State Bills

California Assembly Passes Cannabis Cafés Bill

June 3, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

The California Assembly on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved a bill to allow cannabis cafés in the state, KTVU Fox 2 reports. The measure passed the chamber 64-9.   The legislation would permit the sale of non-cannabis products for consumption at the cafés, which is prohibited under current state law although limited on-site cannabis consumption is allowed.  Assemblymember Matt Haney (D) tole KTVU that “There’s absolutely no good reason from an economic, health, or safety standpoint that the state should make that illegal.”  “Lots of people want to enjoy… Read more.

California Senate Passes Bill To Stop Employers From Asking About Past Marijuana Use

June 2, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The California Senate has approved a bill that would prohibit employers from asking job applicants about prior marijuana use. After moving through four committees, the legislation from Sen. Steven Bradford (D) passed on the floor in a 29-9 vote on Tuesday, sending it to the Assembly for consideration. It would build on existing employment protections enacted last session that bar employers from penalizing most workers for using cannabis in compliance with state law off the job. “It is unlawful for an employer… Read more.

Texas Bills To Decriminalize Marijuana And Allow Cannabis As An Opioid Alternative For Pain Patients Die In Senate

May 30, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

Texas House-passed bills to decriminalize marijuana, facilitate expungements and allow chronic pain patients to access medical cannabis as an opioid alternative are officially dead for the year with Senate leadership refusing to bring up the measures for consideration ahead of Monday’s end of the legislative session. Advocates had held out hope that the Senate would be more amenable to the modest reforms this session than in the past, but Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R), who presides over the chamber, continued… Read more.

California Bill to Decriminalize Some Psychedelics Advances Through the Legislature

May 27, 2023 · Lucid News

Supporters of a psychedelic decriminalization bill in California are hopeful that a new version of the legislation, which focuses on plant-based psychedelics, will be more successful than a similar bill which was stalled by legislators last year.  Sponsored by Senator Scott Wiener, SB 58 would decriminalize the possession and use of some psychedelic substances in California. The proposed legislation was passed by the Senate Public Safety Committee on March 21 and will now be sent to the Appropriations Committee. SB 58 would… Read more.

Montana Gov. Signs Bill Extending Moratorium on Cannabis Licenses

May 27, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte (R) on Tuesday signed legislation extending the state’s moratorium on cannabis licenses for another two years, KTVH reports. Under the law, the moratorium only allows medical cannabis companies that were licensed as of 2020 to obtain adult-use licenses.  The measure does include language that will allow 16 medical cannabis providers to join the state’s adult-use market, which had been in limbo due to the timing of the adult-use licensing process and the first moratorium. Gianforte also signed a bill allowing the… Read more.

Louisiana House Approves Marijuana Expungements Bill, Sending It To Senate

May 26, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The Louisiana House of Representatives has approved a bill to streamline expungements for people with first-time marijuana possession convictions. The legislation from Rep. Delisha Boyd (D) cleared the chamber in a 69-30 vote on Tuesday, sending it to the Senate. It makes it so people who are convicted of possessing up to 14 grams of cannabis as a first offense can petition the courts to wipe their record after 90 days from the time of the conviction. That would significantly… Read more.

Minnesota Is Forming A Psychedelics Task Force Under Bill Lawmakers Sent To Governor’s Desk

May 23, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The Minnesota legislature has sent a large-scale health policy bill to the governor that contains provisions to create a psychedelics task force meant to prepare the state for possible legalization. About one month after the House initially passed the omnibus legislation including language similar to a standalone psychedelics measure sponsored by Rep. Andy Smith (D), both chambers passed a bicamerally negotiated conference report on Monday that retains the provisions. It first cleared the Senate in a 34-32 vote. The House followed suit… Read more.

Pennsylvania Bill Would Protect Cannabis Patients from DUI Just for Testing Positive for Cannabis

May 23, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill proposed in the Pennsylvania House last week would protect medical cannabis patients from being charged with driving under the influence charges simply for testing positive for THC, Capitol Wire reports. The measure only covers Pennsylvania-registered medical cannabis patients and does not protect drivers who ate impaired by cannabis whether they are medical cannabis patients or not.  In a cosponsor memo, state Reps Chris Rabb (D) and Aaron Kaufer (R), said medical cannabis patients “regularly” contact their offices “concerned that state… Read more.

