420 with CNW — Kamala Harris Backs Marijuana Legalization, a First for Major Presidential Candidate

Vice President Kamala Harris’s opinions on marijuana have changed over time, much like those of many other Americans. Back in 2010, she urged voters to reject a ballot measure that sought to legalize recreational marijuana when she was the district attorney for San Francisco. Her position at the time was in accord with that of a majority of California voters, of whom 54% eventually voted against the initiative.

However, the perspective on marijuana began to change not long after. By 2016, California voters had passed Proposition 64, which legalized cannabis throughout the state. Then, in 2019, as California’s junior senator, Harris cosponsored legislation to lift the federal ban on cannabis. Nearly two-thirds of Americans favored legalizing marijuana, according to a Gallup poll conducted that year, a substantial increase from the 46% of respondents in 2010.

Today, support for cannabis legalization has risen to 70%. Harris has consistently, in her tenure as VP, stated that no American should be imprisoned for using marijuana. She has supported the efforts of the Biden administration to relax some federal marijuana prohibitions and to pardon individuals who have committed minor marijuana infractions.

Harris’s journey from a skeptic to a supporter of legalization reflects a broader shift among Americans. As with many voters, her opinions changed as medical marijuana gained greater traction. While serving as San Francisco’s district attorney, Harris vowed not to prosecute individuals using or selling medical cannabis.

The move toward full cannabis legalization gained momentum in 2012 when voters in Washington and Colorado became the first states to pass recreational cannabis regulations. By 2016, the number of states where marijuana was legal had grown to nine. Currently, 24 states have legalized cannabis.

Living in a state where marijuana is legalized probably helped Harris change from being a fierce opponent to a supporter. This pattern is evident in other states, such as Colorado, where voter support for legalization has increased since the laws were first enacted. No state has revoked its cannabis legalization laws, as these policies have generally met the expectations of voters and lawmakers and are seen as better alternatives to criminalization.

Despite the shift in public opinion, federal cannabis policies have remained largely unchanged. Many politicians in Congress still hold outdated views on cannabis, reminiscent of the Reefer Madness era, which most voters have long rejected. These lawmakers need to update their views to align with current scientific understanding and public opinion, much as Harris did. Those who fail to adapt risk falling out of step with their constituents.

That Harris has brought the debate on marijuana legalization to the highest level of elected leadership in the United States is a welcome happening for cannabis companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) because it will bring the subject of drug-policy reform to the center of public discourse, at least during the election cycle and possibly beyond.

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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 — Laboratory Owners Reveal Unknown Compounds Found in Marijuana Samples

The regulated cannabis sector has been facing a significant challenge lately: lab-tested products containing pesticides. More alarmingly, some cannabis samples sent for testing now contain a mixture of unknown compounds not previously identified in cannabis.

According to lab executives, these enigmatic substances emerge during the conversion of hemp-derived cannabinoids into delta-8 and delta-9 THC. The issue is made worse by the fact that testing for cannabinoids, heavy metals and mold is required in most jurisdictions, but testing for these byproducts is not. As such, their impact on customers is still unknown.

Cannabis naturally includes trace levels of delta-8 THC. However, most delta-8 products are synthesized by converting nonpsychoactive CBD, potentially leaving behind dubious byproducts.

According to chemist Susan Audino, who consults with biological and chemical laboratories, these are side reactions of the chemical process. “It is impossible to produce one compound without also producing others,” she added.

According to Josh Swider, CEO and cofounder of Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs in San Diego, up to 60 unknown chemicals are frequently present in many delta-8 products made via chemical procedures. Many of them remain unidentified. This suggests that previously undiscovered cannabis chemicals are being digested and introduced, according to Swider.

ACT Laboratories CEO and chief scientific officer, Bob Miller, pointed out that unethical methods used in THC-potency testing are partially to blame for the paucity of investigation into these unidentified chemicals. “Potency testing creates an opportunity for unethical interactions between labs and grower-processors,” Miller said. “Higher potencies benefit everyone except the consumer because they mean more money for the tests and higher sales prices.”

