420 with CNW — Medical Marijuana Could Reduce Cravings, Boost Addiction Recovery

A recent pilot study by researchers from Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan explored how medically supervised marijuana use might support individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders in a residential recovery setting.

The research focused on the experiences of both residents and staff when cannabis was included as part of a recovery plan.

Participants shared that marijuana helped ease symptoms like depression, anxiety, pain, and sleep problems—issues that often make recovery harder. Some also reported fewer cravings for opioids and other addictive substances.

According to Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor involved in the study, these effects suggest that cannabis could help people stick with their recovery programs by making both mental and physical challenges more manageable.

While the findings are encouraging, the researchers noted that stigma remains a big hurdle. Many staff members were skeptical about cannabis as a valid medical tool. Dr. Florriann Fehr, a nursing professor and co-lead on the study, emphasized the importance of educating staff to break down these barriers. “Misinformation and outdated views can prevent cannabis from being used effectively, even when it shows potential,” she added.

The research was carried out at Maverick Supportive Recovery, a live-in recovery facility situated in British Columbia offering structured care for those dealing with substance use. The program creates a stable environment designed to help people recover in a safe and supportive setting.

Although the initial results are positive, the team behind the study says broader research is needed. The authors noted that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as recovery looks different for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for another. But if cannabis can help someone stay in treatment and manage their symptoms, it’s worth exploring further.

Ultimately, they noted that cannabis is not a replacement for traditional treatments but an additional option that could help certain individuals, especially when used under medical supervision.

To help reduce stigma and share knowledge, events like public forums and professional gatherings are being organized. Dr. Fehr is scheduled to present the study’s findings in June at a global nursing conference in Helsinki. In addition, Thompson Rivers University will host a Medical Cannabis and Recovery forum this April, welcoming the public, healthcare workers, and researchers interested in learning more about this topic.

The study was funded by the British Columbia Ministry of Health and the Interior Universities Research Coalition.

The findings of this small study could suggest to marijuana industry firms like Verano Holdings Corp. (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF) that there is still plenty of room to bring to market innovative cannabis products tailored to the needs of different groups of patients concerned about particular symptoms.

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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 — Study Finds CBD, CBG-Infused Ointment Effective Against Eczema

A recent study has found that a skin ointment containing cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD) may help ease the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. The research, published in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal, followed nine adults diagnosed with eczema over three months. The researchers tracked skin health indicators, including moisture levels, oil production, skin pH, and water loss.

Participants used a topical treatment containing 5% CBG, 30% CBD, cholesterol, and hemp seed oil. According to the researchers, applying the ointment daily to affected areas—specifically the forearms—and covering it with a wet wrap before sleep helped improve various skin health markers. These included hydration, oil levels, water loss, and redness.

Some patients even experienced remission of their symptoms. The treatment served as an alternative to more conventional therapies during both flare-ups and periods of remission.

The authors noted better results among participants who consistently followed the application routine. Those who skipped applications or were put off by the greasy feel of the product didn’t experience the same level of improvement.

While the results are promising, the researchers acknowledged that the timing of the study, from May to July of 2022, might have influenced outcomes, since eczema symptoms tend to lessen in warmer months.

This study adds to the growing interest in CBD’s role in skincare. A study from Thailand found that CBD may be useful in cosmetic products thanks to its antioxidant and wound-healing properties. Researchers there suggested that CBD could be added to items like sunscreen, hair products, or healing ointments.

Another study published by a team in the U.S. showed that using CBD-infused lotion might reduce skin damage caused by UV rays. Participants who applied the CBD product experienced less UV-related damage compared to a placebo group.

The potential benefits of cannabinoids may also extend to veterinary care. A 2024 study explored how full-spectrum cannabis oil helped a dog with discoid lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune condition that typically causes hair loss and skin lesions. Traditional steroid treatments had caused liver issues, but switching to cannabis oil—with a CBD to THC ratio of 1:2—led to notable improvement in the dog’s skin and liver health. The dog’s behavior also improved shortly after stopping steroid medication.