New Hampshire Senate Votes To Create Marijuana Study Commission As Legalization Compromise Emerges In House

May 19, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The New Hampshire Senate has voted to create a study commission to examine potential models to legalize marijuana as the as the governor predicts that his plan to create a state-run cannabis market will likely be considered by lawmakers “next year.” Meanwhile, senators moved to set aside another House-passed marijuana legalization bill—though representatives are now discussing pursuing compromise legislation next week that would provide for a combination of state-operated and privately licensed cannabis shops while also allowing current medical cannabis… Read more.

innesota Lawmakers Vote To Legalize Drug Paraphernalia, Residue, Testing And Syringe Services

May 17, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The Minnesota legislature has approved large-scale legislation that contains provisions to legalize drug paraphernalia possession, syringe services, residue and testing—a win for harm reduction advocates in the state. As part of a criminal justice and public safety omnibus bill, bicameral lawmakers agreed to a final conference report last week that includes the drug policy reform measures. The Senate passed the report on Friday and the House approved it on Monday in a 69-63 vote, sending it to the governor’s desk.… Read more.

New Jersey Governor Signs Bill To Let Marijuana Businesses Claim State Tax Deductions As Partial 280E Workaround

May 9, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The governor of New Jersey has signed a bill into law that will allow licensed marijuana businesses to deduct certain expenses on their state tax returns—a partial remedy as the industry continues to be blocked from making federal deductions under Internal Revenue Service (IRS) code known as 280E. Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed off on the legislation from Assemblymember Annette Quijano (D) on Monday, without a formal ceremony. This comes about three months after the legislature approved the measure with amendments.… Read more.

Tennessee Legislature Passes Hemp Cannabinoids Regulation Bill

May 8, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

cannabis stretches into the sky / cannabis growing in the open air

The Tennessee General Assembly last week gave final approval to a hemp-derived cannabinoid regulation bill, sending it to Gov. Bill Lee (R), WATE reports. The legislation aims to regulate the production, sale, and distribution of hemp products that contain delta-8 and delta-9 THC.   Under the measure, manufacturers and sellers of hemp products that contain THC must obtain a license from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture by January 1, 2024. The bill also requires that hemp products that contain THC are tested for safety at an… Read more.

Vermont Lawmakers Discuss Plans To Pass Psilocybin Legalization And Psychedelics Work Group Bill Next Year

May 8, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

Vermont lawmakers held a committee hearing on Thursday where members discussed legislation to legalize psilocybin and take first steps toward providing regulated access to the psychedelic. Members of the House Judiciary Committee took up H. 371 from Reps. Chip Troiano (D) and Brian Cina (D), who said he’s personally benefitted from using psychedelics. There seemed to be agreement among members about the overall merits of the proposal, but the panel’s chairman said that “we’re not going pass this out this… Read more.

Florida to Grant Additional Cannabis Licenses for Black Farmers, Expands Telehealth Renewals

May 5, 2023 · Green Market Report

Cannabis plants growing in greenhouse

The Florida legislature signaled a move toward increased access and inclusivity in Florida's medical marijuana market. Florida’s medical marijuana market is poised for expansion following the passage of a bill that extends the renewal of marijuana prescriptions over telehealth and authorizes nearly a dozen additional licenses for Black farmers to enter the cannabis industry. The bill, HB 387, passed with bipartisan support in the House with a 105-8 vote. It had previously cleared the Senate with strong support. The move is… Read more.

Maryland Gov. Signs Cannabis Legalization Bill

May 5, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) on Wednesday signed the bill to legalize cannabis in the state, Maryland Matters reports. After signing the legislation Moore said it will “ensure that the rollout of recreational cannabis in our state drives opportunity in an equitable way.”  Will Tilburg, acting director of the newly created Maryland Cannabis Administration, said the agency is “working quickly to implement the legislation and develop Maryland as a model for equity and safety in cannabis regulation.” Moore’s final approval of the legislation came… Read more.

Washington Governor Signs Interstate Marijuana Commerce Bill Into Law

May 4, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The governor of Washington State has signed a bill to allow interstate marijuana commerce, pending a federal policy change. The legislation from Sen. Ann Rivers (R) cleared the legislature last month, and Gov. Jay Inslee (D) signed it into law on Thursday. Before signing the bill, Inslee urged Congress to modernize national marijuana laws, saying that federal legalization “will help our well-regulated cannabis industry remain competitive, while still meeting health and public safety standards.” He also quipped that Washington State needs… Read more.

Governor Moore signs cannabis reform, reproductive rights bills into law

May 4, 2023 · WMAR 2

Governor Wes Moore thanked the leaders of the legislature before today’s bill signing. Both the House Speaker and the Senate President sponsored a bill to give Marylanders the chance to vote on putting reproductive rights in the state constitution. “Anyone seeking or providing abortion care will always be able to come to Maryland safely to get the care that they need or treat those who need it," said Speaker Adrienne Jones. “I want to say to all the women who… Read more.

