420 with CNW — US DOJ Urges Supreme Court to Uphold Gun Ban for Marijuana Users

The Justice Department is urging the U.S. Supreme Court to review a federal rule that bars people who use cannabis or other illegal substances from owning firearms. The DOJ argues the policy aligns with the Second Amendment and should remain in place.

John Sauer, the U.S. Solicitor General, has asked the justices to take up one of several pending cases to address conflicting decisions from lower courts on whether marijuana consumers can legally possess guns. Federal appeals courts have issued mixed rulings, creating what DOJ calls a growing “circuit conflict.”

Last week, DOJ asked the high court to review U.S. v. Hemani, a case they describe as a prime example of the dispute over 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (3), which prohibits gun and ammunition possession by unlawful drug users. In that case, the defendant reportedly used both cannabis and cocaine and had a record of drug sales, making him, in the government’s view, a less sympathetic figure than defendants in similar cases who were only linked to cannabis.

According to Sauer, the matter impacts hundreds of cases annually and centers on whether individuals who regularly use banned substances—but are not necessarily impaired when carrying a firearm—can be disarmed.

In its filing, DOJ pointed out that the Seventh Circuit has supported the ban, the Eighth Circuit has allowed it only with individual justification, and the Fifth Circuit has said it generally violates the Second Amendment unless the user was intoxicated while armed.

New rulings have further complicated the split, prompting the DOJ to push for Hemani as the lead case for resolution. It also emphasizes that cannabis remains illegal under federal law, regardless of state-level legalization, and federal rules take priority.

Several related cases—U.S. v. Baxter, U.S. v. Cooper, and U.S. v. Daniels—are also before the Court. In Cooper, a prison sentence was overturned for a man convicted of having a gun while using cannabis. In Baxter, the Eighth Circuit suggested the law might be unconstitutional in some cases. The DOJ wants the Supreme Court to decide Hemani first, and then apply that ruling to these others.

Recent court rulings have increasingly challenged § 922(g) (3), with some judges saying there’s little historical support for disarming all drug users. The Eighth Circuit recently suggested the government could justify such a restriction if it proved a particular drug inherently made users dangerous. The Third Circuit, however, requires individualized assessments for each defendant.

The DOJ has argued the ban is consistent with the Supreme Court’s U.S. v. Rahimi decision, which upheld firearm restrictions for people under domestic violence restraining orders. Federal prosecutors have also claimed that cannabis users pose safety risks, are more prone to suicide, and might commit crimes to support drug habits.

State-level responses vary, with some lawmakers pushing for reforms to protect medical marijuana patients’ gun rights, while others back stricter enforcement. In Kentucky, officials recently warned that residents who join the new medical marijuana program will be prohibited from purchasing or possessing firearms under federal law.

The Supreme Court is expected to discuss whether to take Hemani and the other cases in a closed conference next month. Their decision could have sweeping implications for both gun rights and marijuana policy nationwide.

The entire marijuana industry, including entities like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be watching how the U.S. Supreme Court decides on this matter before it as it could have major ramifications on the industry.

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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 — 32 State AGs Ask Congress to Expeditiously Pass Cannabis Banking Law

A group of 32 attorneys general from states and U.S. territories is urging Congress to pass a banking bill that would allow licensed marijuana operators to use traditional financial services. The group sent a letter to congressional leaders, underscoring the urgent need to provide cannabis businesses access to banks and credit unions.

The letter, spearheaded by AGs from Ohio, Washington, DC, Maryland, and Georgia, urges lawmakers to prioritize the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act this legislative session. According to the officials, the growing number of states legalizing marijuana highlights the need to bring cannabis-related financial activity into the formal banking system.

The AGs argue that keeping cannabis businesses locked out of banking pushes them into risky, cash-heavy operations. Without access to financial institutions, many of them are forced to handle large sums of cash, putting employees, customers, and communities at risk of theft and violent crime.

They also point out that the lack of banking access makes it harder for states to collect taxes and regulate the industry effectively. They note that the SAFER Banking Act could help states recover potentially hundreds of millions in lost tax revenue by allowing legal cannabis businesses to operate more transparently.

