420 with CNW — Florida Could Again Vote on Recreational Marijuana in 2026 Polls

Florida’s debate over recreational cannabis is resurfacing after a failed ballot initiative and renewed public support, setting the stage for a possible return to voters in 2026.

During the 2024 election cycle, a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use marijuana earned backing from 56% of voters. While that represented a clear majority, it did not meet the state’s 60% threshold required to amend the constitution. As a result, recreational marijuana remained illegal despite growing public approval.

New polling suggests attitudes have continued to shift. A survey conducted by the University of North Florida in 2025 found that support for recreational cannabis had climbed to 66%, well above the level needed to pass if voters were asked again. Advocates argue that the earlier defeat reflected concerns about the details of the proposal rather than outright opposition to legalization.

Governor Ron DeSantis was a vocal critic of the 2024 measure and played a prominent role in the public debate. At the time, he warned that legalization would lead to widespread use and change the character of public spaces, arguing the amendment went far beyond easing penalties.

The earlier proposal allowed adults to purchase cannabis only from state-approved retailers and did not permit people to grow plants at home. Critics raised alarms about potential advertising aimed at minors, while some supporters felt the plan was too restrictive and favored personal cultivation rights.

The revised version explicitly allows limited home cultivation, prohibits smoking or vaping cannabis in public areas, and bans any form of marketing directed at children.

Florida’s GOP chair Joe Gruters, a supporter of legalization, said allowing residents to grow their own marijuana does not undermine the regulated market. He noted that in states where recreational use is legal, personal cultivation tends to exist alongside licensed dispensaries rather than replace them.

Throughout 2025, sponsors have focused on gathering signatures to move the proposal forward. To qualify for review, they must submit over 880,000 valid signatures by February 1. The campaign had turned in over 675,000 by December 2025. However, roughly 200,000 were rejected because they did not include the full text of the amendment, forcing organizers to continue collecting petitions.

If the campaign reaches the required number and the Florida Supreme Court signs off on the language, the measure could appear on the 2026 ballot. Voter approval would significantly reshape Florida’s marijuana laws, with implications for consumers, businesses, law enforcement, and the use of public spaces across the state.

The reform movement, as well as notable industry firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be hoping that the outcome of the ballot measure reflects the true will of the state residents.

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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 — E-Commerce is Helping to Normalize Marijuana in the US

Imagine scrolling through an article about a newly released marijuana strain or infused drink, spotting a purchase link, and reserving the product for same-day pickup at a nearby licensed dispensary. That scenario, once unlikely in the cannabis sector, is moving closer to everyday retail reality.

Consumers at licensed marijuana stores are beginning to see this shift through a new partnership between High Times, a long-running cannabis publication, and Hoodie Analytics, a Chicago-based data and technology company. The collaboration combines editorial content with an online ordering system, enabling readers nationwide to search for legal products, place a reservation, and complete the purchase in person at approved retailers.

Transactions are still finalized face-to-face, keeping the process aligned with state laws. Even so, the experience closely mirrors how customers shop for many other regulated products online.

Industry leaders say the effort responds to long-standing frustrations among brands and retailers. Wes Shepherd, CEO of Hoodie Analytics, said many businesses struggle with how consumers discover products. He believes the current system makes it difficult for shoppers to find what they want without relying heavily on discounts or promotions.

Unlike existing cannabis marketplaces, the High Times platform allows readers to move directly from an article to a product listing through embedded links. Matt Stang, a partner at High Times, said the model benefits retailers by sending qualified customers their way while keeping the shopping process simple.

Hoodie’s database tracks over 10,000 licensed stores and roughly 9 million individual product listings across the United States. Retailers can also join Hoodie Connect, a no-cost program that offers additional visibility and order referrals through High Times’ audience.

Not everyone is convinced that e-commerce will benefit all brands equally. Dialed In Gummies President Max Vansluys noted that premium producers can struggle in online environments where lower-priced options dominate. He argued that in-store guidance matters, especially for customers unfamiliar with quality differences. Budtenders, he said, play a critical role in helping shoppers understand why a product costs more.

Vansluys added that once an order is placed online, the interaction can become purely transactional. Without personal guidance, consumers may default to cheaper options rather than better ones. Still, he acknowledged benefits, particularly for travelers who want to locate familiar products when visiting another state.