Lawmakers pass bill to implement legal ‘magic mushroom’ industry in Colorado

May 2, 2023 · The Gazette

An effort to roll out Colorado's legal psychedelics industry cleared its last major legislative hurdle on Saturday with the House's passage of Senate Bill 290.  If made law, the bill would help to implement Proposition 122, passed by Colorado voters in November. The ballot measure legalized the “magic mushroom” hallucinogenic compounds psilocybin and psilocin for medicinal use, and decriminalized the personal use, sharing or growing of the compounds and other "natural medicines."  The bill will next be sent back to the… Read more.

CT lawmakers consider allowing off-site cannabis sales at events, including concerts

May 2, 2023 · Hartford Business Journal

Cannabis retailers could soon have the ability to sell products at marijuana-centric events and festivals, much like breweries across the state have been doing for years. As the Connecticut General Assembly nears the finish line of the 2023 session, legislators are considering a number of bills that would complement, or change parts of, the state’s 2021 cannabis legalization law. One bill under consideration — H.B. 6699 — would, among other things, establish off-site event permits for adult-use cannabis retailers. The… Read more.

Texas House Passes Bill to Reduce Cannabis Possession Penalties

May 1, 2023 ·

The Texas House last week passed a cannabis decriminalization bill that would reduce penalties for possession of up to an ounce of flower or concentrates to a Class C misdemeanor, KXAN reports. Despite the reduced charge, however, possession penalties could still include a hefty $500 fine. Under current state law, such possession would be considered a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000. Possession of four ounces or more is considered… Read more.

Awakn Life Sciences’ Revenue up 534% in 2022, AUD Treatment Advances

April 30, 2023 · Green Market Report

The firm has made meaningful strides in its early clinical runway as it gears up for government-funded studies. Toronto-based Awakn Life Sciences Corp. (OTC: AWKNF), a biotech company focused on addiction treatments, reported a heft 534% rise in annual revenue for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31, which they attribute to the strong performance of their clinics. The company pulled in $1.5 million in annual revenue, a 534% increase year-on-year, with $471,813 in the fourth quarter, a 131% increase sequentially. Net loss for the… Read more.

Louisiana House Committee Kills Cannabis Legalization Bill

April 27, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Louisiana lawmakers on Tuesday killed a bill to legalize adult-use cannabis in the state, the Lafayette Daily Advertiser reports. The House Criminal Justice Committee voted down the proposal 9-4.  The measure was opposed by the state’s sheriffs, district attorneys, and police chiefs over public safety concerns and the impact of legalization on children.    Ken Caldwell of the Marijuana Policy Project estimated that the state supports an illicit cannabis market of at least $1 billion.   During testimony, state Rep. Candace Newell (R) argued that the… Read more.

Colorado Senate Bill Paves Way for Licensed Therapeutic Centers

April 27, 2023 · Green Market Report

Initially, only psilocybin and psilocyn would be allowed at therapeutic centers. The Colorado Senate approved a bill to regulate psychedelic substances, in line with a voter-endorsed initiative. The legislation aims to establish guidelines for legal psychedelic use in authorized therapeutic centers under trained professionals’ supervision. Additionally, the bill sets licensing standards for facilitators and businesses involved in producing, testing, storing, distributing, and transporting natural medicine products. The measure passed during a voice vote after amendments in its second reading on Monday. The bill passed… Read more.

Washington Lawmakers Fail To Pass Drug Possession Bill By Deadline, With Governor Likely To Call Special Session To Prevent Decrim

April 24, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

State lawmakers have until July to pass a new drug possession statute in response to a 2021 Supreme Court decision that invalidated the old law. Since the Legislature failed to pass a compromise bill on Sunday night before the 2023 regular session ended, a special session likely will be called to finish this work. Senate Bill 5536, one of the last bills debated in the 105-day legislative session, failed 43-55 in the Democratic-controlled House. Several Democratic lawmakers voted against the… Read more.

North Carolina House Speaker Says Senate-Approved Medical Marijuana Bill Has ‘Better Chance Of Passing’ Than Ever Before

April 24, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The top North Carolina House lawmaker says that medical marijuana legalization has “a better chance of passing this year than in any time in the past,” and he expects a Senate-passed reform bill to be taken up by his chamber’s Republican caucus within the next month. While the GOP-controlled House has previously blocked medical cannabis legislation from advancing, House Speaker Tim Moore (R) said that its prospects have improved, with a floor vote possible depending on where Republican members ultimately… Read more.

