420 with CNW — 3 Marijuana Companies Close Their Doors in Colorado Over Liver Issues

Three businesses tied to the creation and sale of a marijuana-based sleep aid are shutting down their operations in Colorado after reaching a settlement and financial penalty that ends a lawsuit brought by the state.

The businesses, Nuka Properties LLC, Nuka Enterprises LLC, and Sima Sciences LLC, were behind the “1906” brand of products sold in Colorado since 2016. One of their best-known products was “Midnight Drops,” a pill made from cannabis combined with other plant-based ingredients.

According to state officials, problems with the product began surfacing in 2020, when consumers started filing complaints. In 2023, the state’s Department of Public Health and Environment and the Department of Revenue’s Marijuana Enforcement Division issued warnings to the public about health concerns linked to “Midnight Drops.”

The notice stated that earlier batches of “Midnight Drops,” produced before March 2022, contained an herbal ingredient called Corydalis, which could potentially cause liver damage. While research on Corydalis is limited, state officials said it raised enough concern to alert the public.

Later versions of the product were also flagged. State investigators found those pills included an extract from the Stephania plant containing L-THP, a compound also linked to signs of liver injury. The notice stated that users showed elevated liver enzyme levels, an early indicator of possible liver problems.

The notice stated that the companies had agreed to discontinue “Midnight Drops” and pull remaining stock from retailers. However, according to the attorney general’s office, the firms did not follow through. Instead, they allegedly continued producing and selling the capsules. Officials also accused the companies of failing to thoroughly research the safety of the herbal additives or properly inform stores about the risks.

The legal battle concluded last week with a settlement. The companies behind the 1906 line agreed to shut down their Colorado operations and pay a $400,000 fine. The agreement does leave open the possibility of resuming business at a later time if certain conditions are satisfied, though the state has not disclosed what those conditions are or how long they would remain in effect.

In addition, the settlement sets the stage for further financial consequences if the firms do not comply with the terms. Altogether, fines could climb as high as $1 million.

This case highlights a broader trend of regulators at both the federal and state levels penalizing companies that promote products with unsupported claims about health benefits.

The case also highlights why it is important to open legal marijuana markets where licensed companies, such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), are allowed to operate. Their products can undergo rigorous testing and any anomaly found can be addressed through product recalls or sanctioning the offending firms, as happened to the trio in Colorado. In this way, public health can be protected while also allowing adults who choose to consume products to do so safely.

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Commission Heeds Governor’s Request and Sets Medical Marijuana Plant Limit

Nebraska’s Medical Cannabis Commission will restrict the number of plants medical growers can cultivate, setting the cap at 1,250 flowering cannabis plants per operation. The move followed pressure from Governor Jim Pillen, who stated that the new program must have firm boundaries before he approved emergency guidelines

In a letter to the commission, the governor noted that without such a restriction, the risk of excess production could lead to illegal sales and undermine regulation. He indicated he would back the rest of the proposal if the adjustment were included. 

The commission recently announced that it will authorize only four licenses for cultivators, with applications due by September 23 and licensing expected to start October 1. The discussion over limits was guided by Bo Botelho, legal counsel for the state’s Health and Human Services Department. 

When drafting the initial framework, Botelho used Missouri’s program, which allows cultivation for both medical and recreational markets. His early suggestions were far lower than Missouri’s thresholds: 200 plants indoors, 300 in greenhouses, 500 outdoors, and 200 for mixed setups. He admitted the figures were only placeholders and not based on detailed calculations. 

Commissioner Bruce Bailey led efforts to increase the limits, pointing out that not all plants survive or pass testing and that supply should be sufficient to meet patient demand. Estimates suggested that if about 1% of Nebraska’s population sought medical marijuana, roughly 20,000 patients could enroll. Using a simple formula of one plant for every two patients, the need would reach 10,000 plants statewide. 

Other commissioners, including Lorelle Mueting and Kim Lowe, agreed that demand might not reach that level immediately but supported reviewing numbers later. Mueting noted that based on her research, 2,000 indoor plants could potentially produce adequate tinctures for approximately 2,300 patients annually. She, however, stressed that yields vary depending on how plants are grown. 

