420 with CNW — Activists in Oregon Withdraw Measure Seeking to Legalize Marijuana Consumption Lounges

Oregon activists have halted their effort to place a measure on the 2026 ballot that would have legalized marijuana social lounges across the state. The Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition confirmed that it has withdrawn the proposal after months of preliminary work, including filing two variations of the measure. 

Justyce Seith, founder of the coalition and chief petitioner, said the decision was not taken lightly. She noted that the campaign’s timeline and signature-gathering goals no longer aligned with the resources available. According to Seith, attention will now shift to developing a better version of the proposal for a future ballot cycle. 

Seith thanked volunteers who helped the campaign reach several early milestones. Their work drew enough support to confirm, in her view, that public spaces for marijuana use remain an important issue for many residents. 

The state attorney general approved a verified ballot title for the initiative in September. That approval followed the release of an initial proposal in August. Only one public comment was submitted in response to the draft. The commenter argued that the word “lounges” lacked clarity and suggested using “business establishments” instead. 

State officials reviewed the suggestion and declined to modify the title. The individual could have sought review by the Oregon Supreme Court, but did not pursue that option. 

To qualify for the ballot, OCCC would have been required to gather at least 117,000 valid signatures from registered voters. 

The proposal would have allowed state-licensed marijuana social lounges to open and operate under specific rules. These locations would have provided adults with a place to consume marijuana while also offering unmedicated beverages and food, but no cannabis sales could take place inside the premises. 

Consumption would have been limited to vaping, smoking, and the use of non-edibles. Nicotine products, tobacco, and alcohol would have been banned. 

Local governments would have been permitted to set limits on the number of lounges and adopt additional rules. They also would have had the authority to inspect businesses for compliance. Oversight at the state level would have been handled by the OLCC, which would have reviewed license applications and enforced penalties that could include license suspension and/or fines. 

The proposal also called for clear public education requirements, including signage explaining health risks and operational rules. The commission would have worked with health agencies to develop outreach materials. 

If approved, the measure would have taken effect at the start of 2027. Marijuana companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) that have participated in efforts to reform cannabis laws in other jurisdictions sympathize with the Oregon campaigners because it is a very expensive and back-breaking undertaking to push a ballot measure through the preliminary steps and then oversee campaigns to get the measure approved by voters. 

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 — Federally Financed Canadian Research Shows Marijuana Use by Youths Reduced After Legalization

A new Canadian study funded by the federal government suggests that cannabis use among young people has dropped since the country legalized marijuana, challenging long-standing fears that legalization would lead to higher rates of youth consumption. 

The research, published in Addictive Behaviors Reports, analyzed data from the COMPASS Study, an ongoing national survey that tracks health-related behaviors in Canadian youth. Conducted by researchers from Brock University and the University of Waterloo, the study compared cannabis use rates among youths before legalization (2017 and 2018) and after legalization (2021 and 2022). 

Results showed that 15% of adolescents reported using cannabis in the month prior to legalization. That figure dropped to 12.3% after legalization. The proportion of students who said they had never used cannabis also grew during the post-legalization period. 

The researchers also examined which factors were most likely to predict whether a student might use cannabis, noting that these predictors shifted in meaningful ways between the two time periods. 

According to the report, while certain influences—like time spent texting, eating breakfast daily, and completing homework—remained relevant, the relative importance of these risk factors changed. In post-legalization use, feelings of depression, satisfaction with home life, and attitudes about school performance emerged as stronger predictors of use. 

The study covered over 65,000 students across both time frames. The authors suggested periodically updating prevention strategies to align with current youth realities, given the evolving nature of these risk factors. 

Overall, the researchers noted a modest decline in reported cannabis use and a rise in the number of students who said they never consume it. They suggested this trend may not be tied to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic but instead could reflect shifts in regulation, social norms, or perceptions of risk following legalization. 

Canada’s results mirror similar findings in Europe and the United States. In Germany, federal health officials recently reported that youth cannabis use has also decreased following national legalization. German authorities said other common concerns, including road safety and increased youth access, have not materialized. 