Texas House Will Vote On Marijuana Decriminalization And Expungements Bill Next Week

April 21, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The Texas House of Representatives will vote on a bill to decriminalize marijuana possession and create a process for expunging cannabis conviction records next week. About a month and a half after the House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee unanimously passed the legislation, the Calendars Committee has officially scheduled it for floor consideration on Wednesday, April 26. The measure from Rep. Joe Moody (D) would remove the risk of arrest or jail time for low-level possession of cannabis and allow people to eventually erase… Read more.

Everything You Need to Know About Florida Weed Laws

April 19, 2023 · Thrillist

While Florida legislators might not be in the Willie Nelson mindset some may hope, 2023 still looks more promising than any year before. Since Florida voters passed Amendment Two and legalized medicinal marijuana in 2016, ads for marijuana doctors are popping up in local weeklies, on cabs, and even on billboards. But don’t let them fool you—we are a long way from becoming a weed haven like Colorado. Like pretty much everything in Florida, there are still befuddling questions about how the whole… Read more.

Everything You Need to Know About Louisiana Weed Laws

April 19, 2023 · Thrillist

Whether you’re walking down Bourbon Street or chilling in one of the parks along the Mississippi River, chances are you’re going to encounter cannabis in the Big Easy. After all, New Orleans is a global mecca for having a good time. But despite the city’s feel-good status, Louisiana weed laws don’t follow that same chilled-out vibe. So before you go lighting up a joint or passing around edibles, be sure to take a moment to learn about the city’s weed laws. It’s… Read more.

Everything You Need to Know About Georgia Weed Laws

April 19, 2023 · Thrillist

Atlanta is the epicenter of nightlife in Georgia. From classy cocktail bars to iconic clubs of all kinds, we have it all—well, except one thing. Despite Atlanta’s reputation as a fun-loving party town, Georgia weed laws haven’t gotten the memo and remain pretty buttoned up compared to other states across the country. The actual law of the land can be a bit confusing, so it’s always a good time to examine our current marijuana laws to figure out what’s legal and what’s smoke. And… Read more.

Illinois Proposals Would End Vehicle Searches Based on Cannabis Odor & Let Parolees Use Cannabis

April 18, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Illinois lawmakers are considering bills that would ban police from searching vehicles based solely on the odor of cannabis and allow some people on probation to use cannabis and alcohol, Capitol News Illinois reports. The bill prohibiting police from searching vehicles based on cannabis odor would still allow the practice for drivers under 21-years-old.  During floor debate on the vehicle search reform bill, State Sen. Rachel Ventura (D) said “People – especially people of color – are unnecessarily pulled over far too… Read more.

Washington State Bill To Allow Interstate Marijuana Commerce Is Officially Heading To Governor’s Desk

April 15, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A bill to allow interstate marijuana commerce in Washington State is officially heading to the governor’s desk. The House approved the Senate-passed legislation from Sen. Ann Rivers (R) on Wednesday, but members adopted a minor amendment that required concurrence from the opposite chamber. That happened on Friday, meaning the bill is now on its way to Gov. Jay Inslee (D) for his signature. The measure would allow the governor to enter into agreement with other legal cannabis states, pending a federal policy change “to… Read more.

Nevada Senators Approve Bill To Create Psychedelics Working Group To Plan For ‘Safe, Accessible And Affordable’ Access

April 15, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

Nevada lawmakers have approved a revised bill that would create a new working group to study psychedelics and develop a plan to allow regulated access for therapeutic purposes. While the legislation before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee as introduced would have legalized psilocybin and promoted research into the psychedelic, as well as encouraged studies of MDMA, the panel adopted an amendment that scales it back significantly. As approved in a voice vote on Thursday, Sen. Rochelle Nguyen’s (D)… Read more.

New Hampshire Senate President Says Chamber Unlikely to Approve Cannabis Legalization Bill

April 14, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

In an interview with the Conway Daily Sun on Thursday, New Hampshire Senate President Jeb Bradley (R) predicted the chamber would not pass the cannabis legalization law approved by the House last week. The House has passed an adult-use cannabis legalization bill three times, but the reforms have never been approved by the Senate.  Bradley added that “in the middle of a drug crisis,” he doesn’t “think it’s a good idea to legalize more drugs.”  State Rep. Michael Costable (R) told the Daily Sun… Read more.

Texas House Passes Medical Cannabis Expansion Bill

April 13, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

waving colorful national flag of texas state.

