Licensing Blog

In a recent move that has stirred controversy and concern among cannabis enthusiasts and advocates, the Florida Legislature has made significant changes to regulations surrounding hemp-derived products via Senate Bill (SB) 1698. The new legislation targets both Delta-8 THC products and places caps on THC levels in hemp-derived products, creating a significant roadblock for consumers and advocates alike. Delta-8 THC …

Missouri has unveiled its roadmap for the second round of cannabis microbusiness licensing with applications being accepted via their online portal from April 15 – April 29, 2024. These licenses are expected to be issued in July 2024, but no specific date has been announced yet. Microbusinesses are marijuana facility licenses that are only issued to eligible entities or individuals …

In 2022, Colorado passed Proposition 122 to legalize psychedelics, specifically psilocybin for therapeutic uses in mental healthcare. Through creating the most comprehensive psychedelics measure ever introduced on a statewide ballot, many are anxiously awaiting to enter Colorado’s soon-to-be-booming psychedelic market as it is only the 2nd state to introduce a regulatory licensing framework. With the enactment of SB23-290, the Colorado Department of Revenue …

In the realm of mental health and therapy, significant strides are being made as lawmakers across various states delve into the potential benefits of psychedelics. Recently, Arizona has proposed a new bill, aiming to establish an advisory board tasked with crucial responsibilities. Further, Indiana pushed for development by creating a funding initiative for research. Here’s a closer look at the …

In his 2024–2025 Budget Address, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro called for marijuana reform. Shapiro urged legislators to collaborate to create a bill that legalizes recreational marijuana. Emphasizing the importance of a well-regulated and responsibly taxed industry, Shapiro highlights the potential for increased state revenue and the creation of thousands of jobs. As neighboring states like New York, New Jersey, Maryland, …

During the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority’s (“VCCA”) meeting on January 31st, 2024, members officially addressed their proposed timeline—albeit very aggressive timeline—to grant the one (1) remaining pharmaceutical processor license. Let’s delve into what is next for Virginia’s medical cannabis program as recreational sales is right on its tail: Background of Virginia’s Medical Cannabis Program Virginia’s cannabis laws date back all …

Multiple states have potential to make changes to their state cannabis laws. Although big changes happened in 2023 for a few states, like Delaware, Ohio, and Minnesota, eleven others should be on your watchlist for 2024.  It is probable for some states to legalize cannabis, some are still a ways away from deciding, and others are somewhere in the middle.  …

Earlier this week, Governor Ron DeSantis made a groundbreaking announcement revealing that he believes the Marijuana Legalization Initiative is on track to reach the November ballot. DeSantis anticipates approval from the Florida Supreme Court, marking a significant milestone in allowing Floridians to decide on the issue of recreational marijuana legalization. The proposed Florida Marijuana Initiative seeks to legalize recreational marijuana …

In late 2023, multiple governors sent another push for the Biden administration to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act by the end of the year. But since the 2024 presidential race is coming up, reform progress may be waiting in line at the polls with the rest of us. However, that doesn’t stop …

On January 2nd, 2024, Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”) representative, Terrence L. Boos, Ph.D., responded to an inquiry from Michael McGuire from New York Cultivation PLLC regarding the federal legality of “magic mushroom” spores under the Controlled Substances Act (“CSA”). Although the psychoactive components of magic mushrooms – psilocybin and psilocin – are listed in Title 21 of the United States …