420 with CNW — Study Uncovers Genetic Links Between Marijuana Use and Health Challenges

Researchers from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, working alongside the genetics company 23andMe, have pinpointed specific regions in the human genome that appear to influence marijuana use.

Their findings, published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggest connections between these genetic factors and various psychiatric, cognitive, and physical health traits. The research could help shape future prevention and treatment options for cannabis use disorder.

According to the study’s senior author, Dr. Sandra Sanchez-Roige, marijuana is widely used, yet its long-term health impacts remain unclear. The team set out to better understand how genetics contribute to behaviors linked with cannabis use disorder, a condition that can disrupt daily life and affect nearly 30 percent of people who regularly use the drug.

The team conducted a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS), using genetic data from 131,895 participants who volunteered through 23andMe’s research program. Participants completed surveys indicating whether they had ever used marijuana and, if so, how frequently they used it.

Co-author Dr. Abraham Palmer noted that genetic science has long shown that inherited factors influence drug experimentation and addiction. “Tools like GWAS allow us to uncover biological pathways that connect marijuana use to brain activity and behavior,” he said.

The analysis identified two major genes tied to lifetime marijuana use. The first, known as CADM2, helps regulate communication between brain cells and has been previously linked to traits such as impulsivity, cancer spread, and obesity. The second, GRM3, plays a role in brain signaling and plasticity and has known connections to mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Further analysis uncovered 40 additional genes connected to lifetime marijuana use and four related to how often people used marijuana. Notably, 29 of these had not previously been linked to marijuana-related behaviors.

When comparing genetic data with medical information from large databases, the scientists found that a predisposition for marijuana use often overlapped with risks for over 100 traits. These included psychiatric conditions such as depression, ADHD, and anxiety, as well as cognitive differences and physical illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and chronic pain. Genetic correlations were also observed with tobacco use, autoimmune diseases, and infections like HIV and hepatitis.

Dr. Hayley Thorpe, the study’s lead author, noted that marijuana use exists on a spectrum. Studying early-use behaviors, she said, helps clarify how genetic risks emerge before full cannabis use disorder develops.

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for cannabis use disorder, but the researchers hope these findings will pave the way for new therapies and prevention strategies.

The study findings show that cannabis use disorder is more complicated than has been thought. Marijuana businesses like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) are likely to interest themselves in any follow up research done to get more insights on how customers can be better advised on product use.

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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 — Marijuana Stocks Surge as Trump Endorses CBD for Seniors

Cannabis-related stocks surged following remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who praised the potential health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) for older adults in a recent social media post. Trump stated that CBD could help slow disease progression in senior patients, offering an alternative to traditional medications.

The statement comes a month after he hinted that his administration was considering reclassifying cannabis. Such a move could ease federal penalties and reduce some of the restrictions currently tied to cannabis use.

Canopy Growth shares surged more than 18 percent, Tilray Brands rocketed over 40 percent, Aurora Cannabis jumped about 25 percent, and Cronos Group gained nearly 16 percent. Cannabis-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also saw a strong rally. The AdvisorShares fund and Roundhilleach advanced almost 22 percent, leaving both on pace for record-breaking quarterly gains of over 70 percent.

Cannabis policy in the United States has been shaped by shifting administrations. Trump previously signed the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed many restrictions on CBD and hemp production. However, cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, a category reserved for substances considered highly addictive with no recognized medical use.

Efforts to change cannabis classification have been ongoing. Under President Joe Biden, the Health and Human Services Department recommended moving cannabis to Schedule III, a category for substances with a lower risk of dependence. Such a step would not legalize the drug but would ease restrictions on companies operating in the space.

Currently, federal tax code Section 280E prevents them from taking standard business deductions, leaving many firms at a disadvantage. Adjusting marijuana’s status could open doors to institutional investors and eventually allow cannabis companies to trade on major U.S. exchanges. Beyond taxes, reclassification could help narrow the divide between federal law and state-level legalization, which now exists in almost 40 states.

