D.C. bill would extend conditional cannabis licenses from two to three years
Chairman Phil Mendelson has introduced legislation to extend conditional medical cannabis licenses from two to three years, aiming to give cultivators, retailers, manufacturers, and other operators more time to secure locations and funding. Many licensees who received approvals in 2023 have struggled to open due to real estate and financing hurdles, with some licenses already nearing expiration.
- Don’t miss the ABC Board meeting, Sept. 24, 2025: watch, agenda.
- Sept. 17, 2025 disposition.
- D.C. closes over 70 illegal cannabis stores
- Sept. 29th, 2025 : REGISTER | ABCA webinar on “DC’s Changing Cannabis Landscape: Conditional Licenses and Social Equity”
Bacteria-tainted edibles recalled
The Maryland Cannabis Administration recalled several batches of HiColor Max Chocolate Milk edibles produced by Vireo Health after they tested positive for total coliforms, indicating possible unsanitary conditions during processing. The affected products were sold between July 5 and September 16 at various dispensaries across the state.
- Women are increasingly taking leadership roles in Maryland’s cannabis industry, challenging the traditionally male-dominated sector
Medical cannabis sales surge amid patient concerns
Virginia’s medical cannabis program has seen significant sales, with nearly $30 million in revenue and over 256,000 transactions logged between July and August, according to the state’s new Metrc tracking system. Despite the growth, patients continue to express concerns over high prices, limited product variety, and long wait times, with some traveling to neighboring states for more affordable options. The Cannabis Control Authority plans to address these issues by increasing transparency and oversight, including the development of a public dashboard for real-time sales data.
East Coast Roundup
A new wave of cannabis cafés is opening on the East Coast, designed to create inclusive spaces and provide opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the marijuana industry. These venues combine social experiences with retail access, aiming to reshape public perception of cannabis consumption.
New York state and local law enforcement have intensified efforts to shut down unlicensed cannabis dispensaries, citing public safety and regulatory compliance concerns.
A dispute over a New York medical cannabis license has resulted in a lawsuit targeting a Florida-based cannabis broker, alleging mishandling and misrepresentation during the licensing process
Culture & More
Recent reports show that arrests for recreational cannabis-related offenses continue in California and Connecticut, raising questions about the enforcement of new cannabis laws. Advocates argue these arrests disproportionately impact communities of color despite legalization measures.
Health experts are cautioning pregnant individuals against using marijuana, citing potential risks to fetal development.
Reports indicate a surge in accidental ingestion of cannabis and nicotine products by children, prompting calls for better labeling and childproof packaging.
Around the Country
Oklahoma’s once “wild west” medical cannabis market, which drew thousands of entrepreneurs with cheap land and licenses, collapsed rapidly due to oversaturation, falling prices, stricter regulations and criminal activity. Many cultivators and dispensaries, including ATG Acres and Tegridy Market, shut down after they struggled to remain profitable amid new compliance requirements and continued market chaos. Advocates now push for a 2026 ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis constitutionally, aiming to revive the industry and stabilize the market.
Minnesota officially launched its first recreational marijuana dispensary outside tribal jurisdictions, marking a major step for the state’s legal cannabis market.
Texas regulators moved to clarify rules on THC in hemp and other cannabis products, effectively tightening limits and creating confusion among consumers and producers.
Lawmakers cut California’s excise tax from 19% to 15% to help legal cannabis businesses, but youth and community programs funded by cannabis taxes argue the reduction undermines the promise to reinvest in prevention and support tribal communities.
From the swamp
Michigan cannabis company Exclusive Brands argues that federal labor protections don’t apply to its workers because cannabis remains illegal under federal law, potentially undermining union rights nationwide if the NLRB accepts the claim.
Cannabis entrepreneur Wanda James announced a primary challenge against Colorado U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, signaling growing political engagement among industry leaders. The race could influence national cannabis policy discussions.
Trump’s nominee for White House drug czar, Sara Carter, told senators she considers cannabis reform a “bipartisan issue” and will explore all options regarding the pending federal rescheduling proposal while complying with existing laws.