Although the letter refers to the 2025 version of the SAFER Banking Act, the bill has not yet been officially reintroduced in Congress. It remains to be seen whether any parts of the bill will change from its previous form, which failed to pass before the last session ended.

In the letter’s closing, the AGs describe the SAFER Banking Act as a reasonable, bipartisan step that would improve safety for the roughly 75% of Americans living in states where marijuana is legal. They clarify that the measure doesn’t push for legalization in states where marijuana remains illegal. Instead, it aims to solve practical issues that stem from the disconnect between federal banking rules and state cannabis laws.

The officials say the goal is to move the cash flowing through licensed cannabis businesses into secure, monitored banking systems, making the industry easier for both regulators and law enforcement to oversee.

The other AGs who signed the letter are from American Samoa, Alaska, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Hawai’i, Delaware, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Nevada, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, New Mexico, Colorado, Northern Mariana Islands, Oregon, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington.

Major cannabis industry players like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be hoping that the pleas of the bipartisan AGs will be heeded and the needed legislation is passed so that some of the hurdles that industry actors face in accessing banking services are addressed.

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420 with CNW — New Federally Financed Research Finds Medical Marijuana Helpful in Combating Anxiety

A recent study partially funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has found that medical cannabis use is linked to noticeable improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms.

The research, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, followed 33 adults from Maryland dealing with clinically diagnosed depression and/or anxiety. The study monitored their progress over six months, checking in at the start and again after one, three, and six months of using medical marijuana.

Results showed significant reductions in depression and anxiety, with many patients reporting improvements significant enough to drop below clinical thresholds within the first three months. Patients continued to report relief throughout the six-month period.

Most participants opted for marijuana products that were high in THC. While many experienced mental health benefits, they also reported feeling more intoxicated and less confident in their ability to drive safely. Researchers noted that the effects varied with the dose, and the most noticeable symptom relief came from using at least three puffs of vaporized marijuana or up to 15mg of oral THC.

Among those involved in the study, 75% had used cannabis at some point in the past, and around 37% had consumed it within the last year. Although medical cannabis was legal in Maryland during the study, recreational use was still against the law at that time.

The research team included experts from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Medicine, School of Public Health, and Cancer Center, along with collaborators from the Center for Alcohol Policy Research in Australia. Some of the researchers had ties to the cannabis industry, which was disclosed in the study’s conflict of interest section.

Despite the encouraging findings, the authors stressed the need for more rigorous clinical trials to better understand how safe and effective medical marijuana is for treating depression and anxiety.

There’s growing interest in the mental health effects of cannabis, especially as psychedelics and other alternatives gain traction. Past studies suggest that access to legal cannabis might reduce the need for prescription medications like antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety drugs. Other studies point to CBD as a potential treatment for depression and anxiety, with fewer side effects.

More broadly, people using medical marijuana for chronic pain have reported better sleep and improved mental health, adding to the growing evidence that cannabis could play a supportive role in treating emotional and psychological challenges.

These research findings support the medicinal use of marijuana products sold by numerous companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) in outlets found in jurisdictions that have reformed their marijuana laws to permit medical and/or recreational cannabis sales.

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420 with CNW — Study Finds Healthcare Professionals Ill-Equipped to Discuss Medical Cannabis with Patients

A recent study from the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) reveals that many healthcare providers in the U.S. feel they aren’t equipped to talk with patients about medical marijuana. Despite its growing acceptance, many in the medical field report they haven’t received enough education or training to advise patients confidently.

Currently, cannabis is categorized as a Schedule 1 drug in the U.S., meaning it is considered to have a high abuse potential and no recognized medical benefit. However, in 2023, the DHHS recommended moving it to Schedule 3, recognizing its possible use in treating conditions like cancer-related symptoms, infections, neurological issues, and skin disorders.

At present, medical marijuana is legal in 38 states. Of these, 14 have full-scale medical marijuana programs. An additional nine states only permit the use of cannabis products that are low in THC or high in CBD, and only for certain qualifying health conditions. Because of federal regulations, healthcare providers cannot write traditional prescriptions for cannabis. Instead, they may recommend it when patients meet specific criteria, with rules differing significantly from state to state.