The industry remains volatile, with stock prices swinging alongside political developments. Canopy Growth, for instance, has seen nearly 50 percent of its value wiped out this year, while SNDL and Cronos have posted gains of over 50 percent, boosted in part by Monday’s rally.

Industry leaders welcomed the latest signals from Trump. A Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) spokesperson said the company is encouraged by recognition of marijuana’s role in supporting wellness, particularly for seniors. They added that through its U.S. affiliate, Canopy is ready to expand if the regulatory environment improves. The entire industry is waiting on those regulatory improvements.

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420 with CNW — Cannabis Firms in Delaware Can Now Transfer to Another County

Delaware’s cannabis commissioner has stated that marijuana license holders can now request to transfer their permits across Delaware’s three counties. This change opens the door for companies to relocate from areas with stricter rules, like Sussex County, to places where operating may be easier.

Speaking with Spotlight Delaware, Commissioner Joshua Sanderlin explained that the move overturns a rule put in place by the previous commissioner. The update comes after Sussex County and several municipalities introduced regulations in 2024 that left cannabis shops confined to very limited parts of the region.

Lawmakers tried to address the issue by passing Senate Bill 75 which aimed to reduce counties’ control over cannabis businesses. However, Governor Matt Meyer vetoed the measure, saying it stripped local governments of authority without offering them adequate support.

Sanderlin stressed that his office’s decision was not a direct response to the governor’s veto. Instead, it followed multiple requests from business owners who wanted flexibility in where they could operate. As someone who previously worked in the industry, he noted that his goal is to regulate fairly while also supporting license holders as partners rather than obstacles.

It’s still early to determine how the change will affect where businesses set up shop, but Sanderlin expects to see some movement toward New Castle and Kent Counties. At the same time, he believes the industry will eventually balance out across the state as businesses naturally gravitate toward financially sustainable locations.

Last year, Delaware issued 125 cannabis licenses but under the old rules, each one was tied to a specific county. That system, designed by Sanderlin’s predecessor Rob Coupe, was intended to guarantee fair distribution across the state. With the new rule, companies can apply to move their permits if they have trouble securing property in their assigned county.

One transfer has already been approved, allowing a manufacturer to relocate from New Castle to Sussex County after finding a workable site. He said more requests will be considered, as long as business owners present a solid relocation plan.

Sussex County has some of the toughest zoning rules, including a three-mile buffer between cannabis shops and schools or other sensitive locations. New Castle’s buffer is 1,000 feet, while Kent has none, though dispensaries there must be in commercial zones.

Business owners say the new flexibility gives them more options, particularly after SB 75 was vetoed. Sussex license holder Derro Smith, who runs a micro-cultivation business, said he would strongly consider moving his operation since his county has some of the toughest restrictions in the state.

Marijuana companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) operating in other legal markets will be watching how the changes made in Delaware enable adults who choose to consume cannabis get improved access to licensed outlets over the coming months and years.

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420 with CNW — Oregon Certifies Title for Measure Seeking to Legalize Cannabis Consumption Lounges

The Oregon state attorney general has officially approved a ballot title for a measure that would legalize marijuana consumption lounges, a proposal supporters want voters to consider in the 2026 election.

This step follows the release of a draft version about a month ago, which drew only one public comment. With the certified title now complete, the campaign is closer to beginning the large-scale signature drive needed to secure its spot on the ballot.

The effort is being led by Portland-based advocacy group the Oregon Cannabis Cafe Coalition (OCCC). The group had to gather at least 1,000 valid voter signatures before the state could prepare an official ballot title. In June, organizers submitted over 1,400 signatures, which were verified before issuing the draft.

The single comment submitted during the review argued that “lounges” was too vague a word and suggested “business establishments” instead. State election officials disagreed, saying “lounge” is a neutral and widely understood term, and quotation marks in the text already indicate the measure provides its own definition.

The person has until September 5 to ask the Oregon Supreme Court to review the title. If an appeal is filed, the court could uphold the current version, modify it, or send it back for revisions. Once the title is locked in, the campaign can officially launch its petitioning effort. To qualify, it must collect just over 117,000 valid signatures.