Former LivWell and PharmaCann Executive Chris Mapson echoed that point, noting that cannabis remains highly regional. He said the platform allows readers to quickly see whether a product mentioned in an article is sold in their area.

Beyond digital commerce, High Times is also investing in print. Through a partnership with Colorado-based Cannapages, the company plans to launch High Times Local, a city-specific magazine featuring coupons, advertising, and local coverage. The first editions are set to appear in Phoenix, Denver, and Colorado Springs, with more cities planned for next year.

Cannapages’ Matt Hollingshead said physical publications still resonate with readers. Stang added that younger audiences, much like music fans returning to vinyl, are showing renewed interest in tangible media they see as authentic and lasting.

These developments in cannabis marketing are likely to be of interest to established companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) as they could open new avenues to drive sales.

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420 with CNW — How the Hemp Industry Could Be Impacted by the Federal Ban on Hemp THC

A surge in hemp-derived THC products that reshaped convenience store shelves and fueled a fast-growing market appears to be heading toward a sharp slowdown. Tucked inside the bill that brought an end to the recent federal shutdown is a clause that would outlaw hemp-derived THC products nationwide.

That measure, scheduled for November 2026, has sent the $24 billion hemp sector scrambling for answers and time. Supporters and critics agree on one thing; this change would close a loophole created six years ago by the Farm Bill 2018, although some disagree on whether that is a good thing.

The 2018 bill defined hemp as cannabis containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. That wording created a loophole, allowing operators to produce products with enough THC to cause impairment. Businesses found even more room to maneuver by converting CBD, a compound that does not intoxicate, into other forms of THC, such as delta-10 and delta-8.

Within a few years, vape cartridges, candies, sodas, chips, and baked products using hemp-derived THC had spread nationwide with little oversight. In some states, teenagers could buy them at gas stations.

In legal cannabis markets, they competed directly with regulated and taxed products. In prohibition states, they skirted bans on recreational cannabis. Several states, including Indiana, later reported more calls to poison control centers involving young children. With federal action stalled until now, states moved on their own. Some restricted sales, others banned items outright.

Influential Senator Mitch McConnell, who was instrumental in shaping the 2018 hemp legislation, added the federal ban to the recent measure that ended the 43-day shutdown.

Parts of the legal cannabis industry have welcomed the development, arguing that the hemp sector has been allowed to dodge taxes and safety rules. Anti-cannabis groups have also praised the move.

However, hemp producers hope that Congress will use the one-year window to craft national standards instead of shutting the industry down. They argue that stricter age limits, rules against synthetic cannabinoids, and bans on child-focused marketing could address concerns without wiping out the entire industry.

Industry representatives warn the ban could put over 300,000 jobs at risk and cost states an estimated $1.5 billion in tax revenue. Some business owners say their companies would not survive.

Several lawmakers are now pushing for a middle path. Senator Rand Paul attempted to remove the ban from the funding bill, though the effort failed. Minnesota’s Senators, Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar, have called for hearings and suggested that states be allowed to create their own regulations.

The marijuana industry, including entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be following the discussions in the wake of this federal hemp-sourced THC ban to see how it reshapes the hemp and cannabis industries.

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420 with CNW — Michigan Files Defense in Case Challenging its New Marijuana Taxes

The state of Michigan is standing by its newly approved wholesale cannabis tax, stating that the measure complies with the state constitution and does not violate the 2018 ballot initiative that legalized recreational marijuana.

The legal defense comes in response to a lawsuit filed by the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association, which is challenging a 24% wholesale tax on cannabis slated to take effect at the start of 2026. The tax would be added to the existing excise tax already applied to retail sales under the voter-approved legalization measure.

Industry representatives argue that the new levy is unconstitutional as it was not passed with the supermajority vote required to alter a voter-initiated measure. The tax cleared the House by a 78-21 vote and the Senate by 19-17, both falling short of the three-fourths margin required by the state constitution for such changes.

A separate lawsuit filed by Holistic Research Inc., a licensed marijuana cultivator based in Harrison Township, is also seeking to block the tax while litigation proceeds temporarily. The company has requested a preliminary injunction that would prevent the state from implementing the tax on January 1.

