D.C.’s cannabis market grows faster than demand, raising sustainability concerns
Washington, D.C.’s medical cannabis industry is expanding rapidly — but the growth may not be sustainable. The city now counts 54 licensed dispensaries for just over 700,000 residents, giving it far more stores per capita than nearby states like Maryland, Pennsylvania, or Rhode Island. That oversaturation is reflected in sales data. In August 2025, D.C. dispensaries averaged only $101,000 in monthly medical sales, roughly half of Maryland’s average and a fraction of Pennsylvania’s. Despite the fierce competition, prices remain high at about $10.92 per gram, suggesting that supply is outpacing patient demand rather than driving costs down.
Woman wins landmark D.C. case against neighbor smoking weed
In a groundbreaking decision, a Washington, D.C. court has ruled in favor of Josefa Ippolito-Shepherd, 76, who sued her neighbor, Thomas Cackett, 73, over the pervasive odor of his medical cannabis use. The D.C. Court of Appeals upheld a lower court’s decision, banning Cackett from smoking within 25 feet of Ippolito-Shepherd’s home, including on his own property. Representing herself, Ippolito-Shepherd argued that the “feces” or “skunk” smell made her regret returning to her duplex. Cackett contended that he smoked only once a day for five minutes, but the court found this claim “doubtful.” The case sets a precedent in D.C. and potentially across the U.S., addressing the rights of neighbors affected by cannabis odors.
- Catch up on this week’s meeting – Oct. 22, 2025: watch, agenda.
- ABCA and MPD Shut Down Illegal Cannabis Shops: Tobacco King & Vape, Mother Earth Mushroom Church and Farm House DC
- Oct. 8, 2025 disposition.
Maryland police launch “cannabis green lab,” invite volunteers to smoke for research
Maryland police are taking a hands-on approach to understanding cannabis impairment by inviting volunteers to smoke cannabis in controlled settings. Dubbed the “Cannabis Green Lab,” the initiative involves the Ocean City and Montgomery County police departments and aims to educate law enforcement on the effects of cannabis compared to alcohol. Participants must be at least 21 years old and supply their own cannabis. Organizers hope the program will provide officers with a clearer picture of how cannabis affects behavior, helping inform public safety and policy decisions.
- MCA‘s fall newsletter covered agency updates, new education campaigns and licensee updates.
Virginia’s cannabis gold rush? Here’s what new applicants are overlooking
Virginia’s cannabis market is highly competitive, and getting a license is only the first step. Industry consultant Max Jackson warns that new entrants face tough regulatory, financial, and political challenges, with established operators and lobby groups shaping the landscape to favor the few. Success requires careful planning, including a strong legal and financial team, realistic business modeling, and contingency strategies for price drops and heavy taxation.
East Coast Roundup
New York cannabis growers are expanding operations but face regulatory hurdles, market competition, and delays in the state’s Seed-to-Sale tracking system.
During a NYC mayoral debate, candidates revealed their experiences buying cannabis from licensed dispensaries, highlighting differences in personal use and engagement with legalization.
New York is awarding $5 million in cannabis tax grants to community organizations supporting youth development, workforce training, and mental health, aiming to promote social equity and address the impacts of past drug policies.
Culture & More
Cannabis is gaining attention as an alternative treatment for chronic back pain, particularly for patients looking to reduce opioid use. While early reports suggest potential benefits, scientific evidence remains limited.
Cannabis is increasingly used to aid sleep, with around 18% of young adults (ages 19–30) reporting its use for this purpose. Compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and low doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) may help some individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. However, higher doses of THC can disrupt sleep patterns, especially with long-term use.
A recent study involving over 130,000 participants identified two genes—CADM2 and GRM3—that appear to influence cannabis use behaviors. CADM2, previously associated with impulsivity and risk-taking, is now linked to both the initiation and frequency of cannabis use. GRM3, involved in brain signaling and plasticity, has been connected to psychiatric disorders but had not been previously associated with cannabis use.
Around the Country
Trulieve, Florida’s largest medical cannabis company, filed a defamation lawsuit against the state GOP over misleading ads about a recreational legalization measure, but it was dismissed. The company continues pushing the Smart & Safe Florida campaign, which has collected over 663,000 signatures for a new 2026 ballot initiative.
From the swamp
The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review a case that could determine whether individuals who regularly use cannabis can legally own firearms. The case centers on Ali Danial Hemani, a Texas man charged with felony gun possession after admitting to regular cannabis use.