The certified ballot title outlines that a “yes” vote would allow marijuana lounges, limited to microbusinesses, where adults 21 and older could consume marijuana products they bring themselves. Sales of marijuana on-site would not be permitted, though non-cannabis food, drinks, and hemp-derived CBD could be offered.

Alcohol and tobacco use would be banned, and lounges would need to close by 2 a.m. Local governments would have the authority to regulate the establishments, inspect them, and impose additional rules.

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) would regulate the program, handle licensing, and work with public health agencies to provide education on safe use and compliance rules. Lounges would also be required to display visible warnings about marijuana risks and house rules.

Justyce Seith, founder of the OCCC, expressed optimism about the campaign’s progress. She noted that fundraising for professional petitioners, advertising, and community outreach will be a key focus.

If voters approve the initiative in November 2026, it would take effect on January 1, 2027, officially creating a licensed system for marijuana social spaces in Oregon.

The marijuana industry, including major entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching how this ballot measure progresses and hoping that more states create regulations authorizing on-site marijuana consumption since it provides a space where consumers can legally consume cannabis away from their homes.

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420 with CNW — Senate Advances Proposal Banning Most Hemp Derivatives Containing THC

Federal lawmakers are taking steps to crack down on intoxicating THC products made from hemp, signaling their intent to close the “hemp loophole” that has allowed these products to thrive in a gray area.

On Thursday, the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously approved a measure, introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley and Mitch McConnell, that would redefine hemp under federal law. Though the changes wouldn’t kick in for a full year, hemp industry groups warn that the new rules would effectively outlaw the vast majority of hemp-based products currently on the market.

There is growing bipartisan momentum in Washington to tighten regulations on hemp products. Since the passage of the Farm Bill 2018, which legalized hemp, products containing psychoactive compounds like delta-8 and delta-10 THC have become widely available in the form of gummies, drinks, and vapes.

Some states have taken steps to crack down on these products, but federal regulations have yet to catch up. Now, Senator McConnell is pushing to close what he sees as a major gap in the law—one he helped create when he championed the 2018 bill.

The newly passed fiscal 2026 Agriculture Appropriations Bill introduces new language that draws a line between “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” and “industrial hemp.” It also updates how total THC content is measured, including compounds like THCA, which had previously slipped through due to a lack of clarity in the original legislation.

Under the measure, “industrial hemp” is defined as cannabis sativa with a total THC concentration (both THC and THCA) of no more than 0.3%. It must also be grown for uses such as textiles, fuel, food, or other purposes that do not involve cannabinoids.

On the other hand, “hemp-derived cannabinoid products” include anything that delivers synthetic THC, such as delta-10 and delta-8, and would be banned under the proposed rules.

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable chair, Jonathan Miller, said the bill would outlaw over 90% of current hemp products. While the one-year delay offers time to make changes, he argued that a total ban isn’t the answer.

Cornbread Hemp co-founder Jim Higdon echoed those concerns. He pointed to state-level regulations that have established strict age restrictions and safety rules while still giving adults legal access to hemp-based THC. “We agree that the hemp market needs work,” Higdon said. “But banning nearly everything isn’t the solution.”

The Senate’s move closely follows a similar proposal from House Republicans in June, which also called for tough restrictions on hemp-derived THC products.

The marijuana industry, including firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be watching the discussions in Congress and how those regulations could reshape the hemp and cannabis markets.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska Commission Finalizes Emergency Medical Marijuana Regulations

The Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission recently signed off on emergency rules that would let the state begin accepting applications for medical marijuana licenses once Governor Jim Pillen gives the official go-ahead. State law requires the governor to act by July 1.

The emergency guidelines were revealed just minutes before the commission’s 10 a.m. meeting. The temporary rules, which closely resemble a bill that stalled in the Legislature last month, could be in effect for up to 90 days, depending on Pillen’s approval. The voter-approved measures legalizing medical marijuana require that applications start being accepted by July 1.

Commissioner Lorelle Mueting said the commission is open to public input on the regulations until July 15. Anyone wishing to comment can email the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, which will forward the messages to the medical marijuana commission.

