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.

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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 — 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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