In the United States, federal surveys indicate that cannabis use among adolescents has stayed steady or declined even as more states have adopted adult-use legalization. A report by the Marijuana Policy Project found that adolescent marijuana use dropped in 19 of the 21 states that legalized recreational cannabis, with an average decrease of 35% in the earliest adopting states. 

This goes to show that legalization and licensing companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) could help in curbing access to marijuana products by the underage as measures like age verification prior to product purchase are enforced. 

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 — Marijuana Firms Ask Supreme Court to Hear Case Challenging Federal Cannabis Ban

A group of cannabis businesses has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review the constitutionality of the federal government’s ongoing prohibition on marijuana.

The petition, filed Friday by Boies Schiller Flexner LLP on behalf of several Massachusetts-based companies, including Verano Holdings, Canna Provisions, Wiseacre Farm, and Gyasi Sellers, contends that the federal government oversteps its authority by criminalizing cannabis operations that occur solely within state borders.

At the heart of their argument is the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The companies say it prevents Washington from applying criminal laws to marijuana businesses that operate only inside a single state’s regulated system. They are asking the justices to revisit the 2005 ruling in Gonzales v. Raich, in which the court narrowly upheld the federal government’s power to enforce marijuana prohibition even against intrastate activity in California.

According to the new petition, that decision marked a sharp break from established interpretations of the Elastic and Commerce Clauses, leading to what the filing calls “a serious intrusion” into states’ rights to manage health and safety matters.

The brief argues that the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) undermines the policy decisions of 38 states that have legalized cannabis in some form. It argues that while only nine states had legalized cannabis when Raich was decided, the landscape has since changed dramatically, and Congress’s national ban “displaces those states’ choices and imposes federal will on local policy.”

A federal appeals court dismissed the companies’ claims in May, following an earlier loss in district court. Despite the setbacks, attorneys for the plaintiffs have made clear from the start that they intended to bring the issue before the Supreme Court. At least four justices are required to vote in favor of review.

Some observers see a potential opening in past comments from Justice Clarence Thomas. In 2021, he criticized the federal government’s inconsistent stance toward marijuana, calling it “a half-in, half-out regime” that both tolerates and forbids local use. Thomas suggested that the court might one day need to reconsider Raich, given the significant changes in the legal landscape.

The filing comes as the federal government considers whether to move cannabis to Schedule III under the CSA—a change President Donald Trump said he would decide on soon but has yet to announce. Separately, the Supreme Court agreed this week to hear another case testing the constitutionality of a federal law that bars individuals who use marijuana or other drugs from owning firearms, an issue the administration argues is critical to public safety.

Marijuana firms like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) from across the country will be watching whether the Supreme Court votes to hear this petition and what eventual ruling they make after the legal process runs its course.

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 — OHSU Receives $6.7M Grant to Study Cannabis Impact in HIV+ Pregnant Women

A group of scientists from Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) has been awarded over $6.7 million by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study how marijuana use during pregnancy affects women living with HIV

The five-year funding will support research directed by Dr. Jamie Lo, an obstetrics and gynecology associate professor at OHSU’s School of Medicine. She is partnering with Dr. Benjamin Burwitz, associate professor in the Division of Pathobiology & Immunology at the Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC). Additional collaborators include co-lead researcher Dr. Jennifer Manuzak from Tulane’s National Primate Research Center, along with Dr. James Frank and Dr. Matthias Schabel from OHSU. 

The study will rely on nonhuman primate models to investigate how daily exposure to THC affects the body during pregnancy in the context of HIV-like infection. The project merges the Lo laboratory’s focus on substance use during pregnancy with the Burwitz team’s expertise in infectious disease and immune system research using primate models. 

According to the WHO, approximately 1.2 million pregnant women were living with HIV as of 2023. Even when receiving antiretroviral therapy, these patients face elevated risks such as preterm birth, complications with the placenta, and restricted fetal growth. These problems are tied to persistent body inflammation, which continues despite effective treatment. 

