by Bo Botelho, legal counsel for the state’s Health and Human Services Department. 

When drafting the initial framework, Botelho used Missouri’s program, which allows cultivation for both medical and recreational markets. His early suggestions were far lower than Missouri’s thresholds: 200 plants indoors, 300 in greenhouses, 500 outdoors, and 200 for mixed setups. He admitted the figures were only placeholders and not based on detailed calculations. 

Commissioner Bruce Bailey led efforts to increase the limits, pointing out that not all plants survive or pass testing and that supply should be sufficient to meet patient demand. Estimates suggested that if about 1% of Nebraska’s population sought medical marijuana, roughly 20,000 patients could enroll. Using a simple formula of one plant for every two patients, the need would reach 10,000 plants statewide. 

Other commissioners, including Lorelle Mueting and Kim Lowe, agreed that demand might not reach that level immediately but supported reviewing numbers later. Mueting noted that based on her research, 2,000 indoor plants could potentially produce adequate tinctures for approximately 2,300 patients annually. She, however, stressed that yields vary depending on how plants are grown. 

Ultimately, Bailey suggested a single flat limit of 1,250 plants per cultivator, regardless of facility type. With four licensed growers, this would allow up to 5,000 plants in production at one time, with two harvests annually, meeting the target of 10,000 plants annually. 

However, not everyone supports the restriction. Crista Eggers, who led the petition drive for medical marijuana legalization in the state, argues the program is being weakened before it even starts. Medical marijuana patients like Lia Post are urging the commission to recognize real medical needs rather than imposing what she sees as artificial restrictions. 

The commission is set to meet again on September 30 at 1 p.m. Licensed cannabis companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) operating in other markets will be watching how the market in Nebraska finally rolls out. 

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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 — Pro-Cannabis Legalization Tycoon Becomes PM of Thailand

Thailand’s parliament has appointed Anutin Charnvirakul as the country’s new prime minister after days of tense political maneuvering. Lawmakers voted for him following long negotiations sparked by the dismissal of former leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra. 

Only a week prior, Paetongtarn was removed from office when the Constitutional Court declared that she had violated moral principles in managing a boundary dispute with Cambodia. She is the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to be forced out of power before completing a term. 

The ruling set off fierce bargaining among parties, with Anutin’s Bhumjaithai party and Pheu Thai working hard to rally support. 

Anutin, aged 58, has been in politics for years but first made headlines as the driving force behind Thailand’s decision to decriminalize marijuana. His family controls one of the country’s most influential construction firms, responsible for major projects including Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and even the national parliament building. 

Over the years, he has held several cabinet positions, including Health Minister and Interior Minister. His most controversial role came during his health ministry tenure when he championed marijuana legalization. Critics argued that the laws were passed too quickly, opening the door to widespread recreational use, but Anutin has consistently maintained that the law was meant for medical purposes. 

Speaking outside parliament, Anutin pledged to dedicate himself fully to solving the country’s challenges. He told reporters that he plans to give his full energy to the job and treat every day as an opportunity to deliver results. 

To secure his win, Anutin reached an agreement with the reformist People’s Party. Although the People’s Party does not share political values with Bhumjaithai, its leaders argued that the path offered the fastest way to push for reforms. However, the party has declined to join his administration, and some of its supporters remain skeptical that Anutin will keep his word. 

Anutin won against 77-year-old lawyer Chaikasem Nitisiri of the Pheu Thai with a 311-152 vote. 

The outcome is another setback for former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose once-dominant influence has weakened since his controversial return from 15 years abroad in 2023. His deal with conservative elites, which allowed his homecoming, has since collapsed. His popularity has slipped, while ongoing legal battles continue to haunt him. 

Writing on X, Thaksin said he was in Dubai for medical treatment and meeting old friends, adding that he would return to Thailand to attend court. 

