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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 — A Deeper Look into Ohio’s First Year of Recreational Cannabis Sales

In 2023, voters in Ohio approved the legalization of recreational cannabis for adults aged 21 and above. But while residents supported the measure at the ballot box, lawmakers have spent months debating if and how the law should be changed.

For some people, cannabis is a business opportunity or a hobby, while others view it as medicine, a problem, or even a public health concern.

Recreational sales officially launched on August 6, 2024. At the time, 98 dispensaries were authorized to serve both medical patients and recreational buyers. That number has since grown to 162 locations across the state.

According to the state’s Division of Cannabis Control (DCC), more than 100,000 pounds of cannabis flower have been sold since August 2024. Medical cannabis sales, however, have declined, with many patients choosing to skip the hassle of renewing medical cards now that cannabis is widely available.

Total sales in the past year have reached $1 billion, with 70% of this coming from recreational sales. While the numbers look strong on the surface, the figure lags behind what other states are seeing.

Pennsylvania, which only allows medical sales and has roughly the same population as Ohio, has consistently averaged $1.5 billion annually from its program, outpacing Ohio’s combined sales by over 30%. Missouri, with only half of Ohio’s population, brought in approximately $1.5 billion during its first year of recreational sales.

Ohio dispensary operators say competition is hurting them, with shops selling delta-8 THC, which is still unregulated, continuing to draw customers. Michigan also presents a challenge, as cannabis across the border is consistently cheaper than what Ohio retailers can offer.

In the political arena, lawmakers have debated multiple proposals, including limiting home cultivation and penalizing passengers who use cannabis in cars. The state’s main hemp and cannabis bill has stalled, though legislators plan to revisit it later in the year.

Meanwhile, social equity program funding—designed to give small businesses and disadvantaged communities a fairer shot at entering the market—was cut from the state budget.

At the same time, cities with dispensaries have yet to receive the tax revenue they are owed.

Ultimately, the future of Ohio’s marijuana industry depends largely on how policymakers address these challenges. Whether the market can keep growing will be shaped not just by consumer demand, but also by the rules that state leaders choose to implement.

The marijuana industry around the country and beyond, including businesses like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON), will be watching how the authorities in Ohio address the issues that could impact the success of the legal marijuana industry in the state.

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420 with CNW — Proposed Florida Law Could Deny Patients Access to Medical Marijuana

A new law in Florida is causing concern among medical cannabis users as it threatens to strip patients of their access to treatment simply for facing drug-related charges. The law, Senate Bill 2514, has stirred backlash from patients and doctors who believe it unfairly punishes those relying on cannabis for legitimate medical needs.

John Mendez, a resident of Fort Myers, has used medical cannabis for the past three years to help manage daily life. “It helps me stay calm and focused. I can function better with it,” Mendez explained.

Now, under the new legislation, individuals with active medical cannabis prescriptions could lose their cards if they’re charged with certain drug offenses. That loss could be temporary or permanent, depending on the case.

“They’re trying to take away what helps me live my life,” Mendez said. “It feels like those in power are just playing games with people’s health.”

Attorney John Morgan, a major supporter of the 2016 campaign to legalize medical cannabis in Florida, says the move is less about safety and more about political strategy.“Governor DeSantis seems to think opposing cannabis is a smart political play,” Morgan said. “I think he’s completely off base.”

Morgan argues that big pharmaceutical companies are likely behind the push to limit marijuana access. “The same people pushing pills are the ones fighting marijuana access,” he said.

However, Florida’s GOP chair Evan Power supports the law and notes that medical cannabis should be seen as a special allowance, not a guaranteed right.

“We have to prevent people from taking advantage of the system,” Power stated. “This program was designed for specific health conditions, not as a loophole for other purposes.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Barry Gordon, who regularly prescribes medical cannabis, says the state has failed to provide any real guidance on how the new law will be enforced.

“There’s been zero clarification from health officials,” Gordon said. “We don’t know at what point enforcement begins or how different databases will be linked to monitor patients.”

Despite the uncertainty, Mendez and others plan to continue speaking up. “Somebody needs to tell the state what this means for people like me,” he said.

Florida voters may still get a chance to reshape the conversation. A proposed ballot measure for 2026 aims to legalize recreational cannabis. If it gains enough support, at least 60%, it could roll back some of the tough new rules now in effect.

The discussions in Florida on how best to protect the needs of medical marijuana patients will be closely watched by the broader cannabis industry, including Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) as the debates there are of interest to the entire pro-marijuana movement.

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420 with CNW — New Study Shows Cannabis Use is Linked to Higher Arousal, Sexual Desire

A new study suggests that cannabis use may be linked to higher levels of sexual interest, increased arousal, and reduced anxiety related to sex. The research, part of a doctoral dissertation from Queen’s University in Canada, is based on two separate studies.