Overall, these findings suggest a growing interest in the role of cannabinoids as a potential option for managing various skin conditions in both humans and animals. The findings also show that the full range of therapeutic benefits that can be obtained from the available marijuana products on the market by players like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) has yet to be documented by researchers.

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420 with CNW — White House List Shows Cannabis Rescheduling Isn’t a Priority for Now

Cannabis reform is not among President Donald Trump’s top drug policy goals for his first year back in office, according to a statement from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Instead, the administration plans to prioritize tackling drug trafficking and addressing the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on substances like fentanyl.

Although cannabis rescheduling efforts began under President Biden, progress has stalled due to complications with DEA hearings. Supporters of cannabis reform had hoped Trump would take action, especially since he expressed support for the idea during his campaign. However, he has remained quiet on the matter since taking office again, and the new drug policy roadmap makes no mention of marijuana.

Despite cannabis being left out, the administration also hasn’t indicated it will increase enforcement against cannabis like it plans to with drugs such as meth, heroin, cocaine, xylazine, and fentanyl. That neutrality may come as a relief to reform advocates. Some parts of the plan could even be seen as positive, such as efforts to broaden access to naloxone—the medication that reverses opioid overdoses—and pushing states to make drug test strips more available to the public.

The ONDCP says the president’s policy focus may expand over time as drug trends evolve. For now, the administration is emphasizing enforcement and prevention measures to protect communities, schools, and the border from the dangers of illegal substances.

Cannabis supporters argue that legal marijuana could help reduce opioid addiction and deaths, pointing to studies that show lower rates of opioid use in states where medical cannabis is available. With Trump having previously voiced support for medical marijuana, the complete omission of cannabis from the current plan is seen by some as a missed chance to incorporate a potential tool in the fight against opioids.

Whether this stance could shift remains uncertain. Trump’s nominee to lead the ONDCP, Sara Carter, has described medical cannabis as a “fantastic” option for people with serious health conditions and said she doesn’t oppose legalization, even if she’s not fully on board with it personally.

The policy update follows the White House’s announcement that there are no active plans for cannabis reform. While rescheduling is stalled, others had hoped the administration would at least push forward with cannabis banking legislation. According to CNN, Trump tried to include such a measure in a spending bill before returning to office, but it didn’t make it through.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be watching to see whether the Trump administration finally gets round to completing the rescheduling work that was started under the previous administration. This policy change could usher in a new era for the industry.

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420 with CNW — FBI Stance on Background Check Request Upends Delaware’s Marijuana Market Launch

Plans to launch recreational marijuana sales in Delaware this spring have hit a major roadblock following an announcement by the state’s Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) that the FBI had denied their updated service code request. The code is required to perform fingerprint-based background checks, which is a prerequisite for the impending recreational market.

The OMC had been collaborating with the state Justice Department and the State Bureau of Identification (SBI) to obtain the service code. However, a dispute between state and federal regulations means lawmakers will have to draft new legislation that aligns with the FBI’s standards.

The state General Assembly remains in session until June 30, so the timeline for resolving this issue remains uncertain.

This delay comes approximately two years after former Governor John Carney permitted the approval of two recreational marijuana measures without signing them. Last year, lawmakers passed additional legislation to clarify and correct certain provisions in the prior Act, including amendments to state codes.

One key requirement mandates that recreational cannabis license applicants submit fingerprints for the SBI to retrieve their FBI criminal history records. However, the agency has now ruled that Delaware’s legislation was not properly structured, further complicating the approval process for 125 cannabis license recipients.

This uncertainty poses financial risks for the awarded licenses, particularly if they are paying rent for facilities without being able to generate revenue. The OMC held lotteries in October last year, granting 110 licenses to testing labs, cultivators, social equity candidates, and manufacturers. In December, another lottery round awarded fifteen licenses to standard dispensaries.

Before stepping down in January 2025, Rob Coupe, the state’s first cannabis commissioner, had aimed for sales to begin in March. Now with the FBI roadblock in place, an alternative path could involve leveraging the state’s existing medical marijuana licensees.