In its court filings, the state maintains that the new tax is a separate measure and does not amend the 2018 legalization law. State attorneys argue that lawmakers created a distinct revenue mechanism intended to work alongside Michigan’s broader marijuana regulatory framework, which is governed by multiple overlapping statutes.

According to the state’s brief, the goal of the new tax is to generate additional funding for road improvements, not to alter or regulate the marijuana market itself. Officials say the tax will contribute roughly $420 million to a $2 billion infrastructure plan designed to improve state and local roads.

Critics, however, warn that the added cost will likely raise prices for consumers, push some businesses to the brink, and encourage more buyers to return to the illegal market, undermining the state’s goal of supporting a regulated industry.

The state also rejected claims that lawmakers improperly changed the intent of an unrelated bill to push the tax through.

Attorneys for the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association have not yet formally responded to the state’s arguments, but a spokesperson said the group intends to press for a temporary injunction. Judge Sima Patel of the Court of Claims is scheduled to consider that request on November 25 in Detroit.

The wider cannabis industry, including companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) will be hoping that a workable compromise is attained to increase tax revenue without unduly burdening marijuana companies in Michigan.

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420 with CNW — 39 State AGs Ask Congress to Ban Hemp-Sourced THC Products

A coalition of 39 attorneys general from 37 U.S. states and two territories is urging Congress to take immediate action against the growing sale of hemp-derived THC products. In a letter sent on October 24 to leaders of key Senate and House committees, the group called for a revision of federal law to close what they describe as a loophole in the Farm Bill 2018 that has allowed synthetic, psychoactive products to proliferate nationwide.

The bipartisan letter, coordinated by Arkansas AG Tim Griffin along with Indiana’s Todd Rokita, Minnesota’s Keith Ellison, and Connecticut’s William Tong, warns that hemp-derived THC compounds, often stronger than traditional cannabis, are being sold with little oversight. They argue that the substances, including THC-O, delta-8, and delta-10, are being sold openly in gas stations, convenience stores, and online, often packaged in ways that attract children.

Their letter also argues that companies are exploiting the original intent of the Farm Bill, which legalized hemp for industrial uses such as fiber and grain. The attorneys general contend that manufacturers have twisted the bill’s language to justify producing synthetic THC compounds that are often more potent than cannabis, classified as a controlled substance. Without clear federal action, they warn, the market for these unregulated products will continue to expand, posing risks to public health and complicating law enforcement efforts.

The AGs are asking lawmakers to revise the definition of hemp either through the next federal spending bill or the upcoming farm bill reauthorization, making clear that intoxicating hemp products should be considered illegal.

Senator Mitch McConnell, who championed hemp legalization in 2018, said earlier this year that Congress never intended to allow unregulated intoxicating hemp products. A Senate committee briefly included a proposal to ban such substances in a spending bill, but the measure was later removed after objections from Senator Rand Paul, who argued for regulation rather than prohibition.

State governments have taken steps to restrict or ban synthetic THC products, but the AGs warn that inconsistent state laws cannot address a nationwide issue. “Only Congress can fix this,” they wrote, emphasizing the need for a clear, unified federal approach to restore the original purpose of the Farm Bill and protect public health.

The group’s letter reflects growing bipartisan concern over an industry that operates with minimal oversight and few safety standards. Without federal action, they caution, the market for these products will continue to expand, putting children, consumers, and law enforcement at risk.

Marijuana firms, including those based outside the U.S. like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching whether Congress takes up this matter and what decisions are made regarding intoxicants made from hemp.

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420 with CNW — Study Uncovers Genetic Links Between Marijuana Use and Health Challenges

Researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, working alongside the genetics company 23andMe, have pinpointed specific regions in the human genome that appear to influence marijuana use.

Their findings, published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggest connections between these genetic factors and various psychiatric, cognitive, and physical health traits. The research could help shape future prevention and treatment options for cannabis use disorder.

According to the study’s senior author, Dr. Sandra Sanchez-Roige, marijuana is widely used, yet its long-term health impacts remain unclear. The team set out to better understand how genetics contribute to behaviors linked with cannabis use disorder, a condition that can disrupt daily life and affect nearly 30 percent of people who regularly use the drug.

