Category: Cannabis Info

VA marijuana commission to shape legal sales; FL gov signs cannabis patient punishments; PA cannabis bill filed; DE legal sales launch date

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/ TOP THINGS TO KNOW

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), a co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, told Marijuana Moment that the group still hasn’t held a meeting during the current legislative session—with one-quarter of the 119th Congress now already elapsed.

The new Virginia Joint Commission to Oversee the Transition of the Commonwealth into a Retail Cannabis Market will hold its first meeting next week to begin work preparing the state to legalize recreational marijuana sales after this year’s gubernatorial election.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) signed a bill to revoke medical cannabis patient and caregiver registrations from anyone convicted of certain drug crimes.

Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators filed a new bill to create a Cannabis Control Board to oversee the existing medical marijuana program and that could also oversee the adult-use market if broader legalization is enacted.

The Delaware Office of the Marijuana Commissioner announced that recreational cannabis sales will begin on August 1, with Gov. Matt Meyer (D) saying the “new industry will generate critical revenue to strengthen our schools, infrastructure and public health systems, while creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs.”

Americans for Safe Access’s Steph Sherer argues in a new Marijuana Moment op-ed that President Donald Trump’s proposal to delete a federal medical cannabis rider from spending legislation “reveals not only the fragility of patient protections but also exposes Congress’s failure to fulfill its promise” to patients.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen (R) approved emergency medical cannabis rules allowing regulators to begin accepting license applications but blocking patients from accessing marijuana flower, infused food or drinks and any products administered by smoking or vaping.

The New Mexico legislature’s Interim Courts and Criminal Justice Committee held a hearing on cannabis regulators’ efforts to step up enforcement against illicit operations.

/ FEDERAL

Former Drug Enforcement Administration Administrator Derek Maltz tweeted about the “dangerous truth about marijuana advocates don’t want you to know,” pointing to research about its alleged harms and saying that “Chinese criminal networks that are running grow operations all over the country and spraying Chinese pesticides on the plants.”

Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) said that Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s support for psychedelics therapy is “helping to mainstream what could be a groundbreaking shift in mental health.”

Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) published a blog post about legislation to increase military veterans’ access to medical cannabis.

Rep. Tom Barrett (R-MI) tweeted, “Great news! → The House passed legislation this week to support our military and veteran community, including critical funding I fought and secure for:…  ✅ Breakthrough PTSD psychedelic treatment… We stand with those who served. 🇺🇸”

The House bill to designate psychedelic innovative therapies centers of excellence got one new cosponsor for a total of nine.

/ STATES

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) used a line-item veto to reject budget provisions to change the marijuana tax structure.

Colorado’s attorney general announced a settlement that permanently bars a company that allegedly marketed marijuana products as federally legal industrial hemp from participating in the state’s cannabis industry.

The Iowa Supreme Court upheld the conviction of a man who was carrying both marijuana and a pistol in his car.

An Alabama judge rejected a request for a temporary restraining order against certain parts of the state’s hemp product restriction law.

A new Idaho mandatory minimum fine for marijuana possession took effect this week.

A California marijuana tax increase took effect on Tuesday.

A Minnesota law to increase in marijuana taxes took effect on Tuesday.

Utah regulators are accepting applications for a new medical cannabis pharmacy license.

Massachusetts regulators issued an order shutting down a cannabis testing lab over alleged violations.

Vermont regulators said errors with a cannabis inventory tracking form have been fixed.

—
Marijuana Moment is tracking hundreds of cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.

Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.
—

/ LOCAL

A judge declined Waterbury, Connecticut officials’ request to issue a contempt citation against a former firefighter who is contesting his firing over medical cannabis use.

/ INTERNATIONAL

The UK solicitor general said in response to a lawmaker’s question that the government has no plans to pursue opening safe drug consumption facilities.

/ SCIENCE & HEALTH

A study found that “CBD promotes antitumor activity by modulating tumor immune microenvironment in HPV associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.”

A review concluded that “the evidence supports psychedelic-assisted therapy as a viable option for PTSD treatment, particularly MDMA.”

/ BUSINESS

Trulieve Cannabis Corp. filed a shelf registration statement to register a base shelf prospectus, but said it has no immediate plans to offer or sell any securities under this shelf registration.