Miller highlighted that his lab in Michigan has observed an increase in delta-8 THC entering the market, posing a significant issue. “Producers often claim they have hemp and sell it across state lines. In reality, it’s a mix of delta-9 and delta-8 THC,” he said. The conversion process from CBD to delta-9 and delta-8 is often imprecise, resulting in a mix of various compounds, many of which remain unidentified due to the lack of required testing.

Certain molecules that arise from these intricate combinations in lab settings have the potential to be more psychotropic than delta-9 THC. “If we detect significant levels of any compound, we inform our clients,” Miller explained. “Some clients are eager to understand, while others just want us to test for the legally required cannabinoids.”

The tests carried out are chosen by the lab’s clients, the manufacturers of the products. “Manufacturers usually don’t request specific tests if regulations don’t demand them,” said Audino, who also pointed out that the majority of state regulators are lawyers enforcing laws rather than scientists.

Miller drew attention to the fact that the influx of these unidentified substances was unintentionally facilitated by the 2018 Farm Bill, which authorized industrial hemp. “There’s a federal movement to change regulations to eliminate unknown chemistry and stabilize the supply chain,” he said.

Swider criticized the cannabis-lab industry for moving away from science. “Labs have become more cookie-cutter, focusing only on mandated tests and ignoring other potential issues,” he said. Swider believes the industry needs a reset, urging states to establish stricter mandates. “Many labs prioritize profit over safety, and about 70%–80% of them probably shouldn’t be operational.”

Making the needed changes will require the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, including established cannabis entities such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), so that only accepted compounds remain in the products that reach the market.

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420 with CNW — DeSantis Vetoes Bill Banning Hemp Intoxicants in Florida

As Florida governor Ron DeSantis campaigns against a ballot initiative for cannabis legalization, he has paradoxically vetoed a bill aimed at banning the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids in the state. This decision comes in the wake of reports that Governor DeSantis intended to block the hemp prohibition bill, hoping the hemp industry would financially support his campaign against the cannabis measure that voters will decide on in November.

Although DeSantis did not explicitly reference the cannabis legalization measure in his veto letter, he noted that while the goals of SB 1698 are admirable, the measure would impose significant regulatory burdens on small entities and likely fail to achieve its objectives. He expressed concern that the bill would cause substantial harm and disruption to many manufacturing and small retail businesses in the state, which have thrived due to new laws legalizing the use of hemp for commercial purposes.

Despite vetoing the bill, DeSantis proposed several considerations for future legislative work on the issue. He suggested that lawmakers establish guidelines for the handling, cultivation and processing of hemp products to guarantee their purity, safety and potency. According to the governor, the current bill falls short in this regard. DeSantis also suggested selling hemp-derived cannabinoids behind the counter and placing hemp retail stores a safe distance away from places of worship, schools and other gathering places for families with young children.

Essentially, DeSantis is asking voters to reject a ballot proposition that would impose similar rules on the recreational marijuana business, even as he advocates for harsher laws on the hemp-based cannabinoid sector. In the meanwhile, he permits the hemp sector to function without these proposed regulations.

The governor’s veto message was issued a day after a Fox News survey revealed that two-thirds of Florida voters, including a majority of GOP supporters, support the marijuana legalization initiative. According to the survey, 66% of voters support the initiative, surpassing the 60% threshold needed to pass the amendment under state law. In contrast, 52% of voters indicated they either highly or somewhat approve of DeSantis’ performance as governor, highlighting a 14-point disparity in support compared to cannabis legalization.

This calls into doubt the electoral viability of DeSantis’s opposition to the cannabis bill. The governor has maintained that the state should not go beyond the current medical marijuana program, arguing that more extensive reform would have a detrimental effect on Floridians’ standard of living.

The contradictions evident in the governor’s opposition to adult-use cannabis legalization while at the same time shooting down legislation to rein in hemp intoxicants is something that marijuana companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) could find baffling, making the case for federal reforms that are free from the suspected local interests that may have influenced this veto letter.

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420 with CNW — Republic of South Africa President Signs Bill Legalizing Marijuana

The president of South Africa has formally signed a measure making adult use, growing and possession of cannabis legal. Just one day before the national elections, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (CfPPA) into law. The National Council of Provinces gave its support to the bill in February after it was enacted by the National Assembly in November 2023.