Coupe had worked with legislators to draft a measure permitting the medical marijuana businesses to transition into the recreational market. The legislation, signed into law by Carney in July last year, allows medical dispensaries to convert their licenses by paying conversion fees—$100,000 for testing, retail, and manufacturing permits, and $200,000 for cultivation licenses.

The fee system could generate over $4 million, which legislators have allocated to support social equity applicants.

The fate of Delaware’s recreational marijuana market now rests on lawmakers’ ability to revise legislation and meet federal requirements. The current roadblock is likely to set back not just marijuana firms but also ancillary companies operating in the format of Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) that were gearing up to open shop in the state.

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420 with CNW — FBI Stance on Background Check Request Upends Delaware’s Marijuana Market Launch

420 with CNW — US Supreme Court Gives Truck Driver the Nod to Pursue Racketeering Charges Against Marijuana Company

The United States Supreme Court has ruled against Medical Marijuana Inc. in a case involving a truck driver who lost his job after he failed a drug test. The driver, Douglas Horn, claimed he was misled into using a cannabidiol (CBD) product that was falsely advertised as THC-free. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for its intoxicating effects.

In a narrow 5 to 4 decision, Justice Amy Coney Barrett wrote the majority opinion, upholding a lower court ruling that permitted Horn to sue the company, based in San Diego, under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).

RICO, a 1970 law originally aimed at curbing organized crime, allows individuals to seek triple damages if they suffer business or property losses due to certain illegal activities.

The central issue in the case was whether Horn’s job loss constituted the type of injury covered by RICO. The court determined that his firing fit the legal definition of harm, rejecting Medical Marijuana’s argument to the contrary. Barrett stated in the court’s ruling that the company had no viable alternative interpretation of the statute.

Horn, who had sustained injuries in a trucking accident, purchased Medical Marijuana’s CBD tincture—Dixie X—in 2012. The product was marketed as a natural pain remedy that contained no THC. However, a random drug test by his employer later detected THC in his blood system, leading to his termination after more than ten years on the job. Horn maintains he has never used cannabis.

In 2015, Horn filed a lawsuit in a New York federal court seeking financial compensation. They accused Medical Marijuana and its affiliates of violating RICO by engaging in a pattern of fraudulent activities, including wire and mail fraud, as well as violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). A laboratory test later confirmed that the tincture did, in fact, contain THC.

Initially, a federal trial judge dismissed Horn’s RICO Act claim. However, the second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York overturned that decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. Medical Marijuana subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court, which heard arguments on the case on October 15, 2024, before issuing its final ruling.

The ruling sets a precedent, potentially allowing others in similar situations to seek damages under RICO if they can prove financial harm due to mislabeled or misleadingly marketed marijuana products.

The decision of the Supreme Court is likely to be seen by many marijuana companies, including SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), as a reminder to all businesses to be particular about the information they include on product labels since any mistakes or misinformation can have serious ramifications for their clients and the companies themselves.

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420 with CNW — Cannabis Industry Gears Up for a Shake-Up as ‘Gifting’ Shops Transform in D.C.

Medical cannabis dispensaries are rapidly expanding in D.C. as authorities transition former “gifting” stores into licensed operations.

In 2014, D.C. voters passed Initiative 71, which legalized recreational cannabis possession, use, and sharing among adults but prohibited direct sales. However, a loophole allowed businesses to sell non-cannabis products while including marijuana as a complimentary gift. Many consumers preferred this method to avoid being listed in a registry as medical dispensaries required patient registration.

Now these gifting shops had until the end of March to obtain a medical cannabis license or face closure. Before this transition, only eight cultivation facilities and seven dispensaries were officially licensed in D.C. after medical cannabis was legalized in 2010. However, the actual number of shops selling marijuana far exceeded this count. Regulatory enforcement has already resulted in the shutdown of 42 stores.

One such shop, Monko, previously sold items like T-shirts and pens before converting into a licensed medical cannabis dispensary. Owner Terrence White, who has been navigating the licensing process for six months, is preparing to begin legal sales.

