Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed the tax relief legislation from Assemblymember Matt Haney (D) late last month. Now, as of Wednesday, consumers will not be paying the increased excise tax—at least until October 2028.
“We’re rolling back this cannabis tax hike so the legal market can continue to grow, consumers can access safe products, and our local communities see the benefits,” Newsom said at the time of the bill signing.
Haney said that “California’s cannabis economy can bring enormous benefits to our state, but only if our legal industry is given a fair chance to compete against the untaxed and unregulated illegal market.”
“AB 564 helps level the playing field,” he said. “It protects California jobs, keeps small businesses open, and ensures that our legal cannabis market can grow and thrive the way voters intended.”
State officials announced in June that the cannabis excise tax rate would increase from 15 percent to 19 percent on July 1, prompting concern from industry stakeholders and consumer advocates.
Newsom previously supported including a tax freeze in a budget trailer bill,
Brighten up your morning with Uncle Ned’s Wake and Shake
Uncle Ned not required. Serves: 4 Time: 5 minutes Doseage: 3mg per glass Jump to the recipe Upgrade your hum-drum breakfast smoothie to Uncle Ned’s Wake and Shake, an energizing, citrus-forward a.m. favorite with creamy macadamian nuts and a twist of THC. This recipe comes to us from the eponymous Uncle Ned via his niece, […]
7 Signs Of A Reliable Green Jongkong Kratom Vendor
When shopping for green jongkong kratom, the vendor you use can either make or destroy your experience. This special strain, grown in the Jongkong area of Indonesia, is prized by kratom users for its even properties. But the catch is this: not everyone sells the same quality. Some go out of their way to offer […]
If you’re in the New York cannabis industry, the place to be last Friday and Saturday, Sept. 12-13, was on the dock of bay, the East River’s Pier 36, for Revelry NYC. Well over 250 companies exhibited their wares to over 4,500 attendees, who were both industry players and the cannabis-friendly public.
Major multi-state operators (MSOs) such as Weedmaps, Rove, Kiva, PAX, Papa and Barkley, Wyld and many more brought major activations, as did several New York-centric companies and organizations.
Business-to-business herb events have been few and far between in NYC. So, you could feel the enthusiasm of both exhibitors and attendees, despite the vagaries laid on them by Empire State regulators. Many in the community commented they “needed this gathering.”
People on the River
Along with the scarcity of New York City industry meetups, those that allow consumption and sampling are even more rare. Exhibitors were allowed to give samples to registered buyers, and consumption was permitted in the stage and food court area outside.
Being more of a festival than a trade show, Revelry NYC is the core concept for co-founders Lulu Tsui and Jacobi Holland. They started nine years ago with the mindset of representing the cannabis community rather than the “suits and ties” crowd. That adherence to the plant and its people may be why Revelry NYC is doing so well when other larger event companies aren’t.
Exhibition floor of Revelry NYC.
Many exhibitors echoed the same sentiment—they came to Revelry not just to showcase their brand, but also to meet and connect with fellow industry leaders. Fernway Co-Founder Liam O’Brien, who started the company in Massachusetts and has since expanded into New York and New Jersey, said the event was working out very well for them, both with traffic at the booth and arranging meetings off site.
“There are so few events in New York where you find all the companies and the innovators,” O’Brien said, explaining why Fenway exhibits at Revelry NYC.
And it wasn’t just local tribe members spreading the word and the cannabis positivity. Movers and shakers from across the country descended on Lower Manhattan. In from California was Jocelyn Sheltraw, co-founder and CEO of the product review app and website, Budist. She and Budist’s COO, Claudio Miranda, were hearing strong buzz about Revelry and decided to investigate in person. Sheltraw felt it was more than worth the trip.
“We were thrilled to attend Revelry to experience firsthand the emergence of this bustling legal market, as well as to spread word about the MJBowl, which offers New York brands a national stage to celebrate the best their market has to offer.”
The exhibit aisles were packed. By late afternoon, booth staffers were running to collect back up supplies to give out more samples. Unlike many recent cannabis industry summits, staffers agreed that Revelry delivered: not only were valuable new contacts made, but real business was being done—the ROI was clear.
Rolling With Brands, Bands and Big Names
Celebrities and talented artists abounded at the event. On the exhibit floor, there was Fat Joe at the Jeeter booth; Mike Tyson representing Tyson 2.0; Rob Gronkowski at the Foy booth; and Remy Banks greeting crowds at Olio.
