420 with CNW — Missouri Regulators Consider Authorizing Marijuana Curbside Pickup

Missouri cannabis dispensaries could soon have another way to serve customers, as state regulators consider a rule that would permit curbside pickup. The proposal would expand the current options, which already include delivery and drive-thru services with state approval.

The state Division of Cannabis Regulation this week released a draft amendment that outlines how dispensaries could implement curbside pickup. The agency is inviting public comments on the proposal through October 28 before deciding whether to move forward.

For some dispensary owners and cannabis customers, the change could make a big difference. Mark Hendren, CEO of Flora Farms, one of Missouri’s largest cannabis companies, said curbside service would help customers who have mobility challenges. Three of Flora Farms’ eight dispensaries currently lack drive-thru windows, which means every visitor must park, walk inside, and go through standard check-in procedures.

“When customers visit our stores, they have to get out of their vehicles and go through the normal check-in inside the building,” Hendren said. “That process can be challenging for some of our customers with disabilities, so this would really help them.”

Under the draft rules, curbside pickup would operate under strict security and payment guidelines. Customers would have to complete their transactions online in advance, ensuring no cash is exchanged outside the dispensary. The designated pickup areas would also need to be monitored by security cameras, similar to those required for existing drive-thru cannabis lanes.

Dispensaries would additionally be required to display a clear warning sign reminding customers that it is illegal to operate a boat, motor vehicle, or aircraft while under the influence of cannabis.

The draft amendment released on Tuesday is still in the early stages and has not yet been incorporated into the state’s formal rulemaking process. According to the state Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), which oversees the Cannabis Regulation Division, the move is meant to gather input from both industry members and the public before the agency submits an official rule change.

“This step is part of DHSS’s ongoing process to consider all perspectives before filing new or amended regulations,” the department said in a statement.

According to the department’s statement, the goal of the amendment is to improve how dispensaries operate by making cannabis purchases more accessible. The agency said the curbside option would particularly benefit medical patients, caregivers, and consumers with physical limitations who might struggle with in-person transactions.

Such helpful changes are likely to be applauded by players like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) in the wider marijuana industry around the region.

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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 — Does Marijuana Prohibition at the Federal Level Prevent Employee Unionization?

A marijuana business in Michigan is arguing that federal labor laws should not apply to marijuana employees since cannabis remains illegal under U.S. law in an attempt to block unionization.

The company, Exclusive Brands, based in Ann Arbor, recently made this case to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). If the board accepts the argument, it could weaken protections for workers in the fast-growing $32 billion cannabis market. Observers say this could be the first time a marijuana company has used federal prohibition as a reason to block union efforts.

For years, the NLRB has recognized cannabis employees’ rights under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA). Reversing that stance would mean overturning its own precedent. Lauren McFarran, a former NLRB chair, described such a shift as a major departure. Still, some experts believe a Trump-era board could be open to such a move, given the administration’s record of limiting worker protections.

At the moment, the NLRB cannot act because it lacks the quorum needed to issue decisions. Until new appointments are made, labor disputes fall under state law, leaving cannabis workers and employers facing a confusing mix of rules depending on where they operate.

Tensions are already high in Michigan, where eight employees from Exclusive Brand have been on strike since late August. They voted to join the United Food and Commercial Workers union, but the company has refused to recognize their choice. Budtender Emily Hull, part of the organizing team, accused the company of cutting hours in retaliation against outspoken staff. According to Hull, Exclusive has also ignored attempts to negotiate.

Josh Leadford, the company’s attorney, filed a petition with the NLRB in early August. His filing claimed that because cannabis is classified as a Schedule I drug, neither Exclusive nor the union can seek protection or enforcement through the board. Notably, the petition did not cite prior case law. A hearing has yet to be scheduled.

Historically, even GOP-appointed panels have agreed that the NLRA applies to marijuana businesses. But if the NLRB remains in limbo, states may step in. Some states, such as California, Massachusetts, and New York, allow workers to appeal to state labor boards if the federal board cannot act. In conservative states with weaker labor regulations, however, cannabis companies might benefit.

Marijuana employees already face gaps in protection. Federal law excludes agricultural workers from the NLRA, which means many cultivation staff are left out unless their state has its own laws, as in California. Unions gained traction in the industry under Biden’s administration, with Arizona seeing its first agricultural unionization in decades.

