This week in weed saw lots of development, both optimistic and concerning. Positives include youth consumption being way down while major organizations are starting to acknowledge the potential power of the plant. Meanwhile, on the concerning tip, rulings around illegal shops and minor cannabinoids have many ruminating over what’s next in several major markets.
That and a ton more in another busy week in weed. Catch up before it’s too late.
Monday, August 19
- In Kansas, a bipartisan coalition hopes that political pressure (and sales in neighboring Missouri) will end the state’s pot prohibition.
- Over half of Minnesota’s approximately 1,800 early social equity applicants came from out of state.
- A custodian at a grow and processing operation in Abell, Maryland, was arrested for allegedly stealing nearly $100k in product.
- Famed beach town destination Ocean City, Maryland revised its zoning laws that closely align with state regs.
- A recent NYC court decision allowing one Queens store accused of selling illegal cannabis to reopen is raising concerns that more shuttered shops could soon open back up.
Tuesday, August 20
- Two weeks into rec sales, Ohio shops continue to perform well. However, reports of slowed sales have emerged.
- The New York Times is the latest to dive into taxes and the cost of legal cannabis.
- South Dakota confirmed what medical operators had long feared: Annual fees will increase 70% next year.
- Former Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura is boycotting the state fair over its ban on cannabis, and calling on others to join him.
- A Sacramento City Council committee halted plans to increase the number of dispensaries in the state capital.
Wednesday, August 21
- Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley believes that if elected president, VP Kamala Harris will be ready to sign any bills advancing cannabis reform.
- In an effort to lessen the industry’s environmental impact, New York cultivators must submit sustainability plans by Aug. 31, 2025.
- Sunland Park, a New Mexico town situated along the Texas border, is the second highest in cannabis sales for the state this summer.
Thursday, August 22
- Governmental infighting appears to be at the root of Missouri delaying its hemp-derived products ban.
- Medical cannabis is increasing in Mississippi, but slower than hoped.
- Glass House Brands, a major California player and owner of the state’s largest pot farm, will challenge a recall of certain products alleged to contain mold.
- Nevada awarded six new cannabis consumption permits to social equity applicants via a lottery.
Friday, August 23
- Ten years into legalization, underage cannabis use has fallen substantially.
- Ohio’s first drive-thru dispensary plans to open today.
- The Cannabist Co. is exiting the Florida market, selling its 14 medical dispensaries and a grow op to three MSOs for over $16 million in total.
- An NFL-funded study concluded that therapeutic cannabis is gaining acceptance in sports, but federal prohibition hampers research and education.
That’s a bit of what happened in weed last week. Did we miss anything? Send us a message, and we’ll do our best to round up all the essentials next week.