At the large outside stage on the second day, Durand Bernarr (solo artist and back up to Erykah Badu and Anderson Paak), Phony PPL, Dos Flakos and Angel & Dren—all NYC-based talent—kept the crowd energized and floating.
The lines of attendees as the floor opens.
Unlike last year’s Revelry event, the doors to the East River were closed. This cut off Pier 36’s sweeping views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges and the Wall Street area. But with 55,000 square feet of exhibit space in addition to other gathering spaces makes it a strong venue for a cannabis event.
Interestingly, many exhibitors commented on how the West Coast-based Hall of Flowers will be holding their first New York City-event in the exact same space in a few weeks, October 8-9. Several New York company representatives said they were in a wait-and-see position on exhibiting with HoF, primarily because Revelry is homegrown in New York. That being said, since no major cannabis event companies are stepping into the New York ring this year, Revelry NYC cements itself as the premier cannabis conference in the Big Apple.
Less than two weeks after advancing out of the legislature’s Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Hearing, the pilot program legislation from Sen. Cindy Friedman (D) moved through the Joint Committee on Health Care Financing on Tuesday with a “do pass” recommendation.
The bill, S.1400, is light on specifics, leaving many details of the pilot program up to regulators with the Department of Public Health (DPH). But in general, it calls for a “pilot program to allow for the monitored mental health care of clinically appropriate patients using psychedelic materials.”
It would involve the “on-site administration by a multi-disciplinary care team in a supervised licensed mental health clinic setting.”
DPH could only issue licenses for up to three health facilities to administer and study the psychedelics in the state. They would be tasked with “establishing the best and safest clinical practices for psychedelic mental health treatment programs in the commonwealth and for the purposes of collecting patient outcomes data regarding the benefits of psychedelic pharmacotherapy.”
In the Star Trek universe, Worf embodies the eternal struggle between war and peace, identity and exile. As the first Klingon to serve in Starfleet, he straddles two worlds that rarely meet in harmony. His rigid code of honor made him a figure of strength but also of inner turmoil. Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms, has long been described as a doorway to visions, healing, and insight. Across human cultures, it has been seen as prophetic, dissolving barriers between self and spirit. Worf and psilocybin, a love story that never happened…
This raises a fascinating thought experiment: what if Worf’s journey was not only one of discipline and combat, but also of psilocybin prophecy? Could visions born of sacred mushrooms have reshaped his path, helping him integrate his dual heritage and discover a destiny rooted not in conflict but in transformation?
Worf’s Search for Identity and the Weight of Prophecy
Worf was never fully accepted in either world. To Klingons, he was too human. To humans, too Klingon. This fractured identity defined his life. He leaned on strict codes of conduct to anchor himself, but inside, he longed for clarity. In Klingon culture, visions and prophecy often come through ritual, combat, or spiritual ceremony. Worf sought them in battle and politics, but rarely in the inner world. Psilocybin might have opened that space, showing him visions of a destiny beyond the divisions of heritage.
Psilocybin Benefits: Vision, Healing, and Transformation
Modern research into psilocybin highlights several therapeutic and spiritual effects:
Neuroplasticity: Promotes flexible thinking and new brain connections.
Trauma healing: Helps people process grief and PTSD.
Spiritual insight: Produces profound experiences often described as life-changing.
Connection: Reduces feelings of isolation, fostering empathy and belonging.
In clinical trials, psilocybin has helped patients with depression, existential anxiety, and unresolved trauma. For Worf, who carried the scars of loss and alienation, psilocybin could have acted as a guide — showing him visions of belonging and purpose that transcended rigid categories.
Worf’s destiny was always tied to prophecy. Klingon traditions spoke of honor, lineage, and the future of their people. Yet Worf, divided by cultures, often felt cut off from those visions. Psilocybin experiences often dissolve boundaries of identity, giving participants visions of unity and cosmic connection. In this way, psilocybin prophecy might have mirrored Worf’s deepest need: to see that he was not divided, but whole.
Alternate Universe: The Prophecy of Worf with Psilocybin
Imagine Worf undergoing a psilocybin vision quest:
Scene One: Childhood Grief As a boy, Worf processes the trauma of losing his parents. Guided by psilocybin, he envisions them at peace. He carries not anger, but clarity, into adulthood.
Scene Two: Starfleet Service Struggling with alienation, Worf participates in a psilocybin ceremony with human and Klingon guides. His vision reveals both heritages as essential parts of himself. He steps onto the bridge with newfound ease, his dual identity a strength, not a burden.
