420 with CNW — Massachusetts Regulators Delay Decision on Marijuana Consumption Lounges

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission has postponed a key vote on regulations that would open the door for social marijuana consumption across the state, with officials now aiming for a decision before Christmas.

Commission Chair Shannon O’Brien outlined the revised timeline during the agency’s public meeting, which also marked the introduction of a new commissioner, Carrie Benedon.

The proposal in question would permit marijuana consumers to buy and use products in the same location, a move advocates say would expand access and normalize legal consumption. However, commissioners opted to delay the vote to allow for further review.

The proposal, first drafted in July, establishes three categories of licenses for social consumption. The first, a “supplemental” license, would enable existing cannabis retailers to create on-site consumption areas for their customers. A second, the “hospitality” license, would extend that privilege to certain non-marijuana venues such as theaters or cafes. The third, called an “event organizer” license, would allow temporary consumption spaces at approved gatherings and festivals.

If approved, the first five years of licensing would be restricted to participants in the commission’s economic or social equity empowerment programs, along with microbusinesses and cooperatives. The commission noted that more adjustments could be made before final rules are adopted.

Benedon joins the commission from the state attorney general’s office where she serves as director of the Open Government Division. Her background includes time as an assistant attorney general handling constitutional and administrative law, as well as representing the Public Health Department in cases involving medical cannabis regulations.

She fills the seat previously held by Nurys Camargo, representing the category reserved for expertise in social justice and legal issues within regulated industries.

Commissioner Bruce Stebbins said Benedon’s onboarding prompted the delay, explaining that she needed time to review the proposed rules. Stebbins added that the commission may hold extra meetings before the end of the year to keep the process on track. The next scheduled meeting is on November 18.

“I hope we can finalize this by Christmas,” Stebbins said, noting that commissioners are now focused on clarifying fine details to give future licensees certainty. He emphasized that delays are about inclusion, not hesitation. “We want everyone’s input.”

The agency has been operating with just three active commissioners for months, as one seat remained empty, and another commissioner was on leave. The addition of Benedon gives the body more flexibility to move forward, though a tie vote remains a possibility for the five-member commission.

The entire marijuana industry, including actors from across the U.S. border like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be hoping that no further delays occur in the timelines of the regulator in Massachusetts so that adults can have public locations where they can consume marijuana products legally away from their hotel rooms or homes.

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 — Medical Cannabis Slashes Opioid Use Among Surgical Patients with Cancer

A new study suggests that states allowing medical cannabis sales through licensed dispensaries may see fewer prescriptions for strong opioids among cancer patients recovering from surgery. However, the same policy appears to coincide with a higher rate of hospital visits for reasons unrelated to cancer treatment.

The research, published in Cancer, compared opioid use among cancer patients in states with and without medical cannabis laws. Researchers found that legalization accompanied by dispensaries was linked to a 4.6% drop in prescriptions for strong opioids compared with states that had not legalized medical cannabis. At the same time, the data showed a 2.6% rise in all-cause emergency department visits or hospitalizations.

To carry out the study, investigators analyzed information from 27 states that had not legalized medical cannabis by early 2016. They tracked which of those states passed legalization measures from 2016 to 2022 and noted whether dispensaries were opened following legalization. The researchers tracked when legalization took effect and when each state’s first dispensary began operating.

In total, 13 states did not adopt legalization during that period, three approved medical cannabis without dispensaries, and 11 legalized with dispensaries in operation.

The team used data from the Health Care Cost Institute, focusing on privately insured adults. The study included 34,911 individuals between 18 and 64 years who were newly diagnosed with lung, breast, or colorectal cancer and underwent surgery within six months. Nearly half of the participants were between 55 and 64 years old. Many also reported other pain conditions such as arthritis, back pain, or neck pain.

During the six months following surgery, about 40% of the patients received at least one opioid prescription. One-third were prescribed strong short-acting opioids, while around 10% received weaker formulations. Roughly one in five patients had an emergency room visit or hospital stay not directly related to their cancer treatment, and 2.4% had visits tied to pain management.

The overall rate of opioid prescribing did not change significantly after states adopted medical cannabis policies. Still, the presence of dispensaries appeared to reduce the need for stronger opioids. In contrast, states that legalized medical cannabis without dispensaries saw a small 1.2% rise in prescriptions for weaker opioids.

