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Tennessee Bill Would Ban Smokable Hemp Flower Products

2/10/2025

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A new Tennessee proposal seeks to ban products containing smokable hemp flower, the Chattanooga Times Free Press reports. The bill would also move the sale of hemp products from convenience stores and gas stations to only age-restricted locations.

The bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Ed Butler (R), said that he filed the proposal in response to what he sees as a “public health crisis” caused by intoxicating hemp products.

The ban is aimed specifically at hemp flower products containing THCa — the Tennesse hemp industry’s most popular product, accounting for between 60% and 90% of hemp sales — but the proposal would likely dash all hemp flower sales, including non-psychoactive CBD products. “It would get rid of everything,” Josh Manning, the chief executive of Snapdragon Hemp in Chattanooga, said in the report.

Meanwhile, another proposal in Tennessee seeks to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis products in the state, and a poll released last year found that 63% of Tennessee voters support adult-use legalization, including 53% of Republicans and 78% of Democrats.

Manning told the Times Free Press that he hopes lawmakers will choose to enact more significant cannabis reforms:

“There’s a lot of gas stations that don’t do things the right way. But at the end of the day, if we’re going to do this type of program, it needs to be done under a medical or a recreational program. Because this is kind of like recreational rules.” — Manning, in the report

In December, Tennessee state officials and city officials in Spring Hills agreed to pay a $735,000 settlement to two hemp companies after law enforcement seized their products without proper justification.

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Left Coast Brings Its Patented Pod System to New York

2/07/2025

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Since entering New York’s legal cannabis market in September 2024, Left Coast has quickly become one of the most sought-after brands in dispensaries across the state. Known for its premium indoor-grown cannabis, high-quality extracts, and commitment to excellence, Left Coast has built a reputation for delivering consistent, top-tier products that consumers trust. Now, the brand is taking things to the next level with the launch of its Patented Pod & Battery System in New York on March 1st.

Designed for superior performance, enhanced flavor retention, and ultimate convenience, Left Coast’s proprietary pod system redefines the vaping experience. With cutting-edge technology that maximizes terpene preservation and eliminates common cartridge issues like clogging and leakage, this innovative system is set to raise the bar for cannabis vaping in New York.

“Our goal has always been to bring the highest quality cannabis products to market, and the launch of our patented pod system in New York is an exciting next step,” said Coltin Barody. “New Yorkers expect the best, and we’re delivering a product that combines innovation, reliability, and a premium experience like no other.”

A Brand Built for New York: Locally Grown, Produced, and Owned

What truly sets Left Coast apart in the market is its deep-rooted commitment to quality and authenticity. Unlike many out-of-state brands that rely on white-labeled or second-hand products, Left Coast is fully vertically integrated—meaning it cultivates, extracts, and produces everything in-house.

The brand operates its own state-of-the-art indoor cultivation facility in Upstate New York, ensuring that every product is grown and crafted under strict quality standards. This level of control allows Left Coast to deliver consistent, fresh, and premium cannabis—something that’s especially important in a market where many brands rely on third-party sourcing.

“We’re not just another company expanding into New York,” Alexandria Barody continued. “We started here, we understand this market, and we take pride in producing cannabis that lives up to the high standards of New York consumers.”

Diverse Product Line Rooted in Quality

Beyond its innovative pod system, Left Coast offers a diverse range of high-quality products to meet the needs of every consumer:

Indoor Flower – Premium strains grown in a controlled environment for maximum potency and flavor.

Infused Pre-Rolls – High-quality flower infused with concentrates for a more potent smoking experience.

Infused Mini Blunt Rolls – A slow-burning, flavorful option for a more enhanced session.

Infused Flower Shake – A high-potency option for versatile consumption.

Vape Cartridges – Top-tier extracts designed for smooth, flavorful hits.

Dual Chamber Vape Cartridges – A unique system allowing consumers to switch between two flavors in one device.

With the Patented Pod & Battery System joining this lineup, Left Coast is continuing to expand its offerings while maintaining its commitment to quality, innovation, and consumer satisfaction.

A Veteran-Owned Brand Dedicated to New York’s Cannabis Future

More than just a brand, Left Coast is a mission-driven company. As a disabled veteran-owned business, it stands for resilience, integrity, and a commitment to the communities it serves. By operating as a fully licensed cultivator and producer, Left Coast is helping shape a strong, independent legal market—one built by real operators, real cultivators, and real New Yorkers.

Leading the Way in New York’s Cannabis Industry

While California has long been a leader in the cannabis space, New York is quickly becoming the future of the industry. With a massive consumer base, a deep-rooted cannabis culture, and an evolving regulatory landscape, the state is set to become one of the most influential cannabis markets in the world.

With its rapid success and continued expansion, Left Coast is proud to be leading this new era for New York cannabis. By combining West Coast cultivation expertise with a true New York mindset, the brand isn’t just participating in the market—it’s setting the standard.

The patented Pod & Battery System officially launches in New York on March 1st, available at select dispensaries. For updates on availability, follow Left Coast media @leftcoast or visit www.leftcoast.club.

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Illinois Cannabis Sales Exceeded $2B In 2024

2/07/2025

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Illinois cannabis dispensaries sold more than $2 billion worth of cannabis in 2024, including $1.722 billion in adult-use sales and more than $285 million in medical cannabis sales, according to data from the Illinois Department of Revenue. It was the fourth consecutive record-setting year in annual cannabis sales, and the state collected more than $490 million in cannabis tax revenue for the year.

