Cannabis Updates: CA Crackdowns, MI Denials, DE Budget, NH Support & LA Expungements

Combating The Illegal Cannabis Market In CA

California's Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF) is targeting the illicit cannabis market, reporting a 43% increase in plant eradication and $84.6 million in seized unlicensed cannabis products. A reparations Task Force is also examining the negative impacts of the War on Drugs and exploring compensatory measures for affected communities.

Michigan Considers Denying Licenses To Unpaid Marijuana Businesses

A proposed rule change by the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) aims to deny licenses or license renewals to businesses that haven't paid vendors, a move unique to the state's cannabis industry. Experts warn that this could further burden an industry already grappling with financial pressure due to low prices. As reported by Crain’s Detroit, with many bills going unpaid amid a price collapse caused by oversupply, implementing the rule could result in increased litigation. 

Delaware Budget Allocates $2.2M For Recreational Marijuana Market

Delaware approved pay raises of up to 9% for state employees while allocating $2.2 million and 34 staff members for the new recreational marijuana market. According to Fox News, the pay increases range from 3% to 9%, with teachers receiving an additional 6%. The marijuana market funding will support the Office of the Marijuana Commissioner and the Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Enforcement. Sales are expected to start in the future, potentially by 2025, reported Green Market Report.

Do New Hampshire Residents Support Marijuana Legalization?

A recent University of New Hampshire (UNH) Survey Center poll shows strong support for adult-use marijuana legalization in New Hampshire, with 72% of residents favoring it and 52% strongly supporting it. The poll aimed to assess public opinion on various cannabis reform proposals, including the concept of state-controlled cannabis sales through the state Liquor Commission, which has received endorsement from Gov. Chris Sununu. However, opinions on the state-controlled sales model were more divided, with 60 % expressing support, 23 % opposing and 15 % remaining neutral. The survey, which involved 1,105 interviews, also demonstrates bipartisan backing for legalization, with Democrats, independents, and Republicans all showing significant support, reported Marijuana Moment.

Louisiana House Approves Bill To Fast-Track Expungements For First-Time Marijuana Offenses

The Louisiana House approved a bill streamlining expungements for first-time marijuana possession convictions, allowing individuals with up to 14 grams of cannabis to petition for record clearing after 90 days. The measure sets a $300 cap on fees and includes a template for expungement motions, per Marijuana Moment. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

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