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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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 — 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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420 with CNW — New Delaware Bill Seeks to Regulate THC Drinks Like Alcohol

A new measure making its way through Delaware’s state legislature could change how and where THC-infused beverages are sold. House Bill 98, introduced by Representative Debra Heffernan, proposes moving these drinks out of bars and restaurants and limiting their sale to licensed package stores. The bill has already passed the committee stage, and Heffernan expects it to become law before the legislative session ends.

The legislation aims to shift THC drinks into Delaware’s traditional alcohol distribution model, known as the three-tier system. This structure includes producers, distributors, and retailers like liquor stores. By fitting THC beverages into this established framework, the state hopes to bring clarity and oversight to a product category that currently exists in a legal gray zone.

The bill also includes provisions for other hemp-derived consumables, such as edibles and vapes. These products would be restricted to cannabis facilities that don’t yet operate in Delaware. Heffernan said work on the legislation started back in 2024, though it wasn’t formally introduced until May 2025.

Her motivation, she says, is rooted in public health and safety. She pointed out that there are currently no training standards for serving THC drinks in hospitality settings, making it difficult for servers or consumers to know safe consumption limits.

Most of the drinks in question are made with hemp, not marijuana. While both contain Delta-9 THC, the legal distinction hinges on concentration. Under U.S. law, anything with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC is considered hemp. Anything stronger is legally classified as cannabis.

Due to the vague language in the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp products have faced far fewer restrictions than marijuana. As a result, hemp-based THC drinks are widely available across the U.S., including in Delaware, where they’re sold in liquor stores and elsewhere. In 2024, the market for these beverages surpassed $3 billion globally.

HB 98 also directs Delaware’s cannabis regulatory office to collect and test samples of the beverages before they reach distributors. This is meant to ensure they meet safety standards. Lawmakers argue that liquor stores are better equipped to handle these sales because they already have safeguards to prevent underage access.

In recent years, Delaware state agencies have started cracking down on unauthorized THC sales. The Department of Justice issued warnings in 2024, and alcohol regulators admitted they lacked the knowledge to properly advise businesses on the legality and safety of THC-infused drinks.

Cannabis attorney Peter Murphy weighed in saying that while legal uncertainty remains, the legislation could benefit both liquor stores and future cannabis dispensaries. According to him, the bill may reshape who controls THC-infused products, moving them from loosely regulated sellers into a more defined—and likely more competitive—market.

This progressive approach being undertaken in Delaware is likely to attract commendation from the wider marijuana industry, including from major companies like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF).

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420 with CNW — Trump’s US Attorney Targets Medical Marijuana Firm in Washington

Washington, D.C. has taken several hits since Donald Trump returned to office— massive job losses, seeing its budget shrink by billions, and even facing a downgrade to its bond rating. Now a recent federal move is raising alarms over the city’s handling of cannabis laws.

Ed Martin, the interim U.S. Attorney appointed by Trump, is putting pressure on D.C.’s marijuana industry, challenging an unspoken understanding that federal prosecutors would stay out of local cannabis matters. His warning came in a letter to a medical dispensary, claiming that its operations violate federal law, even though they comply with city regulations.

Martin, a staunch conservative with a history of anti-abortion activism and ties to controversial January 6 defendants, has been a magnet for political disputes since taking the top prosecutor role in D.C. Just in the past week, he’s been under fire for questioning Wikipedia’s nonprofit status and facing backlash over a video undermining his claims about a Jan. 6 figure’s background.

But it’s his stance on cannabis that’s caught many off guard, and not just those on the political left. D.C.’s marijuana rules, while liberal, enjoy support from people across the political spectrum. Martin’s letter to the dispensary Green Theory in the Palisades area came after a neighborhood conflict over the store’s proximity to schools. While city authorities had already addressed the matter, Martin stepped in anyway, citing concerns about protecting children and federal law.

His message carried a clear threat: even fully licensed dispensaries—or landlords renting to them—could face federal prosecution. Advocates warn that such letters, even without legal action, could financially strain small businesses forced to defend themselves.

The larger issue is D.C.’s messy cannabis policy landscape. Because the city isn’t a state, Congress has restricted its ability to set up a proper sales system. While weed is decriminalized, legal sales are confined to medical dispensaries, and even those operate under patchy, often confusing rules.

Critics, like former Councilmember David Grosso, say the city is being targeted unfairly and its limited self-governance is under threat. Others, like attorney Pamela Wexler, see this as a broader effort to weaken local control in favor of federal overreach.

Martin insists he’s just asking questions. Still, his language—and timing—suggest more than mere curiosity. His critics argue this is a revival of the old D.C. dynamic, where federal officials, disconnected from local voters, step in and override community decisions. And for a city still fighting for full autonomy, that’s a troubling sign.

Marijuana industry players like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (Cboe CA: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) will be following how this point of contention in D.C. is resolved since any outcome there could set the pace for what happens in other jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — Makers of THC-Infused Drinks Seek Adults to Participate in Observational Study

A group of cannabis beverage companies is launching a large-scale research project focused on how THC-infused drinks might affect alcohol use, mood, and overall well-being. The study is open to up to 2,000 adults who will receive complimentary marijuana beverages to use during the research period.