Meanwhile, marijuana use during pregnancy is on the rise, including among people with HIV. Although many see marijuana as relatively safe, research has suggested links between its use and pregnancy complications. 

The researchers will work with rhesus macaques infected with simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), which closely mimics HIV in humans. The animals will receive antiretroviral therapy along with daily THC edibles. Researchers will monitor how this combination influences maternal immunity, placental health, and fetal development. 

Advanced imaging technology and regular evaluations throughout pregnancy will allow the team to observe biological changes in the mother, placenta, and fetus in ways that cannot be done in human pregnancies for safety reasons. 

Dr. Lo explained that the placenta and fetal development in nonhuman primates closely mirror those in humans, and both share the same cannabinoid receptor structure where THC binds. This makes the model uniquely suited for studying cannabis use during pregnancy. 

Beyond answering immediate questions, the team will also establish a biological sample bank so other researchers can explore related areas in the future. 

“This marks the first detailed study into how pregnancy, cannabis, and HIV interact,” said Dr. Burwitz. “We hope the results will provide doctors with better evidence to guide and counsel pregnant patients with HIV who are using marijuana.” 

The findings will undoubtedly be of interest to companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) that specialize in selling medical marijuana products in the communities they serve. 

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 — California Lawmakers Send Bill Seeking to Halt Cannabis Tax Hikes to Governor

A measure to temporarily stop a recent tax hike on cannabis products in California has cleared the legislature and now awaits the governor’s decision. 

The Assembly voted unanimously, 57-0, to accept amendments made in the Senate to the bill by Assemblymember Matt Haney. With that vote, the measure now heads to Governor Gavin Newsom, who has until October 12 to either sign or reject it. 

If enacted, the bill would stop the increase in cannabis excise taxes for five years. Haney said the change is designed to give relief to an industry already dealing with high costs, reversing what he called an “unprecedented” 25% increase. Lawmakers from both parties have strongly backed the measure throughout the process. 

One of the changes approved in the Senate pushes back the starting date to October rather than having the pause take effect immediately. The tax hike took effect in July, following state officials’ announcement in June that the marijuana excise tax would increase from 15% to 19%. At the time, supporters of the industry had hoped that ongoing budget discussions would include a freeze similar to Haney’s measure, but those talks fell short. 

Although Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas supported including a freeze in the budget process, Senate leader Mike McGuire reportedly opposed the move, leaving Haney to continue advancing his separate bill. 

Haney’s measure originally would have locked in the lower 15% rate until 2030, with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) adjusting rates afterward every two years. Regulators would have been required to set tax levels to generate revenue comparable to what the state used to collect from the discontinued cultivation tax, but not above 19%. 

The Senate Appropriations Committee later scaled back that timeline, shortening the period at the lower rate and adding requirements for annual reporting. Under the revised bill, the CDTFA, working in conjunction with the Finance Department, must determine tax adjustments annually. 

They are tasked with estimating how much revenue the old cultivation tax would have generated and then setting the excise rate to raise a similar amount from retail cannabis sales. 

The law’s stated purpose is to provide immediate financial relief for marijuana operators. To measure whether the change is effective, CDTFA will need to submit annual reports to the Legislature starting in December 2026, outlining gains or losses in tax revenue compared to expectations. 

Separately, the Senate Appropriations Committee recently advanced another bill to regulate hemp-derived cannabinoids in California. That legislation would bring hemp-based products into the state’s cannabis framework, prohibit synthetic cannabinoids, and clarify rules for hemp items such as topical salves. The same committee also backed a measure allowing licensed cannabis microbusinesses to ship products directly to patients. 

Most likely, other licensed firms like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CSE: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) operating in other states would appreciate any efforts taken to provide some relief from the heavy tax load that they carry. 

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 — GOP Congressman Introduces Bill to Reclassify Marijuana Federally

While President Donald Trump weighs an administrative move to change cannabis’ federal classification, a Republican lawmaker has put forward a bill to make that change permanent through legislation. 