Commission chair Dr. Monica Oldenburg plans to send a letter to Governor Pillen outlining the urgency of adopting the emergency rules. She warned that without them, residents might turn to unregulated and potentially unsafe alternatives.

A spokesperson for the governor confirmed that Pillen is currently reviewing the regulations and expects to make a decision by the July 1 deadline.

State law requires the licensing process for cannabis businesses to begin by October 1. Under the emergency framework, licenses could be issued for growers, processors, retailers, and delivery services, but each applicant can only apply for one type of license.

Emergency rules can be justified under state law if there’s an immediate threat to public safety or welfare. Meanwhile, Oldenburg and Mueting will lead a subgroup to continue refining the rules.

The commission also voted to collaborate with the Department of Health and Human Services and the governor’s policy office to get legal support through DHHS.

A recent bill (LB 677) that would have added tighter regulations narrowly failed in the legislature. It would have permitted up to 30 dispensaries statewide. The emergency rules instead allow only one dispensary per judicial district—totaling 12—which has raised concerns from some marijuana advocates.

Additional restrictions include a ban on dispensaries near schools, churches, hospitals, or daycares. Applicants must have had majority ownership based in Nebraska for at least four years and be U.S. citizens. Background checks, including fingerprinting, are also required.

The rules don’t list qualifying health conditions, unlike LB 677, which named 15. Instead, patients must get a detailed recommendation from a licensed provider. Approved products include tablets, tinctures, lozenges, gels, creams, suppositories, patches, and oils for nebulizers or inhalers. Raw flower, edibles, flavored items, and anything designed for smoking or vaping are not allowed.

While LB 677 would have required strict testing before products reached patients, the emergency rules only suggest that products may be tested. The commission currently doesn’t have the authority to mandate testing without legislative changes.

Packaging must be tamper-proof, child-safe, and free from images or branding that could appeal to minors, including cartoon characters or celebrity likenesses.

Senator Ben Hansen, who introduced LB 677, said many elements of the emergency regulations appear to have been lifted from his bill. He noted the real test would come with the final version of the rules. He also raised concerns about potential lawsuits from the state Attorney General, which could challenge the commission’s authority and burden taxpayers.

Senator John Cavanaugh, co-sponsor of LB 677, noted that the commission lacks the power to limit marijuana product forms. Crista Eggers, who leads the group behind the ballot initiative, agreed, stating the law legalized all forms, including flower. She also noted it’s still unclear where applicants should send their completed paperwork.

After the meeting, Eggers said she sees positive steps being made, especially the commission’s openness to public feedback. Final regulations will be subject to a public hearing with at least 30 days’ notice. The next commission meeting is set for August 4, with a possible hearing on permanent rules to follow in September.

The broader marijuana industry, including leading firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED), will be following how the legalization process plays out in Nebraska to enable qualifying patients to access licensed cannabis-based products to help them to address their symptoms.

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420 with CNW — Facebook Appears to No Longer Censor Marijuana Searches

Earlier this year, Meta stated it would shift how it handles controversial topics by loosening certain content rules, particularly around issues frequently debated in politics, such as gender identity and immigration. However, when it came to cannabis, the company continued to censor search results for key terms. Instead of showing related content, users saw alerts asking them to report any drug sales.

The restriction appears to have been lifted, with searches that were previously blocked now delivering actual results and the earlier warnings no longer appear. Though many digital platforms enforce rules against selling drugs and limit who can view substance-related posts, Meta’s actions drew criticism for being too broad and silencing legitimate content meant to educate and inform.

Previously, typing in phrases like “Marijuana Policy Project” or “Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission” on Facebook returned zero results—just a notice encouraging people to flag drug-related posts. That no longer seems to be the case. It’s unclear exactly when the policy was revised.

NORML’s political director Morgan Fox had spoken out about the impact of Meta’s restrictions saying they severely limited how advocates could reach the public. After noticing the shift in search results, he expressed hope that the changes were permanent and wouldn’t just be a short-term adjustment. He also stressed the need for Meta to implement more consistent and transparent moderation systems to avoid repeated censorship of advocacy and educational content.