The team conducted a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS), using genetic data from 131,895 participants who volunteered through 23andMe’s research program. Participants completed surveys indicating whether they had ever used marijuana and, if so, how frequently they used it.

Co-author Dr. Abraham Palmer noted that genetic science has long shown that inherited factors influence drug experimentation and addiction. “Tools like GWAS allow us to uncover biological pathways that connect marijuana use to brain activity and behavior,” he said.

The analysis identified two major genes tied to lifetime marijuana use. The first, known as CADM2, helps regulate communication between brain cells and has been previously linked to traits such as impulsivity, cancer spread, and obesity. The second, GRM3, plays a role in brain signaling and plasticity and has known connections to mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Further analysis uncovered 40 additional genes connected to lifetime marijuana use and four related to how often people used marijuana. Notably, 29 of these had not previously been linked to marijuana-related behaviors.

When comparing genetic data with medical information from large databases, the scientists found that a predisposition for marijuana use often overlapped with risks for over 100 traits. These included psychiatric conditions such as depression, ADHD, and anxiety, as well as cognitive differences and physical illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and chronic pain. Genetic correlations were also observed with tobacco use, autoimmune diseases, and infections like HIV and hepatitis.

Dr. Hayley Thorpe, the study’s lead author, noted that marijuana use exists on a spectrum. Studying early-use behaviors, she said, helps clarify how genetic risks emerge before full cannabis use disorder develops.

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for cannabis use disorder, but the researchers hope these findings will pave the way for new therapies and prevention strategies.

The study findings show that cannabis use disorder is more complicated than has been thought. Marijuana businesses like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) are likely to interest themselves in any follow up research done to get more insights on how customers can be better advised on product use.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Stocks Surge as Trump Endorses CBD for Seniors

Cannabis-related stocks surged following remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who praised the potential health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) for older adults in a recent social media post. Trump stated that CBD could help slow disease progression in senior patients, offering an alternative to traditional medications.

The statement comes a month after he hinted that his administration was considering reclassifying cannabis. Such a move could ease federal penalties and reduce some of the restrictions currently tied to cannabis use.

Canopy Growth shares surged more than 18 percent, Tilray Brands rocketed over 40 percent, Aurora Cannabis jumped about 25 percent, and Cronos Group gained nearly 16 percent. Cannabis-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also saw a strong rally. The AdvisorShares fund and Roundhilleach advanced almost 22 percent, leaving both on pace for record-breaking quarterly gains of over 70 percent.

Cannabis policy in the United States has been shaped by shifting administrations. Trump previously signed the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed many restrictions on CBD and hemp production. However, cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, a category reserved for substances considered highly addictive with no recognized medical use.

Efforts to change cannabis classification have been ongoing. Under President Joe Biden, the Health and Human Services Department recommended moving cannabis to Schedule III, a category for substances with a lower risk of dependence. Such a step would not legalize the drug but would ease restrictions on companies operating in the space.

Currently, federal tax code Section 280E prevents them from taking standard business deductions, leaving many firms at a disadvantage. Adjusting marijuana’s status could open doors to institutional investors and eventually allow cannabis companies to trade on major U.S. exchanges. Beyond taxes, reclassification could help narrow the divide between federal law and state-level legalization, which now exists in almost 40 states.

The industry remains volatile, with stock prices swinging alongside political developments. Canopy Growth, for instance, has seen nearly 50 percent of its value wiped out this year, while SNDL and Cronos have posted gains of over 50 percent, boosted in part by Monday’s rally.

Industry leaders welcomed the latest signals from Trump. A Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) spokesperson said the company is encouraged by recognition of marijuana’s role in supporting wellness, particularly for seniors. They added that through its U.S. affiliate, Canopy is ready to expand if the regulatory environment improves. The entire industry is waiting on those regulatory improvements.

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420 with CNW — Cannabis Firms in Delaware Can Now Transfer to Another County

Delaware’s cannabis commissioner has stated that marijuana license holders can now request to transfer their permits across Delaware’s three counties. This change opens the door for companies to relocate from areas with stricter rules, like Sussex County, to places where operating may be easier.

