420 with CNW — Why M&A Activity Could Be Declining in the Marijuana Industry


According to statistics from Viridian Capital Advisors, a data analytics and investment banking firm based in New York, there was a 33% drop in the value of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from the $1.74bn in 2023 to the $1.16bn registered last year. Frank Colombo, the MD of Viridian discussed a number of factors that could explain this trend.

Colombo explains that the cash situation within the marijuana industry is very tight. He adds that many M&A deals have tanked because firms have been trying to conserve cash during the recent two years.

He explains that the motivation behind marijuana M&A activity has also changed. Previously, companies were in a race to buy out every business they could find in states with legal marijuana markets. However, that “land grab” soon taught companies that it wasn’t profitable to have a presence everywhere. Having just a pair of retail outlets in a state proved to be untenable. Emphasis has now shifted to consolidating a company’s footprint with a specific market rather than being spread out thin all over the place.

Colombo cites the example of Acreage Holdings that went into a frenzy buying up every small marijuana business that was on sale. Their approach failed to bring in profits, and Acreage itself was acquired by Canopy Growth.

Another reason he cites for declining M&A activity is the current decline in cannabis stock prices. Many M&A deals are completed using stock or cash. Given that cash is tight and stock prices aren’t at their best, it is hard for companies to negotiate mergers and acquisitions based on stock since shares aren’t as attractive in this current environment as they once were. Since firms are reluctant to get further into debt and stocks aren’t a good option, companies have decided to scale down or halt M&A activity.

Colombo also points out that there are a number of challenges involved in integrating businesses, not just in the cannabis industry but in all industries, after a merger or acquisition. For example, the different businesses have their own financial systems and cultures and it becomes difficult to merge those elements.

He points out that M&A activity is likely to stay down for a while given the existing market conditions. However, consolidation within markets is bound to continue as businesses invest in deepening their presence in specific markets. Markets will continue to have a few big firms dominating that area and there will be many small players also trying to make their mark. Those that fail will still end up being acquired by the larger and more successful players, and the trend will continue.

It remains to be seen how companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) will navigate these market conditions and leverage available opportunities to cement their presence in their chosen markets.

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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Alt Products Expo Concludes in Medellín, Sets Sights on Miami in April

The Alternative Products Expo successfully wrapped up its 2025 event in Medellín, Colombia, on March 1-2, reinforcing its position as a premier gathering for the counterculture industry. This year’s event brought together thousands of attendees, including leading manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers, to explore innovations, foster connections, and capitalize on emerging market opportunities.

Originally launched as the USA CBD Expo, the event rebranded in 2017 to reflect the expanding landscape of alternative products, including cannabis derivatives, CBD, vape products, smokeables, functional mushrooms, herbal supplements, and other cutting-edge innovations. Since then, it has become a must-attend event for businesses looking to scale internationally, leveraging its strategic location in Medellín to bridge North and South American markets while attracting buyers from Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Organized by ZJ Events, the expo provides a powerful launchpad for startups while also serving as an expansion vehicle for established businesses looking to strengthen their presence across new regions. With a well-structured B2B environment, attendees benefited from exclusive networking sessions, business matchmaking, and insights from top-tier speakers discussing the future of the counterculture industry.

The event featured six key pillars designed to support international growth: market entry guidance, distributor introductions and logistics support, regulatory and legal compliance assistance, monetary exchange and direct B2B introductions, live translation services, and import-export consultation. These elements provided attendees with a comprehensive roadmap to navigate global markets and expand their brand reach beyond domestic borders.

In addition to its strong business focus, the expo embraced Medellín’s vibrant culture and energy, offering attendees a dynamic and immersive experience. With exclusive B2B priority hours, professionals had dedicated time to forge meaningful partnerships before the expo opened to a broader audience. Meanwhile, attendees enjoyed interactive exhibitor booths, product tastings, live demonstrations, and exciting lifestyle elements, all set against a backdrop of live music and entertainment.

As the alternative products industry continues to evolve, Medellín remains a key location in shaping its future, fostering new trends, and strengthening international collaborations. The success of the 2025 edition further solidifies the expo’s role as an essential business hub for those looking to tap into new markets and expand their global footprint.

With the Medellín event now concluded, the Alternative Products Expo is gearing up for its next major stop in Miami, Florida, on April 3-5, 2025. The Miami expo will build on the momentum from Medellín, offering an even larger platform for businesses to connect, expand, and gain industry insights in one of the most dynamic markets in North America. Attendees can expect global networking opportunities with top manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers, exclusive B2B hours for meaningful business interactions, expert-led speaker sessions covering market trends, regulations, and innovation, unparalleled brand exposure with thousands of attendees and media coverage, and an immersive experience featuring live entertainment, interactive exhibits, and product showcases.

Join Us in Miami!

For more details on upcoming events, visit https://altproexpo.com

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420 with CNW — How California Keeps Legally Grown Marijuana Safe for Consumption

Walking into Vibe Cultivators, an indoor marijuana farm in Sacramento, California, the first thing you notice is the strong, unmistakable smell of marijuana. The facility is filled with rows of plants stacked on two levels, bathed in artificial light.

“Every plant here is tagged,” explains Brian Prichard, Vibe’s founder. The state-mandated tags prove the farm is fully licensed and not part of an underground operation. Each tag includes the grower’s name, license number, and a unique ID for tracking purposes.

Prichard reflects on how much the industry has changed since California legalized cannabis. In the past, secrecy was a necessity, making it difficult to ask for advice or share information. Now, he can openly communicate with others in the industry, including state regulators.

The state’s Cannabis Control Department (DCC) was established in 2021 to consolidate oversight of California’s legal marijuana market. One of its key responsibilities is ensuring consumer safety, a challenge that many states face due to a lack of federal guidance.

Contaminants in cannabis, such as heavy metals, mold and bacteria, pose health risks. THC potency can also be inconsistent, sometimes failing to match what’s indicated on the packaging. To address these concerns, several states have joined forces through the Cannabis Regulators Association, sharing insights and best practices.

However, regulations vary widely, with some states testing for hundreds of contaminants while others focus on a select few. Without extensive research, experts remain unsure which contaminants pose the greatest risks.

California has seen its share of cannabis recalls, with 63 cases in 2024, the highest since the DCC was formed. These recalls resulted in the removal of 25,000 marijuana products due to issues such as mislabeling or microbial contamination.

Vibe Cultivators has never faced a recall, and Prichard credits strict regulations for maintaining high-quality products.

Edible products, including cannabis-infused drinks, gummies, and brownies, also fall under regulation. Inaccurate THC labeling or bacterial contamination in these products can lead to health concerns, particularly when consumers ingest higher doses than expected.

The DCC closely monitors cannabis from cultivation to sale. Licensed testing labs, such as the state-run facility in Richmond, analyze products for contaminants. These labs help set safety standards and support law enforcement in identifying illicit cannabis operations. As the market evolves, testing methods continue to adapt, ensuring that even infused products like popcorn and hard candies meet safety guidelines.

Over the years, the legal market has become significantly cleaner than its illicit counterpart. Illegal cannabis often contains dangerously high levels of pesticides, sometimes exceeding legal limits by 100 times. In some cases, fentanyl has even been found in unregulated products, reinforcing the risks of buying from the black market.

Ultimately, industry oversight benefits both businesses and consumers by ensuring cannabis is safe and accurately labeled. Businesses like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) and others benefit in many ways, including enjoying consumer trust in the products they sell.

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 — Report Indicates California Registered Significant Marijuana Production Increase

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Poll Finds Majority in Utah Support Recreational Marijuana Legalization

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About CNW420

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

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