Imaginary NC Cannabis Commission, USDA's Hemp Focus, Denver's Event Crackdown, Weekend Reads

Banning The Consumption Of Tobacco, Vapes and Cannabis On Public Property Amid Legalization

An upcoming proposal in Simsbury, Connecticut, aims to prohibit the consumption of tobacco, vapes and cannabis on public properties like parks, reflecting a broader effort beyond town buildings.

The ordinance, set for review by the Board of Selectmen, is a response to the legalization of cannabis and is driven by concerns raised by First Selectwoman Wendy Mackstutis. The working group drafting the ordinance has suggested a $100 fine for violations, with the intention to implement the policy before the November municipal election, which will address retail cannabis sales.

Gov Enlists Hemp Experts To Boost Trade Advisory Committees for Cannabis Commerce

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) have expanded the representation of the hemp industry in federal trade advisory committees, appointing two new officials to bolster cannabis commerce. Eric Pike, a member of the Oregon Hemp Commission and Patricia Sheikh, a National Industrial Hemp Council of America (NIHC) board member have been added to the Agricultural Technical Advisory Committee (ATAC) for Trade in Tobacco, Cotton, Peanuts, and Hemp.

Landmark Rulings Uphold Off-Duty Cannabis Rights For NJ Police

In a significant legal decision, a New Jersey administrative law judge has commanded the reinstatement of two officers, Norhan Mansour and Omar Polanco, who were terminated for testing positive for marijuana despite state-level constitutional protections.

The rulings clarify that federal restrictions on firearm possession don't preempt state cannabis regulations for police officers, even as Jersey City's mayor opposes the policy.

Appointed To The Imaginary Cannabis Commission

In an unusual move, North Carolina has appointed Stephen Windham to a medical cannabis commission that does not yet exist due to the state legislature's failure to pass a medical marijuana legalization bill.

The inclusion of the Medical Cannabis Production Commission appointment in a broader legislative measure signifies the sponsor's determination to establish the framework for potential reform.

Denver Officials Crack Down On Unlicensed Cannabis Events Amid Growing Popularity

The Denver Department of Excise & Licenses has issued warnings to organizers of unlicensed cannabis-related events, like the Stoner Cinema Pop-Up, which offer cannabis-friendly movie experiences without proper licensing.

While Denver implemented cannabis hospitality rules in 2017, only a few venues have been approved and licensed. The crackdown comes as the city seeks to ensure compliance with its regulations, issuing warnings and potential fines as last resort measures, while the development of legal cannabis hospitality operators is a slow process.

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference, the place where deals get done, is returning to Chicago this September 27-28 for its 17th edition. Get your tickets today before prices increase and secure a spot at the epicenter of cannabis investment and branding.

Photo by Julius Drost on Unsplash.