Representative Greg Steube has once again introduced the “Marijuana 1-to-3 Act,” marking the fourth time he has filed the measure in consecutive sessions. The bill’s name refers to shifting marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).This would place marijuana in the same category as substances considered to have lower abuse potential and recognized medical uses. 

The Biden administration began the rescheduling effort last year. Trump backed the idea while campaigning, but his position since taking office has been less direct. He recently stated that his administration was still reviewing the matter and would make a decision in the coming weeks. 

Steube’s legislation would bypass administrative uncertainty by writing the change into law. That would make the policy less vulnerable to being reversed or challenged in court. The short, two-page bill instructs the U.S. attorney general to move cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 within 60 days of the law taking effect. 

The filing came a day after Trump was asked about the Biden-led rescheduling process. Where he ultimately stands on the rescheduling issue remains unclear. While he acknowledged both sides of the debate, he did not commit to following through with it. Speaking at the press conference, he noted that some people strongly oppose cannabis, believing it harms both youth and adults, while others support reform. 

In response, Steube and Democratic Representative Dina Titus urged the president to move forward. Steube criticized the current federal stance, noting that cannabis is grouped with drugs like LSD and heroin, while cocaine is treated as less restricted. He noted the reclassification would open the door for more medical research and bring federal drug laws in line with reality. 

Earlier this year, Steube also introduced the first marijuana-related bill of the 119th Congress. That legislation would protect military veterans from losing federal benefits if they legally use medical marijuana under state law. 

Meanwhile, new DEA Administrator Terrence Cole has not placed marijuana rescheduling among his official agency priorities. Instead, his focus list includes combating drug trafficking, targeting Mexican cartels, disrupting fentanyl distribution, and addressing dark web and crypto-related crime. 

This is despite his earlier testimony during his Senate confirmation hearing when he identified reviewing cannabis rescheduling as one of his first tasks in office. 

The marijuana industry, including companies like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (OTCQX: TCNNF) (CNX: TRUL) will be waiting for concrete scheduling changes because many bills and speeches have previously been made regarding the classification of marijuana in the CSA but nothing has materialized. 

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 — Pennsylvania Lawmakers Remain Divided as Marijuana Bill Discussions Continue

Discussions on recreational cannabis legalization are gaining momentum in Pennsylvania after a key GOP state senator introduced a bill on the matter. 

The measure, introduced by Senators Sharif Street and Dan Laughlin, would legalize recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. It also opens the door for current medical cannabis operators to expand into the recreational market, provided they pay a $100,000 transition fee. 

One of the main points of contention is how easily existing medical dispensaries should be allowed to switch to recreational sales. Critics, particularly those advocating for small businesses, argue that the $100,000 fee is too low and could lead to larger players gaining an unfair advantage. 

To address equity concerns, the bill sets a $50,000 application fee for small businesses and applicants from disproportionately impacted communities. Each group would be capped at 15 licenses. 

Senator Laughlin, who chairs the Senate’s Law and Justice Committee, holds a key position in determining the future of marijuana legislation. Earlier this year, he blocked a House-backed measure that would have introduced state-run cannabis stores, modeled after Pennsylvania’s state-run liquor stores. 

Key GOP leaders in the Senate have already expressed little interest in advancing recreational marijuana bills. Joe Pittman, the Senate Majority Leader, for instance, said there’s no broad support for legalization within their caucus. Senate Appropriations Committee chair, Senator Scott Martin, has also declined to consider such legislation, which further dims its chances. 

Even members of Laughlin’s committee have voiced concerns, citing potential public health and safety risks. 

Over in the House, Democrats are pushing their own bills. Representative Amen Brown introduced a version of the Senate proposal, maintaining the same structure and language. Meanwhile, a different proposal by Representatives Abby Major and Emily Kinkead creates a regulatory board, permits medical operators to transition to recreational sales, and includes a $100,000 conversion fee. 

Their bill adds labor representation on the board and reserves more licenses for social equity applicants, small businesses, and micro-growers. Application fees for these groups would be determined later by the board. 

