Danielle Morgan

June 2025: Cannabis News You Need To Know

Cannabis News

Texas Vetoes Hemp THC Ban, Industry Calls for Regulation

Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott vetoed a bill that would’ve banned all hemp-derived THC products—delta‑8, delta‑9, etc.—on June 22. The hemp industry welcomed the move and is now pushing for a statewide regulatory framework instead of prohibition. Proposed changes include age verification, clear labeling, and local licensing, signaling a turn toward science-based rules rather than outright bans.

Massachusetts House Unanimously Advances Cannabis Reform

The Massachusetts House passed a reform bill in early June aimed at modernizing industry regulations. It removes vertical integration requirements—letting businesses be just retailers—adds up to two more licenses per licensee over three years and revamps the Cannabis Commission to clear up past scandals. It still needs Senate approval before heading to Gov. Healey.

North Carolina Sets Up Advisory Council for Legalization

Gov. Josh Stein has created a 24-member state advisory council tasked with mapping out regulatory options for legal cannabis—including recreational use. The group, with reps from law enforcement, agencies, tribes, and lawmakers, will provide preliminary policy recommendations by March 15, 2026, and final guidance by year’s end. This positions NC as a serious player on the legalization front.

Great Northern Cannabis Strain Spotlight: GSCXTRM

Strain Spotlight

GSC XTRM (Durban Poison x OG Kush) is a terpene-rich Hybrid with a sweet and earthy flavor profile leading to an extremely euphoric and creative experience – this adventurous strain will have you relaxing around a campfire or scouting for your favorite cookies. The top terpenes found in GSC XTRM are Limonene (Citrus, Mood Elevation), Myrcene (Sour, Relaxing), and Humulene (Hoppy, Energy Boost).

Sun-Soaked and Stoned: Celebrating Summer Solstice in Alaska

Alaska Life

There’s nowhere quite like Alaska when the solstice hits. While most of the world gets a taste of long summer days, we’re up here basking in the surreal magic of nearly endless sunlight. June 20th marks the longest day of the year—and in many parts of the state, that means 19 to 22+ hours of daylight. That’s a lot of time to soak up the sun… and spark one up.

At Great Northern Cannabis, we think the summer solstice deserves a little extra celebration, Alaska style. Whether you’re planning a midnight hike, lighting a bonfire on the beach, or just lounging in the backyard soaking in the glow, cannabis makes the golden hours even better.

Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy cannabis during the season of light:

Wake-and-bake with the sun
Start your solstice morning with a mellow sativa or hybrid – something to match that peaceful, buzzing energy of the sun rising over the mountains. Think citrusy terps, smooth flower, and a good cup of coffee on the porch.

Take the high road
Alaska’s trails are calling, and a few hits of your favorite vape or pre-roll might just make that view even more stunning. (Just remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and always smoke responsibly in public areas!)

Bonfire vibes & bold flavors
There’s nothing like gathering your crew around a summer solstice fire. Pair it with our 1:1 CBD & THC Chocolate Bars, some mood-lifting live resin, or a bold new strain you’ve been meaning to try. With the midnight sun still glowing, there’s no rush to call it a night.

Get creative with the light
Long, dreamy solstice nights are perfect for art-making, journaling, photography, or just vibing to your favorite summer playlist. Some strains can really unlock your creative side. Ask our budtenders for a recommendation if you’re looking to tap into those flow-state feels.

No matter how you celebrate, the summer solstice is a reminder that we live in a wild and beautiful place—and cannabis can help us slow down and really feel it. Here’s to long days, golden light, and high spirits.

Happy Solstice, Alaska. 🌞

Stay safe, stay elevated, and as always—know your limits and follow local laws.

May 2025: Cannabis News You Need To Know

Cannabis News

Texas Cracks Down on Hemp THC, But Expands Medical Access

Texas is making big changes. One new bill bans hemp-derived THC products like delta-8 and delta-10, which were pretty popular because they skirted around cannabis laws. At the same time, the state expanded its medical marijuana program, adding conditions like chronic pain and Crohn’s disease, and increasing the number of licensed dispensaries from 3 to 15. It’s a mixed bag—but for medical patients, it’s a step in the right direction.

California Cannabis Sales Take a Dip

Legal cannabis sales in California hit their lowest point since 2019, dropping over 11% compared to this time last year. Industry folks are blaming it on high taxes, strict regulations, and the fact that the illicit market is still thriving. With another excise tax increase on the horizon (jumping from 15% to 19% in July), things could get even rougher for small operators.