Ultimately, Bailey suggested a single flat limit of 1,250 plants per cultivator, regardless of facility type. With four licensed growers, this would allow up to 5,000 plants in production at one time, with two harvests annually, meeting the target of 10,000 plants annually. 

However, not everyone supports the restriction. Crista Eggers, who led the petition drive for medical marijuana legalization in the state, argues the program is being weakened before it even starts. Medical marijuana patients like Lia Post are urging the commission to recognize real medical needs rather than imposing what she sees as artificial restrictions. 

The commission is set to meet again on September 30 at 1 p.m. Licensed cannabis companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) operating in other markets will be watching how the market in Nebraska finally rolls out. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Rangers Clear Nearly 3,000 Illicit Cannabis Plants in California National Park

Park rangers in Sequoia National Park, California, have cleared an extensive illegal cannabis cultivation site covering roughly 13 acres. 

According to a statement from the National Park Service (NPS), rangers removed more than 2,300 mature cannabis plants. They also hauled away nearly 2,000 pounds of trash, pipes, and equipment using both manual labor and helicopter lifts. 

The site was first discovered and raided by park law enforcement in 2024, but officials reported that the area could not be fully restored until this year due to hazardous substances at the site. Among the items found were a semi-automatic handgun and toxic chemicals, including methamidophos. The insecticide, banned in the United States since 2009, is highly poisonous and poses serious risks to people and wildlife. 

The case is currently under investigation, and no suspects have been identified or arrested so far. 

According to the NPS, natural water sources had been diverted from a creek nearby through irrigation lines and storage pits. Additionally, hillsides were terraced for planting, while vegetation was cleared on a large scale. Rangers also found makeshift camps, cooking areas, poaching activity, and illegal trails stretching about two miles through the wilderness. 

Beyond the physical alterations, the environmental impact is severe. Cannabis plants require significant amounts of water, roughly six to eight gallons each day. That level of consumption strains fragile ecosystems, robbing native wildlife and vegetation of the water they rely on. In addition, runoff from the site may carry pesticides into streams, further contaminating habitats. 

Large-scale drug cultivation has been an issue in California’s Central Valley and its surrounding parks for decades. Since the early 2000s, nearly 300,000 plants valued at close to $850 million have been seized from Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks alone. 

Although the state legalized recreational cannabis in 2016, strict regulations on legal cultivation have fueled a thriving underground market. Many unlicensed operations disregard environmental laws, leaving behind polluted land, depleted water sources, and damaged habitats. 

In Northern California’s Siskiyou County, for example, authorities estimate over 15,000 acres of illicit grow sites have been discovered. The result has been declining wildlife populations and widespread use of unregulated pesticides. 

Rick Dean, director of community development for Siskiyou’s environmental health unit, described the grim conditions in a past interview. “When you walk through those sites, there’s hardly any wildlife left,” he said. “You’re lucky if you spot a single lizard.” 

The grim results of illegal marijuana grows in California make a strong case in support of the calls by the marijuana industry, including firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), to stamp out such illicit actors in all jurisdictions where marijuana has been legalized, and even in prohibitionist jurisdictions. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Partnership Between Cannabis Tracking Software Providers Leaves Marijuana Industry Concerned

Leading cannabis compliance and tracking company Metrc entered into a new partnership with its rival BioTrack, sparking speculation about the future of marijuana tracking in the United States. 

The recent announcement has left many licensed operators and state regulators uncertain about its implications, particularly in New York, where a functioning seed-to-sale system is still pending for the state’s $1.5 billion cannabis market. 

For years, the U.S. cannabis industry has relied mainly on two Florida-based firms to manage its product tracking systems. Metrc, based in Lakeland, currently holds contracts with twenty-nine states, requiring all licensed operators in these areas to use its RFID-tag-based tracking software. BioTrack, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, serves eight states but has been losing market share despite acquiring smaller competitors, including MJFreeway in 2024

Under the new partnership, a new company, BT Government, will handle BioTrack’s government contracts, operating independently from BioTrack and Metrc. The entity will be led by BioTrack’s COO, Moe Afaneh, while BioTrack continues to provide point-of-sale and other commercial software services. 

Financial terms of the partnership were not revealed. However, state records show that Metrc LLC operates independently from its parent, Metrc Inc., whose leadership includes notable investors such as Karan Wadhera of Casa Verde Capital, a cannabis-focused investment firm linked to Snoop Dogg. 