However, major operators like Green Thumb and Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) have fought hard against union efforts in both the courts and before the NLRB.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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420 with CNW — The Supreme Court Could Advance Marijuana Reform Amid Trump’s Inaction

The future of federal cannabis policy is once again in uncertainty as the Trump administration sends mixed signals on marijuana reform. On one hand, Trump has voiced support for medical marijuana and hinted that he may consider reclassifying it.

On the other hand, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively working to defend cannabis prohibition in court while also trying to restrict gun rights for cannabis users.

Since Congress has repeatedly failed to move forward on marijuana reform, advocates are now turning their hopes toward the courts and the executive.

The Supreme Court is expected to hear two cases that could reshape marijuana law. The first, USA v. Hemani, involves a Texas man challenging the government’s ban on marijuana users owning firearms. The second, Canna Provisions v. Bondi, questions a 2005 ruling that upheld federal cannabis prohibition and could open a path for reform without waiting on Congress.

This comes as Trump recently signaled interest in reclassifying cannabis as a less harmful substance. However, predicting his approach is difficult given his conflicting decisions, including appointing an anti-marijuana DEA chief and embracing a strict law-and-order stance.

Despite backing medical marijuana on the campaign trail and voting in Florida, Trump has since given the issue little attention, leaving speculation to fill the gaps.

The ruling on the Hemani case could force the administration to state its position more clearly. However, legal scholars note that rescheduling cannabis may not resolve most concerns. If cannabis moves to Schedule III, it would still require FDA approval and a prescription, meaning recreational users would remain in violation of federal law and could still lose gun rights.

Meanwhile, the second case is moving toward the Supreme Court. Multistate cannabis company Verano Holdings, along with other businesses, filed a lawsuit claiming that cannabis’ federal prohibition is unconstitutional.

Their case was rejected by a federal appeals court earlier this year, but their legal team, led by high-profile attorney David Boies, is preparing to petition the Supreme Court. Their goal is to get the court to reconsider the CSA for the first time since 2005.

Observers caution that litigation should not be read as a clear policy direction. They say that DOJ lawyers are obligated to defend existing laws even as federal agencies weigh new policies, such as rescheduling.

The outcome of these cases could force the government to address the distinction between recreational and medical cannabis. Trump himself has suggested that medical use deserves more consideration, while recreational use raises broader concerns.

Marijuana firms across the board, including companies like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), will be following these issues before the Supreme Court to see how the outcomes could impact the trajectory of the industry in the U.S.

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420 with CNW — Study Finds Home Values Appreciate Faster in States Having Legal Adult-Use Marijuana Markets

Legalizing recreational cannabis is proving to be an economic advantage for states that have adopted it, according to a recent Clever Offers study. The research links marijuana legalization to rising property values and billions of dollars in additional tax income, showing a clear advantage over states that continue to prohibit it.

Between 2009 and 2024, property values in recreational states rose by an average of $222,598, rising from $224,677 to $447,635 according to the study. In contrast, states that continue to prohibit recreational marijuana experienced smaller increases, with prices rising from $158,273 to $320,904, a gain of $162,631. That leaves a gap of more than $60,000 in favor of states with recreational marijuana.

For instance, when Colorado legalized recreational cannabis in 2012, the typical home was valued at a little above $231,000. That figure had climbed to over $568,000 as of 2024, a 146% jump.

While higher prices have made buying harder, sellers and local governments have seen huge benefits, especially with billions in added tax money. Colorado has since become one of the most attractive places to live in the U.S.

Medical-only states also show stronger housing markets than states where cannabis is still banned entirely. Between 2009 and 2024, property values in medical states rose by nearly $195,000, while in states without legalization the increase was closer to $173,000. The difference suggests that even limited legalization can bring economic advantages.

In addition to higher home prices, cannabis sales are filling state budgets. States that taxed cannabis sales collected a combined $4 billion in 2024, with California leading the way by bringing in $1 billion.

Since beginning legal sales, Washington has collected $3.7 billion, Colorado has earned $2.9 billion, and California has pulled in $6.7 billion since its tax system launched in 2018. Medical marijuana taxes, while less widespread, also provide a boost. For example, Oklahoma collected $51 million in 2023 from taxing medical cannabis, and Louisiana brought in $2 million from its program.