Published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, the NYIT study shows that most doctors, nurses, and other clinical professionals do not feel ready to have informed conversations about cannabis with their patients.

The researchers reviewed 41 separate studies released between 2013 and 2025. These studies included responses from a range of professionals—physicians, trainees, and specialists in various fields—with opinions that often varied depending on their area of practice:

Doctors working in states where medical cannabis is legal, as well as those with more experience, were typically more at ease discussing and recommending it.
A majority of obstetricians were not supportive of its use during pregnancy, and pediatricians were reluctant to support it for children.
Oncologists, primary care doctors, pain specialists, palliative care providers, and emergency physicians generally believe medical marijuana can help treat chronic pain, appetite loss, depression, nausea, and similar issues.
Many physicians felt that marijuana could pose risks to patients with congenital heart conditions.
Neurologists still feel there is social stigma around using cannabis for treating epilepsy.

Lead researcher Dr. Maria Pino, a pharmacist and associate professor, noted that as more states loosen cannabis restrictions, medical professionals need to be better educated. “Training healthcare workers on how to responsibly guide patients using medical marijuana is crucial,” she said. “This not only helps patients get proper care, but also reduces stigma around using cannabis for medical needs.”

The study also pointed out a lack of solid scientific research, which makes it harder to create clear, evidence-based guidelines for medical cannabis treatment.

If healthcare professionals are equipped with the knowledge they need to have informed discussions with patients regarding medical marijuana, the entire cannabis industry, including entities like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) would have valuable allies in helping patients to make informed decisions about using medical marijuana.

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420 with CNW — Missouri Officials to Make Unannounced Cannabis Retail Location Visits to Test Products

Missouri’s marijuana oversight agency will kick off a new initiative aimed at ensuring cannabis products on store shelves are truly safe from next month. Inspectors from the Division of Cannabis Regulation will begin making unannounced visits to dispensaries each month, collecting roughly 50 products for independent analysis at the Missouri State Public Health Reference Laboratory. These samples will be tested for contaminants such as pesticides, mold, and other potential hazards.

According to Ryan Bernard, who leads the division’s research and testing team, the program has been in the pipeline for some time. It’s designed to add an extra layer of accountability for the state’s licensed cannabis testing labs. Bernard said they’re not expecting any red flags, saying, “We won’t know what we’re dealing with until we see the data, but I trust our labs are following the rules.”

However, some experts in the national marijuana testing industry aren’t so optimistic. Josh Swider, a lab executive and vice chair of a national cannabis lab working group, warned that similar surprise testing programs in other states have revealed serious issues. He pointed to a case in Arizona where a lab was cited for over a dozen violations, including faulty methods for detecting pesticides and misleading potency results.

Swider also noted that a common issue across the U.S. is inflated THC numbers, which can mislead consumers about product strength. Missouri may encounter the same problems, he added.

Previously, Missouri regulators had discussed a program where licensed labs would cross-check each other’s results—a concept known as “round robin” testing. Although considered critical by Division Director Amy Moore, the plan never materialized. Instead, the upcoming random sampling will serve as the state’s first attempt at independent oversight.

Lawmakers have already begun funding the effort, allocating $3.8 million for the testing initiative in FY 2024/25. However, much of it went unused due to delays in setting up the necessary lab systems. Another $2.4 million was set aside for the current year, with a similar amount approved for the upcoming fiscal year.

Bernard acknowledged that testing 50 products out of the hundreds of thousands available in the market barely scratches the surface. Still, he described the effort as an early step toward broader oversight. He added that supply delays, equipment problems, and other challenges have slowed the rollout.

Last year, experts raised concerns over Missouri’s testing ecosystem during a cannabis industry conference. It was revealed that one lab— “Lab D”—handled 82% of testing in the state and reported significantly fewer mold contamination cases than others. While most labs in Missouri reported mold detection rates around the national average of 3.8%, Lab D’s rate was below 0.5%. This raised suspicions that some issues may be slipping through undetected.

Even so, Bernard said he stands by the current system. “All labs are required to meet the same standards,” he said. “Without further investigation, I believe the testing is being done properly.”