Kat Murti, who leads Students for Sensible Drug Policy, welcomed the search update but pointed out that issues persist. She mentioned meeting with Meta more than a year ago to highlight concerns, including how the platform’s algorithms were limiting visibility for accounts following the law and supporting public safety.

Meta’s influence in shaping public access to information is massive, Murti said. People turn to these platforms for life-saving advice on overdose prevention, civic engagement, and drug policy reform. Yet much of this content still faces unnecessary censorship, she added.

Illustrator Brian “Box” Brown, a long-time critic of Meta’s policies, said he’s noticed some changes, too. While his posts aren’t getting flagged as frequently, the reach of some cannabis-related content still feels throttled. Brown, who once toned down his own content to avoid penalties, said he now plans to stop self-censoring and see how the platform responds.

Despite growing legalization across states, social media platforms continue to flag and restrict cannabis content, prompting many creators to look for alternative spaces to connect with their audiences.

Any positive adjustments to the policies of major social media platforms are likely to be welcomed by the marijuana industry, including entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) that closely observe what is happening in the U.S.

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420 with CNW — Thailand Moves to Keep Only Medical Marijuana Legal

Thailand removed marijuana from its list of narcotics in 2022, effectively decriminalizing the plant. However, the move happened without a proper legal structure to regulate its cultivation, sale, or usage. Since then, thousands of marijuana shops have sprung up, especially in popular tourist areas.

Now, nearly three years later, Thai authorities are preparing to rein in the industry. A new medical marijuana law is expected soon, aiming to restrict marijuana use strictly to health-related purposes. Under this upcoming regulation, dispensaries will only be allowed to sell marijuana to licensed businesses or individuals who have a doctor’s prescription.

Chokwan “Kitty” Chopaka, a prominent voice in Thailand’s cannabis activism scene, believes the new rules could wipe out the majority of existing dispensaries. She predicts that around 90% of the shops might shut down, with only larger businesses able to survive the tighter rules. According to her, this shift will mostly affect small, local vendors who can’t afford to navigate the new system. She also believes many locals might turn to home-growing instead, as getting a prescription could prove too difficult.

Originally, the government had high hopes that legal cannabis would become a lucrative crop, boosting tourism and farming, reaching an annual value of over $1 billion. However, the absence of clear legal guidelines created unintended consequences, including a flood of recreational use, unlicensed sales, and a glut of cannabis products. As a result, public backlash has been growing, with some groups demanding stricter regulations.

The timing of the government’s crackdown also coincides with increasing concerns about international smuggling. Recent incidents involving travelers caught with Thai marijuana abroad have raised alarms. In one case, British tourists were arrested in other countries after allegedly trying to bring marijuana out of Thailand. Thai authorities now worry that cannabis is too easy to obtain and too likely to be misused.

Gloria Lai, a drug policy expert, questioned whether the government’s sudden shift will have the intended effect. She argues that the health ministry’s proposal seems rushed and may create more confusion than clarity. Instead of imposing new restrictions abruptly, she suggests a more thoughtful approach, involving dialogue with those affected and proper time for adaptation.

Rattapon Sanrak, who heads the Highland Network, also warned that fast-tracking the measure could disrupt the entire industry. He emphasized that abrupt enforcement leaves little time for businesses or consumers to adjust. He also pointed out that because the new law would be a ministerial directive rather than a parliamentary act, it could be reversed easily if leadership changes.

The impending policy reversal is likely to be disappointing to the global marijuana industry. Entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) may have also been denied an international market that they could have had among their options for expansion if an opportunity presented itself.

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420 with CNW — Supreme Court Ruling in RICO Suit Ups Litigation Risk for Cannabis Companies

In a closely split 5-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court recently sided with a commercial truck driver who sued three CBD firms under the federal RICO statute. The driver, Douglas Horn, claimed he was fired after a drug test came back positive for THC, despite using a CBD product that was labeled as THC-free.

