420 with CNW — Illinois OKs Additional Conditions for Which Women Can Use Medical Marijuana

Cannabis regulators in Illinois have expanded the list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana for the first time since legalization in 2019, focusing specifically on women’s health issues.

The state’s public health department, following recommendations from the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board, approved four new conditions: female orgasmic disorder, uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis.

While cannabis cannot shrink cysts or fibroids as some treatments might, it can help alleviate the pain brought by these conditions, explained Doctor Leslie Mendoza Temple, co-chair of the advisory board. She expressed satisfaction with the state’s decision to approve the conditions after nearly six years without any additions to the list, despite previous recommendations.

Currently, Illinois allows medical marijuana for 56 conditions, including chronic pain, cancer, multiple sclerosis, terminal illnesses, and osteoarthritis. Doctors can recommend marijuana to patients with these qualifying conditions, enabling them to obtain a medical marijuana card.

The card requires a $50 yearly charge and a doctor’s certification and allows patients to purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries without paying the steep recreational marijuana tax, which can be as high as 45 percent.

Although recreational marijuana is legally available to adults 21 and older, Dr. Mendoza Temple emphasized the importance of maintaining a distinction between medical and recreational use. Beyond cost savings, medical patients and their caregivers can purchase up to 2.5 ounces at once—compared to one ounce for adult-use buyers—and are also permitted to grow up to five cannabis plants.

Dr. Mendoza Temple also highlighted areas where the medical program could be improved, such as permitting drive-through cannabis sales, increasing the number of dispensaries authorized to sell medical cannabis, and granting broader access to all licensed dispensaries in Illinois.

Regulators have acknowledged these concerns and are working on legislation to enhance patient access statewide.

Among the newly approved conditions, endometriosis involves tissue resembling the uterine lining growing outside the uterus, often causing scarring, severe pain, and potential infertility. Female orgasmic disorder refers to difficulties in achieving orgasm, which can stem from various underlying causes. According to the IDPH, evidence suggests marijuana may provide relief for both conditions.

“Medical marijuana has demonstrated its effectiveness in managing symptoms of numerous debilitating conditions,” stated Dr. Sameer Vohra, director of IDPH. He added that the department thoroughly evaluates petitions using professional analysis and the latest scientific evidence to make informed decisions for the well-being of Illinois residents.

Leading entities like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that offer medical cannabis are likely to applaud the decision of the Illinois authorities to expand the list of qualifying conditions so that more patients can benefit from the medical marijuana program.

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

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420 with CNW — New York Governor Announces That Legal Cannabis Sales Have Reached $1bn

New York has reached a major milestone in its legal cannabis market, surpassing $1 billion in sales. Governor Kathy Hochul described this achievement as a reflection of the dedication of individuals who have worked tirelessly to build an industry that prioritizes fairness, public safety, and community empowerment.

Another statement from the governor’s office highlighted how this milestone underscores the efforts of communities, entrepreneurs, and consumers in embracing the legal market, further solidifying New York’s reputation as a leader in innovation and equity within the industry.

The Office of Cannabis Management’s (OCM) acting executive director, Felicia A.B. Reid, underlined that the milestone shows the effectiveness of a socially just economic model as well as the high level of consumer demand for legal marijuana.

Regulators also noted that more than half of all licenses for recreational marijuana businesses have been granted to applicants who meet economic and social equity criteria. Many of these businesses are minority- or women-owned, reflecting the state’s commitment to inclusivity.

Tremaine Wright, chair of the Cannabis Control Board, praised this approach, saying it has helped create a thriving market that benefits communities while generating significant economic growth. Wright also pointed out that tax revenue from marijuana sales is reinvested in communities that were disproportionately affected by prohibition, ensuring that these areas receive meaningful support and development.

According to OCM, cannabis use in the state has significantly increased over the last decade. Approximately 19% of residents report using cannabis annually, with 12% saying they use it monthly. Additionally, two-thirds of consumers who used marijuana within the past year purchased their products from legal retailers, showing growing trust in the regulated market.

OCM had earlier predicted that the $1 billion sales mark would be reached by the end of 2024. Officials encouraged residents to support their local communities by purchasing cannabis from licensed retailers.