Industry observers see potential benefits in the collaboration. Poseidon Investment Management managing director Emily Paxhia noted that marijuana businesses currently navigate a “patchwork” of different tracking systems, depending on state rules. The new partnership, she suggested, might simplify operations for multi-state operators. Still, it’s unclear whether this move represents a merger or simply a functional partnership. 

BioTrack, now owned by Alleaves, currently holds seed-to-sale contracts in Connecticut, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, New York, North Dakota, New Mexico, and Virginia. However, Metrc has been chipping away at BioTrack’s market share. Illinois recently switched from BioTrack to Metrc, and Massachusetts renewed its Metrc contract earlier this year. 

New York’s deal with BioTrack, signed in late 2022, was worth $1.2 million over five years, far less than the $113 million California agreed to pay Metrc for four years. Still, operators have raised concerns over BioTrack’s tag pricing requirements, which they say would raise costs unnecessarily. 

Following the partnership announcement, New York regulators temporarily halted compliance requirements while they assess the impact. Cannabis operators in other BioTrack states, such as Connecticut, are also waiting for guidance. 

Some businesses speculate the partnership might eventually allow states with BioTrack contracts to switch to Metrc’s platform, which they see as more efficient. But for now, the industry is left with more questions than answers—especially about pricing, timelines, and technology updates. 

The marijuana industry, including players across the border like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), will be watching for any additional information provided about this partnership as it could influence the trajectory of operations within the industry. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Oklahoma Recreational Cannabis Petitioners to Begin Signature Collection in August

A group in Oklahoma pushing to legalize recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older is preparing to begin collecting signatures to get the issue on the ballot. The proposed measure, State Question 837, would legalize recreational cannabis and apply local and state taxes to its sale. It would also eliminate the current excise tax on medical cannabis and introduce a 10% tax on adult-use purchases. 

In addition, the proposal includes a key legal safeguard that would bar law enforcement from assuming someone is under the influence just because they’ve used cannabis or have THC in their system. This seeks to prevent wrongful accusations based on chemical presence alone. 

If passed, the measure would become a constitutional amendment. Jed Green, who leads the group Oklahomans for Responsible Cannabis Action (ORCA), said the initiative is designed to streamline and clarify previous legislation. 

In 2023, a similar attempt, State Question 820, was voted down. Green noted that a lack of unity within the cannabis community may have contributed to that outcome. This time, however, he believes the proposal is gaining wider support both from within the industry and among state residents. 

“For the past few months, we’ve been building relationships with local communities and cannabis businesses throughout the state,” Green said. “When we kick off signature collection on August 6, we expect to be active in most counties.” 

To get the proposal on the ballot, supporters need to collect close to 173,000 valid signatures by November 3. The petition was submitted for approval earlier this spring. 

This initiative comes on the heels of a new law, SB 1087, which modifies how citizen-led proposals work in Oklahoma. Among other changes, the legislation limits the number of required signatures for constitutional amendments to 20.8% of the votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial race. That law is currently under review by the state’s Supreme Court. 

Green noted that the new law has added paperwork but hasn’t changed their grassroots strategy. He stated that support for the campaign is strong, pointing out that over 330,000 Oklahomans currently hold medical cannabis cards. 

He added that summer is the ideal time to gather signatures thanks to community events, fairs, and sports games. Still, due to signature limits by county, the group will also need to focus on smaller and more rural areas like Harmon County, where only a small number of people can sign. 

“Maybe we’ll spend the day at the co-op or the courthouse,” Green said. “Only 117 people in Harmon County can sign, so we’ll be there soon.” 

Will this second attempt deliver the needed policy change? Major marijuana companies in and outside the country, such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), will be watching as the process plays out. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — How Marijuana is Bringing Variety to Cuisine

Cannabis has come a long way from the days of basic pot brownies. With legalization spreading and chefs exploring new frontiers, marijuana is finding its place in modern kitchens as a versatile and flavorful ingredient. Rather than focusing just on the psychoactive effects, today’s cannabis cuisine emphasizes taste, aroma, and the unique characteristics of each compound. 