His long-term vision includes expanding into a vertically integrated cannabis business. With an estimated customer base of 26,000 in D.C., he believes the transition levels the playing field for legal operators.

Obtaining approval to buy medical cannabis in D.C. is relatively simple as registration is open to anyone over 21, regardless of residency. Visitors can opt for a three-day medical cannabis card for $10 or a year-long card for $100.

The local cannabis industry faced challenges when Maryland expanded access to recreational marijuana in 2023, allowing former medical-only businesses to serve all adults. Many consumers preferred Maryland’s system to avoid appearing in a registry while still purchasing legally.

Unlike other jurisdictions, Washington, D.C., operates under congressional oversight, which has historically prevented local authorities from fully regulating cannabis sales. Congress has also blocked D.C. from allocating tax funds toward legalizing recreational sales.

The presence of gifting shops and competition from Maryland initially made national cannabis brands hesitant to enter the Washington, D.C. market. However, recent regulatory changes have attracted major players.

Cookies has now partnered with Alternate Solutions to establish a presence in the district, while Khalifa Kush has been collaborating with District Cannabis for over a year.

With gifting shops disappearing, licensed dispensaries anticipate better business prospects. Although D.C. is a relatively small market, serving its nearly one million residents remains a priority for cannabis businesses.

Successful companies like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) operating in other markets will be hoping that the reforms being instituted in D.C. result in a more vibrant marijuana industry that is better able to serve its customers.

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420 with CNW — Narcotics Officials Say Oklahoma’s Black Market Cannabis Exceeds $100bn in Value

The illegal cannabis market in Oklahoma has ballooned to billions of dollars, according to recent data from the Texoma High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.

According to Donnie Anderson, director of the bureau, the state’s tracking system missed about 70 million pounds of cannabis between March last year and this year, which is roughly 30 times more than what is required to meet the demand of the state’s 300,000 registered medical cannabis patients. This is a sharp rise from the 22 million pounds unaccounted for between 2022 and 2023, showing a nearly threefold increase in just two years.

Despite ongoing enforcement efforts, Oklahoma’s underground cannabis trade continues to grow. A state official suggested that the rising numbers may not indicate a spike in production but rather improved compliance with reporting requirements due to stricter oversight.

The newly released report, commissioned by U.S. Senator James Lankford, links the surplus production to unlawful operations run by Chinese criminal networks.

During a press conference on Friday, officials stressed the need for stricter legislative action. Anderson recommended that lawmakers conduct a formal investigation to ascertain the state’s actual medical cannabis needs and establish production limits accordingly. Unlike most states, Oklahoma does not cap the amount of cannabis growers can produce, contributing to unchecked growth.

However, not all state leaders share this viewpoint. Lonnie Paxton, the state Senate President Pro Tempore, stated in February that law enforcement already has the necessary resources to handle the issue and does not believe additional legislation is required.

Under Oklahoma cannabis law, every marijuana plant must be tagged for tracking purposes. Authorities explain that illegal growers often tag plants initially to appear compliant but later remove these tags before diverting the product to unregulated markets. To estimate the volume of marijuana entering the illegal market, officials analyze tracking data and production assumptions.

Prices in the illicit market fluctuate but typically range between $1,800 and $3,500 per pound. Based on these estimates, the diverted cannabis supply could range from $126 billion to $245 billion. For perspective, the state oil sector generated about $55.5 billion in 2023.

The report also outlines significant concerns beyond financial losses. Illegal marijuana operations have led to extensive human trafficking, potential national security threats, and environmental damage. Thousands of foreign workers have been subjected to abuse and exploitation on these farms, and some individuals involved in the state’s cannabis industry have connections to Chinese government-linked activities within the United States.

Licensed cannabis firms like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) have long had concerns about the disruptive and risky effects of the continued existence of black market marijuana. They are therefore likely to support every undertaking taken to curb illicit marijuana proliferation not just in legal markets but in all communities.