Cayman Islands Votes to Decriminalize Cannabis

In a nonbinding vote tied to their general election, 60% of Cayman Islands voters said yes to decriminalizing small amounts of cannabis. It’s not law yet, but it sends a clear message that public opinion is shifting in favor of reform. One to watch if you’re interested in global cannabis trends or just dream of a more weed-friendly island vacation someday.

Chill, Weed-y Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day

Holidays

Bake Something Together (Maybe While a Little Baked)

This isn’t about infused recipes (though that’s cool too)—it’s more about the vibe. Pick a cozy recipe, put on a record or a playlist you both like, and enjoy the process. Light up beforehand if that’s the move. Laugh about spilling flour everywhere. Eat cookies straight off the tray. That kind of thing.

Go Outside and Smoke a Little Something

A walk in the woods, your favorite neighborhood loop, or even just sitting in the backyard with a joint and some tea—being outside together with a little buzz can make everything feel more alive. The flowers look better. Time slows down. You might even talk about stuff you haven’t in a while.

At-Home Spa Vibes

Pick up a couple of sheet masks, run a bath with a CBD bomb, bring out the fancy lotion. Light a candle, pass the vape, and make a little ritual out of it. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just a moment to slow down and take care of yourselves.

Watch Something That Makes You Both Laugh

Go for a stoner comedy if that’s your thing, or something nostalgic from when you were growing up. Even a bad movie can be the perfect movie if the snacks are good and you’re both a little high.

Make Art or Get Crafty

Draw together. Paint rocks. Make matching beaded bracelets. It doesn’t matter if it turns out great—it’s about being in the moment and letting yourselves play. Weed can help turn off the perfectionism and make it easier to just mess around with materials.

April 2025: Cannabis News You Need to Know

Cannabis News

California’s Cannabis Tax Hike Sparks Industry Concerns

Governor Gavin Newsom announced a 26% increase in the cannabis excise tax, raising it from 15% to 19%, effective July 1, 2025. This move aims to compensate for declining tax revenues but has drawn criticism from industry leaders who fear it will further disadvantage the legal market against unregulated competitors. Assemblymember Matt Haney has introduced legislation to halt the tax increase, which has passed a committee unanimously.

New York’s Cannabis Market Sees Price Drops Amid Expansion

New York’s legal cannabis industry is experiencing significant price reductions as the number of licensed dispensaries has grown from 41 at the end of 2023 to 368. Prices for concentrates and vapes have decreased by 15%, edibles by 14%, and flower by 5%. While consumers benefit from lower prices, the surge in dispensaries has led to a decline in average monthly sales per store. New York Post

Pennsylvania Lawmakers Renew Push for Cannabis Legalization

In Pennsylvania, a bipartisan effort is underway to legalize recreational cannabis. Representatives Emily Kinkead (D) and Abby Major (R) have introduced legislation aiming to privatize dispensaries to garner Republican support. Governor Josh Shapiro supports the initiative, highlighting potential annual tax revenues of $250 million. However, challenges remain, including opposition to provisions like cannabis-related criminal expungement.

Spring Clean Your Cannabis Routine: A Fresh Start for Your Stash and Space

Cannabis & Wellness

Alright, it’s that time of year again—spring cleaning! As the snow melts and the days get longer, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home and your cannabis setup. Whether you’re a casual toker or a full-blown cannabis connoisseur, a good deep clean will do wonders for your vibe. So, grab your gloves, put on a playlist that slaps, and let’s tidy up.

Declutter Your Stash

Let’s be real—there’s probably a sad little nug sitting in the bottom of a baggie from who-knows-when. Time to check expiration dates on edibles and tinctures and inspect your flower for any signs of dryness or mold. If it looks sketchy, toss it. The good stuff? Treat it right and transfer it into airtight glass jars to keep it fresh.

