Glass House Gets Glassed—By the Feds

In mid-July, federal agents launched a dramatic raid on Glass House Farms—California’s largest legal cannabis grower—sending shockwaves across “High Times” headlines. With armed agents, tear gas, and over 360 arrests (mostly undocumented farmworkers), the raid exploded into controversy. Chillingly, no cannabis was seized, but one worker tragically died. Critics say it felt less like law enforcement and more like a political play aimed at undermining California’s booming legal industry.

Capitol Capers: Will They—or Won’t They?

Over in Washington, the plot thickens. The Senate confirmed Terrance Cole as the new DEA head—but cannabis rescheduling? Not in his top priorities. Meanwhile, Congress is busy dancing around hemp loopholes, appropriations riders and prohibition breakers. Basically, it’s the same old Capitol shuffle with new shoes—and a lot more green.

A Toasty Twist: THC Beverages and the “California-Sober” Scene

Move over cocktails—here come THC drinks. With folks swapping booze for hemp-derived THC beverages under the guise of being “California-sober,” these drinks are stirring buzz (and concern). Sure, no morning hangovers, but inconsistent regulation and unpredictable dosing—some up to 100 mg—are leaving safety experts raising eyebrows, especially worried about vascular and cognitive effects.

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.

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.

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.