TerrAscend Corp. is exiting the Michigan market.

atai Life Sciences and Beckley Psytech Limited announced positive topline results from a Phase 2b clinical trial on efficacy and safety of a single dose of 5-MeO-DMT benzoate in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

/ CULTURE

Mike Tyson discussed his push to get the Trump administration to embrace marijuana reform.

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Dublin, July 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The “Cannabis Pharmaceuticals – Global Strategic Business Report” report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offering.

The global market for Cannabis Pharmaceuticals was estimated at US$5.2 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$72.7 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 55.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions.

Cannabis-based pharmaceuticals are emerging as a transformative segment within the global healthcare industry, driven by increasing scientific validation of cannabinoids for medical applications. The legalization of medical cannabis in numerous countries has fueled research and development (R&D) efforts, leading to the approval of cannabis-derived drugs for conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain. Additionally, shifting regulatory frameworks and growing physician acceptance are paving the way for cannabis-based formulations to be integrated into mainstream healthcare.

What Are the Key Drivers Behind the Growth of the Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market?

The growth in the cannabis pharmaceuticals market is driven by several factors, including expanding medical cannabis legalization, increased R&D investment, and growing patient demand for alternative treatments. Regulatory approvals for cannabis-based drugs in North America and Europe have legitimized the sector, encouraging pharmaceutical companies to develop new formulations. The opioid crisis has also contributed to the demand for non-addictive pain management solutions, positioning cannabis as a viable alternative.

Additionally, advancements in drug delivery systems and precision dosing are improving the efficacy of cannabis-based medications, further accelerating market growth. As global healthcare systems continue to recognize the benefits of medical cannabis, the pharmaceutical cannabis sector is poised for significant expansion.

How Are Advancements in Cannabis Research Expanding Pharmaceutical Applications?

Ongoing clinical research has uncovered the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), leading to the development of prescription cannabis-based drugs. Pharmaceutical companies are investing in cannabinoid extraction and formulation technologies to enhance bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery.

Advances in nanotechnology and encapsulation methods are improving the efficacy of oral, transdermal, and inhalable cannabis medications. Additionally, the exploration of minor cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN) is expanding the therapeutic scope of cannabis pharmaceuticals, potentially leading to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, anxiety disorders, and autoimmune conditions.

Which Therapeutic Areas Are Driving the Demand for Cannabis Pharmaceuticals?

The primary demand for cannabis-based pharmaceuticals comes from patients suffering from chronic pain, neurological disorders, and mental health conditions. Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, has gained FDA approval for treating rare forms of epilepsy, while Sativex, an oral spray containing THC and CBD, is widely used for multiple sclerosis-related spasticity.

The growing acceptance of cannabis for pain management is leading to its adoption as an alternative to opioids, particularly for cancer and arthritis patients. Additionally, ongoing research into cannabis-based treatments for anxiety, PTSD, and sleep disorders is expanding the potential applications of cannabis pharmaceuticals.

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as AbbVie Inc., Aphria Inc., Aurora Cannabis Inc., Bausch Health Companies Inc., Canopy Growth Corporation and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Sativex Brand segment, which is expected to reach US$52.6 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 60.1%. The Epidiolex Brand segment is also set to grow at 49.2% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, estimated at $1.4 Billion in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 51.8% CAGR to reach $10.4 Billion by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Scope of Study:

• Segments: Brand (Sativex Brand, Epidiolex Brand, Other Brands)
• Geographic Regions/Countries: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.

Key Attributes:

Key Topics Covered:

MARKET OVERVIEW

• Influencer Market Insights
• Tariff Impact on Global Supply Chain Patterns
• Cannabis Pharmaceuticals – Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2025 (E)
• Competitive Market Presence – Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2025 (E)

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

• Growing Clinical Research Supporting Therapeutic Use of Cannabinoids
• Rising Acceptance of Cannabis-Derived Pharmaceuticals in Mainstream Medicine
• Expansion of Prescription-Based Cannabis Products Driving Market Maturity
• Advancements in Formulation Science Improving Bioavailability and Efficacy
• Increased Investment From Pharmaceutical Companies Accelerating Drug Development
• Emergence of Rare Cannabinoids Creating Opportunities for Niche Therapies
• Rising Demand for Chronic Pain and Neurological Disorder Treatments
• Integration of Cannabis Into Palliative and Cancer Care Expanding Patient Base
• Development of GMP-Compliant Manufacturing Facilities Elevating Product Standards
• Advancements in Drug Delivery Systems Enhancing Patient Compliance
• Consumer Shift Toward Plant-Based Medicine Driving Market Growth
• Increasing Healthcare Professional Education Enhancing Prescribing Confidence
• Digital Health Platforms Facilitating Cannabis-Based Treatment Accessibility
• Growth in International Medical Cannabis Programs Supporting Export Markets
• Focus on Standardized Dosing and Consistency Building Trust in Pharmaceutical Cannabis

FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS:Some of the 48 companies featured in this Cannabis Pharmaceuticals market report

• AbbVie Inc.
• Aphria Inc.
• Aurora Cannabis Inc.
• Bausch Health Companies Inc.
• Canopy Growth Corporation
• Cresco Labs Inc.
• Cronos Group Inc.
• Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.
• Green Thumb Industries Inc.
• GW Pharmaceuticals
• Harvest Health & Recreation Inc.
• Hexo Corp.
• Insys Therapeutics, Inc.
• Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc
• MedReleaf Corp.
• Organigram Holdings Inc.
• Sundial Growers Inc.
• Tilray Brands, Inc.
• Trulieve Cannabis Corp.
• VIVO Cannabis Inc.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hxhen

About ResearchAndMarkets.com
ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world’s leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

• Cannabis Pharmaceuticals Market

The application period for commercial cannabis operations opened July 1 in the city of San Luis Obispo. This means a third cannabis store could open within the city.

“The city does have a three-permit cap that applies only to retail storefronts,” said Ivana Gomez, the San Luis Obispo cannabis business coordinator.

Currently, two of the three permits are already in use by Megan’s Organic Market and SLO Cal Roots.

“As a local operator here, we’re all SLO Cal Roots thrives off competitions, so we’re not necessarily afraid of that,” said Austen Connella, the owner of SLO CAL ROOTS. “But the industry overall has been struggling.”

“It’s not the most ideal timing since we’re in a statewide industry downturn right now,” said Megan Souza, the owner of Megan’s Organic Market.

The city is accepting applications through July 31, and if a permit is issued, there are rules on where it can be located.

“There are requirements for retail store fronts, including land use and operational requirements,” said Gomez. “So land use-wise, retail storefronts are required to be in retail commercial zones or service commercial zones, as well as are required to be located within what we call cannabis business overlay zones, which are designated areas in the city where all cannabis businesses are located.”

The two current cannabis dispensaries in the city are working on getting an amendment to their current permits that will allow deliveries, to help them compete with other dispensaries across the Central Coast.

“We’re hoping to launch in just a matter of weeks, actually,” said Souza, “We’re so excited to be able to make it more convenient for our customers who live here in SLO but also better serve our customers who live outside the SLO.”

During this application period, applications are also being accepted for cultivation, delivery-only retail, manufacturing, testing labs, and distribution.

You can find more information on the city’s website.

Tax on all cannabis purchases in California increased by four percent on Tuesday.

When Marijuana was first legalized in 2016, California voters also approved two taxes for consumers: a 15 percent retail tax and a four percent cultivation tax. But as the industry struggled to stay afloat, lawmakers repealed the second tax for three years. On Tuesday, that pause expired, increasing taxes to nearly 20 percent for all cannabis purchases.

So, to see how dispensaries are impacted by this new tax, I went to Barbary Coast Dispensary and Smoke Lounge down on Mission Street.

It’s as if you’re walking into any downtown bar with a saloon feel. At the back, around the corner is a small red room with plush walls and floors and two red pool tables. Turn one more corner through double doors and find yourself in a lounge with dimly-lit booths for intimate smoking and the smell of fresh marijuana in the air.

Manager Bridget Awesome, said that she could foresee some customers deciding not to go dispensaries anymore.

Awesome said, “We definitely have some customers who will see after tax prices and then be like, ‘maybe I should just go to my homie.’ and I’m like ‘uhhhh it’s actually more controlled here, you actually know what you’re getting,’ it’s different.”

Budtender Sam Salzeider had a different take. He said, “ It’s a few extra bucks here and there. Do people feel it? Yes, they do. Do I think they’re gonna freak out and never come back? Probably not.”

The money from the tax primarily supports childcare services, environmental efforts and law enforcement programs.

But it could go away once again. The Assembly passed a bill at the start of June to revert the tax back to 15 percent until 2030. Now it goes to the Senate. The next hearing is on July 9.