Speaking with Spotlight Delaware, Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin explained that the move overturns a rule put in place by the previous commissioner. The update comes after Sussex County and several municipalities introduced regulations in 2024 that left cannabis shops confined to very limited parts of the region.

Lawmakers tried to address the issue by passing Senate Bill 75 which aimed to reduce counties’ control over cannabis businesses. However, Governor Matt Meyer vetoed the measure, saying it stripped local governments of authority without offering them adequate support.

Sanderlin stressed that his office’s decision was not a direct response to the governor’s veto. Instead, it followed multiple requests from business owners who wanted flexibility in where they could operate. As someone who previously worked in the industry, he noted that his goal is to regulate fairly while also supporting license holders as partners rather than obstacles.

It’s still early to determine how the change will affect where businesses set up shop, but Sanderlin expects to see some movement toward New Castle and Kent Counties. At the same time, he believes the industry will eventually balance out across the state as businesses naturally gravitate toward financially sustainable locations.

Last year, Delaware issued 125 cannabis licenses but under the old rules, each one was tied to a specific county. That system, designed by Sanderlin’s predecessor Rob Coupe, was intended to guarantee fair distribution across the state. With the new rule, companies can apply to move their permits if they have trouble securing property in their assigned county.

One transfer has already been approved, allowing a manufacturer to relocate from New Castle to Sussex County after finding a workable site. He said more requests will be considered, as long as business owners present a solid relocation plan.

Sussex County has some of the toughest zoning rules, including a three-mile buffer between cannabis shops and schools or other sensitive locations. New Castle’s buffer is 1,000 feet, while Kent has none, though dispensaries there must be in commercial zones.

Business owners say the new flexibility gives them more options, particularly after SB 75 was vetoed. Sussex license holder Derro Smith, who runs a micro-cultivation business, said he would strongly consider moving his operation since his county has some of the toughest restrictions in the state.

Marijuana companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) operating in other legal markets will be watching how the changes made in Delaware enable adults who choose to consume cannabis get improved access to licensed outlets over the coming months and years.

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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.

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420 with CNW — Senate Advances Proposal Banning Most Hemp Derivatives Containing THC

Federal lawmakers are taking steps to crack down on intoxicating THC products made from hemp, signaling their intent to close the “hemp loophole” that has allowed these products to thrive in a gray area.

On Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously approved a measure, introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley and Mitch McConnell, that would redefine hemp under federal law. Though the changes wouldn’t kick in for a full year, hemp industry groups warn that the new rules would effectively outlaw the vast majority of hemp-based products currently on the market.

There is growing bipartisan momentum in Washington to tighten regulations on hemp products. Since the passage of the Farm Bill 2018, which legalized hemp, products containing psychoactive compounds like delta-8 and delta-10 THC have become widely available in the form of gummies, drinks, and vapes.

Some states have taken steps to crack down on these products, but federal regulations have yet to catch up. Now, Senator McConnell is pushing to close what he sees as a major gap in the law—one he helped create when he championed the 2018 bill.

The newly passed fiscal 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Bill introduces new language that draws a line between “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” and “industrial hemp.” It also updates how total THC content is measured, including compounds like THCA, which had previously slipped through due to a lack of clarity in the original legislation.

Under the measure, “industrial hemp” is defined as cannabis sativa with a total THC concentration (both THC and THCA) of no more than 0.3%. It must also be grown for uses such as textiles, fuel, food, or other purposes that do not involve cannabinoids.

On the other hand, “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” include anything that delivers synthetic THC, such as delta-10 and delta-8, and would be banned under the proposed rules.

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable chair, Jonathan Miller, said the bill would outlaw over 90% of current hemp products. While the one-year delay offers time to make changes, he argued that a total ban isn’t the answer.

Cornbread Hemp co-founder Jim Higdon echoed those concerns. He pointed to state-level regulations that have established strict age restrictions and safety rules while still giving adults legal access to hemp-based THC. “We agree that the hemp market needs work,” Higdon said. “But banning nearly everything isn’t the solution.”

The Senate’s move closely follows a similar proposal from House Republicans in June, which also called for tough restrictions on hemp-derived THC products.

The marijuana industry, including firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching the discussions in Congress and how those regulations could reshape the hemp and cannabis markets.

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