“The numbers are clear: five years after we legalized adult use cannabis in Illinois, we’re seeing the economic impact of a thriving cannabis industry. With $2 billion in record-setting sales and $490 million generated in tax revenue, our first-in-the-nation equity-focused cannabis industry is the result of my administration’s policies, which prioritized repairing the damage done by the failed War on Drugs, creating more good-paying jobs, and building a safe, equitable, and prosperous business sector — making Illinois by far the national leader in diverse ownership for this industry.” — Pritzker, in a press release

There are 244 adult-use retail operators in Illinois, including 134 social equity licensees.

“The continued success of adult use cannabis sales highlights how equity-focused policies can create meaningful change,” Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton said in a statement.

In January, health officials added four new conditions to the state’s list of qualifying conditions for the medical cannabis program, including endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder.

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Arkansas Medical Cannabis Sales Down In 2024 Despite More Product Sold

2/07/2025

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Arkansas generated less cannabis revenue in 2024 than the previous year despite dispensaries seeing a bump in total products sold, KNWA reports.

Arkansas dispensaries sold $275.9 million of medical cannabis in 2024, down from the state’s annual sales record of $283 million, set in 2023. But while retailers sold more products overall — patients purchased 75,598 pounds of cannabis in 2024, up about 20% from the 62,227 pounds dispensed the previous year — overall revenue dropped, the result of lowering prices throughout the industry.

The state earned over $31 million in medical cannabis taxes last year from a 6.5% sales tax ($15.97 million) and 4% privilege tax ($15.19 million), the report said.

Last month, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) said she intends to use medical cannabis tax revenue to fund free school meals in the state.

Medical cannabis advocates last year submitted a petition with several changes to the state program including home grow rules, telemedicine certifications, and allowing more medical professionals to certify people for the program. However, while advocates gathered enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot, the state Supreme Court nullified the measure, ruling that it was “misleading” because the initiative failed to properly inform voters it would have stripped lawmakers’ ability to change the state’s 2016 constitutional amendment legalizing medical cannabis.

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Cannabis Legalization Bill Approved by Two Hawaii House Committees

2/05/2025

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A cannabis legalization bill in Hawaii on Tuesday was approved by two House committees, Honolulu Civil Beat reports. The chamber’s Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee and House Agriculture and Food Systems Committee advanced HB.1246 which would create a retail cannabis market in the state and a new state agency within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to regulate the industry.

The proposal is backed by the Democratic Party of Hawaii, which said in written testimony that the new agency – the Hawaii Cannabis and Hemp Office – would ensure “a centralized and well-structured regulatory framework, providing clear oversight on cultivation, sales, taxation, and consumer safety.”

“The bill also takes critical steps to ensure public safety, including new traffic offenses relating to cannabis consumption and possession. Establishing clear guidelines on responsible use, similar to alcohol regulations, will help mitigate risks associated with impaired driving and underage consumption.” — Democratic Party of Hawaii in written testimony via Honolulu Civil Beat

If approved the reforms would take effect on January 1, 2026; however, Andrew Goff, deputy state attorney general, testified that state agencies would prefer an 18-month lead time to roll out the new program.

The bill moves next to the House Finance Committee and would also need to be heard and approved by the chamber’s Consumer Protection and Commerce Committees.

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Pennsylvania Gov. Includes Cannabis Legalization in Executive Budget Proposal

2/05/2025

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Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) has included cannabis legalization in his 2025-2026 budget proposal. The governor’s plan would legalize cannabis for adults on July 1, with retail sales commencing on January 1, 2026.

In a press release, Shapiro estimates that the industry would yield $250 million annually in additional tax revenue for the commonwealth, and generate $1.3 billion over the first five years as the market gets up and running. The state would use some cannabis-derived revenues – $10 million, according to the governor’s office – for restorative justice initiatives and another $25 million investment to help new small and small diverse businesses enter the new marketplace.

“Letting this business operate in the shadows doesn’t make sense.” — Shapiro during his budgets address via the Pennsylvania Capital-Star

The proposal also includes expungement provisions for cannabis possession offenses.

Shapiro did include the reforms in his budget proposal last year but lawmakers did not include the reforms in the final budget bill and did not pass standalone legislation.

Almost all of Pennsylvania’s neighbors have legalized adult-use cannabis, including New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Ohio. The governor’s office said the state “is currently at a competitive disadvantage, losing out on critical revenue and new businesses to our neighbors.”

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Adult-Use Cannabis Bill Introduced in Tennessee

2/05/2025

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An adult-use cannabis legalization was introduced in the Tennessee Senate on Tuesday. The Tennessee Cannabis Act would allow sales to adults 21-and-older and allow personal possession of up to 60 grams of flower and 15 grams of concentrate, and home cultivation of up to 12 plants.

The proposal would leave oversight of the industry to the Department of Agriculture. It would impose a 15% excise tax on adult-use cannabis sales, with revenue allocated toward administrative costs and the state’s general fund.

The legislation also includes provisions for automatic release and expungement for individuals incarcerated for non-violent cannabis offenses. Local governments would be allowed to opt out of cannabis sales if two-thirds of voters in a municipality pass a referendum by September 30, 2025 – those bans would expire annually unless renewed.

Tennessee has a limited medical cannabis law allowing patients to use CBD products but is one of just 12 states that lack a comprehensive medical cannabis law.

