420 with CNW — New Shopping Approaches Are Boosting Marijuana Retail Sales

As the marijuana market grows more competitive, some retailers are shifting how they present their products to customers. These changes, going beyond aesthetics, are helping boost sales and creating a more comfortable and engaging customer experience.

Verano Holdings Corp., based in Chicago, recently introduced a new take on marijuana retail at its Zen Leaf store in Phoenix. Instead of the usual setup where shoppers wait at the counter to speak with a budtender, the store is using a more casual, self-service approach. Customers can browse shelves on their own, just like they would in a typical convenience store.

People are encouraged to pick up products, check labels, and read details such as CBD and THC levels or terpene content. This setup gives them more control over their shopping and may reduce the pressure that comes with asking questions at the counter.

According to Verano’s executive VP of retail, Robert Cohen, this makes the experience more relaxed and welcoming. Customers say they’ve found items they wouldn’t have discovered otherwise. Even customers who placed online orders often added more to their carts after seeing products in person.

Some states allow dispensaries to offer what’s known as “deli-style” service, where buyers can inspect and smell the cannabis flower before buying. Arizona, Oregon, Missouri, and Colorado permit this practice, often using “sniff jars” to let people experience the aroma of different strains. In contrast, states like New York and California require prepackaged products, limiting this kind of interaction.

Show-Me Organics CEO Boston Dickerson compares buying flower to picking produce—you want to see and smell it before deciding. His stores in Missouri follow deli-style practices where employees wear gloves and use tongs to handle products. Customers smell the flower, but never purchase from the jars directly. According to Dickerson, about 65% of their flower is sold using this approach.

However, this style isn’t without issues. Darwin Millard, a cannabis safety expert, points out that repeated opening of jars can affect product quality and spread germs. During the pandemic, many states restricted these practices for safety, similar to how cafes removed communal condiment bars.

Millard, who works with ASTM International on industry standards, encourages proper sanitation practices. Employees handling open products should wear gloves, masks, and hair coverings. He also suggests alternatives like sample visuals or scratch-and-sniff cards to let customers experience a product’s scent without opening actual inventory.

As leading cannabis firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) continue to find innovative ways to attract and retain customers, we are bound to see many new techniques being introduced to boost different brands.

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 — Worker Dies After Feds Raid Cannabis Farms in California

A tragic incident unfolded during immigration raids on two marijuana farms in Southern California, resulting in the death of a farmworker. The worker, identified as Jaime Alanis, passed away from injuries sustained after falling nearly 30 feet during one of the operations.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that 200 individuals suspected of being in the country unlawfully were detained at two farms located in Camarillo and Carpinteria. Agents also discovered at least 10 minors who, according to DHS, may have been at risk of forced labor or trafficking.

Four U.S. citizens were also arrested following clashes between immigration agents and protestors outside one of the farms. Authorities are also offering a reward of $50,000 for tips aiding the arrest a suspect that is alleged to have fired at the officers while the raid was executed.

One of the targeted locations was Glass House Farms in Camarillo, a licensed marijuana cultivator that also produces cucumbers and tomatoes. Officers in military-style gear entered the farm, prompting community members and workers’ families to gather outside, seeking information and expressing their opposition to the raid.

Alanis, who had worked at Glass House for about a decade picking tomatoes, reportedly contacted his family in Mexico during the raid, saying he was hiding. Later, his relatives were informed he had been hospitalized with severe injuries, including multiple fractures and a broken neck.

Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson Andrew Dowd stated that a dozen people sustained injuries during the confrontation between agents and demonstrators.

Glass House Farms stated that it had no knowledge of any violations related to hiring practices or the employment of minors. The company also said it is working to help detained employees obtain legal support.

The crackdown is part of a broader immigration enforcement effort by the Trump administration. Since taking office again, Trump has directed immigration teams to pursue undocumented immigrants and, in some instances, has transferred alleged gang members to prisons overseas without a trial.