Despite an initial slow rollout due to legal challenges and other setbacks, the state’s legal cannabis market has gained momentum in recent months. Regulators attribute this progress to the growing number of licensed businesses and a concerted effort to shut down unlicensed shops through initiatives like Operation Padlock in NYC. This enforcement action has led to a 105% increase in sales for licensed retailers, according to a survey by OCM.

Crystal Peoples-Stokes, the majority leader of the State, likened the development of New York’s marijuana industry to a steady process. Quoting the Buffalo Bills coach, she said, “Trust the process.” She praised the solid groundwork laid by the OCM and expressed optimism about the continued growth and refinement of the industry.

The entire marijuana industry, including firms like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) is glad that the recreational cannabis program in New York State is finally on a growth trajectory and the results are beginning to show.

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420 with CNW — Portugal Looks Forward to Standing Out as a Medical Marijuana Hub

Portugal is rapidly emerging as a leading center for medical marijuana in Europe. Its mild, temperate, subtropical environment, frequently likened to that of California, makes it an excellent location for cultivating cannabis.

“No other European country offers better environmental conditions,” said Martins of FAI Therapeutics, a Portuguese pharmaceutical firm. Located near the hills of Serpa, surrounded by cork oaks and olive trees, FAI Therapeutics’ 13.3-acre farm produces approximately 30 tons of marijuana flowers annually. The operation began in 2022 following a surge of interest from international marijuana producers drawn to Portugal’s ideal climate and supportive legislation.

Currently, over 60 companies have received authorization to cultivate, distribute, or process medical marijuana products in Portugal, with an additional 170 companies waiting for approval. Last year, the country exported about 12 tons of marijuana-based medical products, primarily to Germany, Europe’s biggest market, and to countries such as Australia, Poland, and Spain.

The industry has ambitious goals as demand for medical marijuana grows globally. According to Jose Tempero, medical director of Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), a global corporation based in Canada with a marijuana farm close to Cantanhede, Portugal is leading among European producers of medical cannabis. Tilray’s facility has packaging and processing facilities as well as labs, with its marijuana oils selling even in Latin America.

The expanding market for medical marijuana is driven by its applications in managing chronic pain, cancer treatment side effects, and certain forms of epilepsy, among other medical conditions. Over 50 countries have approved marijuana-based medications, with the number expected to increase in the coming years. Market analysts predict the global medical marijuana industry will grow from $16.6 billion in 2023 to more than $65 billion by 2030.

Beyond its favorable climate, Portugal offers a robust regulatory framework established under its 2019 cannabis legislation, which enforces strict quality standards. These regulations have bolstered confidence among international buyers, ensuring the safety and reliability of products exported from Portugal.

Despite Portugal’s leadership in production, many Portuguese patients face challenges in accessing cannabis-based medications. Most doctors are hesitant to prescribe these treatments, and their costs are not fully covered by the nation’s healthcare system. Lara Silva, whose young daughter suffers from severe epilepsy, highlighted the difficulty of accessing CBD products locally. She initially had to source them from Spain due to insufficient availability in Portugal.

Tempero acknowledged the stigma surrounding medical cannabis but expressed optimism about its growing acceptance, particularly beyond recreational use.

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420 with CNW — UN Human Rights Commissioner Condemns War on Drugs as a Total Failure

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) has urged the global community to reconsider punitive and criminal approaches to drug policy, declaring that the “war on drugs” has been a profound failure.

Speaking at a Warsaw conference that brought together experts and leaders from across Europe, Commissioner Volker Türk noted that current strategies have neither curbed drug use nor deterred drug-related crimes. He called for a shift toward evidence-based policies that center on human rights and prioritize compassion over punishment.

Türk argued that treating drug use as a criminal issue rather than a health matter has marginalized and discriminated against individuals struggling with substance use. He highlighted how punitive approaches often strip people of their rights and dignity, leaving them excluded from society.

According to Türk, these individuals should be included in the policy-making process to create strategies that genuinely reduce harm. Without their input, he warned, efforts to address drug-related issues are unlikely to succeed.