The Texas House on Tuesday passed a measure to expand the state’s medical cannabis program by increasing the THC levels allowed in cannabis products and adding chronic pain to the state’s qualifying conditions list, the Dallas Morning News reports. Under the proposal, THC levels in medical cannabis products sold in Texas would be raised to 10 milligrams per dosage unit – up from the current 1% limit.     The bill would allow patients who would otherwise get an opioid prescription for pain to access… Read more.

Maryland adult-use marijuana sales on track for July 1 after lawmakers OK rules

April 11, 2023 · MJ Biz Daily

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore is expected to sign into law before a key Monday deadline legislation that sets regulations for adult-use marijuana sales and cultivation, just in time for the first legal sales to begin July 1. Maryland residents voted overwhelmingly last November to legalize adult-use cannabis. But the industry-funded ballot initiative left vital details – including licensing, taxation and whether the state’s existing medical cannabis businesses would get first crack at what could be a $2.1 billion market by 2027 – to state lawmakers. After months of debate –… Read more.

Washington Lawmakers Pass Bill With Hiring Protections for Cannabis Consumers

April 11, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Handshake, contract deal and business partnership of a b2b meeting with shaking hands. Networking, hiring and professional negotiation of onboarding collaboration and congratulations of project.

Washington state lawmakers have approved a measure that prohibits denying an individual a job due to their off-the-clock cannabis use, the Washington State Journal reports. The measure still requires reconciliation as the House version excludes safety-sensitive positions – such as first responders or corrections officers – from protection under the bill, while the Senate version does not include those exemptions. Both bills would prohibit discrimination from employers in the hiring process if it is based on an applicant’s cannabis use off-the-clock or if an employment drug… Read more.

New Hampshire House Approves Adult-Use Cannabis Legalization Bill

April 8, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA townscape at dusk.

The New Hampshire House on Thursday passed an adult-use legalization bill by a 272-109 vote, The Center Square reports. The measure moves next to the state Senate.  New Hampshire is the lone New England state to not allow cannabis sales to adults.   In a statement, Republican Rep. Jason Obsorne, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said he is “pleased to see New Hampshire take a step toward relieving gangsters and thugs from control of this market” and keep “dangerous untested products away from consumers, and… Read more.

Homeless housing expansion in L.A. shrinking map for zoned cannabis retail

April 7, 2023 · MJ Biz Daily

A large-scale initiative to house the homeless in Los Angeles is bumping up against efforts to give social equity license holders and other retailers a greater role in the city’s cannabis industry. In particular, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass’ plan to build and retrofit thousands of single-family homes and multifamily units for the homeless is creating new obstacles for marijuana retailers and entrepreneurs searching for property in one of the nation’s priciest real estate markets. Such dwellings – known as Permanent… Read more.

New Mexico Governor Signs Marijuana Expungements Processing Bill To Build On Legalization Law

April 7, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The governor of New Mexico has approved a bill to fulfill a key goal of the state’s marijuana legalization law by facilitating automatic expungements for prior cannabis convictions. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) signed the legislation from Reps. Andrea Romero (D) and Javier Martínez (D) late last week. While the legislature did include automatic expungements and resentencing provisions in the state’s 2021 legalization law, the courts have experienced technical issues with processing certain cases. The now-signed bill seeks to resolve those problems… Read more.

Minnesota Marijuana Legalization Bill Approved In Another Senate Committee, With Just Two More To Go Before Floor Vote

April 5, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

Another Minnesota Senate committee has approved a bill to legalize marijuana—marking one of the final stops in the chamber on its long path to the floor. The legislation from Sen. Lindsey Port (D) cleared the Senate Rules and Administration Committee in a voice vote on Tuesday. It now has just two more expected panels to go through before the full body can take up the measure. This comes about a week after the House companion version, sponsored by Rep. Zack… Read more.

Washington State Psychedelic Therapies Bill Pared Down to Pilot Program

April 5, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill to allow psychedelic therapies in Washington state has stalled, but lawmakers are considering legislation to allow military veterans and first responders to access a pilot program for the treatment, the Seattle Times reports. The pilot program bill has passed the Senate and last week was approved by the House Committee on Health Care and Wellness.  Under the measure, pilot program participants would have to be 21 and older, and have experienced substance use disorder, depression or anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder.… Read more.

Missouri House Approves Measure Requiring State to Conduct Psilocybin Mental Health Studies

April 5, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

The Missouri House last week approved a measure that would require the state to conduct studies on psilocybin to treat depression, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, or use as part of end-of-life care, the Missouri Independent reports.   This bill requires the state Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to provide more than $2 million in grants for the research, subject to lawmakers approving the appropriation. The state would collaborate on the study with a Missouri university hospital or medical center operated by the U.S.… Read more.