Supporters argue the evidence should put to rest claims that cannabis markets harm communities. Instead, legalization appears to support stronger housing markets, safer regulated sales, and tax revenue that can be redirected into public services like infrastructure, education, and safety programs.

As states search for new ways to strengthen budgets and stimulate growth, cannabis legalization—especially for recreational use—continues to prove itself as both a financial opportunity and a community benefit.

The data suggests that states experiencing dwindling tax revenue from licensed firms like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) need to look at the bigger picture of where else related revenue is coming from other than just focusing on the direct tax revenue from marijuana operations.

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420 with CNW — Proposed Pennsylvania Bill Would Make Employers Cover Medical Cannabis Under Workers’ Compensation

A new bill focusing on medical marijuana and workers’ compensation has been introduced in the Pennsylvania legislature as debate over legalizing recreational cannabis gains momentum. The bill, introduced by Representative David Delloso, would require employers in the state to reimburse injured workers who use medical cannabis as part of their treatment.

Under this proposed law, workers who qualify could get up to $250 each month to help cover the cost of medical marijuana, with a maximum limit of $3,000 per year. The reimbursement would apply only to those using marijuana for certified medical reasons, as approved under the state’s medical cannabis program.

Delloso explained that his bill offers an alternative to opioids for people living with chronic pain after a workplace injury. He pointed out that the ongoing opioid crisis has shown how risky those drugs can be and stressed that his proposal aims to protect workers from that threat.

The representative added that this law would require medical cannabis to be approved by the state’s Department of Health and prescribed under the existing medical marijuana framework. He further argued that the change would not only help workers manage their pain more safely but also ease the emotional and financial burden on their families.

So far, six Democratic lawmakers have signed on as early backers. The bill was sent to the House Labor and Industry Committee for review earlier this week.

Delloso has also been active in efforts to legalize recreational cannabis in the state. His most recent proposal would set up a system where the state controls cannabis sales. However, a similar plan passed in the House was rejected in the Republican-led Senate.

While that broader legalization bill still has a chance to gain traction, some state Democrats are now encouraging voters to put pressure on senators to approve it. They argue that regulating cannabis would boost public safety and create significant revenue for the state.

Although some Republican lawmakers are warming up to the idea, Senate leaders like Joe Pittman have shown little interest. Still, there are signs of change. Senator Dan Laughlin, who partnered with Democrat Sharif Street on a legalization effort, noted that more people now support cannabis reform over raising taxes to fix budget issues.

A recent survey found that most Pennsylvanians would prefer marijuana to be sold by private businesses instead of through government-run stores.

If efforts to have employers reimburse workers who need medical marijuana after workplace accidents succeed, the change will be applauded by the wider marijuana movement, including major companies like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) operating in other states.

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420 with CNW — North Dakota to Permit Edibles, Tweak Medical Cannabis Eligibility Requirements

North Dakota will roll out several updates to its medical cannabis program, starting August 1, making it easier for patients to access treatment and offering new product choices. These changes come after lawmakers passed multiple bills to improve the state’s approach to medical cannabis.

One of the key changes includes the approval of low-dose THC edibles. Under HB 1203, dispensaries can now offer soft or hard THC-infused square-shaped lozenges. The edibles should contain no more than 5mg of THC per serving, with a package cap of 50mg. However, other THC-infused food and drinks will remain banned.

Jake Mittelsteadt, who oversees retail operations at Pure Dakota Health in Bismarck, noted that allowing edibles could significantly improve patient experience. He explained that while tinctures and capsules are already available, many patients prefer edibles for their ease of use.

Not everyone supported the edibles measure. Stephanie Engebretson, speaking for the North Dakota Chiefs of Police Association, expressed concerns about children’s safety. She pointed out that edibles often appeal to kids and that their delayed effects might lead users to overconsume.

The association recommended stronger safety measures, like locking edibles away when children are present and removing any appealing flavors. However, none of those suggestions made it into the final version.

The legislation also allows patients to use telehealth for their initial appointments—something that was previously only permitted for renewals. This change is expected to help more people enter the program, especially in areas where finding a supportive doctor has been a challenge.