A Vanderbilt Poll released last year found 63% of Tennessee voters backed legalizing adult-use cannabis in the state, including 53% of Republicans and 78% of Democrats. The Tennessee Cannabis Act was introduced in the state Senate by state Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D) and in the House by state Rep. Larry Miller (D).

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Virginia House & Senate Pass Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Bills

2/05/2025

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The Virginia Senate and House of Delegates have each passed bills to legalize adult-use cannabis sales, Marijuana Moment reports. The chambers now must vote on each other’s proposals. The governor, however, has stated that if such a bill were to reach his desk, he would veto it — as he did last year.

House lawmakers voted Tuesday 53–46 to approve House Bill 2485, while the Senate approved the companion legislation SB 970 last week. The proposal is nearly identical to last year’s vetoed bill.

The legislation would set a retail cannabis tax of up to 11.625%, including a new 8% cannabis sales tax, up to 2.5% in optional, additional local government taxes, and 1.125% as a state retail and use tax, the report said. The bill would also give licensing and regulation duties to the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority, which would be tasked with overseeing cannabis sales, production, transport, testing, and delivery. The law caps the cannabis product serving sizes at 10 milligrams of THC with no more than 100 mg THC per package, and local governments would be allowed to ban cannabis businesses under the proposal but only with a successful voter referendum.

Virginia state lawmakers legalized adult-use cannabis possession and home cultivation in 2021 but stopped short of establishing a regulated adult-use marketplace. Republicans regained the House later that year and blocked any further reforms, and Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) has continued the party’s opposition with his veto powers.

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Massachusetts Cannabis Agency Warns of Mold-Contaminated Products

2/05/2025

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The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) alerted Tuesday that some cannabis flower sold in the state may have exceeded state-mandated levels of yeast and mold.

Regulators said the potentially contaminated products were sold by licensed retailers in the state between May 31, 2024, and January 23, 2025.

“The affected products previously passed required compliance testing between March 2024 and June 2024; however, following additional compliance testing, samples of the affected products were found to have the presence of yeast and mold above the acceptable testing limits established for Total Yeast and Mold and coliforms. The affected products are subject to further investigation by the Commission and would be subject to confirmatory retesting and passing results before the products can be made available to the public.” — Excerpt from the CCC notice

The agency encouraged consumers to check if they had purchased any of the products flagged by regulators in the notice.

Christopher Hudalla, the founder and chief scientific officer at cannabis testing facility ProVerde Laboratories, told NBC News that inconsistent cannabis testing methods can lead to potentially contaminated samples getting into the supply chain. “It has been frustrating because for several years we have expressed concerns to CCC about testing methodologies in place or products that represent a safety concern for consumers,” Hudalla said.

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Ohio Bill Would Make Changes to Adult-Use Cannabis Law

2/03/2025

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A bill proposed in Ohio seeks to change the state’s voter-approved adult-use cannabis law by reducing the amount of cannabis that can be grown at home, lowering THC levels, increasing the tax, and redirecting tax revenues derived from the industry, Ohio Capital Journal reports. State Sen. Steve Huffman (R), the bill’s primary sponsor, said during testimony last week that the measure “is about government efficiency, consumer and child safety, and maintaining access to voter-approved adult-use marijuana.”

The bill would lower THC levels in concentrates available in the adult-use market from a maximum of 90% to 70%, reduce the number of plants allowed to be cultivated in homes from 12 to six, raise the tax on adult-use products from 10% to 15%, cap the number of active dispensaries at 350, require cannabis to be transported only in the trunk of a vehicle, merge the state’s medical and adult-use cannabis programs under the Division of Cannabis Control, and send all of the revenues generated from adult-use sales to the state’s general fund.

The proposal would also allow cannabis use only in private residences.

Huffman said the bill corrects “some of the societal needs” associated with adult-use cannabis legalization.

“I don’t want to sit at the ball game and the guy next to my nine-year-old kid is smoking marijuana. I think that’s wrong. That’s what the voters voted for. … I wouldn’t say we’re gutting everything. We’re trying to improve it.” — Huffman via the Capital Journal

During Huffman’s testimony, state Sen. Bill DeMora (D) said the proposal basically tells voters “’screw you.’”

“’You don’t know what you’re talking about,”’ DeMora said. “’You passed it with an overwhelming majority of the state, but we know better.’”

A similar bill was introduced during Ohio’s previous General Assembly and was passed by the Senate but died in the House. Huffman’s version is currently in the Senate General Government Committee.

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Missouri Counties Expunged More Than 140k Cannabis Criminal Cases Due to Legalization Amendment

2/03/2025

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Missouri courts have expunged more than 140,000 cannabis criminal cases since the passage of the constitutional amendment to legalize cannabis was approved by voters in 2022, the Missouri Independent reports. Under the amendment, courts were mandated to review court files for eligible cannabis-related charges and remove convictions from criminal records.

Bryan Feemster, Greene County Circuit Clerk, told the Independent that the county “may be nearing completion midway this year” but officials “can’t be sure how many are left.”

Scott Lauck, spokesman for 16th Judicial Circuit in Jackson County, said the clerks there completed their review of cases in December 2023. Cases in Jackson County dated back to 1989, he said.

John O’Sullivan, spokesman for the St. Louis County Court, said clerks are in the “review and redetermination phase, to determine what review of our next group of cases will look like.”

