Weed And Psychedelics Research Bill, GA MMJ Lawsuit, NV' Pot Revenue, Canada Cannabis Regs & More

Congress Boosts Cannabis And Psychedelics Research, Cracks Down On Fentanyl

The House Energy & Commerce Committee approved a bill sponsored by Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) that aims to increase penalties for fentanyl-related substances and streamline research into Schedule I substances such as marijuana and some psychedelics, reported Marijuana Moment.

The bill underwent amendments that included revised penalties for fentanyl-related offenses and new requirements for researchers studying Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act.

While some drug war opponents are against the bill's focus on enhancing penalties for opioid substances, the measure gained support for its efforts to boost research into Schedule I drugs.

Georgia Medical Cannabis Bids Faces Fraud And Corruption Lawsuit

A lawsuit has been filed against Georgia’s medical cannabis law, as eight losing bidders allege fraud and corruption in the selection process.

Six companies were awarded licenses to grow and sell medical marijuana in Georgia, but five of the winning bidders were found to have controversial corporate backgrounds, per Fox 5 Atlanta.

The lawsuit claims that the scoring process was heavily redacted, leading to possible corruption. The plaintiffs are asking for the winning bidders’ licenses to be voided and for all documents to be disclosed. Meanwhile, two bills in the legislature could increase transparency and the number of licenses available.

Nevada Bill Proposes Tracking Marijuana Revenue For School Funding

Assemblywoman Brittney Miller of Clark County’s District 5 proposed Assembly Bill 395, which seeks to address the question of where the marijuana tax revenue for education is going in Nevada.

The measure proposes the creation of a Financial Oversight of School Spending Committee to provide quarterly reports to the public on how marijuana tax revenue is funding school districts, specific schools, and areas of concern such as public safety, music, arts or mental health programs.

The committee would also allow public feedback on the funding and encourage increased accountability. Miller hopes the bill will gain bipartisan support, reported Fox 5 Vegas.

Canada Considers Amendments To Cannabis Regulations

Canada’s federal government seeks public input for possible amendments to marijuana regulations, including licensing rules, security requirements, production requirements, and packaging and labeling regulations, to streamline regulations and reduce administrative and regulatory burdens while ensuring public health and safety objectives.

According to MJ Biz Daily, the public consultation period will end on May 24, 2023.

Hawaii's 2023 Cannabis Legalization Bill Fails, Dashing Hopes

Hawaii's hopes for legalizing adult-use cannabis and creating a recreational marijuana market have been crushed after a legislative proposal failed to progress through the state House of Representatives, leaving advocates to wait another year.

The bill had passed smoothly through the state Senate but was not scheduled for a hearing before a key legislative deadline in the House. Despite support from the governor and the public, House Speaker Scott Saiki preferred to see a working group analyze the idea over the summer, reported High Times.

The legislation would propose civil penalties for unlicensed cannabis activities, protect employers who want to prohibit cannabis use, prohibit advertising near youth-centered areas, and license cultivation, manufacturing, testing and retail facilities.

Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference In Miami, FL

The most successful cannabis business event in the world, the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference is being held at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel in Florida on April 11-12. This is the place where DEALS GET DONE, where money is raised, M&A start, and companies meet investors and key partners. Don’t miss out. Secure your tickets now before prices go up.

Image By El Planteo