Kentucky Medical Cannabis Legislation (Finally) Law

April 2, 2023 · Hemp Gazette

Last Friday, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed Senate Bill 47 into law, which legalizes medical cannabis in the commonwealth. But there will be a wait until the state’s program kicks in. Governor Beshear had again urged lawmakers to legalize medical cannabis “this session” after SB47 cleared the Senate last month. The legislation then went on to clear the House on March 30 and the governor wasted no time; giving it his formal blessing the following day. While some legal protection for medical… Read more.

Montana Lawmakers Table Bill to Eliminate Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

April 1, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A Montana Senate committee on Thursday voted to table a controversial bill that aimed to eliminate adult-use cannabis sales in the state, the Montana Free Press reports. The measure also included a provision to raise the tax on medical cannabis products from 4% to 20%.  The Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs Committee voted 6-4 to table the bill with Senate President Jason Ellsworth, Committee Chair Jason Small, and Sen. Walt Sales – all Republicans – joining all three Democratic members to oppose the bill.… Read more.

Is Cannabis Legalization Stalling Out Across America? – Rec Weed Fails in Arkansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oklahoma

March 31, 2023 · Cannabis.net

As the winds of change blow across the United States, many states have lifted their bans on recreational cannabis. However, not every state has embraced the green wave with open arms. Despite the growing popularity of cannabis and its proven medical benefits, some states remain resistant to legalizing recreational use. Whether it's a concern for public health, public safety, or a reluctance to break tradition, these states have chosen to swim against legalization. So, while some states are blazing a trail… Read more.

Minnesota Marijuana Legalization Bill Clears 14th House Committee, With Revised Tax Rate And New Fiscal Note

March 31, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A 14th Minnesota House committee has approved a bill to legalize marijuana, after members adopted a large-scale amendment to overhaul various tax provisions of the legislation. The House Taxes Committee passed the measure from Rep. Zack Stephenson (D) in a voice vote on Thursday. Members also received a much-anticipated fiscal note and revenue projection ahead of the meeting. One of the main changes that was adopted as part of an amendment from the sponsor would gradually decrease the tax rate… Read more.

Montana Bill Aims to Eliminate Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

March 31, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill proposed in Montana would eliminate adult-use cannabis dispensaries in the state and raise the tax on medical cannabis from 4% to 20%, the Montana Free Press reports. According to the bill text, the measure, sponsored by state Sen. Keith Regier (R), intends to “reduce the demand for marijuana sales” in Montana.   The measure, which carries no co-sponsors, is currently in the chamber’s Business, Labor, and Economic Affairs Committee.   Adult-use cannabis sales in Montana have generated $54 million in tax revenues since sales commenced in January… Read more.

Delaware Legislature Passes Cannabis Legalization Bills

March 30, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

The Delaware Senate on Tuesday approved bills to legalize cannabis use and possession by adults and create a system to license dispensaries, the Associated Press reports. The approval sets up a potential showdown with Democratic Gov. John Carney, who last summer vetoed a measure to legalize cannabis possession by adults. The possession bill passed 16-4, which would survive a Carney veto. Last session, the House was unable to override Carney’s veto, with a 20-20 vote. The bill to set up a cannabis marketplace in… Read more.

North Carolina Legalization Bill Includes Expungement, Home Grow

March 30, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill proposed in North Carolina would legalize cannabis for adult use and expunge prior cannabis-related convictions, WSOC-TV reports. The measure includes a 20% excise tax on cannabis sales and allows municipalities to enact an additional 3% tax.  Funds derived from cannabis sales would be split into new and existing programs, including: 25% to a Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund created by the bill; 10% to a Social Equity Fund created by the bill; 3% to a Cannabis Education and Technical Assistance Fund created… Read more.

Hawaii Health Department Says Legalizing Psychedelics Is A ‘More Meaningful’ Step Than Creating A Study Group

March 29, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) says that it would be prudent for the state to legalize certain psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA to prepare for a likely federal policy change allowing their use for medical treatment. At a hearing before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee last week, DOH testified on a pair of resolutions that call for the establishment of an advisory council to study and make recommendations on approving psychedelic medicines. Members of the panel ultimately… Read more.

South Carolina Medical Marijuana Legalization Bill’s Fate In Question, But Supporters Are Making A Last-Ditch Push

March 28, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

South Carolina lawmakers and advocates aren’t giving up the push to legalize medical marijuana just yet, and they’re imploring leadership to take up a GOP-led reform bill ahead of a key legislative deadline this week. At a press conference on Tuesday, supporters of the legislation from Sen. Tom Davis (R) stressed the urgency of getting the reform enacted this year, with a deadline set coming up on Thursday to get the bill out of the Senate and over to the… Read more.