This legislative change has been in development for several years, beginning with a 2018 Constitutional Court ruling that declared the ban on marijuana cultivation and simple possession unconstitutional, requiring legislative amendments in two years. Although the bill to legalize cannabis was introduced in 2020, progress was slow despite the government’s intention to prioritize the cannabis sector for economic growth.

The president’s office announced in a news statement that the CfPPA will result in important regulatory changes, such as the exclusion of marijuana from the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act. To support the industrialization of the marijuana sector, this modification will also enable changes to the Plant Breeders Rights Act, the Medicines and Related Substances Act and the Plant Improvement Act, among other laws.

The office went on to say that the bill shields children from needless exposure while offering rules for medical cannabis use for youth. It ensures that minors’ best interests are taken into consideration by providing an alternate method for resolving instances involving the unlawful use, possession or sale of cannabis. The bill also strictly prohibits the commercial sale of cannabis.

Adults are required by the new regulation to cultivate their cannabis plants and to exclusively use them inside their own homes. Furthermore, prior convictions for cannabis possession and growing may be expunged under the legislation.

Speaking on behalf of the parliament, Moloto Mothapo stated that the government hopes that the measure will open the door for further rules that will aid in the growth of the legal cannabis industry in South Africa.

President Ramaphosa outlined his plan for South Africa to join the global medical cannabis and hemp markets in his 2022 State of the Nation speech, estimating that this might generate more than 100,000 jobs. However, the main goal of the present law is to decriminalize cannabis per the 2018 court verdict, which was made in response to a decision made by a lower court in the province of the Western Cape.

As in South Africa, the Supreme Court in Mexico declared in 2018 that the prohibition of marijuana is unconstitutional, forcing legislators to amend the legislation. Mexico has not yet fully implemented the reform despite recent sessions seeing some progress in this area.

The signs of the wave triggering change in marijuana policy in Africa as well suggests that major entities such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) could in future have global markets to serve as the trade in this hitherto outlawed substance becomes more commonplace.

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420 with CNW — New Jersey Lawmaker Introduces Bill Seeking to Cap Medical Cannabis Prices

State officials in New Jersey acknowledge the concerns raised by medical-cannabis patients regarding the steep prices of marijuana products. However, the officials stress their limited authority under existing laws, which grant them no jurisdiction over the pricing policies of dispensaries.

Democratic legislator Senator Troy Singleton is looking to neighboring Pennsylvania for inspiration. Pennsylvania’s medical-cannabis law includes a provision allowing state authorities to impose price limits if marijuana prices become exorbitant. Singleton aims to replicate this provision in New Jersey, proposing a bill that would empower the state’s cannabis regulator to impose price limitations on medical-marijuana providers if their pricing practices are deemed unjustifiably high relative to their operational costs. The limits would be revisited every six months.

Singleton underscores the pressing issue of exorbitant cannabis prices in New Jersey, particularly for medical users. Price caps, in his opinion, can create market pressure and, as a result, result in lower pricing for customers.

Chris Goldstein, an advocate for cannabis reform who closely monitors marijuana prices in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, draws parallels between the pricing dynamics of marijuana and other commodities. He expressed concerns about corporate greed driving prices upward, noting that despite promises of increased competition bringing prices down, prices have remained stubbornly high in New Jersey.

Critics such as Goldstein attribute the high prices to corporate groups controlling the majority of the cannabis industry in New Jersey. Most cultivators are corporate entities, leaving only a few independent players.

Comparing prices, it’s evident that marijuana is considerably cheaper in Pennsylvania than in New Jersey. For instance, an eighth at Ascend in Fort Lee costs $65 (or $50 on sale), while the same amount is $15 in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Likewise, an eighth at Bordentown’s Curaleaf costs $60, whereas in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, it’s only $32.50.

Cannabis and disability activist Edward “Lefty” Grimes draws attention to the disparity in cost between legal dispensaries and the traditional market. The high cost of extracted marijuana oil, or “dabs,” is one of his points of contention, as it is far cheaper in the legacy market.

Goldstein laments the persistently high prices of marijuana in New Jersey compared to other states, suggesting that these prices deter people from enrolling in the medical cannabis program. Grimes believes that price-fixing laws are a workable way for legislators to guarantee that individuals suffering from illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”), multiple sclerosis and cancer may obtain inexpensive marijuana products.