Scene Three: Klingon Politics In a vision, Worf sees the cycles of violence repeating through Klingon history. He realizes prophecy is not about endless battle but about transforming it. Returning to political life, he advocates for diplomacy without losing honor.
Scene Four: Legacy As an elder, Worf shares visions of unity with his son and crew. Instead of being remembered as a divided warrior, he becomes a prophet of balance.
Modern Relevance for Adults Over 35
For today’s readers, the idea of psilocybin prophecy resonates with a growing interest in psychedelic healing. Adults over 35 often carry decades of stress, trauma, or disconnection from purpose. Clinical and cultural uses of psilocybin suggest it may:
Provide new perspectives on identity and meaning.
Help process grief and life transitions.
Spark creativity and spiritual renewal.
Much like Worf, many adults feel divided between roles — parent, worker, partner, caregiver. Psilocybin’s ability to dissolve barriers and reveal wholeness makes it relevant for modern seekers of balance.
Risks and Side Effects of Psilocybin
Psilocybin is powerful and not without risks. It can provoke anxiety, confusion, or challenging visions without proper guidance. It is unsuitable for individuals with psychosis and remains restricted in many countries. Like any tool of vision, it must be approached with respect, preparation, and safe settings.
Psilocybin Market and Cultural Trends
The modern “psychedelic renaissance” is shifting public perception. Research centers, biotech companies, and policymakers are exploring psilocybin’s medical and therapeutic potential. Retreat centers and ceremonial settings are also growing, often drawing on indigenous traditions. Public interest reflects a hunger for depth and connection — a desire for prophecy in an age of fragmentation. Worf’s imagined journey reflects this cultural moment: the need to see beyond division into integration.
Reflection: Prophecy as Healing
The prophecy of Worf with psilocybin is more than a fantasy. It is a metaphor for what many of us seek: clarity, unity, and meaning beyond conflict. Worf’s rigid discipline was strength, but it also kept him divided. Psilocybin represents the possibility of integration — of seeing the bigger story. For readers today, the message is timeless: healing requires vision, and sometimes vision requires stepping beyond the ordinary.
Humboldt County, located in Northern California’s famed Emerald Triangle, has long been a mecca for cannabis cultivation. Its rich soil and ideal climate produce some of the finest cannabis in the world, making it the heartbeat of a thriving underground culture that’s lasted for decades.
To explore this historical area and sample a range of incredible sun-grown flower, follow our guide to the must-visit spots and events that keep the spirit of Humboldt cannabis alive.
The significance of Humboldt County cannabis
For generations, Humboldt County has been synonymous with top-quality cannabis, thanks to its climate and position within the Emerald Triangle. This region, which also includes Mendocino and Trinity counties, has been the epicenter of American cannabis cultivation, shaping both the culture and the industry itself.
Gina Coleman/WeedmapsThe climate of the Emerald Triangle is ideal for outdoor cannabis grows, such as Huckleberry Hill Farms in southern Humboldt.
However, with the advent of legalization, Humboldt’s cannabis landscape has undergone significant changes. Many small farmers who once flourished in this hidden paradise found themselves unable to keep pace with new regulations, leading to a wave of closures.
Despite these challenges, Humboldt remains a 420-friendly haven, brimming with natural beauty and cultural significance. Even the journey to Humboldt is part of the adventure — the drive from San Francisco along scenic US-101 is nothing short of magical.
Traveling with cannabis in Humboldt County
Humboldt County is a paradise for those seeking a blend of nature, culture, and excellent weed. While California’s progressive cannabis laws make it easy to travel with weed, it’s essential to stay informed about the specific regulations.
Gina Coleman/WeedmapsYou can carry up to one ounce of cannabis in California.
While the state allows adults 21 and over to carry up to one ounce of cannabis, you should always be aware of local rules regarding public consumption, such as lighting up away from schools and other public areas.
Whether attending a festival, visiting a farm, or exploring the area’s scenic spots, you’ll find numerous opportunities to enjoy cannabis in safe and welcoming environments throughout Humboldt.
420-friendly tours in Humboldt County
One of the most unique experiences in Humboldt is the Weed and Wine Tour offered by the local companyHumboldt Cannabis Tours and led by the owner, Matt Kurth. On it, you’ll explore the region’s dual heritage of cannabis and wine.