Hawaii Cannabis Bill Fails, Ending Legalization Hopes for 2023

March 28, 2023 · High Times

Hawaii will have to wait at least another year before marijuana legalization comes to the islands, after a legislative proposal stalled in the state House of Representatives.  Earlier this month, the Hawaii state Senate voted overwhelmingly to pass the bill, which would legalize adult-use cannabis and establish the regulatory framework for a recreational marijuana market.  But that bill “was not scheduled for a state House hearing before a key legislative deadline,” according to MJBizDaily, which means that the proposal is likely dead for 2023. … Read more.

Maryland Senators Approve Marijuana Sales Bill As State Prepares For Legalization This Summer

March 28, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A Maryland Senate committee has amended and approved a marijuana sales bill to get the state ready for the implementation of a voter-approved legalization referendum, sending it to the floor—where a vote is expected this week. At a meeting of the Senate Finance Committee, members passed the legislation from Sens. Brian Feldman (D) and Antonio Hayes (D) in a 7-2 vote. Senate President Bill Ferguson (D) said last week that there were a number of issues that lawmakers needed to address before advancing… Read more.

New Hampshire Lawmakers Send Marijuana Legalization Bill To House Floor A Second Time, With New Amendments

March 27, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A bill to legalize marijuana in New Hampshire is going back to the House floor after a second committee passed the legislation with amendments on Monday. The proposal, which is being sponsored by Majority Leader Jason Osborne (R) and Minority Leader Matthew Wilhelm (D), cleared the House Ways & Means Committee in a 16-4 vote. The full chamber already approved the legislation last month, but it needed to be sent back to the finance-focused committee because of its fiscal provisions. It… Read more.

Idaho Bill to Legalize Medical Cannabis Introduced as Session Winds Down

March 27, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill to legalize medical cannabis was introduced last Friday – late in the session and through means that would circumvent the committee process, East Idaho News reports. The measure was introduced as a personal bill by House Health and Welfare Committee Chairman John Vander Woude (R) but personal bills don’t typically advance.   Personal bills are usually introduced at the beginning of the state’s session and used as groundwork for future policy discussions, the report says. The measure did not appear on any legislative agendas on… Read more.

Pennsylvania Adult-Use Bill Would Put Retail Cannabis in Liquor Stores

March 27, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

A bill proposed in Pennsylvania would legalize cannabis for adults and sell cannabis products through the state’s liquor store system, Erie Now News reports. The measure would also expunge low-level cannabis convictions and allow individuals to grow up to six cannabis plants.  State Sen. Dan Laughlin (R) told Erie New Now that while he supports broad cannabis legalization, he does not support the proposal to sell it through the liquor store system.  Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro is including legalizing and taxing adult-use cannabis in the 2023-2024 executive budget. If… Read more.

North Dakota Governor Signs Bill Letting People In Hospice Care Self-Certify As Medical Marijuana Patients

March 27, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

North Dakota’s governor has signed a bill allowing patients admitted to hospice care to self-certify as medical marijuana patients. The legislation, which cleared the House in an 86-6 vote and the Senate unanimously in a 45-0 vote, was signed into law on Thursday by Gov. Doug Burgum (R). Under the measure from Rep. Mary Schneider (D), terminally ill patients will be able to use proof of their admittance in hospice care in lieu of a doctor’s written recommendation to register… Read more.

Nevada Senators Discuss Psilocybin Legalization Bill In Committee, Including Amendment To Increase Possession Limit

March 24, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

Nevada senators held a hearing on a bill to legalize the possession of psilocybin on Thursday, discussing a proposed amendment to remove therapeutic use provisions and taking extensive testimony from advocates and experts—including from an Assembly lawmaker who shared his own experience with ketamine treatment. The Senate Health and Human Services Committee took up the legislation from Sen. Rochelle Nguyen (D), which under the amendment would remove criminal penalties for possession of up to six ounces of the psychedelic for adults… Read more.

South Dakota Gov. Vetoes Bill to Raise THC Threshold for Hemp Crops

March 24, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem (R) on Thursday vetoed a bill to raise THC levels allowed for unprocessed industrial hemp from 0.3% to 5%. Raising the THC threshold to 5% would have allowed for another processor to extract THC as it develops more uses for hemp after the initial process is completed.  In her veto statement, Noem said the proposal would have changed the definition of “product in process” by increasing the THC limits which would have allowed hemp products and crops in… Read more.