Will Anutin’s ascendance to the office of PM result in marijuana policy reforms given his previous efforts to legalize the substance? A policy change would create a large market for marijuana in the country and trigger opportunities for many businesses, not just those directly dealing in marijuana but also other ecosystem players operating akin to Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) in the U.S. 

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 — On-Tap Drinks Containing THC are Transforming the Bar Experience

A new type of drink is making its way into U.S. bars. Beverages infused with hemp-derived THC, which were once only sold in bottles and cans, are now being served straight from taps in several states, including Wisconsin, Minnesota, and South Carolina. 

While some states have drawn firm lines around hemp-derived THC products, others permit them not only in liquor stores but also in restaurants and bars. The result is a new drinking experience that feels familiar—grabbing a pint at a bar—while skipping alcohol altogether. 

Pharos Brands is one of the companies leading the charge. Each pour contains about 5 milligrams of THC, offering a light, approachable effect. For bar owners, this helps make use of empty taps while pulling in new customers who are curious about marijuana. 

Currently, Pharos sells its kegs only in Wisconsin. Co-founder Mary Bernuth says the state made sense because of its deep beer culture and reputation as the nation’s brewing hub. The kegs are produced in partnership with Upstate Beverage Consultants, a South Carolina company also behind the Rebel Rabbit brand, another THC drink brand. 

The partnership comes as alcohol consumption trends downward. Gallup recently reported that 54% of American adults say they drink alcohol, down from 58% in 2024. 

Industry research also highlights the potential growth of this sector. The global marijuana beverage market, valued at $1.3 billion in 2024, is projected to more than double by 2030. Wisconsin bars like The Phoenix Taproom in Eau Claire and Orsetta in De Pere are already on board, bringing in customers interested in trying the new trend. 

Rebel Rabbit is only available in keg form in a few Carolina bars due to distribution hurdles, though canned versions are sold in more than a dozen states. Its founder, Pierce Wylie, has launched a program allowing customers to suggest flavors and offer feedback. Popular creations can become permanent products, such as Blackberry Lemon, which blends THC with caffeine for a more energized effect. New versions, like a tea-based THC drink, are already in the pipeline. 

Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain. THC doesn’t dissolve in water, which means drinks rely on emulsions to keep the cannabinoids evenly spread. Over time, these can separate, a problem that’s harder to solve with kegs than with bottles. Packaging also creates issues, since some can liners may strip away potency or affect flavor. 

Experts are pushing for national guidelines that cover stability, packaging, and even clearer labeling so consumers know exactly what they’re drinking. 

Will leading marijuana industries like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) get in on the act? Many factors are likely to come into play, such as regulatory uncertainty around THC drinks made from hemp, so this is a trend that one should keep an eye on. 

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 — Governor Abbott Signals Texans to Await Action on THC-Rich Hemp Products

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has hinted that more action could soon be taken on THC-infused hemp products, despite lawmakers failing to move the issue forward this year. 

Speaking on Friday, Abbott suggested the discussion is far from over and told reporters to “stay tuned” when asked whether he would wait until the 2027 regular session or call another special session as early as next year. 

While some Republican legislators have pushed for a full ban on intoxicating hemp products, Abbott has resisted that approach. Instead, he has leaned toward rules centered on age restrictions and protecting public health. Earlier in the year, he vetoed a measure that would have outlawed THC-infused hemp products entirely. 

The state’s special legislative sessions were primarily called for election redistricting measures, but both also featured bills targeting THC-infused hemp products. In August, during the second special session, the Senate again passed a hemp ban and sent it to the House. But progress stalled as many Democratic representatives left the state to block a redistricting measure, preventing the chamber from taking up the hemp legislation. 

Abbott has stated that he is open to a revised plan, but not one that shuts down the industry completely. His stance has placed him at odds with Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Charles Perry, the bill’s sponsor, who argue that banning THC-infused hemp products is necessary for public safety. 

Supporters of regulation, on the other hand, maintain that the state should focus on preventing youth access while continuing to allow adults 21 and over to purchase and use hemp responsibly. 