The broader marijuana industry, including companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), is likely to welcome the efforts geared at assuring consumers in Missouri that the products they buy from licensed outlets are exactly what their labels say they are.

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420 with CNW — Pennsylvania House Committee Passes Adult-Use Marijuana Bill

A measure now moving through Pennsylvania’s State House could make cannabis available in stores overseen by the state. On Monday, House Democrats narrowly approved the measure in the Health Committee with a 14-12 vote.

Representative Rick Krajewski, who introduced the bill, clarified that cannabis would be sold in a network of state-regulated shops, separate from those selling alcohol. However, the proposed legislation—HB1200—takes a different approach than the one Governor Josh Shapiro laid out in his budget for 2025/26.

There are two major differences between the bill and the governor’s earlier plan. First, this version would place the adult-use marijuana program under the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board’s authority. Second, it excludes language related to restorative justice efforts, which had been a part of Shapiro’s original outline. Still, the legislation does include measures to clear records for people previously convicted of non-violent marijuana offenses.

Governor Shapiro, speaking during a Bedford County event, pointed out that surrounding states like Ohio, New York, New Jersey, and Maryland have already legalized recreational cannabis. According to him, if Pennsylvania doesn’t act, neighboring states will continue to benefit from residents crossing the border to make their purchases.

He also acknowledged that while the bill’s passage out of committee is only the beginning, it’s a step in the right direction. A final version, he said, would require negotiation and compromise between parties.

The governor’s proposed $51.5 billion budget counts on significant revenue from cannabis: around $15.6 million in taxes specific to recreational marijuana, another $11.4 million from sales tax, and roughly $509.5 million from licensing fees.

Despite public support, there is still strong political opposition. Some Republican lawmakers remain firmly against recreational cannabis. Senator Lisa Baker, for example, questioned the wisdom of using marijuana sales to help balance the state’s budget.

Still, polling suggests that most Pennsylvanians back legalization. A Change Research survey in February found that 68% of voters in the state support legal recreational cannabis. Nationally, Pew Research reported in March that nearly 9 in 10 adults think cannabis should be legal in some form, with 57% supporting both recreational and medical use.

Representative Maureen Madden, one of the co-sponsors of HB 1200, believes lawmakers have a duty to reflect what their constituents want. Speaking at a town hall in Tannersville on April 26, she said ignoring such widespread support is a missed opportunity to generate much-needed revenue.

She also pointed out that legalizing cannabis doesn’t mean everyone will use it, just like not everyone gambles, even though skill-based games are legal. Madden emphasized the need for creative solutions, especially as the state faces a deficit of more than $2 billion.

The full House will now consider the bill, but its future remains uncertain. Democrats have a slim one-seat majority in the House, while Republicans control the Senate, holding 27 seats to the Democrats’ 23.

As the drug policy reform movement spreads across the remaining states that still had prohibitive policies in place, more companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) are likely to sprout and create numerous benefits beyond selling products to consumers.

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420 with CNW — UK Government Report Says Drug Enforcement Triggers Increases in Violence

A government-commissioned report in the UK has found that efforts to crack down on drug activity through law enforcement are more likely to drive up violence rather than decrease it. While it’s unclear whether this will push the government to change course on drug policy, the findings are significant.

According to the report, existing evidence shows that drug-related policing does little to cut violence. In fact, many studies show the opposite—that such enforcement efforts often make things worse. The research also revisits earlier work on the topic, which concluded that stepping up police pressure on drug markets usually fails to curb violence and might increase it.

The report advises law enforcement agencies in the UK to weigh the potential for violence before launching operations focused on drugs, especially when these actions involve arresting key figures in drug networks or seizing large amounts of substances. These actions, while intended to disrupt illegal trade, often create instability and spark turf wars among criminal groups.

According to Transform Drug Policy Foundation senior analyst Steve Rolles, the unintended consequences of drug enforcement have been evident for years. He contends that the “war on drugs” has exacerbated the ongoing conflict between criminal organizations and law enforcement, making it possible for only the most vicious gangs to endure.

