D.C. Council passes bill extending conditional cannabis licenses
The D.C. Council has unanimously approved a bill from Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie extending conditional medical cannabis licenses by 12 months. The measure, applied retroactively to June 28, 2025, gives new operators more time to open after many reported challenges securing locations and financing.
- Catch up on the ABC Board meeting, Oct. 8, 2025: watch, agenda.
- Oct. 1, 2025 disposition.
- D.C. closes four unlicensed cannabis retailers in September enforcement
Maryland social equity cannabis vendor fair
Maryland’s Office of Social Equity hosts a vendor fair on Friday, October 10, at the Hilton Washington D.C./Rockville to connect new entrepreneurs with legal, compliance, marketing, and accounting resources. The event includes a panel on business networks and a fireside chat with Eddie Osefo, Esq. Registration is open at bit.ly/OSEFallVendor25.
- Maryland opened applications for its first state-run cannabis incubators, aiming to support equity-focused entrepreneurs entering the legal cannabis industry
Virginia cannabis panel examines retail roadmap for 2026
Virginia’s Joint Commission to Oversee Transition into a Retail Cannabis Market convened on October 6, 2025, to discuss the state’s cannabis retail roadmap. With retail sales still blocked following Governor Glenn Youngkin’s 2025 vetoes, the commission is preparing recommendations for the 2026 legislative session. Stakeholders emphasized leveraging Virginia’s existing medical cannabis framework, which includes pharmacist consultations and a robust seed-to-sale tracking system via Metrc. However, concerns were raised about outdated labeling rules and delivery service definitions. Policy strategist Ngiste Abebe highlighted the need for clear labeling, truth-in-advertising, and reconsideration of local opt-outs to ensure equitable access and prevent illicit market growth.
ICYMI: Temple of Golden Teacher Shut Down, DC Smoke Prevails, Maryland THC Enforcement Back in Action
East Coast Roundup
New York’s cannabis market reached a milestone with August sales hitting $214.4 million, marking the highest monthly total since the program’s inception. Year-to-date sales have surpassed $1.26 billion, with projections suggesting a potential $3 billion by year-end.
New Jersey introduced its first legal cannabis lounges in Atlantic City and Camden County. These establishments, including SunnyTien and High Rollers, offer patrons a space to consume cannabis legally, featuring amenities like live sports, upscale décor, and a BYO food policy.
Culture & More
Michigan faces challenges as China’s black market cannabis operations reportedly infiltrate the state’s cannabis industry.
In Minnesota, THC beverage manufacturers express concerns over new state regulations requiring additional testing and labeling. The industry warns that these measures could lead to increased costs and potential product shortages.
Internationally, American basketball player Jarred Shaw faces severe legal consequences in Indonesia after being arrested for possessing cannabis gummies intended for medical use. Shaw, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, could face life imprisonment or the death penalty under Indonesia’s strict drug laws
Around the Country
Nebraska awarded licenses to its first medical cannabis cultivators, marking a significant step in the state’s legalization efforts. However, legal challenges loom as opponents question the program’s implementation and regulatory framework.
In Michigan, a new 24% wholesale cannabis tax has been enacted to fund Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s $1.8 billion road improvement plan. While the tax aims to generate substantial revenue, critics argue it could negatively impact cannabis sales and disproportionately affect small businesses.
Kansas officials conducted raids on smoke shops selling cannabis and THC products, citing concerns over unregulated sales and public safety. The state continues to grapple with balancing enforcement and access to cannabis products
From the swamp
Oregon’s cannabis industry faces uncertainty as a business files a lawsuit challenging the state’s ban on interstate cannabis and hemp commerce. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for cross-border cannabis trade and regulatory practices.
The federal government remains in a state of limbo regarding cannabis reform due to the ongoing shutdown. This has stalled progress on key issues, including hemp THC regulations and broader cannabis policy changes