Democratic lawmakers also introduced alternative measures. Representative Nicole Collier proposed HB 42, a short bill aimed at protecting consumers who unknowingly purchase hemp items that test above legal THC limits. The measure would prevent criminal charges if a person bought what they reasonably thought was a legal hemp product from a licensed retailer. 

Representative Jessica González filed HB 195, which would go further by legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and over, permitting possession of up to 2.5 ounces, with stricter limits on concentrates. Another proposal, HB 198, called for a state-led study on testing methods to detect THC impairment. 

Separately, the Texas Department of State Health Services has moved forward with proposed rules to broaden medical marijuana access, including allowing doctors to recommend cannabis for additional conditions and setting standards for approved inhalation equipment. 

Major players in the marijuana industry, such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (TSX: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), will be monitoring how the push to legalize adult-use marijuana in Texas progresses. 

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 — New Study Finds Delta-8 THC is Highly Used in Prohibitionist States

A new study has revealed that Delta-8 THC, a psychoactive component often marketed as a legal substitute for cannabis, is most frequently used in states where cannabis is illegal and delta-8 products are not regulated. 

The study points out that gaps in marijuana regulation have unintentionally encouraged people to turn to less-regulated products. This loophole has allowed companies to bypass restrictions normally applied to cannabis products. 

To conduct their analysis, the University of California research team classified states by two factors: whether cannabis was legalized for recreational or medical purposes and whether Delta-8 THC was regulated, unregulated, or banned. They then compared how often people reported using Delta-8 THC across the categories. 

The analysis relied on a national survey of 1,523 adults in the U.S. Overall, 7.7% of participants said they had tried Delta-8 THC at some point. However, the numbers varied widely depending on state laws. In states that prohibit cannabis entirely, about 10.9% of adults reported using Delta-8 THC, nearly double the 5.5% reported in states where recreational cannabis is legal. 

Similarly, in states where sales of Delta-8 THC are not regulated, usage reached 10.5%. By contrast, in states that either regulated or banned the compound, usage dropped to 3.9% and 4.5%, respectively. States with both medical and recreational cannabis access showed a lower usage rate of 5.5%, while states allowing only medical cannabis had a rate of 8.5%. 

Delta-8 THC is chemically related to Delta-9 THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. While delta-8 occurs naturally in very small quantities, most commercial products are made by converting CBD derived from hemp. This became possible after the 2018 Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% THC. 

Due to this loophole, producers argue that Delta-8 THC products are legal hemp products. The FDA, however, has raised safety concerns and stated that delta-8 is not a legalized food additive. Federal enforcement has been limited, leaving states to set their own policies. Some have banned it, others regulate it, but many still provide no guidance at all. 

Unlike cannabis sold in licensed dispensaries, Delta-8 THC is often available in gas stations or online, usually without proper labeling or quality checks. Some items are packaged to look like candies, raising the risk of accidental consumption by children. 

The findings suggest that Delta-8 THC acts as a substitute in places where cannabis is illegal or difficult to access. While this trend may seem predictable, it complicates public health efforts by driving people toward unregulated alternatives. The researchers argue that nationwide standards are needed, particularly as Congress debates amendments to the Farm Bill that could close the hemp loophole. 

They also stress the need for more research into why people choose Delta-8 THC and how policy decisions shape consumer behavior. For now, they believe their study should serve as a warning for lawmakers considering future cannabis regulations. 

Creating legal markets where entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) operate can help in protecting public health by giving adults access to licensed products that have undergone safety tests instead of maintaining prohibitionist laws that push people to illicit products whose safety is not checked. 

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 — Gov. Meyer Vetoes Delaware Law Seeking to Loosen Cannabis Zoning Regulations

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer has vetoed a measure that aimed to loosen restrictions on where cannabis businesses can open, a move that may slow down the state’s newly launched recreational cannabis market. 

Instead of the bill, Meyer put forward his own proposal that ties zoning reforms to revenue-sharing. His draft proposal would give counties and cities a portion of cannabis sales tax revenue in exchange for relaxing zoning rules. 