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ZJ Events to Connect the Global Counterculture Community at the Alternative Products Expo, Miami

The ZJ Alternative Products Expo will be held from April 3-5, 2025, at the Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami. The expo showcases the latest trends and the finest products and services of the counterculture community, tapping a worldwide audience. With Miami emerging as the epicenter of flavors, cultures, and smoke shops, the event aims to blend the local flavor of Florida with the rest of America.

ZJ Events organizes networking events by compiling valuable data on alternative products and presenting to leading brands, manufacturers, and dealers. They provide the counterculture community with a robust platform for exciting learning and business experiences in a safe and conducive environment. For the first time, the expo will offer B2B experience at the Alternative Products Expo.

The Alternative Products Expo offers unique experiences where local and global traders can network, strike deals, and learn about new innovations. Veterans and newcomers showcase exciting trends and products on the exhibition floor. The eclectic vibe, top-tier smoke shops, culinary adventures, vibrant nightlife, and confluence of cultures offer attendees an unforgettable experience.

Investors and enthusiasts can discover new avenues of business and opportunities, with immense new talent from the counterculture spectrum making a foray at the expo. The Alternative Products Expo in Miami offers business opportunities for newbies as well as veterans of the local smoke-shop community to expand their reach to global frontiers. Businesses and traders can network and connect on the event floor, fostering long-term relationships.

The attendees list consists of consumers, businesses, and enthusiasts from the local and international counterculture community. They not only come to discover new industry trends and products; they also enjoy the buzz and vibe of the Alternative Products market.

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420 with CNW — Bills Improving Medical Marijuana Oversight in Pennsylvania Advance Following Media Investigations

Pennsylvania lawmakers are stepping up their scrutiny of the state’s medical cannabis program following investigative reports by Spotlight PA.

A recent measure aimed at increasing oversight of doctors involved in the program gained strong bipartisan support in the state House, moving forward in March.

Additionally, state Senator Rosemary Brown cited the newsroom’s reports while questioning officials from the Shapiro administration. Brown raised concerns about medical cannabis prescribing practices during a budget hearing in February, asking what measures were in place to prevent potential abuses.

Her concerns align with investigations revealing that some doctors approve a disproportionately high number of medical cannabis certifications. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Health Department has rarely barred physicians from joining the medical cannabis program, even when they had prior disciplinary issues.

State Representative Tim Twardzik used the Spotlight PA reports to advocate for stronger oversight powers for the state’s health department. He argued that clear authority is needed to ensure patients receive proper care.

Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis law requires patients to obtain a doctor’s certification to access marijuana from dispensaries. Doctors must complete a training course and register with the state to issue these approvals.

Twardzik’s measure would give the state’s health department greater control over participating doctors. In addition to limiting the number of certificates a physician can grant, the agency may enforce reporting requirements, impose probation, and demand supervision by another medical practitioner. The department would also have the authority to introduce additional regulations as needed to protect patient safety.

State Representative Arvind Venkat, a physician who doesn’t issue medical cannabis certifications, voiced support for the measure, emphasizing the need for better oversight. He acknowledged that addressing these concerns may be difficult for doctors, but necessary.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the House Health Committee as an amendment to a bill focused on cannabis lab testing, sponsored by state Representative Dan Frankel.

Frankel highlighted that while laboratories are required to test cannabis products, the health department currently lacks the power to oversee their operations and verify results. The amended bill was approved by the House and is now under review by the Senate Law and Justice Committee.

State Senate leaders have expressed interest in amending the state medical cannabis program. Joe Pittman, the Senate Majority Leader, acknowledged the need for a detailed review of the bill but noted that action on the measure is possible within the current legislative session.

Minority Leader Jay Costa voiced his caucus’s support, stating that stronger oversight would protect patients from unethical practices and contaminated products. Costa also reaffirmed his ultimate goal of legalizing recreational marijuana.

Governor Josh Shapiro has included recreational marijuana legalization in his budget proposal, despite previous efforts to pass such legislation having stalled.

It is important to ensure that legal marijuana markets adhere to all the set rules and that observed loopholes are addressed by the authorities. Firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) operating in other regulated markets are therefore likely to applaud the increased oversight envisioned in the bills being considered in Pennsylvania.

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