Following the raids, a federal judge temporarily blocked immigration arrests across seven California counties. The order, issued by Judge Maame E. Frimpong, came after civil rights groups filed a lawsuit claiming that federal agents were using discriminatory and unconstitutional tactics.

Judge Frimpong’s ruling emphasized that stopping individuals without reasonable cause violates constitutional protections. She instructed federal agents to cease racial profiling and to ensure that those detained have access to legal representation. The temporary halt on immigration stops remains in effect for ten days while the court reviews the broader claims.

Leading cannabis companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) within the North American region will be hoping that U.S. federal authorities find more acceptable ways to conduct their work without needlessly creating situations that result in the loss of life.

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 Lawmaker Suggests Efforts to Legalize Cannabis Could Be Paused

State lawmakers in Ohio are likely to head into their summer recess without passing any revisions to the current cannabis regulations.

Senate Bill 56 (SB 56), which proposes revisions to Ohio’s recreational cannabis laws, has been stalled in the House Judiciary Committee for two consecutive weeks. The committee canceled a scheduled meeting this week, which only listed SB 56 on its agenda, and previously removed the bill from the agenda altogether.

“We’re hitting pause for the summer,” Representative Brian Stewart said. “We might come back to it later and try again.”

The Senate approved the bill in February, but it needs approval from the House before it can become law. House Speaker Matt Huffman explained that while the Senate is eager to move forward, the House doesn’t want to compromise its legislative goals just to pass the legislation quickly.

Currently, legislators are finalizing the state’s two-year budget, which must be finalized by July 1. Once that’s done, the legislature will begin its summer recess.

SB 56 proposes lowering the THC cap in recreational cannabis extracts from 90% to 70%, capping dispensaries at 400 locations, and restricting smoking in most public areas. It keeps the existing home-grow rules at six plants per adult and 12 per household. The bill, introduced in January by Senator Steve Huffman, originally aimed to cut the home-grow limit in half.

Voters approved recreational cannabis in 2023 through a citizen-led initiative, which passed with 57% support. Retail sales began in August 2024. Since the law originated from a citizen petition and not an amendment, lawmakers have the authority to amend it.

House Democrats argue that the bill undermines the will of the voters. Representative Dani Isaacsohn said, “Ohioans chose to legalize recreational cannabis. They understood the measure and supported it.”

Among the most debated provisions are new restrictions on hemp products. Currently, the bill states that only licensed dispensaries can sell the products, which would need to meet strict advertising, packaging, and labeling rules. However, stores like groceries, restaurants, and convenience shops can still sell hemp-infused beverages. Oversight would fall to the state’s Commerce Department.

Isaacsohn agrees that hemp rules are necessary but wants them handled separately. Meanwhile, Representative D.J. Swearingen, who had planned to present changes to the hemp portion of the bill, was unable to do so due to the canceled committee meeting.

He worked with the American Republic Policy on proposals that would let existing hemp businesses keep their doors open. Dakota Sawyer from the group said the goal was to prevent monopolies and allow small businesses to continue operating outside the dispensary model.

Governor DeWine and some lawmakers have voiced concerns about minors accessing hemp products. But Sawyer pointed out that the average Ohio hemp consumer is about 40 years old. He accused some legislators of exaggerating risks to justify restrictions.

Sawyer suggested splitting marijuana and hemp legislation into two separate bills, arguing that combining them only complicates progress.

The discussions in Ohio are likely to attract interest from far and wide, including from firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), given how high the stakes are, including the regulation of hemp products within state borders.

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 — The Unseen Immigration Risks Associated with Working in the Marijuana Industry

With the current presidential administration putting a spotlight on immigration enforcement, it’s more important than ever for employers to make sure their hiring and employment practices follow federal immigration rules. This is especially critical for businesses involved in the legal marijuana industry at the state level. Even though more states are legalizing marijuana for medical and recreational use, federal law still lists marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance—meaning it is treated as illegal under federal statutes.

For individuals who are not U.S. citizens, any connection to marijuana—even if it’s legal under state law—can lead to serious immigration consequences. According to federal immigration law, someone who has been convicted of or has admitted to using or being involved with controlled substances may be denied entry to the U.S., barred from getting a visa, or even deported. This includes lawful permanent residents (green card holders), who can be removed from the country if they’re convicted under these drug laws, unless the offense is a one-time possession of under 30 grams.

The law broadly defines drug trafficking to include cultivating, producing, selling, distributing, financing, or helping in any way with these activities. Because of this wide definition, people working in state-legal cannabis roles—from farm workers to delivery drivers, investors, or managers—could fall under the label of “traffickers” in the eyes of immigration officials.

That includes workers on temporary visas like the H-2A visa used for agricultural labor. Even if the work is legal in their state, involvement in cannabis may disqualify them from future visa applications and can open employers up to serious penalties if they failed to disclose the nature of the job during the visa process.

Non-citizens applying for visas or entering the U.S.—even just for a short visit—may be refused entry if they have cannabis-related convictions or involvement. The U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Affairs Manual gives consular officers wide discretion to deny visas based on even a hint of participation in cannabis activity.

The impact doesn’t stop there. Permanent residents applying for U.S. citizenship must demonstrate “good moral character.” Violations of drug laws—whether through conviction or admission—can prevent them from meeting this requirement during the eligibility period, which is either three or five years, depending on how they received their green card.

For these reasons, people who are not U.S. citizens should steer clear of cannabis-related work or business, no matter what state law permits. Likewise, employers in the cannabis industry should avoid hiring non-citizens to reduce the risk of legal trouble for both the business and the employee. Federal immigration rules still apply, and violating them—knowingly or not—can have serious consequences.

These persisting prohibitionist policies against marijuana despite the changing societal attitudes to the substance are probably a concern to industry actors like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that have worked hard to avail licensed products that provide value to users, whether for recreational or medical purposes.

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 — Texas Lawmakers Pass Bill to Ban Non-Medical THC Products

Texas could soon outlaw all THC products that are not medically prescribed. Last Wednesday, the Texas House passed Senate Bill 3 with a 95-44 vote, moving the state closer to banning the sale of non-medical THC items.

Currently, Texas does not permit recreational marijuana. However, the state does allow limited use of medical cannabis, and hemp-based products are legal as long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC. If Governor Greg Abbott signs the measure, any THC product that isn’t used for medical reasons would no longer be allowed, including those derived from hemp.

The bill, introduced by Senator Charles Perry, specifically targets items like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC variants, as well as THC-infused drinks and edibles. It would also prohibit the sale of any cannabinoids apart from CBG and CBD.

Much of the controversy around the legislation stems from the Farm Bill 2018, which made hemp and its derivatives legal across the country. Texas followed suit in 2019 by adopting similar legislation at the state level. Since then, the market for hemp-based THC alternatives has exploded.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stated that the bill was a priority and warned that he’d block progress on the state budget unless SB 3 passed. Patrick claimed in a Facebook video that THC products are being sold without oversight and are reaching school-aged children. He said some of these items are even more potent than illegal cannabis.

Patrick also shared a map showing the rapid rise of vape and smoke shops in the state—more than 8,000 have opened over the last three years, many located near schools.

The video also featured Senator Perry arguing that many of the shops were intentionally located near school zones, and Senator Cesar Blanco highlighted a sharp rise in child THC overdoses—up nearly 500% among children under five from 2017 to 2022, based on state Poison Control data.

Critics of the bill argue that a full ban would have serious consequences. According to the Texas Hemp Business Council, it would hurt farmers, local businesses, and thousands of Texans who use hemp-derived products for their health and well-being. They say the sector supports over 53,000 jobs, generates more than $4 billion in retail revenue, and adds $268 million in state tax contributions.

Rather than a complete ban, the council recommends alternative measures such as limiting sales to adults 21 and older, requiring child-proof packaging, and enforcing distance requirements from learning institutions.

As of now, Governor Abbott has not publicly stated whether he will approve the bill.

The wider marijuana industry, including entities like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be hoping that other states don’t take the prohibitive direction shown by Texas and instead seek to find ways to regulate the new hemp derivatives that have caused a stir in the market.

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 — Trump Announces Withdrawal of Controversial Prohibitionist Nominee for Washington Attorney

President Donald Trump has announced that he’s pulling his nomination for Ed Martin, who was set to become the U.S. attorney for Washington, D.C.

This follows controversy surrounding Martin’s recent actions against a local medical cannabis dispensary that operates legally under D.C. regulations. Despite the dispensary’s compliance with local laws, Martin warned the business about violating federal marijuana laws and hinted at possible prosecution.

While Trump didn’t directly link his decision to Martin’s stance on cannabis, many advocates in the District see the move as a positive sign that may ease concerns over federal interference in the city’s marijuana policies.

Trump spoke about the withdrawal during an event at the White House, praising Martin and expressing disappointment over how things turned out. He noted that he still hopes Martin can serve the Department of Justice in another role. “He was excellent,” Trump said. “Honestly, I was let down. A lot of people felt the same way, but that’s just how things go sometimes.”

Martin’s nomination was already under fire for reasons beyond his comments on cannabis. Critics pointed to his lack of experience in prosecution and his outspoken defense of individuals involved in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. These issues added to the controversy surrounding his potential appointment.

Trump also mentioned that a new candidate would be announced within a couple of days to fill the U.S. attorney role in D.C., and he expressed confidence in the upcoming nominee.

As for Martin, his messaging on cannabis enforcement has been inconsistent. On one hand, he emphasized that federal cannabis laws must be respected. On the other, he acknowledged that enforcement would likely focus on businesses that are out of line with local regulations. “Anyone selling cannabis without the proper licensing can expect legal consequences,” he said during a previous interview.

The dispensary at the center of this situation, Green Theory, is officially licensed under D.C. law. However, Martin argued that the business still violates a federal law banning cannabis retailers from operating within 1,000 feet of learning institutions, which applies to the dispensary’s location.

In a separate interview, Martin downplayed the priority of targeting legal cannabis businesses but hinted that such establishments might not align with his vision for the community. “You have to interpret the law based on the facts, but also consider the current situation in the community,” he stated.

The broader marijuana industry, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be relieved that a nominee that was threatening to target the legal D.C. marijuana system that has operated for years has been withdrawn.

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 — Trucking Industry Says Outdated Federal Rules, Cannabis Testing Are Causing Trucker Shortages

A new report from two trucking industry companies highlights a growing problem in the field: a serious shortage of drivers, estimated at around 80,000 last year. One of the key reasons behind this, the report says, is the number of drivers testing positive for cannabis under the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) strict drug policies.

The paper— “Cannabis, Compliance and Driver Retention”—was produced by Fleetworthy and FreightWaves. It explains that most qualified drivers are being sidelined due to positive drug test results, often because they are unaware that federal rules don’t recognize cannabis legalization in individual states.

As more states move to legalize cannabis and its use becomes socially acceptable, the trucking industry faces new challenges in managing safety regulations. The report also discusses the rise of CBD and cannabis-based products and how current DOT rules haven’t adapted to reflect today’s legal landscape.

Under current DOT guidelines, truckers are tested for drugs before employment, randomly while on the job, after accidents, or when there is suspicion of impairment. If a driver fails a test, they are immediately taken off the road and must go through a process that includes evaluations, follow-up testing, and counseling. While some states, like Minnesota, offer protections for first-time offenses, the process often ends careers.

When a driver is removed, companies lose experienced personnel and must invest heavily in recruiting and training replacements, which increases costs and stress on the system.

The report suggests that reclassifying cannabis under federal law—from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance—could help, especially by reducing stigma and acknowledging its medical use. However, such a change wouldn’t automatically affect DOT testing requirements, since driving is a high-risk job.

To help reduce the impact on drivers and improve retention, the report recommends increasing education around cannabis policies, offering better training, and updating testing methods. For instance, improved CBD labeling could help drivers avoid accidental THC exposure. More accurate drug tests, such as those using hair and saliva samples, could also be fairer than the standard urine tests, which can detect drug use long after the effects have worn off.

Though oral fluid testing was approved by DOT policy changes in 2023, the system isn’t fully operational yet due to delays in certifying testing labs.

Ultimately, the paper emphasizes the importance of keeping the conversation going among trucking companies, government bodies, and drivers to find practical solutions that balance safety and fairness.

Federal reforms to align state policies with federal law would allow more truckers to retain their jobs while benefiting from the cannabis products sold by licensed companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) and other domestic firms.

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 Finds CBD, CBG-Infused Ointment Effective Against Eczema

A recent study has found that a skin ointment containing cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD) may help ease the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. The research, published in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal, followed nine adults diagnosed with eczema over three months. The researchers tracked skin health indicators, including moisture levels, oil production, skin pH, and water loss.

Participants used a topical treatment containing 5% CBG, 30% CBD, cholesterol, and hemp seed oil. According to the researchers, applying the ointment daily to affected areas—specifically the forearms—and covering it with a wet wrap before sleep helped improve various skin health markers. These included hydration, oil levels, water loss, and redness.

Some patients even experienced remission of their symptoms. The treatment served as an alternative to more conventional therapies during both flare-ups and periods of remission.

The authors noted better results among participants who consistently followed the application routine. Those who skipped applications or were put off by the greasy feel of the product didn’t experience the same level of improvement.

While the results are promising, the researchers acknowledged that the timing of the study, from May to July of 2022, might have influenced outcomes, since eczema symptoms tend to lessen in warmer months.

This study adds to the growing interest in CBD’s role in skincare. A study from Thailand found that CBD may be useful in cosmetic products thanks to its antioxidant and wound-healing properties. Researchers there suggested that CBD could be added to items like sunscreen, hair products, or healing ointments.

Another study published by a team in the U.S. showed that using CBD-infused lotion might reduce skin damage caused by UV rays. Participants who applied the CBD product experienced less UV-related damage compared to a placebo group.

The potential benefits of cannabinoids may also extend to veterinary care. A 2024 study explored how full-spectrum cannabis oil helped a dog with discoid lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune condition that typically causes hair loss and skin lesions. Traditional steroid treatments had caused liver issues, but switching to cannabis oil—with a CBD to THC ratio of 1:2—led to notable improvement in the dog’s skin and liver health. The dog’s behavior also improved shortly after stopping steroid medication.

Overall, these findings suggest a growing interest in the role of cannabinoids as a potential option for managing various skin conditions in both humans and animals. The findings also show that the full range of therapeutic benefits that can be obtained from the available marijuana products on the market by players like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) has yet to be documented by researchers.

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 Poll Finds Majority in Utah Support Recreational Marijuana Legalization

A recent poll conducted on behalf of a Utah medical marijuana advocacy group indicates that most Utah residents would support a ballot initiative to legalize recreational marijuana. The survey results show that 52% of voters favor such a measure—the same percentage that approved medical marijuana in the state in 2018.

Despite the survey results, Alex Iorg, co-founder of Wholesome Co. and a member of the newly formed group “Keep Utah Medical,” believes the state is not yet ready for recreational cannabis.

He suggested that unless the medical program is improved, broader legalization may become inevitable. “If we don’t make it easier for patients to access medical cannabis here, it’s only a matter of time,” Iorg said, pointing out that similar trends have played out in neighboring states that started with medical programs before fully legalizing.