At the center of the case was a legal debate over whether people can bring civil RICO claims to recover financial damages that result from a personal injury. Some courts had previously allowed such lawsuits to move forward, while others dismissed them on the grounds that RICO was not intended to cover harm tied to bodily injuries. The Supreme Court’s decision has clarified that if someone suffers economic losses—like losing a job or future earnings—because of a personal injury, they can still sue under RICO.

This ruling opens the door for more civil lawsuits under RICO against marijuana-related businesses. Legal experts expect attorneys may start using the case as a model to bring similar actions, especially where consumers believe they were misled by false advertising or inaccurate product labels.

Originally enacted in 1970 to combat organized crime, the RICO law allows individuals to sue if they suffer harm to their business or property due to a pattern of unlawful conduct carried out by an organization. That conduct can include fraud, like falsely labeling and shipping a product through the mail or over digital networks.

Horn had been using “Dixie X,” a CBD tincture he bought to help relieve pain from a car accident. It was advertised as free of THC. However, after testing positive for the substance during a surprise drug screening at work and refusing to enroll in a treatment program, he was let go. Later lab tests revealed that the product did contain THC.

Horn sued the companies behind the product in federal court in New York, accusing them of fraud and alleging they worked together as a RICO enterprise to distribute mislabeled goods. While the trial court initially dismissed his lawsuit, saying RICO doesn’t cover claims linked to personal injury, an appeals court disagreed—and now, so has the Supreme Court.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett, writing for the majority, stated that while physical injuries themselves aren’t covered under RICO, the financial consequences tied to them, such as being fired, are. This distinction could mean big changes for the marijuana industry, which may now face increased legal exposure, stricter oversight, and greater pressure to accurately label and market their products.

Marijuana industry companies like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) will have plenty to think about regarding the possible global ramifications of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in this case.

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420 with CNW — New Mexico Court Makes Ruling on Insurance Coverage for Medical Cannabis Costs

A federal judge has ruled that health insurance providers in New Mexico aren’t legally required to pay for medical cannabis, even though some state laws suggest they should. This decision underscores the ongoing clash between state-level cannabis initiatives and overarching federal drug policies.

The lawsuit originated from a group of plaintiffs that included individuals enrolled in Medicaid or private insurance plans, along with a licensed cannabis dispensary. They claimed that marijuana used to treat mental and behavioral health conditions should be reimbursed under several New Mexico statutes, including the Behavioral Health Services Act and regulations on insurance practices. Their argument hinged on the idea that these laws collectively obligated insurers to cover medical cannabis.

But the court rejected those arguments, siding with major insurers—Western Sky Community Care Inc., Blue Cross & Blue Shield of New Mexico, and Presbyterian Health Plan Inc. The judge pointed to the state’s Benchmark Plan, which acts as a standard for insurance coverage. That plan doesn’t mention marijuana as a covered treatment and specifically excludes substances that lack FDA approval. Since marijuana has not been approved by the FDA, the court concluded that insurers have no legal duty to pay for it.

Federal law played a significant role in the ruling. The Medicaid Act allows coverage only for medications that have the FDA’s endorsement. Since marijuana is still considered a controlled substance at the federal level and hasn’t received formal medical approval, insurers would be violating federal law if they reimbursed patients for its use.

The plaintiffs referenced a state law that prohibits cost-sharing for certain behavioral health treatments, suggesting that patients shouldn’t bear the expense of medical marijuana. However, the court clarified that this law only applies to services that insurers are already required to cover—which, in this case, does not include cannabis.

There was mention during the case that federal cannabis laws could change in the future, potentially opening the door for insurance coverage. However, the judge noted that until such changes happen, federal restrictions remain in place. Offering coverage now could put insurers at legal risk.

Looking ahead, this might not be the final word. New Mexico legislators introduced a measure aimed at requiring insurance companies to cover medical cannabis in March. If that proposal becomes law, it could significantly shift how cannabis is handled within New Mexico’s health insurance system.

The broader industry, including firms like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) operating outside the U.S. hope that needed reforms can be made so that medical cannabis products can be covered by American insurance companies in order to ensure patients aren’t forced to incur high out-of-pocket costs while choosing these products to manage their symptoms.

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