Here are seven ways marijuana is changing the food world: 

  1. Infused Bases Like Tinctures, Oils, and Butters 

Cannabis compounds such as CBD and THC can be infused into alcohol, oils, or butter, allowing for precise control over dosage and effects. The infused bases can then be used in a variety of recipes, from baked snacks to pasta sauces. The secret lies in activating the plant’s compounds through decarboxylation before adding them to recipes. 

  1. Flavor Pairing with Terpenes 

Cannabis has natural scent compounds called terpenes, which are also found in fruits, herbs, and spices. These give each strain its distinct aroma and flavor, whether it’s citrusy, piney, earthy, or floral. 

Chefs are learning how to match the terpene profile of a strain with specific ingredients in a dish. For example, a citrus-heavy strain might enhance a lemony chicken dish, while a strain with earthy tones could pair well with a mushroom risotto. 

  1. Savory Cannabis Recipes 

Cannabis isn’t just for desserts anymore. Cooks are bringing it into main courses and sides. From salad dressings with cannabis-infused oils to roasted vegetables brushed with THC-rich butter or grilled meats marinated with cannabis blends. The plant’s herbal, sometimes peppery flavor can add subtle depth to savory foods. 

  1. Elevated Edibles and High-End Dining 

Gone are the days of mystery brownies with unpredictable potency. Today’s cannabis edibles are crafted with care, focusing on taste, appearance, and consistent potency. Fine dining restaurants now serve multi-course meals infused with cannabis, where each plate is made to highlight the plant’s flavors and effects. 

  1. CBD-Infused Foods for Wellness 

CBD, the non-intoxicating compound in cannabis, is gaining popularity in the health and food scenes. From CBD smoothies and teas to savory meals with a relaxing twist, the compound is being used to create dishes that offer calming benefits without the high. 

  1. Infused Drinks 

Cannabis beverages are evolving beyond simple sodas. Bartenders and mixologists are crafting infused mocktails, cocktails, sparkling waters, and herbal teas. These drinks often kick in faster than edibles and offer a fun, social way to consume cannabis. 

  1. Cooking Classes and Cannabis Education 

Interest in marijuana cooking is driving demand for professional training. Private instructors and culinary schools are offering courses that teach the science and art behind cannabis cuisine, covering safety, flavor pairing, dosage, and legal guidelines. This shift is helping legitimize marijuana in the kitchen and giving more people the skills to use it confidently. 

The fusion of cannabis and cuisine is changing how people think about both. As knowledge spreads and public attitudes evolve, expect more inventive and flavorful cannabis dishes to take center stage in kitchens worldwide. 

If you still thought consuming cannabis required you to walk into a retail outlet of a licensed company like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) in order to pick up flower or prerolls, your options are increasing as the substance finds its way into cuisine in more innovative ways. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Gov. Abbott Calls for Regulation, Vetoes Bill Banning THC in Texas

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vetoed a measure that aimed at banning all consumable THC products in the state. The move keeps the growing market of THC gummies, vape cartridges, and similar goods open for business. Abbott issued the veto just before the deadline, preventing what would have been one of the strictest THC bans nationwide. 

Abbott called on lawmakers to craft tighter regulations for THC products rather than imposing an outright ban. The bill, Senate Bill 3, would have made it a criminal offense to produce, sell, or possess any THC consumables. 

The bill followed ongoing efforts in various states to crack down on THC, particularly after the 2018 Farm Bill gave states the power to regulate hemp. Hemp, though non-intoxicating in its natural form, can be synthetically altered to produce THC. 

Abbott had not publicly weighed in on the matter while the bill was moving through the legislature, leaving many uncertain about his stance. He explained that the bill likely wouldn’t survive a constitutional test and would clash with existing state and federal laws. He added that pursuing a law destined to be struck down would only delay real solutions to concerns about public safety tied to THC products. 

The veto sparked immediate backlash, especially from Lieutenant Gov. Dan Patrick, who had championed the legislation. Patrick had made the THC ban a top priority and had even threatened to push for a special legislative session if it didn’t pass. In a strongly worded statement on social media, Patrick expressed disappointment, citing overwhelming support among Republican lawmakers, law enforcement, educators, and families affected by substance abuse. 

