The Trump administration has labeled local marijuana reform in Washington, D.C. as a “failed” policy that has “opened the door to disorder.” This statement reflects a growing concern over the impact of cannabis decriminalization in the nation’s capital.
In related developments, a spokesperson for the New York Office of Cannabis Management announced that movie theaters could potentially sell marijuana and permit consumption during films. However, this would require theaters to obtain event permits or consumption lounge licenses, which regulators plan to offer in the future.
Additionally, the Iowa House Ways and Means Committee has unanimously approved a bill aimed at creating a state-regulated therapeutic psilocybin program. This initiative could benefit up to 5,000 individuals suffering from PTSD. Meanwhile, representatives in Minnesota have introduced a bill to legalize the use and cultivation of psilocybin for medical purposes, drawing on the successes and lessons learned from the state’s medical cannabis program.
A new study highlights challenges in marijuana research due to ongoing federal prohibition. It indicates that this legal status complicates the research process and makes some states hesitant to allocate tax dollars for cannabis studies.
Furthermore, Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has expressed intentions to push for a special session to ban consumable hemp products containing any amount of THC if legislation does not pass during the regular session. In Florida, the Senate Fiscal Policy Committee has approved a bill that would restrict intoxicating hemp products, including a ban on synthetic cannabinoids like delta-8 THC and limiting sales to stores with liquor licenses for hemp-infused beverages.
In Missouri, lawmakers are currently discussing how to allocate marijuana revenues, which according to the director of the Division of Cannabis Regulation, have exceeded expectations. Meanwhile, the Massachusetts inspector general has called for an audit of the Cannabis Control Commission due to its failure to collect approximately $550,000 in licensing fees since August 2022.
On a federal level, there is a proposal to merge the Drug Enforcement Administration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as suggested by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Senator Steve Daines from Montana has raised concerns about the ongoing drug war in his recent discussions with Chinese leaders, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a trade war. In another context, Representative Morgan Luttrell from Texas highlighted the Department of Defense’s support for research into the benefits of MDMA for military personnel, stating that this funding is crucial for providing better treatment options beyond traditional opioid prescriptions.
In state-specific news, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has signed a bill introducing stricter regulations on hemp beverages. Delaware lawmakers have forwarded a bill to Governor Matt Meyer that allows the Newark Alderman’s Court to adjudicate marijuana offenses. In New Jersey, the Assembly Oversight Committee has approved legislation that addresses workers’ rights in the cannabis industry and the municipal approval process for marijuana businesses.
