New York: Bipartisan Bill Filed to Expand Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Sales

New York State Senators Luis Sepulveda (D) and Robert Rolison (R) introduced Senate Bill 5809 today, a bipartisan measure that would expand the sale of products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Gummies made with hemp-derived Delta-8 THC.

The legislation would allow licensed retailers to sell all forms of cannabinoid hemp products starting January 1, 2026, as long as they meet established safety standards. The bill, which has been referred to the Senate Investigations and Government Operations Committee, would repeal emergency regulations adopted by the Office of Cannabis Management, which currently limit the types of cannabinoid hemp products available for sale.

Additionally, SB 5809 proposes refining the definition of “Total THC” within state cannabis law, clarifying that it refers only to the dry weight percentage of Delta-9 THC in each product. The changes are intended to provide greater clarity for retailers and consumers while ensuring compliance with safety guidelines.
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Ontario: CA$164.66 Million in Legal Marijuana Sales in February, 13% Year-Over-Year Increase

Ontario’s legal marijuana market brought in over $164 million in sales in February, representing a notable increase over the previous year.

According to data compiled and released by the research firm Headset, Ontario’s licensed marijuana stores sold $164.66 million in marijuana and marijuana products in February, a 13% increase over the CA$145 million sold in February 2024. The $164.66 million in sales resulted in approximately $36 million in tax revenue.

Alberta, Canada’s next top province in terms of total marijuana sales, also experienced an uptick in sales compared to last year, albeit not as drastic. In February, Alberta’s marijuana market had $76 million in sales, a 6.7% increase from the previous February.
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Pro-Cannabis Legalization Tim Walz Says He Would “Certainly Consider” Running for President in 2028

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a strong proponent of marijuana legalization, has stated that he would “certainly consider” a run for president in 2028.

In an interview with The New Yorker Radio Hour, Walz discussed his future in politics and the possibility of a presidential bid in 2028.

Walz said “I’m not somebody who aspired to be president or vice president. But I also recognize if you have something to offer, and it’s the right time, you have to at least be open to the discussion.”
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North Carolina Marijuana Superstore Celebrates Six Months of Sales to Everyone 21+

The Great Smoky Cannabis Company in Cherokee, North Carolina will celebrate six months of serving all adults 21 and older on March 7. The store remains the only location in all of North Carolina where cannabis can be legally purchased.

Operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), the store first opened its doors to everyone 21 and older, regardless of tribal or medical status, on September 7. Despite the state’s prohibition on marijuana, EBCI’s sovereign status allows the tribe to regulate sales on its land. T

he store, located at a former bingo hall which cost over $50 million to renovate, offers a range of products, including flower, edibles, and concentrates, all sourced from the tribe’s cultivation facility.
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The Most Popular Cannabis Strains in the United States As of March 2025

The ever-evolving legal marijuana market in the United States continues to be shaped by shifting consumer preferences, new genetic innovations, and the enduring appeal of classic strains.

Permanent Marker.

As of March 2025, certain staples remain dominant, while newer varieties are making waves in dispensaries across the country. Drawing from data provided by state regulatory agencies, the strain review site Leafly, and our readers, this updated list highlights the most sought-after marijuana strains currently captivating users nationwide as of March 2025.

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Oregon: $70.8 Million in Legal Marijuana Sold in February, Lowest Total Since February 2020

Licensed marijuana stores in Oregon sold $70.8 million in marijuana and marijuana products in February.

Total legal marijuana sales reached $70,802,522 in February, according to the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission. This is the lowest monthly total since February 2020, when sales were $69 million, marking a 6.8% decrease from the $76 million recorded in February 2024 and last month. The decline is attributed to record-low prices, with a gram of dried marijuana averaging $3.43.

In February, Multnomah, by far, was the county with the most sales, at $15.7 million, following by Washington at $7.6 million and Malheur at $7.5 million. All three experienced a 5% – 10% decrease in sales from the previous month.
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Florida Medical Marijuana Sales Hit $165 Million in February

Florida’s medical marijuana market generated $165,177,271 in sales in February, surpassing the $160 million recorded in January and marking the highest monthly total since March 2024.

According to data released today by the research firm Headset, February sales saw dried marijuana flower leading the market with 44% of total sales, followed by vapor pens (21%), edibles (14%), concentrates (11%), pre-rolls (5%), capsules (2%), and tinctures and topicals (a combined 3%).

The $165 million in February sales marks a roughly 7% increase from the $153.8 million sold in February 2024.
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Minnesota Bill Would Allow Cities to Ban Marijuana Stores

A bill introduced in the Minnesota Senate today, Senate File 2142, would give local governments the authority to ban marijuana businesses and retail sales within their jurisdictions.

The Minnesota State Capitol.

The legislation has been referred to the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee for consideration.

Under current law, local governments in Minnesota cannot ban marijuana businesses outright but can impose restrictions on their location and operation. SF 2142, sponsored by State Senators Nelson and Limmer, would change this by allowing cities and counties to prohibit marijuana businesses from opening altogether. The bill also enables local governments to adopt temporary moratoriums while considering permanent regulations.
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Montana Senate Committee Approves Bill to Change Marijuana Tax Revenue Distribution

Montana Senate Bill 307 was approved today by the Business, Labor, and Economic Affairs Committee.

Sponsored by State Senator T. McGillvray, the bill was given approval by the committee by a vote of 8 to 4, moving it towards a vote of the full House. The measure would significantly alter the allocation of marijuana tax revenue in Montana, redirecting funds toward prevention services, law enforcement, and addiction treatment programs.

Under current law, Montana imposes a 20% sales tax on recreational marijuana, with the revenue distributed to various state programs, including conservation efforts, veterans’ services, and the general fund. SB 307 proposes a restructuring of this allocation by establishing a Marijuana Prevention Account, a Marijuana Law Enforcement Operations Account, and a Marijuana Tax Revenue Accountability Council to oversee funding distribution.
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Arizona Senate Passes Psilocybin Bill

Arizona Senate Bill 1555, a measure focused on psilocybin regulation and research, has been approved by the Senate Committee of the Whole.

Psilocybin mushrooms.

The legislation, introduced earlier this month by State Senator Thomas Shope (R), would establish the Arizona Psilocybin Advisory Board under the state’s Department of Health Services. The bill must still pass a final Senate vote before advancing to the House of Representatives.

If enacted, SB 1555 would create a 12-member advisory board tasked with reviewing scientific studies on psilocybin’s safety and efficacy in treating mental health conditions such as addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders. The board would be composed of representatives from state health agencies, law enforcement, and medical professionals, including physicians, psychologists, and researchers with experience in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
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