Representative Rick Krajewski, who supported the state-run model, remains skeptical. He doubts any of the current measures will move forward, given the Senate GOP’s opposition. For him to support a private-market model, he says it would need to include strong safeguards for small operators, such as guaranteed early access to customers, to level the playing field. 

These discussions to determine how best to legalize adult-use marijuana in the state while avoiding giving existing industry players an unfair advantage is similar to the discussions over in Florida where medical marijuana entities like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) have been working to pass a legalization measure for recreational marijuana. 

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 — Delaware Governor Ponders Whether to Sign Marijuana Zoning Bill into Law

As Delaware gears up to launch adult-use cannabis sales next month, a bill under consideration could shift the balance of power between state and local governments when it comes to cannabis zoning. Governor Matt Meyer is currently reviewing Senate Bill 75, which would establish statewide zoning rules for marijuana businesses and override local regulations. 

Meyer acknowledged the conflict between two priorities. On one side, he wants to ensure the new cannabis market gets off the ground quickly. But as a former county executive, he also recognizes how important it is for cities and counties to maintain control over land use decisions. He noted that he was having conversations with various stakeholders to reach an agreement. 

Meyer has several options on SB 75: he can approve it, veto it, or allow it to pass into law without signing it. 

SB 75 is backed by Senator Trey Paradee, who also championed the original legalization push. The proposed law would set statewide zoning rules for marijuana businesses, effectively overriding existing regulations in the state’s three counties. Supporters argue this step is necessary to prevent local governments from placing excessive restrictions that could limit public access to legal cannabis. 

Sussex County, for instance, currently requires dispensaries to be at least three miles away from schools, churches, and rehab centers. The new bill would lower that requirement to 500 feet and ensure dispensaries aren’t clustered closer than half a mile from each other. 

Meyer recognized the concerns of local officials, noting that counties are typically responsible for deciding what types of businesses are appropriate in certain areas. “Land use has always been a core responsibility of local governments,” he said. 

Councilmember Janet Kilpatrick from Newcastle County voiced strong opposition to the bill, arguing that the state should either handle all zoning issues or leave it entirely to local authorities. “We can’t have the state stepping in only when it wants control over specific industries,” she said. 

Retail cannabis sales in Delaware are scheduled to begin on August 1. Thirteen shops are expected to open on day one, with a total of 30 planned in the months ahead. All of the state’s current medical cannabis dispensaries will also sell to recreational customers. 

When asked during a recent radio interview why the launch has been delayed, Meyer said the choice was between waiting even longer or allowing medical dispensaries to take the lead since they were already set up to begin selling. 

The broader marijuana industry, including key players like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF), hope that the market launch proceeds as scheduled in Delaware and residents can access approved adult-use products without having to travel long distances. 

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 — Congress Promises to Consider Marijuana Banking Reform Once the Budget is Passed

Congress is expected to revisit cannabis-related issues this fall, including banking access for marijuana businesses, according to political experts in Washington. 

David Culver, a top executive at the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable, a leading advocacy group, said he believes there’s a strong chance that Congress will approve the SAFE Banking measure before the current session ends. “This is the most promising window we’ve had so far,” Culver said in an interview. 

However, the bill’s progress is on hold until Congress handles a top priority: President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Lawmakers from both parties agree that this bill takes precedence. 

Senator Bernie Moreno, who is leading GOP support for the Senate version of the cannabis banking bill, said the Senate will likely turn its attention back to SAFER Banking sometime in the fall. 

Currently, most congressional action is stalled as Republican legislators remain divided over Trump’s broad immigration and tax bill. GOP leaders in the Senate have said they aim to send the finalized bill to Trump by Independence Day. But complications arose when House Republicans pushed back on changes introduced in the Senate. 

Representative Andy Harris, who heads the conservative House Freedom Caucus, stated that the House version must be the final framework. “Our red line is clear,” he told the Washington Post. “It needs to match what we passed in the House.” 

Delays in reaching an agreement on Trump’s bill could stall other bills, including cannabis-related legislation. 