Researchers believe that legalization may foster more open communication between patients and doctors about cannabis use, which could lead to more cautious opioid prescribing—such as substituting weaker drugs or using smaller doses for shorter durations.

The study’s authors cautioned that while these policies might influence how pain is treated, they could also carry unintended risks. They called for further research on the direct effects of medical marijuana on pain control, drug side effects, and overall recovery outcomes to help shape future evidence-based guidelines.

Medical marijuana providers like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) are likely to analyze these study findings in order to get some insights about the role that marijuana can play to enhance pain management among different groups of patients.

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 — As Congress Considers Law Reforms, Target Starts Selling THC Drinks

Target is testing the sale of THC-infused drinks at a small number of stores in Minnesota, according to executives from cannabis drink companies involved in the rollout.

The retail giant, headquartered in Minnesota, is reportedly stocking around a dozen different THC drink brands in ten stores across the state. The soft launch signals a growing acceptance of hemp-derived THC products at large retail chains, even as lawmakers in Washington debate new restrictions on such products.

Jason Dayton, founder of Trail Magic, one of the participating brands, called Target’s decision “a huge milestone.” He noted that amid the national discussions over hemp regulation, this partnership highlights how sensible oversight and legal frameworks can help the industry grow responsibly.

“We’re all in favor of more structure, not less,” Dayton said. “Things like age restrictions, proper testing, and clear rules are what helped the alcohol business become a massive, well-regulated industry worth hundreds of billions of dollars.”

The initial lineup of THC drinks reportedly includes Cann, Birdie, Gigli, Indeed, Hi Seltzer, Señorita, Surly, Stigma, Trail Magic, Wyld, Wynk, and Wonder.

Cantrip CEO Adam Terry expressed disappointment that his company wasn’t part of the initial rollout but acknowledged the importance of the step. “It’s still a huge win for the industry,” he said, congratulating those involved.

Mindset Capital CEO Aaron Edelheit noted that major retailers and distributors have been cautious about joining the hemp beverage space. “We’ve seen regional players and big alcohol retailers like Total Wine explore it, but never a national chain on the scale of Target.”

Whether the limited test will evolve into a national rollout is still uncertain. For now, it’s being viewed as an early indicator of how mainstream retailers might embrace cannabis-infused products in the future.

Target’s move reflects a broader trend among major U.S. companies as they adapt to changing cannabis laws. Home Depot, for instance, recently removed marijuana from its employee drug screening process and stopped pre-employment testing for most positions.

Amazon has also shifted its stance. The company has supported both Republican- and Democratic-led efforts to legalize and regulate marijuana nationwide. In 2021, the company stopped testing most employees for marijuana use, aligning its policies with the push for federal reform.

In another development, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization has partnered with a hemp company in a licensing deal that promotes marijuana drinks as alcohol alternatives. The beverages will soon be available at VFW posts nationwide, with proceeds supporting veteran programs and services.

Enterprises like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be watching how the regulatory landscape in the U.S. evolves and how hemp firms and marijuana businesses react to any changes to the applicable laws at the federal level.

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 — University of Michigan Research Flags Increasing Cannabis Vape Use Among Teens

Recent results from a national survey conducted by the University of Michigan reveal a sharp rise in cannabis vaping among middle and high school students.

In 2024, 57% of eighth graders who said they used marijuana reported that they vaped it, compared with 48% in 2021. The jump was similar in older grades: among 10th graders, use rose from 60% to 66%, and among 12th graders, from 58% to 67%.

Vaping is sometimes thought to be less harmful than smoking since burning the plant produces dangerous carcinogens and chemicals. However, researchers caution that the increasing use of vapes by teenagers poses addiction concerns.

According to the lead researcher Richard Miech, if marijuana use keeps growing among youth, more will end up addicted, which can damage both academic performance and personal relationships.

Flavored vape cartridges are becoming especially attractive to teenagers. Data shows that in 2024, 63% of eighth graders who vaped marijuana chose flavored versions, up from 47% three years earlier. Tenth graders rose from 41 to 53 percent, and twelfth graders from 36 to 50 percent during the same period.

Although recreational cannabis is only legal for people over 21, vape pens are relatively easy for underage users to obtain. They are also easier to hide because they do not produce the strong smell that smoking marijuana does. This makes it simple for students to stash them quickly if a teacher or administrator appears. According to research, flavors like fruit make these products more appealing than the natural taste of marijuana.