Highlights of the tour include:
Briceland Winery: Sit down with winemaker Andrew Morris, who provides a deep dive into the art of winemaking, revealing the fascinating similarities between growing grapes and cultivating cannabis in Humboldt County.
Five Sisters Farms: A local farm dedicated to regenerative agriculture. Led by the knowledgeable farmer Season George, Five Sisters Farms is both Dragonfly Earth Medicine-certified and Sun and Earth-certified. Season guides you through the farm and shares insights into sustainable farming practices and the future of cannabis cultivation in Humboldt. The best part? You can sleep in a yurt in the middle of a weed garden. It’s hard to top this experience.
Kurth brings a personal touch and deep knowledge to the experience. His passion for supporting local agriculture and creating meaningful tours is evident at every stop along the way, making this activity a must-do for those wanting to truly understand Humboldt’s rich agricultural heritage.
420-friendly events in Humboldt County
With so much love for cannabis reverberating throughout the Emerald Triangle, it’s easy to find seasonal celebrations and events that welcome cannabis enthusiasts from all over the world.
Reggae on the River
Maria Reed/WeedmapsYou can pass a joint, enjoy some music, and take a float down Eel River at Reggae on the River.
One of the highlights of Humboldt’s cannabis calendar is Reggae on the River. This legendary festival, which has been running since 1984, is more than just a music event — it’s a celebration of culture, community, and cannabis.
What makes Reggae on the River special is the deep relationship between OG cannabis growers and reggae musicians. This connection, forged over decades, is a defining aspect of Humboldt County’s cannabis culture. The vibes at the festival are something to behold, with big gorilla finger joints (often without tips) shared among old-school local growers, cultivating a unique, communal atmosphere.
Northern Nights Music Festival
Courtesy of Northern Nights Music FestivalMusic, nature, and cannabis converge at the Northern Nights Music Festival.
The Northern Nights Music Festival is an EDM festival in the beautiful redwoods that celebrates music, cannabis, and nature. It occurs every year in July and features an incredible lineup of DJs and musicians, with Diplo and Big Gigantic headlining the most recent festivals.
The festival allows for on-site sales and consumption of weed, offering many relaxing places to light up and sample quality cannabis from organic farms around the area.
Top 420-friendly tourist spots in Humboldt County
When it comes to natural beauty, Humboldt County is second to none. From the gorgeous outdoor cannabis farms to the national parks, the entire region is a feast for the eyes and a tranquil escape for the soul.
Gina Coleman/WeedmapsHumboldt lies in the famed redwoods, boasting majestic trees and plenty of natural beauty.
If you’re passing through, don’t miss out on these verdant spaces:
Redwood National and State Parks and Avenue of the Giants: These spots are must-sees for anyone visiting the Emerald Triangle. Walking among the towering trees, some over a thousand years old, is an awe-inspiring experience. These ancient giants have witnessed the ebb and flow of the region’s history and resilience — their serene presence offers a perfect backdrop for a peaceful session.
The Lost Coast: This remote, rugged stretch of land is a haven for those seeking solitude. With its dramatic cliffs, untamed forests, and breathtaking ocean views, The Lost Coast is an ideal place to connect with nature and enjoy a private cannabis experience. The area’s remoteness means no cell service, allowing you to unplug and focus on what matters. The long, winding roads leading to The Lost Coast are part of the adventure — take your time, enjoy the ride, and stay safe.
Sue-meg State Park: Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick’s Point State Park) offers stunning ocean views, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. It’s a great spot for a scenic hike or a peaceful picnic. With its picturesque trails and breathtaking vistas, Sue-meg is a must-see for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Humboldt’s coastline.
Fern Canyon: For a unique and magical experience, visit Fern Canyon, located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. With its walls covered in ferns, it feels like stepping into another world — the area’s lush greenery and serene atmosphere made it the perfect filming location for “The Lost World: Jurassic Park.” The peacefulness of Fern Canyon is ideal for a reflective cannabis session, surrounded by ancient beauty.
Where to eat in Humboldt County
Pair your locally-grown bud with incredible food at any of Humboldt’s delicious dining options. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal or a high-end dinner with a view, these restaurants are must-visits.
Larrupin’ Cafe
Located in the beautiful coastal town of Trinidad, Larrupin’ Cafe offers an intimate dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Humboldt. Small yet cozy, Larrupin’ is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. The charming decor and coastal atmosphere make it a standout in one of the most picturesque towns on the northern California coast.
Moonstone Grill
Courtesy of Moonstone GrillEnjoy dinner and a view at Moonstone Grill.