In a video shared on social media, Türk reiterated these views, condemning the destructive impact of punitive drug policies on individuals and communities worldwide. He noted that these policies have failed to address the root causes of drug use while exacerbating harm for those already at risk.

The Commissioner called for transformative solutions guided by the International Guidelines on Drug Policy and Human Rights. He advocated for evidence-driven, gender-sensitive measures rooted in public health, including voluntary access to social and healthcare services. Scapegoating and stigmatization, he emphasized, only deepen the challenges faced by individuals and communities affected by drug use.

Türk’s remarks align with a statement issued earlier by UN experts, working groups, and special rapporteurs. That statement criticized the war on drugs for contributing to severe human rights abuses documented by various UN entities. The experts called for a shift from punishment to support and urged governments to invest in evidence-based programs like prevention, harm reduction, and treatment. These efforts, they stressed, must adhere to human rights norms and prioritize community welfare.

The UN experts also referenced reports encouraging governments to move away from criminalization and adopt harm-reduction strategies. These include drug-checking services, supervised consumption areas, and the availability of naloxone and other overdose-reversal medications. The reports suggested that over-criminalization and stigma are significant barriers to achieving better health outcomes. By addressing these systemic issues, policymakers can develop more effective approaches to drug-related challenges.

Switching from prohibition to legalization and allowing companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) to operate can be a good beginning which can then be followed by other measures to undo the harms caused by prohibition policies.

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420 with CNW — New Study Explores the Health Conditions for Which Individuals Use Medical Cannabis

A recently released analysis of numerous medical cannabis patients within the United States reveals that PTSD, pain, and anxiety are the most common conditions qualifying individuals for medical marijuana programs.

The study indicates that 58.6% of patients reported managing more than one medical condition with cannabis. Among those dealing with multiple conditions, chronic pain and anxiety were the most frequently cited, followed by issues such as PTSD, insomnia, and muscle spasms.

The research was conducted by Leafwell, a specialized platform that facilitates access to medical cannabis cards, in collaboration with San Diego University’s Center for Marijuana Research and Duke University Medical School. Their findings, which were published in the journal Population Medicine Journal, were based on data anonymized from over 81,000 users of Leafwell in 32 states.

The analysis revealed a nearly equal gender distribution among patients using medical cannabis, with 51.1% identifying as male and 48.9% as female. Regarding racial demographics, 71.5% of patients identified themselves as white non-Hispanic, followed by non-Hispanic blacks (10.4%), Hispanic (8.4%), and other racial groups (7.1%).

Age-wise, 65% of the study subjects were 21-49 years old, with 25.4% aged 50 or more, and 8.3% under the age of 21. The median age of participants was 40.

The study also highlighted a shift in the conditions for which cannabis is used. While PTSD, pain, and anxiety remain the most prevalent reasons, earlier research pointed to cancer and multiple sclerosis as more common qualifying conditions in the past. This shift may reflect evolving medical cannabis regulations that now include additional qualifying conditions.

The study’s authors said the findings represent a further step towards understanding the complex co-occurring medical conditions associated with the initiation of medical cannabis treatment. The study concludes that understanding patients’ self-reported conditions provides valuable insights into how they perceive their health issues and the contribution of cannabis in their treatment.

A Leafwell blog post on the findings emphasized several critical implications for policy and healthcare, including the value of personalized treatments, the expanding role of cannabis in mental health care, and the necessity for alternative approaches to managing chronic pain.

Meanwhile, a report published in September by Leafwell estimated that nationwide legalization of medical cannabis could save nearly $29 billion in costs related to healthcare. That study found that states with medical cannabis programs experienced a 3.4% reduction in healthcare insurance premiums, translating to an average savings of $238 per employee annually.

Such studies highlight how the medical cannabis products manufactured by various enterprises like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) are helping the patients that opt to include marijuana in their management of the symptoms afflicting them.

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420 with CNW — German Marijuana Club Hands Out Legal Cannabis as Pilot Program Kicks Off

Germany recently saw its first cannabis social club—Social Club Ganderkesee—announce the distribution of cannabis to its members, marking a new milestone in the country’s journey toward regulated marijuana access. The nation legalized the possession and personal cultivation of marijuana for adults in April. However, until recently, there were limited legal means for acquiring the substance.