The group is not planning to push for recreational legalization, even as surrounding states have already done so. The group aims to improve the state’s medical marijuana program by making it more accessible for patients and reducing barriers that drive people to illegal sources or out-of-state purchases.

The poll, conducted earlier this month by Noble Predictive Insights, sampled 609 Utah registered voters. It found that 52% of respondents would support a measure to legalize recreational marijuana, while 38% were against it, and 9% remained undecided. These numbers reflect a shift in public attitude toward marijuana use since the legalization of medical marijuana.

The poll results may serve as a wake-up call to Utah lawmakers about potential future shifts in marijuana laws. Although the state legislature recently passed modest expansions to the medical marijuana program, the proposals faced strong opposition from socially conservative groups, many of whom were against medical legalization from the start.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, a significant influence in Utah politics, opposed medical marijuana in 2018 and has also resisted recreational legalization efforts in other states.

Moreover, two of Utah’s top legislative leaders, House Speaker Mike Schultz and Senate Leader J. Stuart Adams, have already expressed their opposition to a recreational cannabis initiative.

The survey further highlights that conservative and LDS voters generally disapprove of legalizing recreational cannabis, while non-LDS, liberal, independent, and moderate voters, are more likely to support it.

Mike Noble of Noble Predictive Insights noted that Utah’s conservative base is more politically organized than progressives, meaning any push for full legalization could face strong resistance from traditionalist groups determined to block such efforts.

The cannabis industry around the region, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be watching how the policy reform efforts in Utah play out over the coming months and years.

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 — The US is Awash with Black Market Marijuana

More than a decade after states began legalizing recreational cannabis, the U.S. marijuana industry remains complex. On one side, marijuana has become as common for some as a cold beer or a glass of wine, with regulated companies offering products that meet government standards. Yet, a significant portion of cannabis sales in the country still comes from illegal operations.

Even experienced law enforcement officers sometimes struggle to differentiate legally sourced cannabis from black-market products. For the average consumer, identifying the difference is nearly impossible.

Supporters of cannabis legalization had hoped that the legal industry would quickly dominate, overtaking criminal producers. However, the opposite has occurred. Licensed cannabis businesses frequently find themselves competing against well-organized crime networks, some of which have ties to China. These groups view marijuana cultivation as a relatively low-risk operation with fewer legal repercussions compared to trafficking harder drugs like methamphetamines or fentanyl.

Chinese authorities have previously suggested that the U.S. blames China to detract from its domestic drug-related issues.

Experts note that illicit marijuana sellers have a financial advantage. By avoiding taxes and regulatory fees, they can offer lower prices, making their products more appealing. They also bypass federal laws prohibiting the transportation of cannabis across state borders, allowing them to distribute widely.

As a result, illegally grown marijuana often finds its way onto retail shelves, packaged in a manner nearly indistinguishable from legally regulated products.

With the marijuana market still experiencing hurdles, experts recommend purchasing from licensed stores in states where recreational marijuana is legal. While legal dispensaries may charge higher prices, they offer products that are tested for safety and quality.

Several states, including New York, New Jersey, and California, provide online resources to help consumers identify legitimate sellers. Before making a purchase, it’s wise to verify that a shop is properly licensed. Even when buying from a trusted source, experts suggest asking about the product’s potency and origin.

Over time, they anticipate that purchasing legal cannabis will become easier, drawing comparisons to the history of alcohol regulation in the U.S. Following the repeal of alcohol prohibition in 1933, some states continued to enforce liquor bans well into the 1950s, creating a similarly fragmented legal landscape. Smugglers and bootleggers remained active for years.

Some states are now taking action. To support legal businesses, New York City began cracking down on unlicensed cannabis stores. California reported confiscating cannabis that was grown illegally, valued at around $200 million.

Still, experts predict that illicit cannabis sales will continue to be widespread for a while. Firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) hope that major policy changes at the federal level to permit marijuana sales and consumption would lay the groundwork for decisive action to be taken against the black market flooding the country with illicit products.

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