Rolles sees the report as an important moment, mainly because it comes from the Home Office. The office is responsible for issues such as policing and national security.

Many former law enforcement officers have also spoken out over the years about how drug enforcement can increase street violence. They point out that when established hierarchies in the drug trade are disrupted—through arrests or seizures—power vacuums form, sparking violent competition among rival groups.

Neil Woods, once an undercover cop, is now a leading advocate for changing drug laws. He chairs the Law Enforcement Action Partnership UK and argues that traditional drug policing doesn’t shrink the drug market. Instead, it often makes things more dangerous. He believes the findings of the report should influence government policy as public safety is at stake.

Woods also notes that cracking down on drug suppliers can increase overdose risks. A 2023 study published in the American Journal of Public Health showed that when a person’s dealer is arrested, they may turn to unfamiliar sources, increasing the chance of encountering contaminated or more potent drugs.

These findings are unlikely to surprise licensed marijuana companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) given that they have always believed that marijuana policy reform is a more sustainable way to reduce drug-related violence in different jurisdictions.

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420 with CNW — White House List Shows Cannabis Rescheduling Isn’t a Priority for Now

Cannabis reform is not among President Donald Trump’s top drug policy goals for his first year back in office, according to a statement from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Instead, the administration plans to prioritize tackling drug trafficking and addressing the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on substances like fentanyl.

Although cannabis rescheduling efforts began under President Biden, progress has stalled due to complications with DEA hearings. Supporters of cannabis reform had hoped Trump would take action, especially since he expressed support for the idea during his campaign. However, he has remained quiet on the matter since taking office again, and the new drug policy roadmap makes no mention of marijuana.

Despite cannabis being left out, the administration also hasn’t indicated it will increase enforcement against cannabis like it plans to with drugs such as meth, heroin, cocaine, xylazine, and fentanyl. That neutrality may come as a relief to reform advocates. Some parts of the plan could even be seen as positive, such as efforts to broaden access to naloxone—the medication that reverses opioid overdoses—and pushing states to make drug test strips more available to the public.

The ONDCP says the president’s policy focus may expand over time as drug trends evolve. For now, the administration is emphasizing enforcement and prevention measures to protect communities, schools, and the border from the dangers of illegal substances.

Cannabis supporters argue that legal marijuana could help reduce opioid addiction and deaths, pointing to studies that show lower rates of opioid use in states where medical cannabis is available. With Trump having previously voiced support for medical marijuana, the complete omission of cannabis from the current plan is seen by some as a missed chance to incorporate a potential tool in the fight against opioids.

Whether this stance could shift remains uncertain. Trump’s nominee to lead the ONDCP, Sara Carter, has described medical cannabis as a “fantastic” option for people with serious health conditions and said she doesn’t oppose legalization, even if she’s not fully on board with it personally.

The policy update follows the White House’s announcement that there are no active plans for cannabis reform. While rescheduling is stalled, others had hoped the administration would at least push forward with cannabis banking legislation. According to CNN, Trump tried to include such a measure in a spending bill before returning to office, but it didn’t make it through.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be watching to see whether the Trump administration finally gets round to completing the rescheduling work that was started under the previous administration. This policy change could usher in a new era for the industry.

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420 with CNW — The Marijuana Industry is Pivoting to Address Women’s Wellness Needs

Women are playing a major role in shaping the marijuana sector, influencing market trends and driving innovation. Brands are adjusting to meet the demands of women who are increasingly using marijuana for wellness advantages, including stress relief, pain treatment, and improved sleep, by providing products that fit with a health-conscious lifestyle.

The industry is seeing a rise in marijuana-infused wellness products, from edibles designed for relaxation to self-care items such as beauty creams and balms. Companies recognizing this shift can tap into a growing consumer base and remain competitive.

According to David Kooi, CEO of Jointly, a Los Angeles-based marijuana discovery app, women are driving the movement toward intentional marijuana use and giving wellness-related objectives top priority.

According to the app, 55% of its consumers are women, and they are more likely than men to use cannabis with a partner. Additionally, women report a higher success rate in using marijuana for pain relief and recovery.