Social Club Ganderkesee started growing cannabis in July after receiving a permit from Lower Saxony’s Agriculture Minister, Miriam Staudte. According to Daniel Keune, the club’s chairman, the membership represents a broad demographic, ranging from 18 to 70 years old. Each social club is restricted to 500 members, and each member can purchase up to 50 grams of cannabis per month.

Lawmaker Carmen Wegge of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) emphasized the importance of the clubs in assisting in the reduction of the illicit marijuana market. She noted that the clubs offer a valuable option for people who may not want to grow cannabis on their own.

Meanwhile, cities like Frankfurt and Hanover are advancing separate pilot programs aimed at widening access to cannabis in controlled ways over the next five years. Frankfurt’s program would enable controlled commercial sales of cannabis to a group of selected participants. The initiative would allow individuals to buy up to 25 grams daily, with a cap of 50 grams per month, from four authorized shops throughout the city.

Participants would need to commit to health monitoring through evaluations and surveys conducted by medical professionals. However, people with certain conditions—such as mental health issues, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and minors—would not be eligible for the program. The program aims to offer legal cannabis at competitive prices, ideally to reduce reliance on the black market, where prices often range from €8 to €10 ($8.59-$10.74).

Meanwhile, Hanover’s program would avail cannabis through pharmacies for around 4,000 residents. Belit Onay, Hanover’s Mayor, stated that the project is intended to address the reality of marijuana use in the community while mitigating the risks associated with illegal markets. Marijuana is expected to be available under this program by next year.

Germany’s cannabis reform is expected to unfold in two phases. The initial phase involves personal possession, cultivation, and the establishment of social clubs. The second phase, which is still in development, is expected to introduce a comprehensive commercial cannabis sales model.

Karl Lauterbach, the Health Minister and a key advocate for legalization, has indicated that the government is carefully considering the second part of the law. As legalization progresses, there is growing public and political pressure to accelerate the timeline for broader commercial access.

Companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) with an eye on expanding their international footprint are likely to monitor the developments in Germany to see if any opportunities open up.

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420 with CNW — Scientific Review Finds Marijuana Lowers Chronic Nerve Pain

A recent review highlights the promising effects of cannabinoids, a compound in cannabis, in managing persistent nerve pain. According to the research, cannabinoids may offer substantial pain relief with few or no side effects, suggesting a valuable alternative to conventional pain medications for patients dealing with persistent nerve pain.

Published in the Cureus journal, the review underscores the positive impact of cannabinoids on pain control, noting their benefits as a more natural option compared to synthetic drugs. This could make cannabinoids an attractive option for people seeking alternatives to traditional medications.

The research team, which sifted through numerous studies, narrowed their focus to five randomized, placebo-controlled trials conducted from 2000 to 2024. Their findings show that patients receiving cannabinoid treatment reported significantly higher pain relief than those given a placebo.

According to the study, cannabinoids led to pain relief in about 33% of participants, compared to just 15% in the placebo group, as measured by an analogous analog scale. For individuals experiencing sharp, intense pain, using CBD in a topical form provided even more relief, based on a neural pain scale. Importantly, very few side effects were reported, underscoring cannabinoids’ potential advantages in pain treatment.

According to the study, for those suffering from neuropathic pain—a type of pain caused by nerve damage often related to HIV/AIDS, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, shingles, and sometimes as a side effect of specific medications or radiation—finding effective treatments is complex. Such conditions often require specialized care and intensive medication regimens. In this context, cannabinoids may represent a breakthrough in pain management, offering a potentially more accessible and natural alternative for long-term relief.

The researchers acknowledge that more data is needed to understand the long-term side effects and potential interactions of cannabinoids, particularly due to varying legal restrictions and societal attitudes worldwide. Despite these challenges, they point out that cannabinoids may offer a new approach to chronic pain treatment, standing out as a natural remedy with minimal adverse effects.

The study also calls for further clinical trials to determine the most effective formulations and dosages of marijuana-derived medications for managing chronic pain.