Instead of a ban, Abbott is encouraging lawmakers to treat THC products like alcohol—enforcing age restrictions and limiting marketing aimed at minors. Patrick, meanwhile, has planned a press event in Austin to further address the matter. 

The legal gray areas in current laws have allowed a thriving THC market to develop, even in states where cannabis remains illegal. Texas has some of the toughest anti-cannabis laws in the U.S., banning recreational use entirely and offering only limited medical access. The hemp industry, however, has created a way for Texans to legally obtain products that offer similar effects to cannabis. 

Republican legislators have voiced concerns over the safety of these products, especially given the lack of consistent federal guidelines on manufacturing practices. While Texas has pursued one of the more aggressive approaches to curbing THC sales, other states like California have focused instead on age restrictions and potency limits. 

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed a similar measure last year, stating that it would negatively affect small businesses. 

Opponents of the Texas legislation argue that the products provide vital relief for individuals unable to qualify for the state’s narrow medical cannabis program. Business owners across the state also stress that the sector supports thousands of jobs and generates significant revenue. 

The marijuana industry, including major brands like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), hopes that more U.S. jurisdictions that still implement prohibitionist policies against cannabis rethink their stance and create legal markets for the substance so that jobs, state revenue and general livelihoods can be boosted by the legal marijuana business ecosystem. 

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Marijuana CEO Asks Texas Governor to Veto Bill Banning THC

Texas is on the verge of banning a wide range of THC-infused items like vapes, edibles, and beverages. A newly approved bill by state lawmakers is now in the hands of Governor Greg Abbott, who will decide whether to sign it into law.

If Abbott approves the bill, it would introduce new felony charges for activities such as producing, distributing, or intending to distribute certain hemp-based products. The proposal also outlines penalties for falsifying lab reports and operating without proper authorization. Some violations would be classified as misdemeanors and could lead to fines or even jail time.

Under the proposed changes, all hemp products containing synthetic cannabinoids would be banned. However, non-psychoactive compounds like CBG and CBD would remain legal. The state’s limited medical marijuana program, which allows specific low-THC treatments for qualifying health conditions, would likely continue unaffected.

Peter Barsoom, the founder and CEO of marijuana brand 1906, is speaking out against the bill. He argues it disregards the needs of many adult users, including military veterans, who rely on hemp products as part of their daily health routines.

When asked why traditional medications like Tylenol and Advil aren’t enough for pain relief, Barsoom explained that many adults have found hemp products to be more effective. He cited both personal experiences and scientific studies as evidence that cannabis-based options can offer real benefits for certain individuals.

Barsoom emphasized that people should have options when managing their health. “We’re not saying cannabis is the best solution for everyone,” he said. “But people deserve the freedom to choose what works for them, whether it’s a prescription drug, an over-the-counter remedy or a marijuana product.”

He also believes the bill was rushed through due to political pressure, particularly from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. Patrick has made cracking down on THC a top priority, saying it’s necessary to protect young people from substance abuse. He also criticized the media for not giving the issue enough attention.

Barsoom warns that the ban could wipe out jobs and hurt legitimate businesses. “If this passes, Texas could lose thousands of jobs and force responsible companies like ours out of the market,” he said. “The state should focus on smart regulation instead of rushing into an all-out ban.”

His message to Abbott: “Veto this bill. Don’t take away a vital option from people who truly need it. Push for real, practical regulation instead of an all-out ban.”

It would be eye-opening to hear what marijuana firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have to say about the regulatory direction that Texas is taking with relation to hemp-derived intoxicants.

About CNW420

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

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

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420 with CNW — Tribally Owned Cannabis Stores Register 24% Growth from May 2024

In the last year, Native American tribes have played an increasingly important role in the legal cannabis industry across the U.S.

As of April, tribal communities operate 77 marijuana stores across nine different states. This marks a 24% increase from 2024, showing that cannabis remains an important avenue for economic development. These shops are run by 59 federally recognized tribes, up 18% from 2024.

On average, tribal cannabis stores are around 4,600 square feet, but they range widely in size, from compact shops under 1,000 square feet to expansive facilities over 10,000 square feet.

Over 80% of the tribes that run cannabis stores also manage casinos, and more than a third of them are situated near a tribal gaming facility.