One included an online questionnaire completed by 1,547 marijuana users. The other was a month-long diary study involving 115 participants—87 regular users and 28 who either used it rarely or not at all.

According to researcher Kayla M. Mooney, those who used cannabis more frequently tended to report stronger sexual desire. On days when they engaged in sexual activity, their arousal and desire were significantly higher if they had used marijuana that day. The study also revealed that even on days without sexual activity, cannabis users still noted a higher level of desire and felt less sexual distress compared to days when they didn’t consume marijuana.

Around half of the survey respondents said they used cannabis with sex in mind, often to improve aspects of the experience, such as sensation or connection. The study acknowledges that the link between marijuana and sex is complex, yet it contributes valuable insights to a growing body of work exploring how cannabis affects intimacy and sexual health.

Previous research supports some of these findings. For instance, a study published last year found that marijuana-based vaginal suppositories helped reduce pain during sex for women recovering from gynecological cancers. When combined with mindfulness-based compassion exercises, the results were even more positive.

Another study showed that CBD-rich vaginal suppositories may help ease menstrual symptoms and lessen their disruption to daily life.

In terms of sexual satisfaction, some evidence points to marijuana being more effective than alcohol. While alcohol might make someone feel more outgoing or attractive, cannabis appears to heighten physical sensations and overall enjoyment during sex.

A comprehensive review published in the Psychopharmacology Journal found that marijuana use is generally linked to more frequent sex and higher levels of pleasure. However, the review cautioned that smaller amounts may be more beneficial, as higher doses might reduce desire or impair performance. The review also noted that the effects can differ between women and men.

For women in particular, advocates have suggested that marijuana could potentially be used to treat sexual dysfunctions, such as female orgasmic disorder. In men, the data is less clear—some studies suggest marijuana may hinder performance, while others report improved outcomes.

These studies further cement the beneficial effects of using marijuana products from a variety of sources like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) and make a case for jurisdictions having restrictions to ease them so that people who could benefit from these products can access them legally.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana’s Skunky Smell Could Soon Be a Thing of the Past

Not far from the highway, down a stretch near the local sheriff’s station, there’s a high-security facility surrounded by barbed wire. If you happen to drive past, you might catch a sharp, earthy scent in the air, which some call skunky and others say smells like fuel. Either way, it’s unmistakably the scent of cannabis.

The facility is home to District Cannabis, where over 15,000 pounds of marijuana flower are grown annually. Founder and lead cultivator Andras Kirschner proudly calls it their dream “weed factory.” Inside, the air is thick with earthy plant aromas, hints of citrus, and soft floral notes. The familiar strong, skunky odor that used to define marijuana is fading, replaced by sweeter and fruitier profiles as new strains emerge.

According to Pamela Dalton, a Monell Chemical Senses Center smell researcher, the growing popularity of recreational cannabis is pushing the market toward more appealing fragrances. “When people are using it for enjoyment, they want the experience to be pleasant from start to finish,” she explains. This has led to more crossbreeding and new strains with smells that are easier on the nose.

The District Cannabis facility grows thousands of young plants in warm, humid rooms until they’re ready for harvest. Once matured, they’re dried, trimmed, and packaged for sale. Kirschner’s strain, Layer Cake, recently earned top honors in a regional cannabis competition. A related strain called Gelato Cake, also grown on-site, continues to be a strong seller in Maryland and D.C.

Kyle Perrell, operations manager at the facility, says Gelato Cake gives off a complex mix of grape sweetness, a touch of cognac, and a sharp, kerosene-like finish. These layered smells come from terpenes—natural compounds also found in fruits, herbs, and trees. Gelato Cake’s leading terpenes include linalool, caryophyllene, and limonene, which contribute spicy, citrus, and floral notes.

Although many still associate marijuana with that classic skunk smell, new research has identified sulfur compounds as the true source of the strong odor. “We’re extremely sensitive to sulfur,” Dalton says. “Even small amounts can dominate what we smell.” That’s why some strains still hit hard with that pungent scent, even when mixed with more pleasant terpenes.

Each area of the District Cannabis facility carries a signature scent. In one greenhouse, the strain Pavé puts out an intense, earthy, and minty smell. Nearby, in the curing room, Cherry Limeade Cake hangs to dry. Workers in the trimming room carefully shape buds from a new hybrid called Berry Payton, a mix of tropical Runtz and a strain called Gary Payton, filling the air with a blueberry-like scent.

Still, the end goal isn’t just to grow something that smells good. The marijuana grown here goes straight to market, whether as buds, vape oil, edibles, or pre-rolled joints. The facility can produce up to 4 million joints per year, though Kirschner admits they’re not selling at that volume yet.

It would be interesting to hear what long-established cannabis entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) have to say about the fraction of their customers who still insist on buying products having the classic skunky smell of marijuana in comparison to those who prefer the newer, less pungent aromas.