New York Gov. Proposes Crackdown on Unlawful Cannabis Shops

March 24, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) is proposing legislation to crack down on unlicensed cannabis storefronts in the state, including fines of up to $10,000 per day for unlawful operations. The legislation would also give additional enforcement power to the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the Department of Taxation and Finance to enforce the new regulatory requirements and close stores engaged in cannabis sales without a license. The new legislation, which is being introduced as a governor’s program bill in the… Read more.

Kentucky governor signs law establishing delta-8 guidelines

March 24, 2023 · MJ Biz Daily

Kentucky’s governor signed a bill into law that establishes a framework to test, label and regulate delta-8 and outlaws sales to those younger than under 21. The bill, which was approved by the state’s Republican-led House and Senate, also bans possession for those younger than 21 and requires retailers to keep those products behind a counter, according to the Louisville Courier Journal. Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear’s signing comes after his executive order last year that regulated packaging and labeling of delta-8 products. “We did… Read more.

Decriminalizing magic mushrooms on the minds of Nevada legislators

March 24, 2023 · Las Vegas Review-Journal

Small amounts of fungi that produces so-called magic mushrooms may soon be decriminalized under a bill heard by lawmakers Thursday. An amended version of Senate Bill 242, presented by Rochelle Nguyen, D-Las Vegas, would allow individuals older than 21 to possess, use and consume 30 grams of the dried fungi that produces psilocybin, also known as magic mushrooms. “Twenty-eight grams of fentanyl is not the equivalent of 28 grams of mushrooms and they are treated, in our law, the same,” Nguyen said. The bill also… Read more.

Hawaii Senators Approve Bill To Create Psychedelics Advisory Council To Prepare For Federal Legalization

March 23, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A Hawaii Senate committee approved a House-passed bill on Wednesday that would create an advisory council to look into possible regulations to provide access to federal “breakthrough therapies” like psilocybin and MDMA. The psychedelics legislation from Rep. Adrian Tam (D) advanced, with amendments, in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee in a 5-0 vote. Members took testimony from advocates and experts, including a representative of the Department of Health, which voiced support for the proposal. All 20 people and organizations that… Read more.

Worker’s Comp Paying for Medical Marijuana? – Court Rules Insurers Can Reimburse Injured Workers for Weed Costs

March 23, 2023 · Cannabis.net

The Pennsylvania Appellate Court made a groundbreaking ruling, allowing workers' compensation laws to cover medical cannabis expenses. Paul Sheetz, the deceased plaintiff, treated his chronic pain with medical cannabis after a work injury in 1977. He also used cannabis to wean off prescribed opioids. The defendant, Firestone, argued that reimbursing medical cannabis costs would violate federal law, but the court disagreed. The court ruled that insurers are not recommending cannabis, so it is not a federal crime. This decision benefits those who… Read more.

Hawaii Won’t Legalize Marijuana This Year Despite Senate Passage, But Advocates Look To 2024

March 23, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A Hawaii Senate-passed bill to legalize marijuana has stalled out in the House for the year—but advocates are shifting focus to 2024, hoping to enact the reform in the second half of the two-year legislative session. The legislation from Sen. Joy San Buenaventura (D) cleared the Senate earlier this month, and hopes were high that it’d make it through the House as well. But a hearing wasn’t scheduled before a deadline for bills that have been referred to three or more… Read more.

Montana Lawmakers Table Bills to Change Marketing Rules & Require Pregnancy Warning Labels for Cannabis Products

March 23, 2023 · Ganjapreneur

Lawmakers in Montana this week considered changing the advertising and labeling rules under the state’s adult-use cannabis law, the Missoula Current reports. One measure would bar adult-use cannabis businesses from promoting their brands in print, on TV or radio, or on billboards, while another would revise labels on packaging to include warnings about using cannabis while pregnant. Under the current adult-use law, licensees are not permitted to advertise “marijuana or marijuana products” but are allowed to advertise their brand, as allowed by the Montana Department of Revenue. The… Read more.

Washington House Panel Approves Senate-Passed Bill To Allow Interstate Cannabis Commerce

March 23, 2023 · marijuanamoment.net

A House panel in Washington State took another step toward allowing interstate cannabis commerce on Thursday, advancing a Senate-approved bill that would one day enable businesses in the state to import and export marijuana products. The bill, SB 5069, from Sen. Ann Rivers (R), would give the governor the authority to enter into agreements with other legal states to permit interstate trade between licensed cannabis companies. But it would take effect only if there’s a federal law change “to allow… Read more.