Tribes operate under their own sovereign laws, which means their cannabis regulations may differ from those of the surrounding state. In some instances, tribal laws are more restrictive; in others, they allow cannabis where the state does not.

For instance, in North Carolina where cannabis remains illegal under state law, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has opened the state’s only legal marijuana store—The Great Smoky Cannabis Co.—offering adult-use cannabis under tribal jurisdiction. Similarly, Washington leads the country in tribal cannabis retail with 25 stores operated by 18 tribes. California has overtaken Nevada as the second-largest hub for tribal cannabis businesses, boasting 15 stores run by 12 tribes.

New York and Minnesota have seen a burst of activity, largely because of delays in state-level licensing. With few or no licensed dispensaries available, consumers in these states have turned to tribally owned stores. These businesses have stepped in to meet demand, offering legal alternatives to the illicit market. In Minnesota, for instance, tribal dispensaries are currently the only legal option for recreational cannabis buyers.

Beyond retail, the tribes are also building out cultivation and manufacturing operations. Some of these are fully integrated businesses like Great Smoky Cannabis Co., while others focus on one part of the supply chain. In Minnesota, the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe is concentrating on developing a large-scale cultivation facility, while White Earth Nation has sold surplus product to other tribal stores and signed a deal to open up to eight more outlets.

Some tribes have taken another approach by licensing individual tribal members to operate marijuana businesses. New York’s Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe has approved over 20 marijuana retailers.

With more tribes entering the market, expanding operations, and forming strategic partnerships, tribal involvement in cannabis is expected to grow significantly in the coming year.

The reform movement and cannabis firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) are likely to applaud the contribution of native tribes in helping to provide legal marijuana products in different communities and thereby preventing the population from depending on products supplied by black market actors.

About CNW420

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

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420 with CNW — Study Finds Cannabis Dangerous to Developing Fetuses

New research shows that using cannabis while pregnant can put both the mother and baby at serious risk. A large-scale review of past studies found links between prenatal cannabis use and problems like low birth weight, premature birth, and even infant death.

Dr. Jamie Lo, a specialist in obstetrics at Oregon Health and Science University, emphasized that one of the most alarming discoveries was a higher chance of losing the baby either during pregnancy or soon after birth. Her past work also revealed that marijuana can interfere with the baby’s lung development and reduce oxygen and blood supply through the placenta, a key organ that provides the baby with nutrients and oxygen.

Even with the known risks, more pregnant women are using cannabis. A study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that from 2002 to 2017, marijuana use tripled among pregnant women aged 12 to 44. Most reported using it in the first trimester, primarily for recreational purposes, not for medical needs.

Many people wrongly believe that cannabis is harmless just because it’s a natural plant. But Dr. Lo points out that other dangerous substances like tobacco, alcohol, and heroin also come from plants. Each can cause serious harm during pregnancy. Alcohol is linked to birth defects, tobacco to brain and lung damage in infants, and opioids to addiction and withdrawal symptoms in newborns.

The recent meta-analysis focused only on marijuana use during pregnancy, leaving out cases involving other substances. It reviewed data from 51 studies, involving more than 21 million pregnancies.

Pregnant women who used cannabis had a 52% higher chance of giving birth too early and a 75% greater risk of having babies with low birth weight. Although only a few studies examined infant mortality, those still showed a 29% increase in death risk.

Dr. Brianna Moore, an epidemiologist not involved in the study, noted that as more research emerges, scientists are becoming more confident about the harmful effects of prenatal marijuana exposure.

With cannabis becoming more legal and socially accepted, many parents-to-be receive mixed messages. Lo stresses that healthcare providers need clearer guidance, and better education is necessary for both patients and professionals.

Meanwhile, more recent studies are linking marijuana use to heart issues, mental health problems, and cognitive impairments, especially in younger users. Even daily use can lead to severe side effects like uncontrollable vomiting. Children exposed to THC in the womb may also be more likely to struggle with attention, behavior, and sleep problems later in life.

As more jurisdictions enact marijuana policy changes, more research is likely to be conducted so that there is a better understanding of the specific ways in which cannabis products from companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) positively or adversely affect various groups of individuals in the medium term and long term so that consumers can be empowered to make informed decisions.

About CNW420

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

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN