420 with CNW — Largest-Ever Research Finds Medical Marijuana Could Help Combat Cancer

A recent study—the largest of its kind—has found strong scientific backing for the use of medical marijuana in managing cancer symptoms and possibly even affecting how the disease progresses. Published in Frontiers in Oncology, the research pulls together a vast amount of existing evidence to assess where science stands on the topic.

Ryan Castle, who leads research at the Whole Health Oncology Institute, spearheaded the analysis. According to him, the aim was to cut through years of conflicting studies and unclear messaging. A big challenge, Castle explained, is that marijuana is still categorized as a Schedule I drug at the federal level, which makes high-quality clinical research in the U.S. difficult to conduct.

The study was backed by Cancer Playbook, a group that works alongside the Whole Health Oncology Institute to gather and analyze patient feedback on treatments. Even though legal barriers limit formal trials on marijuana, there’s a huge volume of observational research and lab-based studies that look at how marijuana affects cancer—both in terms of symptom relief and its impact on cancer cells.

Castle’s team reviewed over 10,000 studies, far exceeding the scope of any previous analysis on this subject. To handle the massive dataset, they used artificial intelligence—specifically, a technique called sentiment analysis—to sort the findings. This allowed them to gauge how many studies supported marijuana, how many were neutral, and how many were negative. They looked at effects like reducing inflammation, improving appetite, and promoting cancer cell death, known as apoptosis.

Around 75% of the studies suggested that marijuana had a positive impact on cancer symptoms, and in many cases, also indicated it might help stop the disease from spreading.

Despite promising signs, there’s still debate. A 2024 JAMA study suggested a higher risk of neck and head cancers among those with marijuana-use disorder, but some critics, like UCSF oncologist Dr. Donald Abrams, argue that the study overlooked key risk factors like alcohol and tobacco use.

Abrams, who’s been treating cancer patients for over four decades, supports using marijuana to manage symptoms but is less convinced about its ability to treat cancer directly. Still, he acknowledges that lab studies have shown marijuana can impact tumors in animals and test tubes, though those results haven’t yet been mirrored in large-scale trials on humans.

Castle remains optimistic. He points to smaller human studies showing extended survival times or reduced tumor sizes in patients who received marijuana-based treatments alongside chemotherapy. However, he emphasizes that more robust human trials are essential.

Ultimately, Castle hopes the findings will help push U.S. regulators to reclassify marijuana, removing roadblocks to further clinical research.

The easing of existing barriers to research could allow products from licensed companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) to be extensively analyzed for their therapeutic potential.

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

420 with CNW — US Supreme Court Gives Truck Driver the Nod to Pursue Racketeering Charges Against Marijuana Company

The United States Supreme Court has ruled against Medical Marijuana Inc. in a case involving a truck driver who lost his job after he failed a drug test. The driver, Douglas Horn, claimed he was misled into using a cannabidiol (CBD) product that was falsely advertised as THC-free. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis responsible for its intoxicating effects.

In a narrow 5 to 4 decision, Justice Amy Coney Barrett wrote the majority opinion, upholding a lower court ruling that permitted Horn to sue the company, based in San Diego, under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).

RICO, a 1970 law originally aimed at curbing organized crime, allows individuals to seek triple damages if they suffer business or property losses due to certain illegal activities.

The central issue in the case was whether Horn’s job loss constituted the type of injury covered by RICO. The court determined that his firing fit the legal definition of harm, rejecting Medical Marijuana’s argument to the contrary. Barrett stated in the court’s ruling that the company had no viable alternative interpretation of the statute.

Horn, who had sustained injuries in a trucking accident, purchased Medical Marijuana’s CBD tincture—Dixie X—in 2012. The product was marketed as a natural pain remedy that contained no THC. However, a random drug test by his employer later detected THC in his blood system, leading to his termination after more than ten years on the job. Horn maintains he has never used cannabis.

In 2015, Horn filed a lawsuit in a New York federal court seeking financial compensation. They accused Medical Marijuana and its affiliates of violating RICO by engaging in a pattern of fraudulent activities, including wire and mail fraud, as well as violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). A laboratory test later confirmed that the tincture did, in fact, contain THC.

Initially, a federal trial judge dismissed Horn’s RICO Act claim. However, the second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York overturned that decision, allowing the lawsuit to proceed. Medical Marijuana subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court, which heard arguments on the case on October 15, 2024, before issuing its final ruling.

The ruling sets a precedent, potentially allowing others in similar situations to seek damages under RICO if they can prove financial harm due to mislabeled or misleadingly marketed marijuana products.

The decision of the Supreme Court is likely to be seen by many marijuana companies, including SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), as a reminder to all businesses to be particular about the information they include on product labels since any mistakes or misinformation can have serious ramifications for their clients and the companies themselves.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Maryland Senate Approves Bill Protecting Rights of Rescue Workers, Firefighters Using Medical Marijuana

The Maryland state Senate has approved a measure aimed at protecting rescue and fire workers from being penalized for using medical cannabis while off duty. The legislation, introduced by Senator Carl Jackson, passed with a 36-8 vote and now moves to the House of Representatives, where a parallel measure has been introduced but has yet to progress.

If enacted, the bill would amend state law to ensure that firefighters and other rescue personnel registered as medical cannabis patients are not penalized for their legal use of the substance or for testing positive for marijuana. Employers would be prohibited from disciplining, terminating, or discriminating against these employees based solely on a positive test result for THC metabolites.

Additionally, the bill specifies that employers cannot restrict or classify employees in a manner that would limit job opportunities or negatively impact their employment status. However, organizations would still be allowed to enforce zero-tolerance rules regarding on-duty intoxication from cannabis use.

Paul Armentano, the deputy director of NORML, praised the bill’s advancement, noting that the group has worked with rescuers and firefighters to advocate for these safeguards. He pointed out that other states and local governments have already implemented similar measures and argued that Maryland should follow suit. According to Armentano, no employee should face discrimination for using medical marijuana as prescribed by a doctor.

The measure was approved by the Senate Finance Committee with a few amendments last week.

Initially, the proposal included a clause allowing employers to ban cannabis use within 12 hours of a shift. However, concerns over enforcing this restriction led to the removal of the specific time frame. The amended text also makes it clear that businesses can forbid employees from using marijuana for recreational or medical purposes while they are on the clock.

During a previous hearing, Sen. Jackson underscored the importance of the legislation, stating that rescue and fire personnel risk their lives daily to protect the public. He argued that these workers should have access to physician-recommended medical treatments, including cannabis, without fear of workplace consequences.

The companion bill in the House is currently under review by the Economic Matters Committee.

The measure’s development follows a recent move in Maryland’s largest county to ease cannabis restrictions for prospective police officers. Officials hope that loosening these policies will help address recruitment challenges in light of staffing constraints.

The bill protecting the rights of rescue workers and fighters who wish to use medical cannabis is also bound to elicit applause from the broader marijuana industry, including leading enterprises like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL). This is because the law eases a restriction that has been denying a section of the population that could benefit from the therapeutic use of marijuana.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — 2025 Could See University and Marijuana Industry Partnerships Blossoming

The year 2025 is set to mark a turning point in collaborations between universities and the marijuana industry, both in the U.S. and around the world. While partnerships between academia and businesses are nothing new, the marijuana sector has been slow to accept them, largely due to cannabis’ federal illegality in the U.S.

However, as the sector evolves, forming alliances with academic institutions presents an opportunity to influence policy, drive research, and shape the sector’s future.

These collaborations could take many forms, including research initiatives, sponsored studies, and joint ventures. Universities are essential in innovation, while businesses provide the infrastructure and funding necessary for commercial success.

Across the U.S., institutions are responding to the industry’s rapid growth by introducing specialized programs to meet students’ interests. Most of these schools are eager to collaborate with marijuana companies, leveraging their research capabilities, access to medical cannabis patients, and expertise. In return, industry partners contribute their entrepreneurial experience to bring these innovations to the market.

Agricultural schools in the U.S. have taken the lead in forming cannabis-related collaborations, especially in hemp cultivation and research. Universities like Cornell and Clemson have worked alongside hemp farmers to address challenges in pesticide use, genetic engineering, and crop optimization.

With the expansion of medical marijuana across Europe, Germany’s move toward legal recreational use, and the possibility of cannabis being rescheduled in the U.S., it’s time to strengthen ties between the cannabis sector and academia. These partnerships could foster groundbreaking advancements and provide businesses with access to research and patented technologies.

Europe may emerge as the driving force behind a surge in academia-private sector collaborations this year, given its focus on medical marijuana legalization. For businesses looking to enter the European market, working from the medical marijuana approach has become crucial, making academic partnerships a strategic entry point into the highly regulated space.

For instance, Germany’s approach to recreational marijuana sales is more structured and research-oriented compared to the U.S., where medical and recreational sales often overlap. The country recently introduced a pilot program that integrates university research into its framework, similar to models in Switzerland and the Netherlands.

The initiative, set to run for five years in select cities, will closely monitor consumer behavior through partnerships with companies like Sanity Group and Canadian retailer High Tide.

While universities are not directly involved in product commercialization, they are innovation hubs with significant potential for revenue generation through intellectual property. Technology transfer agreements allow institutions to retain control of their research while facilitating commercialization. These collaborations blend academic expertise with business acumen, creating mutually beneficial opportunities for advancing the industry.

Regulatory barriers still limit the extent of these collaborations and available funding, but the potential rescheduling of cannabis in the U.S. could change this dynamic. If rescheduling occurs, it may unlock institutional funding and public-private investments, making 2025 a landmark year for groundbreaking cannabis-related academic collaborations.

One can only watch and wait to see what partnerships, if any, leading cannabis firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) enter into with the academia in order to lay the groundwork for their future products and strategic direction.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Ohio GOP Measure Seeks to Change Voter-Approved Marijuana Legalization Terms

An Ohio Republican senator has put forward a new measure that seeks to limit the amount of homegrown cannabis, lower the permitted THC levels in recreational cannabis, raise taxes, and reroute how the revenue is allocated.

SB 56, introduced by Senator Steve Huffman, would reduce the allowable THC concentration in recreational cannabis extracts from 90% to 70%. The proposal also includes merging the state’s recreational and medical cannabis programs under the state’s Cannabis Control Division.

Huffman explained in his testimony that combining both programs would lead to more uniform regulations on product testing, labeling, advertising, and packaging with a particular focus on children’s protection. He also argued that consolidating the programs would streamline the licensing process, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and eliminate unnecessary government inefficiencies.

Ohio voters approved the legalization of recreational cannabis through a citizen-led initiative in 2023, and sales officially began in August last year. Because the law was enacted through voter approval, Ohio legislators have the power to modify it.

Under the current law, households are permitted to cultivate up to 12 cannabis plants. However, the proposed bill seeks to cut that number down to six. Huffman expressed concerns that individuals growing cannabis at home might be contributing to illegal sales.

Additionally, the measure would introduce new restrictions on cannabis transportation and possession. It mandates that cannabis must be stored in a vehicle’s trunk while traveling and specifies that its use is only permitted within private residences.

Another key aspect of the bill is a proposed tax increase on recreational cannabis, raising it to 15% from 10%. It also seeks to impose a cap on the number of dispensaries allowed to operate in the state, limiting them to a maximum of 350 locations. Currently, Ohio has 128 licensed dispensaries.

Revenue generated from marijuana sales is currently distributed among several funds: 36% goes toward social equity and job programs in the cannabis industry, another 36% supports host communities, 25% is allocated to substance abuse treatment and prevention efforts, and the remaining 3% funds regulatory oversight. Under Huffman’s proposal, all tax revenue from recreational cannabis sales would be directed to the state’s general fund instead.

Senator Bill DeMora criticized the new bill, arguing that it disregards the will of Ohio voters who overwhelmingly supported legalization. In response, Huffman defended his proposal, stating that he believes the changes address significant societal concerns.

DeMora also inquired about including provisions for expunging cannabis-related convictions, to which Huffman indicated he was open to discussion.

One notable omission from the measure is any regulation on hemp-derived THC products, such as delta-8. Governor Mike DeWine has urged legislators to take action against these products, but Huffman’s bill does not address the issue. A previous attempt to ban intoxicating hemp products stalled in committee during the last legislative session.

Huffman suggested that a separate measure focusing on hemp regulations may be introduced in the near future.

The marijuana ecosystem, including leading entities like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) will be watching how the lawmakers discuss and agree on tangible ways to implement legalization, hopefully in a way that will not disappoint the people who expressed their views at the ballots.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Pesticides, Bacteria Found in Marijuana Available in Dutch Coffee Shops

An investigation into marijuana sold in Dutch semi-legal coffee stores has uncovered a range of contaminants, including pesticides, lead, and harmful bacteria. The Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction study was designed to find a “baseline” for contamination levels typically found in cannabis products.

The findings will guide a trial launching in April, where coffee shops in 10 municipalities will offer marijuana grown by licensed producers under strict contamination limits.

Researchers tested a hundred and five marijuana samples, including weed and resin, purchased randomly from various sellers. Approximately 20% of the samples were found to have microbiological breaches such as fungal residue or Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Pesticides were detected in about one-third of the samples, while one hashish sample contained a lead concentration of 28.5 mg/kg—nearly six times higher than the permissible level for the upcoming trial.

While cannabis is widely perceived as legal in the Netherlands, the reality is more nuanced. Since 1976, a tolerance policy has allowed marijuana and hash sales in regulated “coffee stores,” but cultivating more than 5 plants remains illegal. Consequently, coffee shops are forced to procure their supplies from unregulated sources, which often involve criminal networks and raises concerns about product contamination and safety.

The controlled marijuana trial aims to eliminate reliance on the illicit market and ensure cleaner products. Ten approved growers who have passed criminal background checks will be licensed to sell marijuana to participating coffee shops. Four of these growers are ready to begin supplying cannabis products, which will undergo testing for contaminants such as micro-organisms, heavy metals, pesticides, and aflatoxins—dangerous toxins made by fungi.

The discovery of Staphylococcus aureus in some samples highlights the importance of proper hygiene during all stages of cannabis production, including cultivation, packaging, and distribution. However, Pieter Oomen, one of the study’s authors, emphasized that the study was exploratory and does not suggest that all marijuana products sold in the Netherlands are contaminated.

The researchers concluded that the health risks posed by contaminants are relatively minor compared to the overall impact of smoking cannabis, particularly when mixed with tobacco. “The effect of contaminants depends heavily on the immune system of the individual,” Oomen explained.

“The risks added by these contaminants are not likely to outweigh the inherent risks of marijuana use itself, which include addiction, anxiety, and impaired attention that can lead to accidents. If you want to avoid health risks entirely, the best choice is to abstain from drug use,” he added.

The findings of this baseline study make a strong case for the creation of a regulated marijuana market where licensed companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) are allowed to mushroom and operate while adhering to strict product standards so that consumers are safeguarded from exposure to high levels of contaminants.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Observers Say Budgetary Pressures Could Boost Efforts to Legalize Marijuana in Iowa

A significant portion of adults in the U.S. remains in favor of cannabis legalization. However, despite this momentum, three out of four recreational legalization initiatives—proposed in Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota—failed during the November elections.

Projections indicate that about five states might legalize cannabis this year, though Iowa appears to be an exception. As with many policy matters, expanding access to medical marijuana or legalizing recreational marijuana sales in Iowa involves multiple layers of complexity. Issues such as health, social justice, law enforcement, economic impact, agriculture, and employment are all intertwined in this debate.

Observers note that financial considerations may ultimately drive change. Iowa has drastically reduced its tax rates and state spending while increasing costs for programs like private school tuition vouchers. This fiscal pressure could lead to the pursuit of new revenue streams, with cannabis taxes being a plausible option.

Former Iowa deputy treasurer Mike Tramontina called the state’s budgetary strategy unsustainable. He noted that while the state’s finances have been strengthened by federal aid and a robust economy, significant cuts to support for natural resources, public education, and regulatory supervision have been excessive.

Spending on private school vouchers has also increased dramatically, rising from $106.9 million in 2023–2024 to an estimated $179.2 million in 2024–2025. Most of the funds, critics say, go to richer families whose kids are already enrolled in private schools.

Tramontina predicts that the state will require $40 million to $50 million in additional revenue soon. He suggests that legalizing cannabis might become a viable solution given the limited revenue potential of Iowa’s current medical cannabis program.

Meanwhile, Iowans looking to purchase cannabis legally often travel to neighboring states like Missouri, Illinois, or Minnesota, boosting their economies instead. Illinois, for example, reported that Wisconsin residents spent $36.1 million on marijuana there in 2022, generating over $3.6 million in tax revenue.

Despite growing public support—approximately 60% of Iowans favor legalization—political resistance remains strong. Republican lawmakers in Iowa have consistently blocked Democratic-led cannabis legislation, including a 2023 proposal to decriminalize cannabis and expunge records for possession offenses.

Meanwhile, opponents, including Representative Ann Meyer, cite concerns over the potential impact on brain development and youth access. Still, there is bipartisan acknowledgment of the medical benefits of cannabis. For example, Meyer has noted its effectiveness in treating conditions like seizures and PTSD. Similarly, pharmacist and former legislator John Forbes supports medical cannabis as a safer alternative to opioids for pain management.

As in many states, Iowa’s debate over cannabis legalization remains contentious. While public sentiment appears to favor change, legislative hurdles suggest a lengthy battle ahead. Eventually, the fiscal and other benefits that other jurisdictions where companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) operate have witnessed could turn around the opposition and give reform a chance.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Latest Scientific Review Finds CBD Has Potential to Treat Depression, with Minimal Side Effects

A recent scientific review highlights increasing evidence that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis, has antidepressant effects on both animals and humans, with minimal side effects. The review also suggests that CBD may contribute to reducing inflammation and encouraging the growth of new brain cells.

According to the study, CBD shows promise as a potential depression treatment. While its antidepressant properties have been noted before, the exact mechanisms driving these effects remain unclear. To address this gap, the paper examines the molecular pathways, safety, and pharmacokinetics profile of CBD.

The study’s authors analyzed recent clinical and experimental studies and found that CBD’s effects are likely linked to its ability to lower inflammation and promote neurogenesis. Regarding how CBD interacts with the body, the researchers explained that its receptor mechanisms are highly intricate. They involve several receptors, such as PPARγ, CB1, 5-HT1A, CB2, and GPR55.

Although the review acknowledges CBD’s potential, it also emphasizes the need for further research into its long-term safety and possible side effects. Recent meta-analyses and systematic reviews generally describe CBD as having a strong safety profile, with only minor side effects, such as diarrhea.

However, the review also points out limitations that hinder CBD’s therapeutic potential. For instance, its limited water solubility and high hydrophobicity make it challenging to use in certain formulations. Furthermore, the therapeutic window may be constrained by CBD’s extremely poor oral-gastrointestinal absorption and its effects, which frequently follow an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve.

Given these challenges and uncertainties around optimal dosing, the authors call for further clinical trials and preclinical studies to refine its application. They stress that this research is vital, as conventional treatments for depression often fall short.

They state that while psychological therapies can benefit many with mild depression, only a small percentage of individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) receive pharmacological treatments, and around 30% of those patients do not respond to standard interventions.

While emerging therapies like ketamine provide rapid relief for some, they come with risks, including neurological, cardiovascular, and psychiatric side effects. Similarly, electroconvulsive therapy, though effective, can lead to cognitive issues, pain, and anesthesia-related problems.

The review underscores the historical use of marijuana for various ailments and the increasing interest in natural compounds like CBD, which offer therapeutic benefits with minimal side effects. It concludes by stressing the urgency of developing effective and innovative depression treatments.

The studies highlighting the therapeutic potential of cannabis compounds like CBD could give companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) opportunities to develop customized products targeting individuals with symptoms that CBD and other cannabinoids can address.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — New York Marijuana Firms Call for Tax Reforms as They Struggle to Survive

New York marijuana cultivators and processors are pushing Governor Kathy Hochul to approve a measure that would simplify how they handle tax filings, switching the system to an annual basis.

Currently, businesses are required to pay a 9% marijuana excise tax on wholesale prices every quarter. The change would be a minor adjustment to existing regulations but one that could offer significant relief to those struggling in an already challenging market, according to Jaunty co-founder and CEO Nick Guarino.

Companies like Jaunty, alongside Ayrloom and Alliance, collaborated with Park Strategies to draft the measure, receiving support from Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and State Senator Jeremy Cooney. The measure already passed through the state legislature.

The proposed annual tax structure is similar to the approach that has been successfully implemented in the craft alcohol industry, according to Aryloom president Mack Hueber. He maintained that it makes sense to use the same strategy for cannabis businesses if it is effective for craft beers.

According to Hueber, the current quarterly tax schedule creates unnecessary financial strain for cultivators, wholesalers, and processors who are required to submit their tax payments within 20 days after the quarter ends, yet retailers have 30 days to settle their invoices. This misalignment often forces businesses to pay taxes before they’ve received the revenue needed to cover the payments, leaving them vulnerable to late fees.

Hueber pointed out that this adjustment would give businesses the time to collect funds, making it easier to pay taxes without jeopardizing cash flow. Many cannabis businesses are already under significant financial pressure, and he believes fixing the tax payment timing is a logical and easy solution. Guarino added that shifting to annual payments would alleviate the struggle of meeting quarterly deadlines while juggling business expenses and outstanding invoices.

The push for tax reform comes after significant changes earlier in the year when the state replaced its potency-based tax with a flat 9% excise tax. Hueber described the previous tax structure, which calculated payments based on the THC content of products, as extremely complicated and burdensome.

While the shift to a flat tax was a step in the right direction, many businesses, including Jaunty, are still dealing with the consequences of past policies. Guarino shared that his company is on a state payment plan, paying $65,000 monthly to cover back taxes. When combined with current tax liabilities, Jaunty expects to owe approximately $400,000 this month alone. He contrasted the situation with personal income taxes, where the IRS provides longer repayment terms, noting that the excise tax system offers much less flexibility.

Beyond the tax reform bill, two other marijuana-related proposals are awaiting the governor’s decision. One aims to officially classify cannabis as an agricultural crop, while the other seeks to allow farmers to hold market-style events to increase sales. Both the tax legislation and the agricultural bill have gained attention from the governor’s office, raising hopes that action will soon be taken.

The challenge of unfavorable tax policies isn’t only affecting cannabis firms in New York State. Even established companies like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have to contend with tax systems that hamstring their potential for growth in many jurisdictions.

About CNW420

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

420 with CNW — Study Suggests Marijuana Use Could Trigger Epigenetic Changes

A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry has explored how marijuana use might influence the epigenome in the human body. The epigenome, often described as a system of switches, regulates how genes are activated or deactivated, shaping bodily functions.

According to Lifang Hou, a Northwestern University epidemiologist, the study identified a connection between multiple epigenetic markers and long-term cannabis use.

The researchers examined more than 1000 participants who had been involved in an earlier long-term study, which included surveys about their marijuana use spanning two decades. Participants who were between 18 and 30 years old at the study’s outset provided blood samples during two specific intervals—15 years and 20 years into the study.

These samples allowed the researchers to analyze changes in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism where methyl groups are added or removed from DNA. While this modification does not alter the DNA sequence, it can influence gene activity by affecting how easily cells can interpret genetic instructions.

Lifestyle and environmental factors, including marijuana use, can induce such methylation alterations, which can have far-reaching implications, including potential transmission to future generations. Blood samples provide a snapshot of both recent and historical exposures to such factors, making them a valuable tool for this kind of research.

The study revealed associations between cannabis use and numerous epigenetic markers. For instance, in blood samples collected at the 15-year mark, 22 markers were linked to recent marijuana use, while 31 were linked to long-term use. By the 20-year point, researchers identified 132 markers tied to recent cannabis use and 16 linked to long-term use.

Interestingly, one of these markers had previously been associated with tobacco use, suggesting a potential overlap in how the body regulates epigenetic responses to both substances.

Hou and her team noted that some of the epigenetic changes identified have been connected to processes such as cellular growth, hormone signaling, immune responses, substance use disorders, and neurological conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. However, the study does not establish a direct causal relationship between marijuana use and these changes or health issues.

The findings offer new insights into how marijuana may influence epigenetic factors, according to Drew Nannini, another epidemiologist involved in the study. He emphasized the need for additional research across diverse populations to confirm these associations. Investigating how marijuana affects age-related health issues could also shed light on its long-term health impacts.

This call for additional research is partly the reason why the broader marijuana industry, including firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), has for long advocated for sweeping regulatory changes at the federal level so that it is easier to study marijuana and enable state-level and federal authorities to tweak marijuana laws based on the available science about the benefits and actual risks of this substance.

About CNW420

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