Health experts warn that overuse can lead to marijuana use disorder, a condition where individuals need stronger doses over time to feel the same effect. The Centers for Disease Control note that this type of dependence is becoming more common with high-potency marijuana products.

Michigan educators and medical professionals have raised alarms about the rising number of students using vape pens and cannabis edibles. Nikolai Vitti, Detroit’s superintendent, urged lawmakers to provide funds for vape detection devices, public education efforts, and stricter rules on packaging to reduce youth access. Some schools in the state have already installed detectors in restrooms to alert staff when vaping occurs.

In response, state lawmakers recently introduced a measure requiring the Health and Human Services Department to create educational resources for schools about the risks of vaping and high-potency THC. The proposal is now under consideration in the Senate’s education committee.

Stopping youth from using cannabis vapes or cannabis products in general will require concerted efforts from reputable industry actors like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) as well as government and non-governmental actors seeking to safeguard future generations from the possible harms of marijuana use.

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 Lt. Governor Releases Statement on His Disagreement with THC Ban Veto

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has issued a statement criticizing Governor Greg Abbott’s recent executive order on THC, saying it creates the impression that the state has endorsed the existing THC market.

Patrick stated that his dispute with the governor is not personal but centered on policy. He noted that while he and Abbott have worked together on many issues, they remain far apart on THC regulation.

According to Patrick, the order has been widely interpreted by the hemp and THC industry as a green light from the state. He pointed to public statements from business groups celebrating the decision as a major victory, arguing it legitimizes products that remain dangerous and often mislabeled.

“These are the same companies that have been marketing to minors and opening shops near schools,” Patrick said. He added that many of the products on the shelves are still illegal and, in some cases, carry ingredients not disclosed to buyers.

He warned that the governor’s action could pave the way for recreational cannabis use, despite Abbott’s repeated claims that legalization is not on the table. He emphasized that the Legislature has never voted to approve recreational cannabis. Instead, he said businesses have exploited loopholes in hemp laws to flood the market with high-potency products, now available in thousands of stores across Texas.

The lieutenant governor noted that Senate Bill 3, passed earlier in the year, would have banned such products outright, but the measure was vetoed. He said only a full ban can protect children since age limits on alcohol and tobacco have not prevented underage use. He also cited undercover police footage from Dallas showing smoke shop employees cautioning customers that overdosing on certain THC products could be deadly.

Patrick explained that during a special session, state leaders tried but failed to reach an agreement on safe limits for THC potency, serving size, and retail sales. Without clarity on those points, he said, lawmakers could not support moving forward.

He further argued that the governor’s order leaves major gaps. It does not stop the sale of synthetic variants such as Delta-8 or Delta-10, nor does it restrict the sale of potent Delta-9 products. He also faulted the order for allowing stores to remain near schools and for leaving enforcement responsibilities to already stretched law enforcement agencies.

Patrick further rejected claims in the order that states cannot ban THC under federal law. He pointed to multiple federal court rulings confirming states’ authority to impose bans and added that Congress is currently considering a nationwide prohibition on consumable THC.

The lieutenant governor closed his statement by reaffirming his support for the state’s Compassionate Use Program, which allows doctors to prescribe THC for medical purposes, as well as for legal CBG and CBD products. But he warned against what he sees as a path toward broader legalization. “We do not want to follow Colorado’s example,” he said, adding that he remains open to further discussions with the governor.

The debates surrounding the way to regulate hemp-sourced THC products in different jurisdictions will be closely watched by marijuana companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) as it could have diverse implications for the legal marijuana industry.

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 Self-Medicating with Marijuana Increases Paranoia Risk

Researchers have found that people who begin using cannabis to cope with depression, anxiety, or pain are more likely to experience paranoia compared to those who use it casually for fun or curiosity.

The findings come from the Cannabis&Me survey, which included responses from 3,389 adults aged 18 and over who currently or previously used cannabis. None of the participants had a diagnosed history of psychosis.

The study revealed that individuals who turned to marijuana as a form of self-medication tended to show higher levels of paranoia, particularly if they were already experiencing mild psychotic symptoms. Meanwhile, those who reported the lowest paranoia scores were mostly recreational users.

On average, participants consumed about 206 units of THC each week, which equals roughly 10 to 17 joints. However, people using marijuana for depression or anxiety averaged around 248 to 255 units weekly.