Other industry firms like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CBoe CA: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) will keep an eye on this study and…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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420 with CNW — Germany’s Growing Marijuana Industry Holds its Breath as Elections Loom

Germany is set to hold its national elections on February 23, 2025, a pivotal event that will determine whether the Social Democratic Party (SDU) retains leadership or whether power shifts to the Christian Democratic Union (CDU).

The outcome of this election is of particular interest to the country’s emerging marijuana industry, which has seen significant legislative progress under the SDU and its governing allies. The most significant changes included reforms that greatly expanded access to medical marijuana, leading to a surge in patient numbers.

Additionally, although limited, a new recreational cannabis legislation was introduced, opening discussions about the possibility of a regulated commercial market.

These legal shifts have attracted interest from international marijuana businesses, particularly from Canada and the U.S., which are establishing a foothold in Germany in anticipation of further industry growth.

However, if the CDU secures victory, the pace of marijuana reform could slow down or be reversed. Despite this uncertainty, Germany’s marijuana market remains dynamic, with promising growth opportunities.

The most substantial growth has come from imports, with Canadian firms maintaining dominance in the market. A notable example is Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), a New York-based company. In 2022, Curaleaf acquired a majority stake in Four 20 Pharma, a German firm licensed to produce and distribute medical marijuana under stringent EU-GMP and GDP standards. This acquisition has given Curaleaf a strong presence in one of the world’s key marijuana markets.

Germany has permitted medical marijuana since 2017, though initial regulations were restrictive and kept patient numbers relatively low. A significant policy shift occurred on April 1, 2024, when cannabis was removed from the country’s narcotics list.

This change simplified the process of obtaining medical cannabis prescriptions, allowing patients to access their medication through regulated pharmacies. The new system enables individuals to consult with doctors via telehealth services, receive a prescription, and fill it at any pharmacy.

On the recreational front, the German government introduced the Cannabis Act, which permits the formation of social cannabis clubs for cultivation, though commercial sales remain prohibited. Members of these clubs can grow marijuana for personal use and share it with fellow members, but no transactions are allowed.

Each club can accommodate up to 500 members, with each individual permitted to acquire a maximum of 50 grams of marijuana in a month. However, consumption on club premises is not allowed. The act also decriminalized possession, allowing adults over 18 to carry up to 25 grams in public and store up to 50 grams at home. Additionally, individuals can cultivate up to three plants per household.

The next step for the German marijuana industry involves launching a recreational use pilot program, set to be implemented following the elections. This initiative will allow businesses and research institutions to apply for licenses to distribute cannabis for recreational use. Unlike the medical market, which remains tax-exempt, this program would generate government revenue through taxation, marking a significant shift in the country’s approach to cannabis regulation.

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420 with CNW — Pain Increases Odds of Cancer Patients Using Marijuana, Tobacco

A recent study published in the journal Cancer suggests that cancer survivors experiencing pain may be more likely to use cannabis and cigarettes. The research also highlights a link between cigarette smoking, pain, and an increase in side effects related to treatment, ultimately leading to poorer health outcomes for cancer survivors.

Chronic pain, generally described as pain lasting three months or longer, affects approximately 30 percent of cancer survivors. In those with advanced stages of the disease, the prevalence can rise to 50%. As cancer treatments improve and more individuals live longer after their diagnosis, the number of survivors dealing with long-term pain often grows.

Pain often coincides with the use of substances such as e-cigarettes, cigarettes, cannabis, and alcohol for most people.

To better understand how pain influences non-opioid use among cancer survivors, researchers examined data from two nationwide surveys in the United States. These included 4,130 participants from the 2020 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and 1,251 adults from 2021’s Wave 6 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study.

The study also explored how substance use and pain relate to mental well-being, self-perceived physical health, quality of life, and other symptoms associated with cancer treatment. Separate regression analyses were conducted for each data set.

Findings from the PATH Study indicated that individuals who experienced higher pain intensity in the past week were more likely to use cannabis, e-cigarettes, and cigarettes, while they were less likely to consume alcohol. Data from NHIS similarly showed that chronic pain was linked to a higher probability of cigarette use but a lower likelihood of alcohol consumption.

Despite its significant findings, the study had some limitations. Since the research relied on self-reported data, there is potential for bias. Additionally, its cross-sectional design prevents researchers from establishing a cause-and-effect relationship between substance use and pain. Nevertheless, the findings offer important insights into the need for comprehensive care approaches.

The study’s authors emphasized that addressing both substance use and pain together in cancer care is crucial. They noted that pain can lead individuals to turn to substances, while substance use can, in turn, worsen pain, creating a challenging cycle to break.

Although some cancer survivors may use cigarettes or other substances to manage pain and cope with symptoms, doing so may have severe health consequences. It can reduce the efficiency of cancer treatment and raise the risk of recurrence. Marijuana industry players like Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) can therefore help in spreading awareness about the potential side effects of medical marijuana so that patients are empowered to make informed decisions.

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