The Missouri Supreme Court estimates that about 307,000 cases have been reviewed – which would mean counties have expunged 46% of the cases they reviewed – but that estimate doesn’t include paper records.

According to expungement data tabulated by the Independent, many counties are deeming more cases ineligible for expungement than eligible – in some cases by the thousands. For example, in Jefferson County, 8,259 cases have been reviewed with just 808 expunged so far and 7,451 deemed ineligible. Only seven counties – Atchison, Callaway, Clark, Holt, Monroe Nodaway, and Randolph – have expunged all of the cases they have reviewed.

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Tacoma, Washington Makes Entheogenic Psychedelic Prosecution Lowest Priority for Law Enforcement

2/03/2025

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The Tacoma, Washington City Council last week unanimously passed a resolution to make prosecutions for entheogenic psychedelics the lowest priority for law enforcement, Tacoma Weekly reports. The resolution does not decriminalize entheogen-related activities but makes the investigation, arrest, and prosecution of anyone engaging in activities related to entheogenic psychedelics among Tacoma’s lowest law enforcement priorities.

The resolution also includes language stating that the city council supports decriminalization of the psychedelics to help facilitate mental health treatment research in the use of entheogens.

Council member Joe Bushnell, the resolution’s lead sponsor and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, told Tacoma Weekly that the “resolution is a testament” to the board’s “commitment in exploring innovative and compassionate approaches to mental health.”

“In the United States, there are 22 veterans a day who commit suicide. As a veteran who lives with (post-traumatic stress disorder), I’m acutely aware of the challenges faced by those struggling with mental health conditions. The promising research on the therapeutic potential of entheogens, particularly psilocybin, offers a beacon of hope. By declaring our support for decriminalizing these substances, we can advocate for further research and potentially life-changing treatments.” — Bushnell via Tacoma Weekly

Cole Schrim, a licensed therapist and founder of the Tacoma Psychedelic Society, said she was unsure whether the vote would be unanimous due to the ambivalence of a few of the council members.

“We brought an authentic voice,” she told Tacoma Weekly. “We had the collective voice of different stories of people wanting to live again because they found healing through psychedelics.”

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Trump Health Sec. Nominee RFK Jr. Says He’ll ‘Defer’ to DEA on Cannabis Policy

2/03/2025

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Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, told a group of senators last week that if confirmed, he would defer to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on the issue of cannabis rescheduling, Marijuana Moment reports.

Previously, as a presidential candidate, Kennedy said multiple times that he supported federally legalizing cannabis. But during an appearance before the Senate Finance Committee last week, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) asked Kennedy whether he would “commit to working with the DOJ and DEA to swiftly resume proceedings on the scheduling of marijuana” — he said he would defer to the federal agencies overseeing the hearings.

“I defer to the DOJ and DEA on the allocation of their resources and the development of their priorities. Consistent with all applicable laws, I will ensure that HHS’s expertise is available to assist those agencies as needed.” — Kennedy, in his response

First initiated last year under the Joe Biden administration, the hearings were postponed in January amidst legal challenges claiming the DEA is unfit to oversee the hearings due to its longstanding bias against the reforms.

Kennedy also said that in regard to policies resulting in the release of cannabis prisoners, “I defer to the Department of Justice and state and local authorities for the enforcement of criminal justice.”

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Oregon Cannabis Prices Hit All-Time Low

2/03/2025

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Adult-use cannabis prices in Oregon fell to an all-time low last year even as the state saw its largest-ever cannabis harvest, OregonLive reports.

Cannabis prices have been under $4 per gram for almost two years, reaching a record low of $3.51 in December 2024. The low prices are the result of an oversaturated market that “continues to strain marijuana businesses,” according to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission, which said the state’s cannabis supply is nearly double its consumer demand for the products. The issue compounds when cultivators bring in bigger and bigger harvests each year — licensed growers produced 12.3 million pounds of cannabis last year, 28% more than the previous year.

“The 2024 harvest indicates there will be larger inventory stockpiles in the system going forward, putting more downward pressure on prices and delaying revenue for marijuana businesses.” — OLCC statement, in the report

Oregon lawmakers have set licensing moratoriums on cannabis growers and retailers in the state but the pause on new licenses did little to address the market’s burdens.

The OLCC said the path to real progress will require a shift in federal policy: “Until the federal government creates pathways to interstate commerce, the Oregon recreational marijuana market will be characterized by variations on the same theme: a competitive marketplace that features low prices for consumers but low margins for businesses,” the agency said in the report.

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Kentucky Issues First Medical Cannabis Patient IDs

1/31/2025

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Kentucky officials have awarded the state’s first two medical cannabis cards and the governor announced about 2,200 more patient applications have also been approved, LEX 18 reports.

Gov. Andy Beshear (D) and Sam Flynn, the executive director of the Office of Medical Cannabis, awarded the first two medical cards during the governor’s Team Kentucky Update on Thursday to Ryan Grell, an anesthesiologist and the medical director and owner of Kentucky Medical Marijuana Center, and Merissa Khumalo, a former teacher at Rise STEM Academy for Girls.

The governor said the state had received nearly 4,000 medical cannabis applications. As of Thursday, “only 66 applications have been denied, 51 of which are due to technical issues, and they can reapply, 15 applications have been denied due to a disqualifying felony offense,” Beshear said.