According to Mittelsteadt, some patients in rural areas like Williston struggle to find a healthcare provider willing to approve medical cannabis use. In those cases, patients often have to travel to places like Watford City to get the documentation they need.

According to Jason Wahl, the state’s medical cannabis program director, the state cannot require any healthcare provider to participate in the program. He noted that involvement is entirely at the provider’s discretion.

Another legislative update, SB 2294, extends the validity of medical cannabis cards from one to two years. This change could reduce the administrative burden on both patients and providers.

As of 2024, North Dakota had issued over 10,000 medical cannabis cards, including for caregivers. Although the patient base has grown steadily since 2017, when the law first passed, that growth has recently plateaued. The program’s funding now comes solely from application and permit fees.

Additionally SB 2293, also effective in August, sets a 1-gram limit for THC concentrate containers. It also allows patients without state IDs, due to medical issues, to use alternative documentation to qualify.

These progressive changes are welcome developments to the wider marijuana industry in the country, including leading enterprises like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), since they are aimed at increasing medical marijuana accessibility.

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420 with CNW — Adult-Use Marijuana Sales to Start in Delaware on August 1

Delaware’s recreational cannabis sales will officially start on August 1, according to an announcement by state officials. This marks the first confirmed date for the launch of the state’s legal marijuana industry.

On opening day, only existing medical cannabis dispensaries will be allowed to sell to recreational customers. Although licenses have been issued to new businesses focused solely on adult-use cannabis, they are not yet ready to open their doors.

The rollout plan has drawn criticism from both advocates and potential new business owners, who argue that giving current medical dispensaries a head start gives them an unfair advantage. Many of these dispensaries have long denied lobbying for early access, but critics say the outcome speaks for itself.

Delaware legalized recreational cannabis in 2023, setting up a system that permits 125 licenses covering growing, testing, manufacturing, and retail. More than 1,200 applicants joined a lottery last year in hopes of securing a license. Applicants had to pay submission fees, with most applications costing $5,000 and license activation fees running up to $10,000.

Medical cannabis operators transitioning to the recreational market had to pay even higher fees—$100,000 for manufacturing or retail licenses and $200,000 for growing rights. Revenue from these fees helped fund a $4 million program to support social equity applicants, particularly those affected by past cannabis-related arrests or enforcement policies.

Many businesses have been in limbo since March, waiting for state officials to clarify when legal sales could begin. The market was originally supposed to launch in April but was delayed after the state couldn’t get FBI approval in time to complete background checks. As of mid-June, 43 applicants have cleared those checks.

Even with the launch now scheduled, Delaware legislators are still adjusting the legal framework. Some towns and counties have used their authority to block cannabis businesses or impose strict location rules. A bill aimed at reducing these barriers has passed both chambers of the legislature and awaits the governor’s decision.

All seven of the state’s medical cannabis companies have made the transition to recreational sales and plan to operate at over ten locations in August. Meanwhile, other businesses face zoning issues, delayed funding, and incomplete approvals, putting them at a disadvantage.

Despite the rocky rollout, Delaware’s cannabis commissioner, Joshua Sanderlin, says the focus remains on building a safe and fair market. He confirmed that the state will continue issuing conditional licenses to help new operators open their doors as soon as possible.

Given all the delays and hiccups that have plagued the planned rollout of recreational sales in Delaware, other industry actors like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) in other markets hope that this time round, sales are launched and any pending issues are resolved in due course.

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420 with CNW — Discussions to Legalize Marijuana Market Reach Pivotal Stage in Pennsylvania

Governor Josh Shapiro and Pennsylvania’s lawmakers are rushing to reach a deal on next year’s budget. With the deadline of July 1 fast approaching, there are still major disagreements over how to cover Shapiro’s proposed spending increases, particularly with a government split between Democrats controlling the House and Republicans holding the Senate.

One of the central goals for the governor and his Democratic allies is to boost funding for public education and transit systems. Republican lawmakers don’t oppose those ideas outright but are more focused on controlling costs, especially rising Medicaid expenses and the widespread use of “skill games”—video gambling machines found in convenience stores, restaurants, and standalone venues.