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420 with CNW — Federally Funded Research Says More Older US Citizens Are Using Cannabis

A new JAMA study backed by federal funding reveals that cannabis use among Americans aged 65 and older has been growing steadily, especially as more states have legalized cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes.

Although older adults were already slowly increasing their cannabis consumption over the past two decades, new data show a sharper uptick in recent years. The research, based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, reports that monthly marijuana use in this age group has jumped from 4.8% in 2021 to 7% in 2023. Back in 2005, only 1% of older adults reported using marijuana in the past year, compared to 4.2% in 2018, marking a steady upward climb.

The uptick spans nearly every demographic category, but it was more pronounced in some groups. People identifying their race as “other,” white individuals, women, those with college or advanced degrees, higher earners, married individuals, and residents of states where medical cannabis is legal all reported higher usage rates. People dealing with several chronic health conditions also reported increased cannabis use in recent years.

The researchers point out changes in how older adults are using marijuana and who is using it. One interesting shift involves income levels. For instance, high-income earners, who once reported the lowest marijuana use, now top the list. The authors suggest this may be because these individuals can more easily afford medical marijuana, which can be costly.

The study notes that the growing use of marijuana among older people, especially in states with legal access, highlights a need for better education and guidance for both medical professionals and patients.

The report also mentions that older marijuana users often still consume tobacco or drink heavily, although there’s no strong evidence that marijuana use is causing an increase in those habits. It encourages medical professionals to routinely ask older patients about marijuana use and offer guidance on the risks, which may include negative effects such as heart and lung problems, digestive issues, stroke, cognitive decline, falls, and drug interactions.

Alongside the report, JAMA published an editorial note stressing that while marijuana might offer some medical benefits for older adults, the research so far has been mixed. Many studies show promise, but others report minimal effects. The risks are also real and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Ultimately, the findings emphasize a growing need for solid, reliable research on how cannabis affects seniors and for medical professionals to provide better guidance to avoid harmful outcomes.

The data on the increasing usage rates of marijuana by seniors opens opportunities for companies like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) to develop cannabis products tailored to the unique needs of this demographic so that they can leverage the benefits that come from serving this segment of the population.

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420 with CNW — New Mexico Uses Cannabis Tax to Fund Monthly Stipend for Vulnerable Families

Albuquerque, New Mexico, has launched a new basic income initiative aimed at helping families in areas with high needs. Starting this month, selected households will receive monthly payments with no strings attached. This effort is being partially funded by tax revenue generated from recreational marijuana sales.

Back in March, city officials approved a $4.02 million budget for the program. Of that, over $2 million is coming directly from the city’s recreational marijuana revenue. The plan currently supports 80 families living in two school districts where students face significant academic challenges. Each family will receive $750 every month, and the program also offers financial counseling to help participants manage and plan their finances more effectively.

The initiative is part of a broader trend of guaranteed income programs being tested across the country. Unlike universal basic income, which provides monthly payments to everyone regardless of need, guaranteed income programs are usually targeted. These initiatives often focus on groups that face systemic disadvantages, such as low-income families, single mothers, communities of color, and transgender individuals.

Supporters argue that giving people regular cash payments helps stabilize their lives. Research from similar programs has shown that recipients often experience less stress, improved mental well-being, more secure housing situations, and better job opportunities—mainly because they can take time to seek employment or gain new skills.

However, not everyone is on board with this approach. Legislators in states like Idaho, South Dakota, and Iowa have pushed back, passing laws to prevent local governments from implementing these types of programs. Critics claim that guaranteed income discourages people from working and leans too far into government dependency.

Despite this criticism, leaders in Albuquerque are standing firm. They say the purpose of this effort is to help close the economic gap that disproportionately affects marginalized groups. According to the city, families impacted by cannabis-related criminalization, especially Black, Asian, Native American, and Pacific Islander communities, as well as women and low-income households need this support.

City Councilor and Cannabis Equity and Community Reinvestment Fund head Klarissa Peña stressed the importance of accountability. She noted that the initiative was not just about handing out money but also about producing real, measurable improvements for people who have faced systemic barriers for years. Peña added that in the long run, the approach could lead to healthier communities, lower addiction rates, and savings for taxpayers.

Such programs show the far-reaching extra benefits that cannabis legalization brings to jurisdictions which license various marijuana companies like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) to operate within their markets.

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420 with CNW — Why Lawmakers Are Wrong to Focus on THC Potency in Marijuana

Getting too high can be a pretty terrible experience. What starts off as a calm, relaxing buzz can quickly spiral into paranoia and anxiety. One minute you’re chilling, the next your mind is racing with worst-case scenarios, and everything feels like it’s falling apart. No one enjoys that kind of high.