While Singleton has championed various bills aimed at reforming the marijuana sector, he acknowledges the challenges of passing such legislation in the legislature. Although the price cap bill has yet to progress, Singleton remains committed to advocating for more accessible pricing in the market.

While the entire cannabis industry including major companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) wish that patients and other users get the marijuana products they need at the most affordable prices possible, the wish to put price caps may be concerning given the rapidly changing market conditions on the ground and the slow rate at which regulators respond to such changes.

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420 with CNW — Germany May Initiate Legal Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Via Regulations, Bypassing Standalone Law

Germany is progressing with the next stage of cannabis legalization by initiating a pilot program for commercial sales using an administrative process instead of waiting for legislators to pass a separate measure as initially anticipated. It has long been expected that lawmakers would introduce and approve additional sales bills to complete the second phase of legalization. However, the government is opting for a rulemaking approach, potentially expediting the implementation process.

Cannabis legalization was set in motion under a measure led by Germany’s Ministry of Health, which went into force in April 2024. This allows adults to use and grow marijuana and join clubs for access to the plant, with cooperative launches expected in July. Nonetheless, there is currently no established commercial sales road map.

According to a report from Tagesspiegel Background, the existing law provides regulatory flexibility to build upon the original reform. Germany’s Ministry of Agriculture has the authority to create regulations for a commercial pilot initiative, enabling adults to purchase marijuana in specific areas without requiring further legislative action.

However, this approach also raises the possibility of easier reversal by a future government. Nevertheless, in the short-term, expediting the sales process is possible. According to reports, representatives from the Agricultural Ministry have sent out a letter asking for comments by May 10, 2024, on possible rules on retail sales under a pilot initiative.

Karl Lauterbach, Germany’s health minister, who has been leading the government’s marijuana legalization efforts, mentioned to Bundestag members last year that the commercial sales program is under consideration. With legalization already in place, there is growing pressure to accelerate this process.

Previously, the Bundesrat representing different states attempted to block the legalization proposal enacted last September, but this effort failed. Bundesrat members later worked with Lauterbach and other government officials to find a compromise.

The first legalization framework was accepted by Germany’s cabinet in late 2022, but to uphold its international responsibilities, the government sought approval from the European Union. Hearings were held in 2022 to provide legislation that would remove the prohibition.

In November 2023, government representatives from various countries, including the United States, convened in Germany to discuss international cannabis policy as the host country pursued legalization.

A delegation of German legislators visited the United States in 2022, touring marijuana businesses in California to inform Germany’s approach to legalization. The visit followed a groundbreaking meeting between Netherlands, Germany, Malta and Luxembourg officials to discuss plans and obstacles related to recreational cannabis legalization.

The coalition government leaders revealed some details of their agreement to legalize cannabis in 2021 and declared that they had come to an agreement to eliminate prohibition.

Meanwhile, the drug control arm of the United Nations recently restated its stance that legalizing cannabis for nonscientific or nonmedical purposes violates international treaties. However, it acknowledged Germany’s government for scaling back its marijuana plans before the upcoming vote.

This expedited way to get adult-use cannabis sales underway is likely to be applauded by the wider marijuana industry, including major companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), because as it would facilitate access to recreational marijuana for Germans who are interested in consuming the substance.

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420 with CNW — FDA Boss Says DEA Doesn’t Have Reason to Delay Cannabis Rescheduling

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) director Robert Califf noted before a House committee on April 11, 2024, that there is no justification for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to postpone making the much-anticipated decision to move cannabis from Schedule I to III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

However, Califf suggested that the DEA might treat recreational cannabis differently from medical cannabis, a move that could significantly impact the American marijuana industry. Analysts have speculated on the implications of such a potential distinction, noting that it might result in tax advantages for medical cannabis enterprises over recreational ones.

Califf’s remarks were made during a comprehensive hearing convened by Representative James Comer (R), who chairs the Oversight and Accountability House Committee. Comer raised concerns about the FDA’s oversight of new tobacco products used for nicotine vaporization and its reluctance to regulate products derived from hemp, such as CBD. In response to Comer’s criticisms, Califf shifted the responsibility to Congress, asserting that the current regulatory frameworks are inadequate for CBD and advocating for the establishment of new regulatory measures.