The governor also called for state lawmakers to protect the Second Amendment rights of Kentucky medical cannabis patients:

“No law-abiding Kentuckian, or American for that matter, should have to choose between a constitutional right like the Second Amendment and getting the medication that they need,” he said. “That’s why I’m urging the congressional delegation to introduce legislation to address this issue and to protect the constitutional rights of Kentuckians and of all Americans. There should not be a loss of a right within our Bill of Rights simply for choosing a legalized system of medication that’s best for you.”

The Kentucky medical cannabis program officially launched on January 1, 2025.

To qualify for the program, patients must be approved by a registered physician. Qualifying conditions for the program include cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic nausea, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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Maine Bill Would Add Medical Cannabis Testing Rules

1/31/2025

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A new bill in Maine would require medical cannabis products to be tested similarly to adult-use products, according to a WGME report.

Under Maine’s adult-use cannabis regulations, all products sold by licensed retailers must be tested for potency and contaminants, but the state’s medical cannabis program has no such requirement. The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Marc Malon (D) and supported by Gov. Janet Mills (D), would require medical cannabis products to be tested for pesticides, heavy metals, and potency.

“At the end of the day, we need to make sure that products being sold to consumers are clean,” Malon said.

Meanwhile, the medical cannabis trade association Medical Marijuana Caregivers of Maine (MMCM) released an op-ed on Wednesday calling the proposal a “misguided approach that will harm small businesses while failing to address real concerns.”

The MMCM said rather than mandatory potency and heavy metal testing, the state should prioritize investigating and preventing illicit grows, setting consistent standards for testing labs, preventing dangerous pesticide use, and researching safety standards for the industry.

“Mandatory testing won’t stop the illicit market—it will kill small businesses and reduce patient access to safe, high-quality cannabis. Governor Mills needs to stop ignoring industry stakeholders and start working with them to craft sensible, science-based policies.” — MMCM leadership, in the op-ed

The Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP) issued product recalls last October for several batches of adult-use cannabis products due to mold and bacteria contamination.

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Hawaii Lawmakers Propose Legalizing Adult-Use Cannabis

1/30/2025

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Senior state lawmakers in Hawaii last week proposed legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis, regulate the plant’s production and distribution, and establish a new agency to oversee the state’s adult-use, medical cannabis, and hemp industries, Marijuana Moment reports.

House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Chair David Tarnas (D) and Senate Health and Human Services Committee Chair Joy San Buenaventura (D) sponsored the legislation in the House and Senate, respectively. The proposal would allow adults aged 21+ to possess up to one ounce of cannabis flower and up to five grams of concentrate. The proposal would also legalize small-scale cannabis home grows, allowing adults to grow up to six plants for personal use with a maximum of 10 plants — and two pounds of homegrown cannabis — per household, the report said.

The proposal would also establish the Hawaii Cannabis and Hemp Office, which would be tasked with overseeing the state’s adult-use, medical cannabis, and hemp industries.

The Hawaii Senate successfully passed cannabis legalization reforms last year but the proposal failed to advance through the House of Representatives. Advocates believe the issue stands a better chance this year, however, partly because the new Speaker of the House, Rep. Nadine Nakamura (D), supports the reforms, the report said.

Meanwhile, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) — who supports legalizing adult-use cannabis in the state — recently signed an executive order providing stopgap protections for medical cannabis caregivers after some provisions of the state’s medical cannabis program expired.

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New Mexico Regulators Push for Task Force to Counter Illicit Cannabis

1/30/2025

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Cannabis regulators in New Mexico are pressuring elected officials to pass legislation to create a task force dedicated to stamping out illicit cannabis operations in the state, KRQE reports.

Lawmakers first discussed giving “police power” to the New Mexico Cannabis Control Division (CCD) last November. Now, the agency is supporting House Bill 10, which would task six law enforcement officials with investigating and stopping individuals caught doing illegal cannabis business. The bill would also authorize CCD officials to seize and put administrative holds on cannabis products, the report said.

Currently, regulators who encounter illegal activity in the cannabis industry can only report what they discover to law enforcement — officials say the task force would help unburden police and expedite the investigations, which they say would benefit the industry.

“Currently, we only have administrative powers, so we can fine, suspend, revoke licenses. But if we stumble across products or illicit activity, we then are limited in that power…. [The task force] would allow us to continue down that path while following due process, going to courts, getting search warrants or injunctions, and then being able to act on those with the orders from those courts.” — Todd Stevens, CCD Director, via KRQE

“These illicit, illegal, gray market products, producers, dispensaries, they burden our regulated, good faith, good operators, and it makes them very difficult to operate in a legal space,” Stevens said.

The New Mexico adult-use cannabis law took effect in July 2021, and the state’s first regulated sale took place in July 2022.

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The Role of Terpenes in Blue Dream and Green Crack: What You Need to Know

1/29/2025

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For cultivators and consumers alike, understanding terpenes is essential to appreciating the true potential of cannabis. These compounds do more than just make cannabis smell good—they play a key role in shaping the overall experience, from how the strain tastes to the effects they deliver.

We’ll take a closer look at the terpene profiles of two iconic strains: Blue Dream and Green Crack. Blue Dream is celebrated for its smooth, calming effects, while Green Crack is known for its energizing and focus-enhancing qualities. Both strains owe much of their appeal to the terpenes they contain, making them standout choices for growers and consumers seeking distinct cannabis experiences.