As medical cannabis continues to gain legal acceptance in various states, chronic pain is among the top reasons for its medical use. Reports from both healthcare providers and patients suggest that marijuana can be a powerful alternative for pain management, reinforcing the case for it to be more widely considered in pain treatment strategies.

Companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that believe in the therapeutic potential of marijuana and its compounds will be pleased that many recent studies, such as this review, are confirming the medicinal attributes of marijuana.

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420 with CNW — Study Says Medical Cannabis Promotes a Higher Level of Physical Activity

A recent study published in the Cannabis Research Journal challenges the outdated stereotype that cannabis users, often labeled as “lazy stoners,” are less active. The research shows that medical cannabis promotes increased physical activity in individuals with chronic health issues, while recreational marijuana boosts physical activity even more, particularly in those without chronic conditions.

The study examined data from adults aged 18 and over across the United States between 2016 and 2022. The researchers analyzed information collected by the CDC’s Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System, which conducts nationwide phone surveys focused on health-related behaviors, preventive health services, and chronic illnesses.

One of the key findings was that people who reported using cannabis were more physically active than those who didn’t, but this difference was most pronounced in areas where cannabis is legally available, either for medical or recreational use. The study did not find a strong link between medical marijuana use and increased physical activity. However, physical activity was a more common reason for recreational use.

The authors suggest that when people use cannabis to enhance physical activity, it might be because it helps them focus, boosts enjoyment, or strengthens the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Cannabis may also aid in rehabilitation by enhancing sleep and lowering discomfort.

Although medical cannabis users did not list physical activity as a primary reason for use, the researchers proposed that cannabis might indirectly help those with chronic illnesses stay more active by alleviating some of their symptoms.

Paul Armentano, Deputy Director of NORML, commented on the study, highlighting how it goes against long-standing assumptions about cannabis users. He noted that the results challenge the false stereotype that marijuana consumers are unmotivated or lazy. He also expressed disappointment that these misconceptions have often shaped public health messages and have contributed to stigmatizing responsible marijuana use.

The study’s conclusions align with some previous research on the relationship between physical activity and cannabis use. For instance, a similar study conducted in Canada this year found that adults aged 18 to 50 who used cannabis were neither more inactive nor more intensely active than non-users.

However, the research did note a slight increase in light physical activity following marijuana use. The authors of that study argued that their findings contradicted concerns that marijuana use promotes a sedentary lifestyle. They emphasized that the traditional “lazy stoner” image fails to account for the many ways people use marijuana today.

According to another study published in February, people who use cannabis walk more often than non-users or e-cigarette users. The same study also discovered that cannabis users had the same likelihood of engaging in fundamental physical activities like strength training as non-users did.

Additionally, 2019 research suggested that people who use marijuana before or after exercise experience better workouts and recover more effectively. Overall, the growing body of research challenges traditional assumptions about marijuana users, showing that many incorporate it into an active and health-conscious lifestyle.

The entire cannabis industry, including leading companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), may be pleased that yet another misconception about marijuana use has fallen apart in the face of rigorous studies conducted to understand the true effects of the substance.

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420 with CNW — Study Shows Teen Marijuana Users Have Poorer School Outcomes

According to a recent examination of the existing data, teenagers who use marijuana typically do poorly academically. The JAMA Pediatrics study analyzed information from 63 different studies involving nearly 440,000 adolescents.

The findings revealed that marijuana use during teenage years is likely associated with lower academic performance, decreased chances of finishing high school, less likelihood of enrolling in college or university, and a higher likelihood of dropping out of school and being frequently absent.

One significant point the researchers noted was that marijuana use among teens is widespread, with about 22% of high school students in the United States using cannabis at least once in the previous month. Another concern is that today’s marijuana is much stronger than it used to be, with THC levels increasing from 4% in 1995 to 14% in 2019.

The study also highlighted long-term effects, stating that heavy marijuana use during adolescence could lead to lasting changes in the brain’s structure. These changes might interfere with memory, cognitive function and attention span, all of which are critical to academic success.