Meanwhile, Harris is also backing a separate proposal that would change the legal definition of hemp at the federal level to ban products containing hemp-derived THC and THCA flower. However, the odds of that measure passing are low, especially since several GOP lawmakers represent states with booming hemp markets. 

Cannabis banking had been at the top of the legislative agenda until the Biden administration moved to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to III under the CSA in 2022. That change would offer immediate tax benefits to cannabis companies—something that banking reform alone wouldn’t provide. 

But with rescheduling efforts currently stalled, attention is once again turning to the need for financial access. While the House has passed banking reforms several times under Democratic control, the Senate has yet to follow through. 

Advocates say passing SAFER Banking could pave the way for more reforms, including standardized THC regulation and nationwide cannabis commerce. 

Major marijuana industry players like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) will be hoping that some regulatory reforms are enacted sooner rather than later given the numerous headwinds that the industry is currently facing. 

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 — Sky News Investigation Uncovers Illicit Marijuana Sellers in the UK Using QR Codes to Attract Buyers

While walking through Burton upon Trent, Steve noticed unusual stickers on lampposts and bins with a shiny green marijuana leaf, a QR code, and the phrase “get your delivery.” Curious, he scanned the code with his phone and was taken to a polished website selling cannabis in various forms—vapes, oils, gummies, buds, and even pre-rolled joints.

Steve had recently moved to the area and was dealing with severe pain from a back injury. He wanted an alternative to prescription opioids but didn’t feel safe buying drugs on the street. The site he found operated like a legitimate online store. It offered next-day delivery, had a variety of products, and included positive reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and Google.

He remembers being nervous the first time he ordered. “The package smelled strong,” he said. “It was shaped to fit through the letterbox, so the postman just dropped it in without a knock.”

Stickers just like the ones Steve saw have appeared in cities and towns across the UK—places like Birmingham, London, Glasgow, Shrewsbury, and even near police stations and schools. An investigation by Sky News discovered at least three different sticker styles, each linking to separate but related websites. All of them had professional branding, and their backend code revealed a rotating list of bank accounts and business names used during purchases.

The businesses are tied to a group of Lithuanian nationals, many of whom are linked to addresses in East London. One of these addresses is connected to a convicted criminal from Lithuania. Mail tracking data suggests the shipments are processed through a local Romford mail center. Moreover, a TRM Labs digital wallet analysis found that one of the websites had taken in over $100,000 by mid-March, which likely understates the total, as many buyers use traditional bank transfers.

When investigators visited a woman who owns two of the homes tied to the operation, she claimed to know nothing about it and said the people involved had since left the country.

Tony Saggers, formerly with the National Crime Agency, says this kind of operation shows how drug sales have moved from the dark web to regular websites, making access easier for everyday users. The volume of products being sold also points to large-scale cannabis production, likely within the UK.

Ben, a student at the University of York, scanned a sticker out of curiosity. He’d never used drugs before but said the sleek website made it feel like a real online store. He received a £10 ($13.57) joint in clean packaging but didn’t like the experience and chose not to repeat it.

Dr. Simon Erridge, from Curaleaf Clinic—a legal medical cannabis provider—warns people like Ben and Steve are gambling with their health. His clinic’s research found that 90% of seized marijuana samples had contaminants like mold, lead, or bacteria. Other tests showed many samples didn’t even contain real marijuana, with some having dangerous synthetic substances.

Despite the risks, more people are turning to online sources. A survey found that while friends and dealers remain common suppliers, online sales—especially through QR codes—are rising, particularly among younger adults.

While law enforcement is aware of the sticker campaign and its connection to drug sales, they’ve made few arrests. Officers in some regions now remove the stickers when they find them and encourage others to do the same. However, police say many of these websites operate from outside the UK, making enforcement difficult.

The proliferation of illicit marijuana sales in the UK underscores the necessity to revisit the country’s drug policies and possibly create a regulated market where companies similar to Trulieve Cannabis (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) can operate legally and have their products meet the set standards prior to market entry.

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