Join us as we look at what makes Blue Dream and Green Crack truly unique. We’ll find out how terpenes contribute to their aroma, flavor, and effects, and why these strains should be on your radar.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are the naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. These compounds are what give fruits, flowers, and herbs their distinct scents—think of the citrusy aroma of an orange peel or the piney fragrance of a forest. In cannabis, terpenes play an even bigger role, not only defining the plant’s aroma and flavor but also influencing its effects.

So, how do terpenes work in cannabis?

Cannabis terpenes are produced in the same trichomes responsible for cannabinoids like THC and CBD. While cannabinoids are often the focus of a strain’s potency, terpenes work alongside them in a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect”. This synergy between terpenes and cannabinoids can amplify or modify the effects of cannabis, making two strains with similar THC levels feel entirely different.

Some good examples include:

Myrcene, one of the most common terpenes, is known for its earthy aroma and calming effects. They also increase the sedative qualities of certain strains.
Limonene, with its citrusy scent, is often associated with uplifting and stress-relieving properties.
Pinene, as its name suggests, has a pine-like aroma and may help improve focus and memory.

With over 150 identified terpenes in cannabis, each strain offers a unique combination that contributes to its sensory and therapeutic qualities. Whatever effects you’re after, terpenes help to shape your experience.

Terpenes in Blue Dream: A Closer Look

Few cannabis strains are as beloved and widely recognized as Blue Dream. This sativa-dominant hybrid offers a perfect balance of relaxation and mental clarity. Originating from California, it blends the sweet, fruity notes of its Blueberry parent with the uplifting, cerebral effects of Haze.

What truly sets Blue Dream apart is its unique terpene profile:

The most dominant terpene in Blue Dream, myrcene is known for its calming and sedative effects. It’s what gives the strain its smooth, relaxing high that helps to ease stress and anxiety. This terpene also contributes to the earthy and slightly musky undertones in the strain’s flavor profile.
Pinene is responsible for the cultivar’s subtle pine-like aroma and its clear-headed effects. This terpene is known for improving focus and memory, making Blue Dream an ideal choice for consumers who want relaxation without feeling sluggish.
Caryophyllene adds a spicy, peppery note to Blue Dream’s aroma. Uniquely, it binds to cannabinoid receptors in the body, which may improve its potential for reducing inflammation and stress.

Blue Dream’s terpene blend creates a sensory experience that’s hard to match. Sweet berry notes dominate the aroma, balanced by hints of pine and spice. On the palate, it delivers a smooth, fruity flavor with a touch of earthiness. This makes it a favorite among those who appreciate both taste and therapeutic effects.

The synergy of myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene results in its iconic balanced high. Consumers often describe it as both relaxing and mentally stimulating. The strain helps to ease tension while sparking creativity and focus.

With this combination of effects, it’s easy to see why it’s a top choice for recreational and therapeutic consumers alike.

The Unique Terpenes Behind Green Crack’s Popularity

If there’s one cannabis strain synonymous with energy and focus, it’s Green Crack. Originally called “Cush”, this sativa-dominant hybrid earned its bold nickname from Snoop Dogg. It’s known for delivering a sharp, cerebral high and is a daytime favorite for those who want a productivity boost.

Its unique terpene profile plays a significant role in shaping its effects and sensory appeal.

Limonene, one of the dominant terpenes, is responsible for its bright citrus aroma. This terpene is known for its mood-improving and stress-relieving properties, making Green Crack an uplifting choice for daytime use.
Adding sweet and floral notes to its aroma, terpinolene boosts its energizing effects. This terpene is often associated with creativity and mental clarity.
While present in smaller amounts, myrcene contributes to a subtle calming effect. It balances the energizing properties of limonene and terpinolene.

Green Crack’s terpene blend gives it a fresh and invigorating scent, with dominant citrus notes balanced by hints of earthiness and sweetness. On the palate, you’ll notice sharp citrus flavors complemented by subtle tropical undertones. This combination makes Green Crack a sensory delight for cannabis enthusiasts.

The strain’s terpene profile creates an energizing and motivating high, perfect for daytime activities. The uplifting properties of limonene, combined with the focus-boosting qualities of terpinolene. This makes it a top choice for tasks that need mental clarity and creativity.

Comparing the Terpene Profiles of Blue Dream and Green Crack

When it comes to cannabis strains, both Blue Dream and Green Crack stand out for their unique terpene profiles. While they share some overlapping compounds, their distinct combinations lead to dramatically different effects, aromas, and flavors.

Some key differences are:

Distinctions	Blue Dream	Green Crack
Terpene Composition	Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene.	Limonene, terpinolene, myrcene.
Flavor and aroma	Sweet, berry-like with earthy undertones, offering a rich, smooth experience.	Zesty citrus with tropical hints, complemented by sweet and earthy undertones for a refreshing profile.
Effects	Ideal for relaxation and mental clarity, providing a balanced high for stress and pain management.	Energizing and focus-enhancing, perfect for daytime activities or creative projects.

As we can see, both strains contain myrcene, but its role varies. In Blue Dream, myrcene emphasizes relaxation and works synergistically with caryophyllene to provide therapeutic effects. In Green Crack, smaller amounts of myrcene act as a subtle grounding agent, balancing the stimulating effects of limonene.

The Importance of Terpenes in Cannabis Cultivation

Terpenes do far more than define the scent and flavor of cannabis—they play a crucial role in shaping a strain’s therapeutic and recreational value. For cultivators, preserving and boosting terpene profiles is essential to delivering high-quality cannabis.