Since recreational marijuana became legal in more places, the conversation around THC levels has picked up. People are more concerned about how strong today’s weed is—especially since dispensaries are pushing super-potent strains. A famous example of overconsumption happened in 2014, when journalist Maureen Dowd had a panic episode after consuming too much cannabis-infused chocolate.

Lately, this concern has resurfaced as THC percentages continue to rise and legal markets expand. Some lawmakers want to introduce caps on THC levels, proposing limits between 0.3% and 15% in states like New York, Florida, and Colorado. Meanwhile, many commercial strains already sit above 20%.

However, these efforts to regulate cannabis based on THC percentage might miss the mark. Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a Harvard Medical School physician and author of Seeing Through the Smoke, argues that focusing solely on THC content could harm medical users. For instance, people might consume more low-potency cannabis to achieve the same effect, which could be worse for their lungs. In fact, some research suggests that when cannabis is stronger, people naturally use less.

Grinspoon points out the contradiction; back in the day, marijuana was criticized for being weak and requiring a lot of smoking. Now that it’s stronger, critics say that’s the problem. However, reducing THC might just raise costs for those who rely on cannabis for health reasons.

The complexity of cannabis goes beyond just THC percentage. Brien Hoffhine, who runs cultivation at Loudbird Cannabis in Colorado, says the 2018 Farm Bill didn’t account for how cannabis works chemically. For example, THCA—another compound found in raw marijuana—transforms into THC when heated, but it’s not considered in potency laws. On top of that, there are many cannabinoids besides THC that influence the effects.

Potency labels themselves aren’t always reliable. Different labs can give different results for the same plant, and it’s known in the industry that some companies look for labs that report higher numbers.

Marijuana effects also depend on the user. Everyone’s body reacts differently, influenced by their individual endocannabinoid system. Terpenes—found in all plants—also shape the high, making it more relaxing, energizing, or focused.

Concentrates and distillates with THC levels nearing 95% offer intense effects but often lack the nuanced experience of full-spectrum products. Grinspoon believes that lawmakers have put too much focus on high THC when other compounds like CBD and lesser-known cannabinoids can be just as valuable—especially for medical use. Lawmakers need to understand the full science behind cannabis before creating regulations that make sense.

Marijuana industry actors across the board, including enterprises like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON), long for a time when all drug policy decisions made or laws enacted are based on rigorous science rather than misconceptions and half-truths. As more studies on marijuana are conducted, more solid data to inform decision making will become available.

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420 with CNW — What You Need to Know About the 420 Cannabis Holiday

This year, an unusual overlap is happening: Easter Sunday and the unofficial cannabis celebration known as 420 both land on April 20. It’s a rare coincidence that hasn’t occurred in more than a decade. While Easter is a sacred day for Christians, marking the resurrection of Jesus, 420 is widely recognized by cannabis users as a day to celebrate marijuana culture.

So, what exactly is 420, and where did it come from? While the exact origins remain debated, the term has become a global symbol of cannabis use.

In places where marijuana is legal, people mark the day with festivals, film screenings, educational events, and other gatherings focused on cannabis. Dispensaries and smoke shops typically run promotions and discounts, taking advantage of the day’s popularity.

Even in areas where cannabis remains illegal federally, April 20 is often used as a day for activism, pushing for legalization and policy reform.

According to reports, the connection between cannabis and 420 dates back to the early 1970s and a group of youngsters from San Rafael High School in Northern California. They dubbed themselves “the Waldos” and had a routine of getting together to smoke pot at 4:20 p.m. after school.

One of the group members, Steve Capper, emphasized they weren’t just goofing off—they were solid students with good records. The chosen meeting time, 4:20, became a kind of inside joke and secret code for getting high.

Eventually, this code spread. One of the Waldos, Dave Reddix, ended up working with the Grateful Dead, a band deeply tied to 1970s counterculture. Through their fan base, known as Deadheads, the term 420 gained traction.

A flyer circulated at a 1990 concert in Oakland invited attendees to smoke weed on April 20 at 4:20 p.m. That flyer reached journalist Steven Bloom, who later published it in High Times magazine. From there, the term exploded in popularity and became permanently linked with cannabis culture.

Other theories float around—some say 420 is a police radio code or that it’s tied to lyrics from Bob Dylan. But the original Waldos stand by their story and have long claimed credit for the term’s rise.

This year’s double observance of Easter and 420 won’t happen again until 2087, making this overlap especially noteworthy. For many, it’s a day of spiritual reflection; for others, a time to come together over a shared love of cannabis.

Either way, April 20 carries meaning for millions and firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) will look back on how far they have come and leverage this holiday as they seek to take their operations to the next level.

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420 with CNW — What You Need to Know About the 420 Cannabis Holiday

Either way, April 20 carries meaning for millions and firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) will look back on how far they have…