Califf’s discussion on the potential reclassification of cannabis was prompted by a query from Representative Nancy Mace (R), a prominent advocate for cannabis reform. Mace sought updates on the DEA’s assessment of the FDA’s findings from last year, which acknowledged the medicinal value of marijuana and recommended its reclassification to Schedule III.

Califf refrained from providing specific details, noting that he wouldn’t tell even if he knew. However, he emphasized the absence of justification for any delay on the part of the DEA, stressing the need for consideration of existing regulations. He also emphasized the importance of congressional guidance in navigating the cannabis regulation issue.

Drawing a line between recreational and medical cannabis, Califf highlighted the distinction between their respective purposes and routes of validation. While acknowledging the medical benefits of cannabis when used for therapeutic purposes, he cast doubt on its utility for recreational use, suggesting that it lacks medicinal value in such contexts. It remains unclear whether Califf’s insights will affect how the DEA makes a decision.

According to a DEA official, the agency typically takes up to six months to evaluate recommendations from health authorities regarding scheduling changes. This timeframe aligns with the duration since the current assessment of cannabis began. These discussions occurred amid the Biden administration’s efforts to promote marijuana pardons and oversee the cannabis scheduling review.

The entire marijuana industry, including leading companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be waiting with bated breath to know what final decision the DEA makes regarding the rescheduling of marijuana under the CSA and the resultant implications for the trajectory of the industry.

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First Marijuana Consumption Lounge in Nevada Set to Open by Month’s End

Earlier this month, the Nevada Cannabis Control Board announced that it had awarded its first marijuana consumption lounge license. This announcement comes after the board approved a handful of these licenses over the last couple months.

The first to receive a lounge license was Thrive Cannabis Marketplace. Mitch Britten, CEO and managing partner of Thrive, stated that the company was honored to be at the forefront of the marijuana industry in Nevada through the official launch of the first regulated marijuana lounge in the state.

Britten revealed that the company had created a unique destination for marijuana enthusiasts to enjoy an assorted range of premium products in an engaging atmosphere. The lounge, dubbed Smoke and Mirrors, will provide a curated selection of premium marijuana products, including infused beverages.

It is important to keep in mind that alcohol will not be offered on the premises in accordance with state law. The compliance board also issued a statement about the company, noting that it was the first lounge that was inspected by its agents and adhered to the stipulated regulations.

A conditional license was issued to Thrive in June of last year. The zoning commission from Clark County then issued the company a special use permit in September. The lounge was then inspected in February of this year, which enabled Thrive to obtain its operation license.

In addition, the Nevada Cannabis Control Board revealed that 19 lounges had received approval for conditional licenses thus far. Of this number, five are independently situated and 14 are attached to dispensaries. The first independently located consumption lounge to receive a license was LA Lounge LLC.

Thrive’s lounge will operate in what was once a strip club and may be launched by the end of February, if all goes well.

Tyler Klimas, former executive director of the cannabis control board, recently discussed marijuana consumption lounges on a Weed Wonks podcast. He talked about how this was an unknown space and noted that many businesses would be launched in the near future.

The other consumption lounge that received a conditional license, Planet 13, issued a statement on a possible date for its launch. Larry Scheffler, Planet 13 co-CEO, stated that the company’s objective was to create an extraordinary space for marijuana connoisseurs, novices, locals and tourists to enjoy marijuana while experiencing world-class entertainment. The Planet 13 lounge will have bong chandeliers, VIP booths and marijuana cocktails.

The third conditional license was granted to SoL Cannabis.

The launch of these consumption lounges is likely to be watched closely by cannabis companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) since their success is likely to be copied in other jurisdictions where legal sales of adult-use marijuana exist.

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420 with CNW — Republican Research Company Publishes Poll Showing Countrywide Support for Cannabis Legalization

A new poll has found that the majority of voters in America are in favor of cannabis being legalized in all states. The poll conducted by the Tarrance Group involved interviews with about one thousand voters. The interviews were carried out Jan. 3–4, 2024.