To investigate the potential academic consequences, the team analyzed data from numerous studies that looked at cannabis use, school performance and even employment among young people. While not all the data was equally reliable, the researchers identified evidence — classified as “moderate certainty” — linking marijuana use with several negative outcomes. Specifically, they found that teens who used marijuana had:

39% higher chances of earning lower grades
50% lower odds of obtaining a high school certificate
28% less likelihood of attending university
31% decreased chance of earning a post-secondary degree
more than twice as likely to drop out of high school
more than twice as likely to miss school often

While the research team also found some evidence, though weaker, suggesting marijuana use could be tied to unemployment, the risks generally increased the more frequently a teen used the drug. Starting at an early age (before or around 16) also seemed to worsen the academic impact.

Although the findings suggest a strong link between marijuana use and poor school outcomes, the researchers acknowledged that they couldn’t definitively prove marijuana is the direct cause. For instance, teens struggling with other substance-use problems or mental-health concerns might be more likely to use marijuana and face challenges in school. However, the researchers adjusted their results to account for such factors.

One thing is clear: As marijuana becomes more accepted and decriminalized in various parts of the world, its use among teenagers is on the rise. U.S. national data suggests that more than three million teens aged between 12 and 17 years of age had used marijuana in the past year — more than any other illegal drug.

Given these trends, the researchers emphasized the urgent need for effective programs to prevent early marijuana use and protect youth from the potential negative consequences.

The age-verification activities that licensed companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) implement contribute to restricting access to marijuana by minors, but much more needs to be done by all stakeholders to keep marijuana away from teens.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Certifies Ballot Measures to Legalize Medical Cannabis

Efforts to legalize medical cannabis in Nebraska have officially been approved for the November election, despite a lawsuit and a statewide review of the validity of collected signatures.

Bob Evnen, the secretary of state, announced on Sept. 14, 2024, that the group Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana had gathered an estimated 90,000 legitimate signatures. The announcement was made precisely one year from receiving the signature initiative’s third effort in 2023, which coincided with the finalization of the November 5 ballot.

Evnen mentioned that the procedure for gathering signatures had sparked questions, which the office of Attorney General Mike Hilgers was looking into. One person so far who participated in obtaining signatures faces felony charges as part of the investigation.

Crista Eggers, statewide campaign manager for the medical marijuana proposal, thanked Hilgers and municipal leaders for maintaining openness throughout the petition process. She expressed gratitude to officials for resolving any differences and maintaining the credibility of the public initiative process.

One of the measures — the Nebraska Medical Marijuana Regulation Act — aims to legalize the possession, production, distribution and sale of marijuana for medical use. It also proposes creating the Nebraska Medical Marijuana Commission, which would be responsible for regulating cannabis in the state. If the legislation passes, the commission would be required to establish guidelines for approving or rejecting applications from marijuana-related businesses by July next year, with the first licenses being issued by October 2025.

The second measure — the Nebraska Medical Marijuana Patient Protection Act — seeks to authorize patients to possess a maximum of five ounces of medical marijuana. This measure would also exempt caregivers from legal consequences for helping patients use marijuana and require written recommendations from healthcare providers. For minors, this recommendation would also need to come from a parent or legal guardian.

State law mandates that initiative petitions have valid signatures from at least 7% of Nebraska’s 86,500 registered voters, with at least 5% of the voters in 38 of the 93 counties in the state. Nearly 90,000 of the 114,000 signatures that the campaign presented in July were validated, surpassing the 5% level that was necessary in 52 counties.

However, the campaign is currently facing a legal challenge filed by John Kuehn, a rancher and veterinarian from Heartwell, who previously served in the state legislature. Kuehn claims that Evnen’s office has not provided access to the petition pages as requested under a public records law. He is seeking an independent review of those signatures and has asked the Lancaster County District Court to stop the measures from going before voters or stop the state from certifying any resultant polls results.

Kuehn’s lawsuit also argues that the campaign did not gather enough legitimate signatures and that the proposed measures represent an unconstitutional transfer of regulatory power from the Legislature. Furthermore, the lawsuit challenges the initiatives, stating that cannabis’ classification as a schedule 1 substance under federal law prevents the measures from being enacted.

Cannabis enterprises such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) may regard some of the arguments in the lawsuit to be far-fetched, given that several states have legalized medical and even recreational marijuana despite its current federal classification.

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