Three More Unlicensed Cannabis Businesses Shut Down in D.C.
The Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) shut down three more unlicensed cannabis retailers in the District last week. Enforcement teams executed Closure Orders on Friends Smoke Shop (1223 Pennsylvania Avenue SE), The Garden DC (1541 New Jersey Avenue NW) and Hidden Gym (1508 14th Street NW). During the closures, which included padlocking the doors, authorities observed and seized a substantial amount of illegal cannabis products, including flower, THC-infused edibles, vape cartridges and other prohibited substances.
- Three new stores opened, Chocolate City, Bud Love and New Leaf.
- Anacostia Organics hits six year anniversary in D.C. despite tough market
- ABC Board meeting Jan. 29 at 10:30 A.M., agenda, watch.
Governor Wes Moore designates Tabatha Robinson as director for Maryland Cannabis Administration
Governor Wes Moore assigned Maryland Cannabis Administration’s new director to New York State Office of Cannabis Management’s current chief equity officer, Tabatha Robinson. Robinson will start serving in working capacity next month until confirmed by the state senate during this year’s legislative session.
- Maryland’s proposed cannabis tax increase sparks fear of black market resurgence
ICYMI: More D.C. shops padlocked, Dec. 2024 D.C. medical cannabis sales steady but far below previous years
East Coast Roundup
Massachusetts regulators are calling for cannabis business owners, consumers and supporters to weigh in on social consumption regulations for licensing cannabis lounges and cafes in the state after years of challenges.
The Cannabist, a multistate cannabis operator, announced plans to widen into New Jersey dispensaries bringing along their current collaboration with former professional wrestler, Ric Flair.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro is coming out again to support legalizing recreational cannabis in the state. Shapiro and advocates are anticipating a shrink in state funds will prompt Republicans in the state to think about passing a recreational cannabis bill.
Culture & More
Research by the Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction found lead, bacteria and other contaminants in cannabis sold at questionable cannabis “coffee shops” in the Netherlands.
Dr. Frank Maffei, chair pediatrician in Pennsylvania is saying an increased availability in THC products and edibles imitating branded snacks is increasing cases of cannabis poisoning in children.
At OS NYC, Redman, rapper and cannabis patron will host Free The Green to end the month with cannabis-related giveaways and education, combining cannabis culture, gaming and live music.
Around the Country
The New York Times did a deep dive into the volatility of the cannabis industry, including poor quality, poor returns and unverified health claims.
Smart and Safe Florida, backed the failed Amendment 3 in the state that would loosen restrictions on cannabis business and consumers is preparing to qualify for legislation in the state ballot pushing for 2026
The California Cannabis Operators Association initiated with several members, some of which include Stiizy, the Catalyst Cannabis Co., Embarc to prepare for the potential cannabis excise that would lead to a between 15% and 19% tax increase.
Nebraska lawmakers are pushing bills to quickly develop and execute the state’s medical cannabis program. Without legislation the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission will form regulations to license medical cannabis businesses.
From the swamp
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is altering their language when it comes to cannabis to better distinguish between delta-9 THC found in cannabis and delta-8 intoxicating hemp.
The cannabis industry is bracing for the second Trump Administration, between Pam Bodi, Trump’s nominee to lead the Justice Department and his supporting Florida’s failed Amendment 3 it’s increasingly unclear where the president-elect will go in regards to cannabis reform.
The Drug Enforcement Administrationreleased, Derek Maltz, a cannabis reform disputant linking cannabis to school shootings, is returning as an interim administrator. The temporary assignment is raising fear among cannabis advocates ahead of the ongoing cannabis rescheduling procedure.