The poll determined that 57% of those who responded support nationwide legalization of marijuana. Of this number, 35% admitted to strongly supporting the change in policy. It also found that roughly 55% of GOP voters aged 55 and below supported the legalization of marijuana. In addition, 74% of Democrats aged 55 and below also admitted to supporting the drug’s legalization in all states. Among independent voters, 56% stated that they were in favor of countrywide legalization of marijuana.

It should be noted that various measures have been introduced in Congress that would allow states to make their own decisions concerning marijuana while putting an end to the federal criminalization of the drug.

In an interview, U.S. Cannabis Council’s Josh Glasstetter stated that the survey’s results demonstrated that bipartisan support for the federal legalization of marijuana was growing and a generational shift on marijuana was underway. He then noted that during this year’s election, younger voters who strongly supported legalization would be sought after.

Overall, 67% of voters 18 to 44 years of age say they support a countrywide model to legalize marijuana. This is significantly higher than 57% of those aged 45 to 64 and 47% of those aged 65 and older.

Poll results noted that 68% of President Joseph Biden supporters also favor the reform with 48% of GOP members who support Donald Trump sharing these sentiments. With regard to undecided voters, 50% also support the change in policy.

This poll’s results are similar to those from a separate 2023 survey, which determined that support for ending the federal prohibition of cannabis had hit a new high nationally, with 7 in every 10 Americans supporting the reform. A different survey by Lake Research Partners also found that President Biden stood to make great political gains if cannabis was rescheduled under his administrative directive.

The survey was commissioned by the Coalition for Cannabis Scheduling Reform. The survey comes after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services completed its scientific review in 2023 and gave its recommendation that marijuana be rescheduled. Despite this recommendation, the matter can only be decided by the DEA.

The drug’s rescheduling may not completely phase out the illicit market, however, Another poll found that nearly one-third of cannabis consumers would return to the illicit market if the drug was rescheduled and then made available solely as an approved prescription drug under the FDA.

The evolving regulatory landscape in the United States is being closely watched by companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) so that these companies can quickly ascertain how any changes made could impact their operations.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our 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. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. 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 — Ohio Governor Urges Lawmakers to Enable Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has urged state lawmakers to enable recreational marijuana sales before the end of the year. During a recent interview with newspaper editors, Gov. DeWine said that although Ohio voters approved a measure to legalize recreational cannabis in late 2023, recreational sales won’t begin until the end of 2024.

The governor noted that Ohio is in a sort of “goofy situation” where recreational cannabis consumption and cultivation are legal, but the state still hasn’t approved retail locations to sell adult-use marijuana. As a result, black-market sellers are stepping in and taking advantage of the market gap to sell unregulated cannabis to often unsuspecting consumers.

The Republican governor called the situation a “real mess” and called on the Republican-controlled legislature to take action and remedy the issue by granting the authority to start selling legal adult-use cannabis in the state. He suggested that the state could start by allowing adult-use cannabis sales through medical marijuana dispensaries with the possibility of launching sales around 60 days after a legislature-passed initiative.

DeWine has already expressed support for a recreational cannabis regulation bill that was passed by the Senate in December and is still waiting for action by House legislators.

According to DeWine, gaining the support of both the Senate and House will be critical to starting a conversation about legal adult-use cannabis sales and working on a bill to facilitate legal sales.

Ohio became the 24th state in the U.S. to legalize recreational cannabis after voters approved Issue 2 in the November 2023 ballot. Issue 2 allowed adults aged 21 years and older to possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower and 15 grams of marijuana extract. Eligible adults can also grow up to six cannabis plants in households with one adult and up to twelve plants in homes with more than one eligible adult.

DeWine is adamant that Ohio lawmakers advance legislation as soon as possible and ban the purchase of intoxicating hemp products as the legislature comes back into session this year.

The cannabis black market is a problem that affects most states with legal markets, including California, which is currently the largest cannabis market on the globe. DeWine is keen on avoiding the issue before Ohio’s adult-use industry launches.

Such a bill would allow regulated retailers to begin selling recreational cannabis “on a controlled basis,” DeWine says, and would allow the state to launch adult-use sales quickly through medical marijuana centers.

Operators in more mature cannabis markets, such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be watching to see how Ohio navigates its entry into the fast-growing recreational marijuana industry.

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