PA's New Senate Bill Boosts Independent Cannabis Growers, Minnesota's THC Edibles Crisis And More Updates

PA Small Cannabis Firms Win Big With New Senate Bill

Pennsylvania’s legislature has passed Senate Bill 773, aimed at empowering independent cannabis growers and dispensaries. 

This bill, awaiting Gov. Shapiro‘s signature, allows 25 independent medical cannabis entities more autonomy in direct sales and product production, reports Green Market Report. This marks a significant shift from the current limitation of five grower-retailers, addressing market imbalances. 

The bill underwent changes in the House, including a reduction in dispensary permits for independents and a moratorium on license transfers, to protect smaller entities from large conglomerates. The state’s robust medical cannabis market, with monthly sales of $115-$140 million, underscores the potential economic impact of this legislation.

Supercharged THC Products Flood Minnesota Markets

Minnesota’s Department of Health warns against high-dose THC edibles, found in 39% of inspected retailers. Despite the legal limit of 50 mg per package and 5 mg per serving, inspections revealed products containing hundreds of milligrams per serving, according to FOX 9. 

Non-compliant retailers risk fines of up to $10,000 per incident, as state officials vow to intensify education and enforcement actions.

Crisis At Massachusetts Cannabis Commission: Key Meeting Looms

Amid controversy, Massachusetts’ Cannabis Control Commission, led by acting chair Ava Callender Concepcion, faces skepticism about its industry management. Concepcion acknowledges the negative public perception but insists on the commission’s commitment.

This comes after the suspension of chair Shannon O’Brien for alleged racially insensitive remarks, with a crucial meeting ahead to address major decisions. Concepcion emphasizes her dedication to both public service and industry success.

Monroe, Ohio Grapples With Adult-Use Cannabis Moratorium

The City Council of Monroe has retracted a proposed nine-month moratorium on adult-use cannabis operators due to concerns about “bad wording.”

Emotions ran high during the discussion about recreational marijuana businesses in the city, which already has four medical marijuana dispensaries. While Ohio legalized recreational marijuana use, the absence of regulatory rules and licenses has delayed sales.

Some council members aim to protect the city from excessive dispensaries, while others support the community’s preferences, as reported by WCPO.

Arkansas Cannabis Tax Funds School Lunches For Kids

The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Commission (AMMC) has redirected $87 million in cannabis tax revenue (76% of the total) to provide free or low-cost school lunches.

The move supports students on reduced lunch programs, alleviating financial burdens, according to High Times. With nearly 100,000 active patients and over $1 billion in total sales, Arkansas’ medical cannabis program thrives, underscoring the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

Image By El Planteo.