Recent studies highlight the increasing prevalence of cannabis consumption among women. A 2023 study revealed that women between 19 and 30 surpassed men in cannabis use for the first time since 1975.

Creating products that integrate seamlessly into women’s daily routines is crucial, according to Grasslands’ COO Chloe Steerman. She noted that simply branding a product in feminine colors is no longer effective. “Women are discerning consumers who know exactly what they want,” she said. The challenge lies in getting industry executives to take these insights seriously.

Narmin Jarrous, chief development officer at Michigan-based Exclusive Brands, successfully launched Neno’s Naturals to help manage her endometriosis symptoms. Unlike many women in the industry, she had decision-making power and was able to develop a product that addressed a real medical need.

Jarrous urges companies to consider women’s health concerns, such as menstrual pain and endometriosis, when formulating new products. “Women not only make up a significant portion of marijuana consumers, but they also influence household purchasing decisions,” she pointed out.

Veda Warrior CEO Smrita Choubey incorporates Ayurvedic principles into her marijuana-infused butter and cooking oils, with 65% of her customer base being women. While the company maintains gender-neutral branding, it is developing a new line of balms and gummies tailored to women’s needs, including cramp relief.

Other companies are also recognizing the growing influence of female consumers. Connected Cannabis Co. is partnering with Kush Queen for International Women’s Month, launching a product bundle designed to enhance intimacy and wellness.

As women continue to drive demand in the marijuana market, businesses that listen to their needs and create thoughtful, wellness-oriented products will be well-positioned for success. It won’t be surprising when leading brands like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) gradually increase the number of products they offer to meet the specific wellness needs of women in the markets they serve.

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420 with CNW — Poll Finds 70% of Marijuana Consumers Intend to Maintain or Increase Expenditure on Marijuana This Year

A recent survey has revealed that nearly 70% of cannabis consumers in the U.S. intend to either maintain or increase their spending on marijuana in 2025 compared to 2024. Additionally, 62% of users continue to rely on cash transactions due to ongoing financial restrictions within the industry.

The poll, conducted by financial services firm Bankrate in collaboration with YouGov, examined consumer spending habits across six different vice categories: alcohol, sports betting, marijuana, tobacco, casino gaming, and lottery tickets.

Among the vices, marijuana is the least frequently spent on, which is not surprising given that it is still banned on a federal level. The survey found that 28% of respondents reported spending money on marijuana, whereas 66% and 64% of participants purchased alcohol and lottery tickets, respectively.

Millennials, defined in the poll as individuals aged 29 to 44, were identified as the most frequent cannabis buyers, with 35% reporting purchases. Moreover, 68% of marijuana consumers stated they expect their spending to either remain steady or increase in 2025. Within this group, 21% anticipate spending more this year than they did previously.

Interestingly, the percentage of marijuana consumers planning to maintain or increase their spending aligns with that of alcohol consumers and surpasses tobacco users.

The poll also found that 62% of marijuana purchases are made in cash, a much higher rate than the 42% of alcohol transactions conducted with cash. The only vice with a higher percentage of cash purchases was lottery tickets, at 76%—a figure likely influenced by legal requirements in some states mandating cash payments for such transactions.

The widespread use of cash for marijuana purchases is largely attributed to regulatory barriers preventing many banks from providing financial services to the cannabis industry. This challenge has been the focus of multiple congressional discussions, with lawmakers addressing broader concerns over restricted banking access.

A recent congressional report also delved into the issue of financial barriers for marijuana-related businesses, highlighting how the conflict between state and federal policies complicates the industry’s financial landscape. Although there have been ongoing discussions about the SAFE Banking Act as a potential solution, reports indicate that its reintroduction is not likely to happen soon despite previous expectations.

The recent survey further revealed that 7% of respondents have incurred debt related to cannabis purchases. In comparison, 10% of sports bettors, 8% of alcohol buyers, and 7% of tobacco users reported debt related to their respective spending habits. The survey gathered responses from 2,115 adults between December 16 and 18.

Such surveys indicating that marijuana users intend to either maintain or even increase how much they spend on marijuana this year offer a bullish pointer to entities like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) regarding the prospects for growth.

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