If you’re looking for a fresh meal with stunning ocean views, Moonstone Grill is the place to be. Also situated in Trinidad, it boasts the sunniest views in the area. The service is impeccable, and the food is as special as the ambiance. Be sure to finish your meal with their affogato, a dessert that will leave a lasting impression.
Campground
Located in Arcata, Campground is a live-fire restaurant offering brunch, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With a great bar and wonderful mixologists, this spot is a local favorite and perfect for refueling up after a day spent exploring Humboldt’s natural wonders.
Where to stay in Humboldt County
After indulging in Humboldt’s nature, cannabis, and culinary offerings, finding the best place to stay is essential.
Benbow Historic Inn
Courtesy of Benbow Historic InnExplore Benbow Historic Inn’s natural surroundings.
Situated in Garberville, the Benbow Historic Inn is an iconic place to stay in Humboldt County. This charming hotel is a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning scenery. Known for its old-world charm and luxurious accommodations, it offers everything from beautifully appointed rooms to exquisite dining. Whether you’re relaxing by the fireplace or strolling through the gardens, it’s the perfect place to unwind in Humboldt.
Note: The Benbow Historic Inn is not 420-friendly, so consume your cannabis products off the property.
Humboldt Cannabis Farm Studio
Listed on Airbnb and located in Eureka, the Humboldt Cannabis Farm Studio is 420-friendly and welcoming to cannabis enthusiasts from all walks of life. Situated on a working cannabis farm, guests can enjoy an informative cannabis farm tour, cannabis samples, and a peaceful place to rest.
Non-cannabis experiences (that get better if you have the munchies)
For a delightful non-cannabis experience, visit Old Town Eureka in Eureka, California. It’s a historic district located along the waterfront and is a beautifully preserved area that showcases the charm and character of 19th-century California.
With its Victorian architecture, quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries, Old Town offers a step back in time, providing a unique glimpse into Humboldt County’s rich history.
While you’re there, stop by the Dick Taylor Chocolate Factory. Located on 1st Street, this shop offers small-batch chocolate tastings, and what makes it truly special is that it’s one of the few places in the world offering a bean-to-bar experience, making it the perfect place to visit after hitting your bowl or vape.
Supporting Humboldt’s legacy through tourism
Humboldt County has always been more than just a place — it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and a deep connection to the earth. But, with cannabis legalization, the landscape here has undoubtedly changed.
Many of the sustainable and regenerative small craft farmers who thrived here in the past now face unprecedented challenges. The very culture that made Humboldt a cornerstone of cannabis history is at risk, and it’s up to us to help preserve it.
Gina Coleman/WeedmapsTourism can help support outdoor-grown, organic cannabis farms, like Sunboldt Grown farm in Humboldt.
Supporting local tourism is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure that Humboldt’s legacy endures. By visiting this breathtaking region, attending its festivals, and engaging with its vibrant communities, you’re contributing to the survival of a culture that has shaped the cannabis industry and beyond.
Let your journey here be a celebration of all that this remarkable place has given to the world and a commitment to keeping its spirit alive for generations to come.
FDA adds cannabis products to adverse event reporting form (Newsletter: October 1, 2025)
WI GOP medical marijuana bill; German gov’t legalization report; Alcohol industry group welcomes THC hemp drink maker; Roger Stone on Trump & cannabis
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/ LOCAL Burlington, Vermont officials are looking for a location to house a state-funded safe consumption site for illegal drugs. / INTERNATIONAL Uruguayan officials are moving to include CBD in the national therapeutic formulary. South Africa’s Agricultural Research Council is preparing to build a cannabis research facility. / SCIENCE & HEALTH A study suggested that a “CBD–mupirocin formulation holds considerable promise for clinical application in the management of skin infections caused by resistant S. aureus strains.” A study found that “cannabidiol prevents cognitive and social deficits in a male rat model of Alzheimer’s disease through CB1 activation and inflammation modulation.” / ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell suggested that President Donald Trump may have been high on marijuana when he posted a “goofy” video about the medical benefits of cannabis. / BUSINESS Curaleaf, Inc. is being sued by a former employee over alleged “systemic diversion” of cannabis products. Simplifya raised $2 million in new equity capital. Ascend Wellness Holdings, Inc. entered into and closed a $9.3 million secured financing transaction pursuant to which it mortgaged real estate on three properties in Ohio. Flowhub launched a new marketing suite product for dispensaries.
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