The vetoed measure, SB 75, would have struck down stricter zoning rules adopted by county governments after legalization passed. Opposition to the bill was strong among state Republicans and county officials, who argued that it undermined local authority. 

In his veto message, Meyer said he supports creating a safe and fair marijuana market but criticized the bill for removing local control without offering support in return. 

The bill’s sponsor, Senator Trey Paradee, criticized Meyer’s move, stating that the governor had promised to sign the bill into law in exchange for his support of a future revenue-sharing plan. Paradee argued that breaking that agreement harms trust and damages the chances of cooperation in the future. He also warned that dozens of entrepreneurs who recently won licenses to open dispensaries and grow operations could face serious setbacks. 

Over 100 license holders are waiting to open new dispensaries, grow sites, and testing facilities. Many applicants were waiting for the outcome of SB 75, which would have reduced restrictive buffer zones. In Sussex County, for instance, marijuana shops must currently be located at least three miles away from schools, churches, and other sensitive areas. 

For now, only the medical cannabis dispensaries that were already operating have been able to expand into recreational sales as of August 1. 

Representative Ed Osienski, a top legalization advocate and co-sponsor of SB 75, said he was disappointed by Meyer’s stance. He questioned why cannabis should be treated differently from alcohol or tobacco, since counties do not directly receive tax revenue from those industries. Currently, tax dollars from the two flow into Delaware’s General Fund, with counties receiving a share each year through state grants. 

Lawmakers could attempt to override the governor’s veto, though such actions are extremely rare in Delaware. SB 75 cleared both chambers by the three-fifths margin needed, leaving no room for defections. Still, Democrats recently gained a new member in the House, which may provide a slim cushion. 

Meyer’s competing measure would direct 4.5% of the state’s 15% cannabis sales tax to the county or city where a cannabis business is located to help offset costs like enforcement, infrastructure, and zoning. Since 7% of the sales tax is already earmarked for a Justice Reinvestment Fund, only 8% of the total revenue would remain for the state and local governments to divide under Meyer’s plan. 

If adopted, Sussex County leaders have indicated they may ease some of their restrictions, though the exact details remain unclear. 

Industry actors from around the region, such as Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), will be hoping that some consensus is reached so that a workable policy that balances the interests of the industry with the need to protect sensitive sections of the population, such as school locations, is enacted. 

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 — Oregon Certifies Title for Measure Seeking to Legalize Cannabis Consumption Lounges

The Oregon state attorney general has officially approved a ballot title for a measure that would legalize marijuana consumption lounges, a proposal supporters want voters to consider in the 2026 election. 

This step follows the release of a draft version about a month ago, which drew only one public comment. With the certified title now complete, the campaign is closer to beginning the large-scale signature drive needed to secure its spot on the ballot. 

The effort is being led by Portland-based advocacy group the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition (OCCC). The group had to gather at least 1,000 valid voter signatures before the state could prepare an official ballot title. In June, organizers submitted over 1,400 signatures, which were verified before issuing the draft. 

The single comment submitted during the review argued that “lounges” was too vague a word and suggested “business establishments” instead. State election officials disagreed, saying “lounge” is a neutral and widely understood term, and quotation marks in the text already indicate the measure provides its own definition. 

The person has until September 5 to ask the Oregon Supreme Court to review the title. If an appeal is filed, the court could uphold the current version, modify it, or send it back for revisions. Once the title is locked in, the campaign can officially launch its petitioning effort. To qualify, it must collect just over 117,000 valid signatures. 

The certified ballot title outlines that a “yes” vote would allow marijuana lounges, limited to microbusinesses, where adults 21 and older could consume marijuana products they bring themselves. Sales of marijuana on-site would not be permitted, though non-cannabis food, drinks, and hemp-derived CBD could be offered. 

Alcohol and tobacco use would be banned, and lounges would need to close by 2 a.m. Local governments would have the authority to regulate the establishments, inspect them, and impose additional rules. 