Shapiro’s spending plan for the FY 2025/26 totals $51.5 billion, marking a 9% increase over the current year. Around $2.5 billion is targeted for Medicaid, partly due to unexpected healthcare costs that arose when individuals remained eligible for Medicaid after the COVID-19 emergency ended. Lawmakers could attempt to delay some of this burden by underestimating costs or deferring payments to hospitals and other providers.

One of the thorniest issues is how to close the projected deficit. Although Shapiro doesn’t propose any hikes to income or sales taxes, his plan leans heavily on reserve funds of $4.5 billion. He is also counting on higher revenue from new tax streams tied to cannabis legalization, changes in corporate taxation, and tighter regulation of skill games. However, all of that depends on legislation still up in the air.

The governor is also proposing an extra $800 million for public schools and universities. Approximately $526 million of this is intended to start complying with a court ruling that said the current school funding formula is unfair to low-income districts. Meanwhile, a separate bill seeks to cut cyber charter school reimbursements, which could save public districts hundreds of millions if it passes the Senate.

Social services providers are also pushing for more money, especially organizations offering home care to Medicaid patients. They’re asking for a 10% ($370 million) bump, citing chronic staff shortages caused by low pay.

Shapiro also wants to boost funding for public transit by $283 million, roughly a 20% jump, to help transit systems recover from pandemic-era ridership declines. Democrats are on board, but Republicans want highway projects to receive comparable attention, possibly funded through revenue from skill game taxes.

The House recently passed a bill to raise the state’s minimum wage above the federal level of $7.25 per hour. Under the proposal, more populated counties would see faster and steeper increases. However, Senate GOP leaders have signaled opposition, casting uncertainty over whether the plan will move forward.

Cannabis industry actors from around the country, such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (TSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), will be hoping that Pennsylvania legalizes marijuana so that residents who wish to consume the substance can legally access it instead of taking risks by resorting to the black market.

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420 with CNW — 7 Ways Marijuana Can Help Cancer Patients

Every year, more than two million individuals across Canada and the U.S. are diagnosed with some form of cancer. Among the most frequently diagnosed types are breast, prostate, lung, skin, and colorectal cancers.

While traditional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery remain central, medical cannabis is gaining attention as a powerful supplemental tool in managing symptoms and improving patient well-being. Here’s how it’s making a difference.

Helping ease chemotherapy side effects

Chemotherapy often causes intense nausea and vomiting, which can discourage patients from sticking with treatment. Cannabis, particularly the compound THC, has been found to help reduce these symptoms. Some studies have shown it to be more effective for certain individuals than common prescription anti-nausea drugs.

Managing pain effectively

Chronic pain is a common issue for people living with cancer, whether it stems from the disease itself or its treatment. Both CBD and THC, the primary active ingredients in cannabis, have been shown to help relieve pain. Compared to opioid medications, cannabis is often viewed as a safer alternative with a lower risk of addiction and fewer major side effects.

Reducing nausea and improving appetite

One of the first approved medical uses for synthetic THC was to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. These symptoms can interfere with eating and recovery. Cannabinoids activate certain receptors in the brain that help control nausea and boost appetite, making it easier for cancer patients to maintain proper nutrition during treatment.

Supporting weight and muscle maintenance

Cancer-related weight loss, known as cachexia, can weaken the body and hinder recovery. THC has been shown to encourage food intake and help maintain weight, which can support better treatment tolerance and improve energy levels.

Easing anxiety and sleep problems

The stress of dealing with cancer often leads to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. CBD, a non-psychoactive part of cannabis, has shown the potential to reduce anxiety and help people sleep better. Research suggests that many patients experience significant relief after using CBD-rich products.

Addressing trauma and PTSD

The emotional strain of battling cancer can sometimes lead to post-traumatic stress symptoms. Cannabis, particularly CBD, has shown promise in calming the nervous system, easing anxiety, and improving rest—key factors in supporting emotional resilience.

Possible impact on cancer cells

Emerging research suggests that cannabis compounds might play a role in slowing the growth of certain tumors. While this science is still in its early stages, some findings indicate that THC can help trigger cancer cell death and reduce blood supply to tumors, offering hope for future treatment options.

It would be helpful to talk to a professional at companies like Curaleaf Holdings Corp. (TSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) or any other medical cannabis firm near you to learn more about the various products that could assist with the symptoms you are grappling with.

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