Why does preserving terpenes matter? They’re responsible for the distinct characteristics that make each cannabis strain unique.

DNA Genetics understands that the integrity of terpene profiles means providing consumers with consistent effects, aromas, and flavors they can trust. This reliability is especially important for medical cannabis consumers who rely on specific strains for therapeutic purposes.

We take terpene preservation a step further by focusing on genetic stability. Through meticulous breeding practices and rigorous quality control, we ensure that each batch of seeds produces plants with consistent terpene profiles. This ensures that cultivators experience the same reliable effects and characteristics with every strain.

Cultivation methods significantly affect terpene production. Factors like:

Soil vs hydroponics: Soil-grown cannabis often has a richer terpene profile due to the plant’s access to a broader range of nutrients, while hydroponics offer precision control.
Temperature and humidity: High temperatures can degrade terpenes, while optimal humidity levels preserve their potency.
Light exposure: Proper lighting improves terpene production, especially during the flowering stage.

Growers who fine-tune these factors can maximize the terpene content in their plants, ensuring strains reach their full potential.

How Terpenes Enhance the Overall Cannabis Experience

Terpenes are the key to a well-rounded, personalized experience that differs from strain to strain. In Blue Dream, the sweet berry-like aroma is complemented by earthy and spicy undertones. This makes it a smooth and relaxing choice for consumers who appreciate rich, fruity flavors. Green Crack, on the other hand, has sharp citrus notes and tropical hints, providing a bright and refreshing aroma that energizes and invigorates the senses.

The terpene profile in each strain also shapes the effects of cannabis strains by interacting with cannabinoids to produce the entourage effect. This synergy boosts the therapeutic potential of cannabis, offering benefits, like:

Pain relief: Terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene in Blue Dream improves its ability to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
Mood improvement: Limonene in Green Crack lifts spirits and reduces stress, making it ideal for daytime use.
Relaxation: Blue Dream’s terpene blend promotes calmness, perfect for unwinding or improving sleep quality.

These distinctive profiles help consumers choose strains that suit their preferences.

Blue Dream, Green Crack, and the Power of Terpenes

Terpenes are at the heart of what makes cannabis unique, shaping not only the flavors and aromas of each strain but also their effects and therapeutic potential. In the cases of Blue Dream and Green Crack, terpenes play a pivotal role in defining their contrasting experiences.

For cultivators and enthusiasts alike, understanding terpenes opens up a deeper appreciation of cannabis. Whichever traits you’re drawn to, Blue Dream and Green Crack showcase how terpenes can transform cannabis into a truly tailored experience.

Are you ready to take your cannabis cultivation to the next level or to find out more about the benefits of iconic strains? Visit the DNA Genetics store to find premium cannabis seeds. With our commitment to preserving terpene profiles, you can trust that every plant delivers the distinct characteristics and effects you’re looking for.

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Indiana House Votes Down Bill to Remove Cannabis as Schedule 1 Drug

1/28/2025

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Indiana House Republicans on Monday voted down a proposal to reclassify cannabis in the state 21 Alive News reports. The measure, introduced by state Rep. Kyle Miller (D) would have removed cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug under state law.

“Throughout the country, legislative bodies are having conversations about the economic and health benefits legalizing marijuana can have. I’m disappointed that Indiana Republicans are so willing to be left behind as other states reap the benefits while we won’t even kick off the conversation be striking it as a Schedule 1 drug.” — Miller to 21 Alive News

Miller added that the proposal “was an opportunity to start the conversation about the possibility of legalizing marijuana in our state. House Republicans have signaled they aren’t interested in bringing hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue to Indiana.”

“If they don’t want to have this discussion, I think they owe it to Hoosiers to explain why they don’t want to grow our economy, like 24 states have done using marijuana,” Miller told 21 Alive News. “They also own an explanation to chronically ill Hoosiers who could benefit from a medicinal marijuana program, which 38 states in the country have, why they are so inclined to limit their access to drugs that could alleviate some of their suffering.”

A Republican-backed bill to legalize cannabis for adult use in the state was introduced this month. A poll published last November found that 70% of Indiana voters – a supermajority – back the reforms.

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Lawsuit in Illinois Alleges Cannabis Companies Mislabeled Products to Get Around THC Limits

1/28/2025

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A class action lawsuit filed against several Illinois-based cannabis companies claims the firms labeled cannabis-infused products as concentrates in order to exceed state limits on THC, Forbes reports. The lawsuit was filed by Chad Alsip, a cannabis consumer, against Wellness Group Pharms and its affiliates, and several entities under Acreage Holdings.

In the lawsuit, the plaintiffs allege that the defendants mislabeled their vape oils as cannabis concentrates which are not subject to the same THC limits as cannabis infused products which allowed consumers to purchase more THC than allowed under state law.

For example, instead of being limited to 500 milligrams of THC in cannabis-infused products, a customer could buy a total of 5 grams of vape oils – 11 times the legal limit – and then be able to purchase another 500 milligrams of cannabis-infused products.

“In doing so, Defendants unlawfully promoted the unregulated overconsumption of cannabis by marketing, promoting, and selling improperly labeled and packaged cannabis products that fail to feature or conform to the safeguards against overconsumption imposed by the Illinois Cannabis Acts. Specifically, safety labels, serving size limits, serving size identification, and legal quantity limits.” — Excerpt from the lawsuit, via Forbes

The lawsuit claims the “conduct is misleading in a material way in that it induced Plaintiffs and the Class Members to purchase Defendants’ Vapable Oils when they otherwise would not have.”