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) would regulate the program, handle licensing, and work with public health agencies to provide education on safe use and compliance rules. Lounges would also be required to display visible warnings about marijuana risks and house rules. 

Justyce Seith, founder of the OCCC, expressed optimism about the campaign’s progress. She noted that fundraising for professional petitioners, advertising, and community outreach will be a key focus. 

If voters approve the initiative in November 2026, it would take effect on January 1, 2027, officially creating a licensed system for marijuana social spaces in Oregon. 

The marijuana industry, including major entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching how this ballot measure progresses and hoping that more states create regulations authorizing on-site marijuana consumption since it provides a space where consumers can legally consume cannabis away from their homes. 

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 — US Congressmen Reintroduce Comprehensive Cannabis Reform Bill

Congress could finally advance a measure to legalize cannabis federally this legislative session. Representatives Jerrold Nadler, Ilhan Omar, Nydia Velázquez, and Dina Titus have once again put forward the MORE Act. The measure is one of the most far-reaching pieces of cannabis reform ever introduced in Congress. 

Now in its fourth version, the 91-page legislation would remove cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances, effectively legalizing it nationwide and ending the inconsistent rules across different states. 

It also seeks to correct the harm caused by decades of harsh drug policies, especially in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color. It mandates the review and clearing of past cannabis-related convictions, giving many people a fresh chance at employment, education, and personal growth. Young offenders would also benefit equally from these changes. 

A major financial component of the bill is a 5 percent federal tax on cannabis sales. Revenue from this tax would go into an Opportunity Trust Fund, which would be used to support the community reinvestment, cannabis opportunity, and equitable licensing grant programs. 

The bill would also make cannabis businesses eligible for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans and services, which are currently off-limits to them. 

It also directs the Bureau of Labor Statistics to gather detailed demographic information on the industry, ensuring participation from historically excluded groups, including people of color and those from lower-income backgrounds. 

Previous attempts at passing the MORE Act have gained traction in the House. The chamber approved earlier versions twice, including a 220–204 vote in April 2022 that fell along party lines. However, despite attracting 95 co-sponsors in the last Congress, the legislation stalled in the GOP-led House. 

The measure has drawn widespread backing from advocacy organizations across multiple fields, including criminal justice reform, civil rights, immigration, labor, and health. Supporters range from national groups like the ACLU, Drug Policy Alliance, and the Southern Poverty Law Center to local chapters of NORML and grassroots organizations such as JustLeadershipUSA, the Minority Cannabis Business Association, and Students for Sensible Drug Policy. 

The reintroduction comes at a time when cannabis policy is also being debated at the executive level. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in moving cannabis from a Schedule I drug, where it is currently grouped with substances like heroin, to Schedule III. The reclassification process began under the Biden administration but has been stalled since early this year. 

The broader cannabis industry, including entities like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), will be watching to see whether this year’s attempt to pass this major reform bill will succeed where previous attempts have hit a wall. 

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 — Study Finds Self-Medicating with Marijuana Increases Paranoia Risk

Researchers have found that people who begin using cannabis to cope with depression, anxiety, or pain are more likely to experience paranoia compared to those who use it casually for fun or curiosity. 

The findings come from the Cannabis&Me survey, which included responses from 3,389 adults aged 18 and over who currently or previously used cannabis. None of the participants had a diagnosed history of psychosis. 

The study revealed that individuals who turned to marijuana as a form of self-medication tended to show higher levels of paranoia, particularly if they were already experiencing mild psychotic symptoms. Meanwhile, those who reported the lowest paranoia scores were mostly recreational users. 

On average, participants consumed about 206 units of THC each week, which equals roughly 10 to 17 joints. However, people using marijuana for depression or anxiety averaged around 248 to 255 units weekly. 