Young man smoking pot using bong; detail of male hand filling up bong with cannabis, getting it ready for use

Deep Clean Your Gear

If your bong smells like a swamp, it’s time. Pipes, grinders, and vapes collect residue that messes with flavor and potency. Here’s how to bring them back to life:

  • Glass Pieces: Soak in isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt, then shake it like you mean it before rinsing with warm water.
  • Grinders: Give it a good brush-down to remove kief buildup, then soak the metal parts in alcohol. No more mystery crumbs!
  • Vaporizers: Follow those fancy manufacturer instructions—usually involves alcohol wipes and cotton swabs, not wishful thinking.
Inviting bohemian bedroom featuring vibrant tapestries, musical instruments, cozy seating, and eclectic decor creating an artistic and warm atmosphere

Refresh Your Smoking Space

That cozy little sesh spot? It’s probably a bit… lived-in. Time to dust, wash your ashtrays, and vacuum up any stray herb bits. If you’re an indoor smoker, let in some fresh air! A little spring breeze never hurt anyone. Throw in an air purifier or some lush houseplants for good measure.

Organize Your Accessories

Rolling papers, lighters, dab tools—where do they all go?! (Probably wherever your socks disappear to.) Take a moment to neatly store everything in a box or drawer. Future you will thank you when you don’t have to go on a scavenger hunt mid-session.

Preparing a joint and drug paraphernalia concept theme with close up man hands rolling a joint with herb girder to grind a cannabis buds in the background

Eliminate Odors Naturally

If your place smells like it just hosted a hotbox party from 2007, let’s fix that. Grab some baking soda, activated charcoal, or get fancy with a simmer pot of citrus and herbs. Spritz your furniture with a fabric refresher to keep things smelling fresh.

Ready medical THC CBD cannabis buds for smoking

Stock Up on Essentials

Once everything is clean and organized, do a little inventory check. Need fresh rolling papers? A new piece of glass? Maybe a new favorite edible? Get yourself stocked up so you’re always prepared for a perfect sesh.

Product Spotlight: Our Delicious & Infused Dark-Chocolate Covered Caramels

Product Spotlight

Satisfy your craving for adventure with Great Northern’s award winning Chocolate Covered Caramels. Infused with over 80mg total cannabinoids from THC and CBD, each petite box contains four servings of caramels coated in gourmet dark chocolate and sprinkled with flaked sea salt. These delectable treats are handcrafted with care in small batches with all-natural, gluten-free, and soy-free ingredients. These delectable caramels won Best Edible Candy in the 2021 Alaska Leaf Bowl.

February 2025: Cannabis News You Need to Know

Cannabis News

Michigan’s Proposed Cannabis Tax Hike

Governor Whitmer is pushing to raise cannabis taxes to help fund Michigan’s road repairs, aiming to generate nearly half a billion dollars. While the plan could mean smoother highways, dispensary owners are worried it might push customers back to the unregulated market. With Detroit’s cannabis scene still growing, some fear this could do more harm than good.

Former Navy SEAL Enters the Cannabis Industry

Robert O’Neill, the Navy SEAL known for his role in the mission that killed Osama bin Laden, is stepping into the cannabis business. His new company, Operator Canna Co., is focused on helping veterans with PTSD, with a portion of proceeds supporting disabled vets. His products will be available in several New York City dispensaries, marking a unique crossover between military service and the cannabis industry.

Brazil Invests in Cannabis Research

Brazil’s leading agricultural research agency is planning a 12-year study on cannabis cultivation, pending government approval. The goal is to develop strains suited to the country’s climate and establish a national seed bank. With cannabis laws evolving in Brazil, this could be a major step toward expanding the country’s medicinal and industrial cannabis sectors.

What our customers have to say…

Icons_left

“The staff is always knowledgeable and updated on the industry they always guide me in the right direction for the best deals, the customer service has never wavered for me in quality. Most definitely my first choice, best in Anchorage at the least!”

"The flower is consistently of high quality. Specifically, it's neatly trimmed, typically rich in terpenes, smokes well, and produces excellent highs. I've tried multiple strains from multiple growers, and there are several good ones out there. This brand is one of the good ones."

"Great flower selections and excellent service. The employees are very friendly an knowledgable, theres always a positive vibe at Great Northern Cannabis – my favorite dispensary hands down!"

"Thank you for hearing your customers on pricing and producing new strains! Excellent - Orange Ghost & Mimosa!! Staff have been top notch, professional, and great vibes - staff are engaging and seem to work together. Love the new Dimond location - easy access, great parking, and super convenient on my way home!"

"13/10 would recommend anyone to come to GNC. I've had a different person help me out each time I've gone in and they were always super nice. They always have the best strains, flower/pre-roll/oils, all of it is pretty great. And when they don't have your favorite in stock, they'll have the next best thing! For sure my go-to when I need more stuff."

Icons_right

Three Locations in Anchorage

Downtown • Dimond • Tudor