Licensing Blog

On the cusp of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Florida Department of Health, Office of Medical Marijuana Use (“OMMU”) announced the twenty-two (22) applicants it sent Notice of Intent Letters to approve their April 2023 MMTC Batching Cycle applications. Over a year and a half since their application submission, these twenty-two (22) companies were selected from a pool of seventy-four (74) …

The cannabis industry is evolving beyond traditional retail, with on-site consumption lounges becoming a growing trend across the United States. Joining states such as Alaska, Nevada, and Colorado, New Jersey and California have stepped up as leaders in cannabis hospitality, paving the way for innovative and immersive experiences. These states are among a select few that now permit adults to …

Earlier this year, the Biden administration announced plans to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, sparking widespread anticipation for the upcoming Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”) hearing. However, the DEA has now delayed the hearing originally scheduled for December 2nd. Despite DEA Administrator Anne Milgram approving over two dozen witnesses, Chief Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney issued …

Despite both presidential candidates voicing their support for cannabis reform, the 2024 election brought disappointment to cannabis advocates, with only one out of five states approving cannabis initiatives. With 38 states legalizing medical cannabis and 24 allowing adult-use, many are left wondering what it will take for the remaining states to embrace legalization. Even as the federal government holds hearings …

From failing to acquire the requisite number of signatures in 2022 to prior ballot language being rejected due to noncompliance with the single subject rule, Nebraska advocates strategically designed their ballot initiatives this year to ensure third times a charm in legalizing medical cannabis in the Cornhusker State. However, opposition in the form of a lawsuit brought by former Senator …

The United States’ psychedelic market remains in its early stages, with states like Oregon and Colorado leading the charge by decriminalizing natural psychedelic medicines and establishing regulated therapeutic programs. As public and medical support grows, the market is expected to expand, with ongoing clinical trials and investments fueling its development. One state that may be joining the brigade is Massachusetts …

Since the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, the hemp industry has rapidly grown into a multi-million-dollar market. This boom has led to a proliferation of hemp-derived products available everywhere, from grocery stores to gas stations. Although the federal government initially paved the way for the industry’s development, it has since taken a hands-off approach to regulating the sector. This …

On December 2, 2022, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 8454 into law, officially known as the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act (the “Act”). This bipartisan legislation marked a significant milestone as the first standalone cannabis reform passed by Congress since the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (“CSA”), which had placed cannabis in the category of substances with no …

Despite being a prominent leader in the cannabis industry, California took a surprising turn on September 6 when Governor Gavin Newsom (D) issued proposed emergency regulations that effectively cripple the state’s hemp industry. This move highlights the increasing challenges facing the hemp sector and deepens the divide between hemp and cannabis operators nationwide. In response, members of the hemp industry …