In England, medical marijuana on the NHS is available only in rare cases such as certain forms of epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, or multiple sclerosis. Despite this, a growing number of private clinics across the UK provide cannabis prescriptions, often for depression, anxiety, or pain. 

Professor Robin Murray, one of the lead researchers, cautioned that these are the very conditions linked in the study to increased paranoia. He stressed that marijuana, like food or alcohol, has dose-related risks—the more consumed, the higher the chance of negative outcomes. 

Dr. Emily Finch, who chairs the addiction faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, highlighted the broader risks, noting that marijuana remains the most widely used illegal substance in the UK. Around one in three people who use it will experience problems at some point in their lives, a rate similar to that of alcohol. 

She added that both natural and synthetic cannabinoids carry risks of addiction and long-term mental health harm. Daily use, especially of high-strength marijuana, is strongly linked with depression, low motivation, anxiety, and a fivefold increase in the risk of developing a psychotic disorder, particularly among adolescents. 

Dr. Finch urged the government to strengthen addiction and mental health services by providing more staff, funding, and training. She emphasized the importance of early intervention, especially for children and teenagers showing signs of problematic use, to prevent long-term effects. 

related study also using the Cannabis&Me survey revealed that over half of marijuana users reported childhood trauma. Those who experienced emotional or physical abuse scored 35 to 40% higher for paranoia, while survivors of sexual abuse were found to consume the highest levels of THC. 

Such studies should cause different jurisdictions to rethink their prohibitionist policies. This is because the lack of regulated markets creates opportunities for people to self-medicate and run the risk of various harms, such as using tainted cannabis products from the black market or failing to be guided appropriately by qualified medical personnel. 

On the other hand, letting licensed companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) operate reduces the stigma linked to consuming marijuana and makes users more open when interacting with their doctors. 

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 — Google Announces Pilot Program Testing Cannabis Business Advertising in Canada

Google has started testing a new advertising program that gives Canadian cannabis businesses limited access to its ad services, provided they meet federal requirements. 

The move comes about seven years after Canada legalized recreational cannabis and opened a regulated recreational cannabis market. The “limited pilot program” is scheduled to run only on Google Search starting August 25, 2025, and will continue for 20 weeks. The goal, according to the company, is to measure public interest and guide future policy decisions. 

Cannabis ads will appear on Google’s search results pages, allowing companies to pay for higher visibility when users search for related terms. Participation will be restricted to businesses holding a federal license, meaning unregulated operators will not be able to take part. 

The move comes three years after the tech company relaxed its rules around CBD and hemp product advertising in certain regions of the United States. That shift followed the federal legalization of hemp in the U.S. and marked the company’s first move toward easing restrictions on cannabis-related marketing. 

Historically, Google has taken a cautious approach to cannabis advertising. Back in 2019, it announced that cannabis-related apps would not be allowed on its Google Play store, sparking pushback from both businesses and users. Over time, however, the company has shifted its stance. 

Other tech firms have also adjusted their policies in different ways. In 2022, Twitter ended a U.S. government collaboration that showed prompts about drug treatment to users who searched terms like “marijuana.” Notably, that type of prompt was never displayed for alcohol-related searches. 

The following year, Twitter went further by becoming the first major social media platform in the U.S. to allow cannabis advertising. Initially, it only permitted promotions for CBD topicals, but by 2023, it had expanded to cannabis businesses more broadly. 

By contrast, companies like TikTok and Meta (owner of Instagram and Facebook) still prohibit cannabis advertising. They do allow promotions for CBD products, but not THC-based items. 

Canada’s legal market has grown steadily since legalization. Government data released in 2024 showed that more than two-thirds of marijuana consumers were buying from licensed stores instead of illegal sources. In economic terms, the industry has become a major contributor to the national economy. Statistics Canada reported that cannabis added $9.1 billion to Canada’s GDP in 2025’s Q1, up nearly 10 percent from $8.3 billion in 2024’s Q1. 

Marijuana companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be hoping that the pilot program is expanded to allow firms to advertise more freely over the coming months. 

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