As Federal Marijuana Reclassification Is Poised To Take Effect, These States Focus On Cannabis Reform

With cannabis rescheduling being a hot topic these days, let's scroll through the latest regulatory changes in the cannabis space.

In fact, if you want to understand what these policy changes mean for the future of the industry, join us at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference. Hear directly for top executives, investors, policymakers and advocates in Chicago this Oct. 8-9. Get your tickets now before prices go up by following this link.

Massachusetts' Marijuana Two-Drivers-Per-Vehicle Delivery Rule Still In Place

In Massachusetts, the eliminated rule under which all marijuana deliveries are to be handled by two drivers is still being enforced, according to CommonWealth Beacon's Bhaamati Borkhetaria.

In her recent story, Borkhetaria sheds light on the fact that the Cannabis Control Commission decided in a 3-1 vote to drop a safety requirement to save money for delivery companies. However, five months later, the rule is still in place.

"The two-driver rule is a hurdle and a handcuff that companies like mine are facing," said Gyasi Sellers, owner of cannabis delivery company Treevit. "There are a lot of companies like mine that are running out of time. Some have gone under already, and that rule is one of the primary causes of that."

California Police Groups Support Measure To End Federal Marijuana Prohibition In Legal States

Last week, a measure that seeks to put an end to federal marijuana enforcement in legal states – knows as the Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States (STATES) 2.0 Act – received an endorsement from the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) and the Oregon Coalition of Police and Sheriffs (ORCOPs), reported Marijuana Moment.

The bill, introduced by House Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH), amends the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) so that people acting in compliance with state cannabis programs are not criminalized on the federal level.

"I know firsthand that our law enforcement officers are already stretched thin–forcing these public servants to walk a discrepant line between state and federal policy not only defies state's rights but is an inefficient use of precious law enforcement resources," Rep. Joyce said.

New Hampshire Senate Gives Green Light To Amend Marijuana Legalization Bill

New Hampshire Senators approved a marijuana legalization measure recently , following an initial floor vote earlier this month. The approval followed some major changes to the measure, which now heads to the state House for concurrence on recent amendments, reported Marijuana Moment.

Following changes, HB 1633 is more in line with Governor Chris Sununu's (R) requirements. 

Louisiana Marijuana Decriminalization Measure Advances Through Legislature

Meanwhile, Senators in Louisiana approved the amended version of HB 165. The measure, introduced by state Rep. Delisha Boyd (D- New Orleans), seeks to decriminalize marijuana and the use of drug paraphernalia, reported KTVE.

It would slash penalties and prison time for first offenders. Under the measure, the fine of roughly $300 and a maximum of 15 days in jail or both would be reduced to no more than $100.

The measure is now slated to be returned to the House on May 28 for approval.