In England, medical marijuana on the NHS is available only in rare cases such as certain forms of epilepsy, chemotherapy-induced nausea, or multiple sclerosis. Despite this, a growing number of private clinics across the UK provide cannabis prescriptions, often for depression, anxiety, or pain.

Professor Robin Murray, one of the lead researchers, cautioned that these are the very conditions linked in the study to increased paranoia. He stressed that marijuana, like food or alcohol, has dose-related risks—the more consumed, the higher the chance of negative outcomes.

Dr. Emily Finch, who chairs the addiction faculty at the Royal College of Psychiatrists, highlighted the broader risks, noting that marijuana remains the most widely used illegal substance in the UK. Around one in three people who use it will experience problems at some point in their lives, a rate similar to that of alcohol.

She added that both natural and synthetic cannabinoids carry risks of addiction and long-term mental health harm. Daily use, especially of high-strength marijuana, is strongly linked with depression, low motivation, anxiety, and a fivefold increase in the risk of developing a psychotic disorder, particularly among adolescents.

Dr. Finch urged the government to strengthen addiction and mental health services by providing more staff, funding, and training. She emphasized the importance of early intervention, especially for children and teenagers showing signs of problematic use, to prevent long-term effects.

A related study also using the Cannabis&Me survey revealed that over half of marijuana users reported childhood trauma. Those who experienced emotional or physical abuse scored 35 to 40% higher for paranoia, while survivors of sexual abuse were found to consume the highest levels of THC.

Such studies should cause different jurisdictions to rethink their prohibitionist policies. This is because the lack of regulated markets creates opportunities for people to self-medicate and run the risk of various harms, such as using tainted cannabis products from the black market or failing to be guided appropriately by qualified medical personnel.

On the other hand, letting licensed companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) operate reduces the stigma linked to consuming marijuana and makes users more open when interacting with their doctors.

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 — Delaware Reports Encouraging Start to Adult-Use Marijuana Market

Delaware’s first weekend of legal recreational cannabis sales wrapped up with better-than-expected results, marking an important step forward for the state’s new adult-use cannabis program. Sales officially kicked off on August 1, drawing in both seasoned medical patients and first-time recreational buyers.

During the initial three-day period from Friday to Sunday, combined sales of medical and recreational cannabis totaled more than $903,000. Of that, roughly $625,000 came from recreational cannabis purchases, generating approximately $93,750 in taxes for the state. Recreational cannabis is taxed at 15%, while medical cannabis remains exempt from sales tax.

Breaking down the numbers by county, New Castle County’s five dispensaries led the pack with approximately $432,320 in combined sales. Sussex County’s five shops followed with $242,833, and Kent County’s four dispensaries brought in $227,947.

Governor Matt Meyer praised the outcome, noting that the figures show both readiness and public enthusiasm for a safe, regulated market. He added that the new revenue provides an opportunity to reinvest directly in local communities to make Delaware a leader in marijuana quality, innovation, and equitable access.

Sales reports revealed a range of customer preferences across different product categories. Cannabis flower was the top choice, making up 56% of all purchases with more than $509,000 in sales. Vape cartridges followed at 26%, bringing in over $233,000. Edible products like gummies and chocolates accounted for about 14% of sales, totaling $123,768. Smaller segments included pre-rolls with concentrates, liquid-infused products, topicals, and hash.

Joshua Sanderlin, the state’s Marijuana Commissioner, said the early results exceeded expectations, pointing to both strong demand and the professionalism of licensed operators. He noted that the launch sets the stage for long-term economic benefits while keeping safety a priority.

Joshua Bushweller, Secretary of the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, echoed the sentiment, noting that the opening weekend demonstrated Delaware’s ability to manage regulated marijuana sales responsibly.

Throughout the launch weekend, state officials conducted routine inspections to ensure all retailers followed regulations. No major violations were reported, and dispensaries were found to comply with the state’s detailed rules on product quality, inventory management, and customer verification.

So far, the state has issued 64 conditional licenses, with more expected by summer’s end. The state also plans to begin distributing Social Equity Financial Assistance grants to help equity licensees get their businesses operational. Meanwhile, officials are reviewing all regulations to ensure they promote a safe, stable, and competitive marijuana industry.

Industry actors within and outside the country, such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be glad that the launch is going according to plan and adults who wish to consume marijuana for recreational purposes can access products at regulated outlets rather than the black 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 — 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

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