“Defendants,” the lawsuit claims, “made their untrue and/or misleading statements and representations willfully, wantonly, and with a reckless disregard for the truth.”

The lawsuit seeks compensation for statutory violations, fraud, unjust enrichment, and other claims.

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Iowa Bill Seeks to Allow ‘Vaporizable’ Cannabis to State-Approved Products List

1/28/2025

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A bill to allow vaporized cannabis methods under Iowa’s medical cannabis program advanced out of a House subcommittee on Monday, the Des Moines Register reports. If passed, “vaporizable dried raw cannabis” would be added to the products available to the state’s medical cannabis patients.

Following the subcommittee meeting, Rep. Hans Wilz (R), the bill sponsor, told the Register that he wants to keep the proposal “as narrow in scope as possible” noting that “alternative things” discussed by the subcommittee “sit in a different place in legislation.”

Iowa’s medical cannabis program is among the most limited in the country and currently only allows tablets, capsules, liquids, tinctures, topicals like gels, ointments, creams, lotions, patches, and nebulizable and inhaled or vaporizable products, and suppositories.

Lucas Nelson, president of MedPharm Iowa, which owns and operates Bud & Mary’s Cannabis in the state – one of just two state-licensed medical cannabis manufacturers in Iowa – said that if the bill passes the company would commit to lowering costs for patients up to an estimated 50%.

“This lowering of the costs obviously matters for people. There’s a patient who visits us from just outside of Ottumwa. She suffers from chronic pain, like you mentioned, she can’t use insurance because insurance doesn’t cover medical cannabis, and hers, specifically, she uses these products to be present for her grandkids.” — Nelson via the Register

The number of medical cannabis patients fell slightly from 18,230 in 2023 to under 18,000 by the end of last year, according to the Iowa Medical Cannabidiol Advisory Board’s 2024 report.

Another piece of legislation – Senate File 46 – passed a subcommittee last week. That bill aims to increase the number of dispensary licenses from five to 10.

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Sen. Warren Sends Letter to DOGE Chair Musk Calling for Federal Law Enforcement Reforms

1/27/2025

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In a letter to Elon Musk, in his role as chairman of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) called for an end to raids by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) on cannabis businesses.

“These arrests and seizures unnecessarily drain federal resources. DOGE should recommend that (Department of Justice) and (Department of Homeland Security) conserve resources by deprioritizing costly arrests and other enforcement actions targeting marijuana activity, at least where the activity is legal in the jurisdiction where it occurred.” — Warren, in the letter, 1/23/25

In the letter, Warren says the U.S. government could save “hundreds of millions of dollars each year by reducing wasteful spending on unnecessary federal enforcement actions and detention,” and notes that “almost half of states have legalized recreational marijuana, yet federal arrests for marijuana possession account for roughly a quarter of all drug possession arrests, even though federal sentences for marijuana possession are rare.”

Warren also calls for federal prison reforms in the letter, including “compassionate release for elderly and terminally ill individuals in federal prisons.”

“These individuals pose minimal risk to public safety; for example, 93 percent of incarcerated individuals over age 65 are classified as presenting a minimum or low risk of recidivism,” Warren writes, “and those eligible for compassionate release must be found to not be a danger to the safety of any person or the community.”

Warren also suggested that DOGE “recommend steps to phase out the costly practice of incarcerating people for technical violations of probation and parole,” pointing out that about 27% of admissions to state and federal prisons stem from technical violations of probation and parole.

“Reincarcerating individuals for these minor violations poses an unnecessary burden on taxpayers,” Warren said in the letter. “For example, a 2019 report found that states spent a whopping $2.8 billion to incarcerate individuals for technical violations of their terms of supervision.”

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U.S. Court of Appeals Upholds Virginia Total THC Hemp Law

1/27/2025

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The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit this month upheld a Virginia law that regulates the sale of hemp products based on their total THC concentration regardless of whether the THC is delta-9, delta-8, or any other form of THC. The law, which was passed in 2023, set the maximum THC concentrations for hemp products sold in the state at 0.3%.

Plaintiffs in the case, Northern Virginia Hemp and Agriculture LLC (“NOVA Hemp”), Franny’s Operations, Inc. (“Franny’s Farmacy”), and Virginia resident Rose Lane, argued that portions of the law imposed a stricter standard on hemp products than the 2018 federal Farm Bill and that federal law preempted those portions of the Virginia statutes. The plaintiffs also claimed the law violated the Dormant Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

The court rejected the preemption claim on the grounds that federal law “says nothing about the ability of states to regulate the sale of hemp products within their borders” and that the Farm Bill carved out a role for state-by-state regulations. The court also rejected the commerce clause claim, finding that there was no discrimination between in and out-of-state economic interests and that it did not unjustifiability burden the flow of interstate commerce.

The decision upholds the previous district court decision, which upheld the law.

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What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes in Blue Dream: A Closer Look

The Unique Terpenes Behind Green Crack’s Popularity

Comparing the Terpene Profiles of Blue Dream and Green Crack

The Importance of Terpenes in Cannabis Cultivation

How Terpenes Enhance the Overall Cannabis Experience

Blue Dream, Green Crack, and the Power of Terpenes

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