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.

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.

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.

January was a wild ride for cannabis news. From bureaucratic delays to groundbreaking research, here are three big updates you should know.

The DEA’s Cannabis Hearing? Yeah, It’s Delayed.

So, the DEA was supposed to hold a hearing on January 21 to discuss rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III (aka, moving it out of the “as bad as heroin” category). But surprise! It got postponed because of an appeal from someone involved. Now, everyone’s left wondering when or if the government will finally make a move. Classic.

Cannabis for Dementia? Science Says, “Let’s Find Out.”

Over at the University of Kentucky, researchers kicked off a study on cannabis for late-stage dementia patients. The goal? See if it helps with agitation and discomfort—two big struggles for those with advanced dementia. The study, called the LiBBY Study, is backed by the National Institutes of Health and FDA-approved. If it works, cannabis could become a legit option for easing symptoms. Finally, science catching up with common sense.

The Feds Want a “Game Plan” for Cannabis Research

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) just dropped a new cannabis research roadmap, and it’s all about closing knowledge gaps. They want to figure out both the benefits and the risks (because, you know, balanced science and all that). This plan could shape future policies, regulations, and maybe even finally bring some clarity to the whole “is it medicine or not?” debate.

We at Great Northern hope you had a wonderful holiday season! Now that January is upon us, let’s reflect on some cannabis news highlights from December 2024 as we head into the new year.

DEA Initiates Hearings on Cannabis Rescheduling

In December, the DEA officially began hearings to consider reclassifying cannabis. Specifically, they are looking at moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. If this happens, it could reduce federal restrictions and make cannabis research easier. However, while advocates are excited about this step forward, critics are more cautious and wonder how much will really change. Overall, many are watching closely to see how this decision could shape the future of cannabis laws in the U.S.

Source: DEA to Hold Hearing on the Rescheduling of Marijuana

U.S. Appeals Court Reviews Federal Marijuana Ban

On December 5, a U.S. appeals court took a closer look at the federal marijuana ban. Businesses in Massachusetts argued that the ban no longer makes sense, especially since so many states have legalized cannabis. Yet, the judges appeared hesitant to challenge the current law. As a result, the long-standing conflict between state and federal cannabis laws remains unresolved. For now, it’s clear that this debate will continue to affect the cannabis industry across the country.

Source: US Appeals Court Skeptical of Challenge to Federal Marijuana Ban

New York Cannabis Advocates Urge Leadership Changes

In New York, cannabis advocates are calling for major changes in the state’s cannabis office. Specifically, they want new leaders with more experience in the industry. Many people are frustrated by delays and unfulfilled promises, especially in equity programs designed to help those harmed by past marijuana laws. Advocates believe that bringing in fresh leadership could fix these problems. In the end, they hope these changes will get the state’s cannabis program back on track and moving in the right direction.

Source: Pot advocates spar with Gov. Hochul over leadership and ‘knee-jerk changes’ with state cannabis office: ‘Failed commitments to equity’

What do you think of these news highlights? Let us know in the comments! Until next time, stay hazy!