AGP Executive Report

Local Cannabis Policy: Turlock City Council is set to revisit a possible cannabis business tax after a prior attempt stalled, with operators split on whether they’d support or fund the measure. City Regulation: Philadelphia City Council passed bills tightening smoke shop rules by defining kratom and hemp-based THC as “intoxicating substances,” requiring permits plus testing and age limits, and targeting unlicensed landlords. State/Legislative Push: Michigan lawmakers debated using opioid settlement dollars to fund clinical trials for psychedelic-assisted addiction treatment (ibogaine/related proposals), despite concerns over safety and its Schedule I status. Enforcement & Seizures: Hong Kong Customs seized about 3.4 kg cocaine and 16 kg cannabis buds at the airport, arresting two women; Delta State Police also reported major tramadol and hard-drug recoveries tied to arrests. Public Safety & Youth: Kansas lawmakers considered requiring schools to carry overdose reversal meds after rising teen overdoses, while a separate proposal in Columbus, Ga. weighs a 9 p.m. curfew for minors amid reports of marijuana and firearms at a parking garage. International Governance: Lebanon advanced a sweeping amnesty plan that would reduce sentences and potentially free some drug dealers, amid jail overcrowding and opposition protests.

State Cannabis Policy: Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger vetoed a bill that would have created a regulated adult-use marijuana retail market, extending the retail logjam for consumers and operators. Local Enforcement: Philadelphia City Council passed bills to tighten smoke shop rules, including permitting, testing, and age limits for kratom and hemp-based THC, plus penalties for landlords renting to unlicensed operators. Regulatory & Market Moves: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway secured an agreement from American Shaman to immediately suspend in-state kratom and 7-OH sales, ending the litigation and setting up enforcement against misleading marketing. International Drug Fight: Canada’s CBSA signed a Letter of Intent with customs agencies in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France to share info and coordinate joint operations against international drug trafficking. Industry Growth/Deals: Vireo Growth completed its Bridgewell Agribusiness acquisition and lined up Nevada and Maryland dispensary-related transactions. Public Safety & Youth: Columbus, Ga. leaders proposed a 9 p.m. curfew for minors in uptown after an incident involving teens, alleged marijuana smells, and firearms found in cars. Travel & Compliance: The U.S. State Department warned World Cup travelers to “check bags and clothing” in Mexico, flagging prohibited items and potential penalties.

Regulatory Appointments: New York’s Office of Cannabis Management got a leadership shake-up as the state Senate confirmed John Kagia as executive director, positioning him to keep tightening the legal market while facing scrutiny over enforcement and licensing. Local Cannabis Governance: Wyoming’s City Council approved two recreational cannabis requests—adding greenhouses to an approved grow site (no retail) and OK’ing a retail shop “Happy Daze”—with an interim conditional permit tied to ongoing operation. Enforcement Crackdown: Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office launched a neighborhood initiative targeting illegal smoke shop sales, seizing 73 pounds of illegal cannabis products and nearly 18,000 untaxed tobacco items. Market & Capital: Village Farms announced a $15M registered direct equity investment, signaling continued institutional interest ahead of further regulatory progress. Policy Watch: Idaho lawmakers approved ballot language that would make marijuana legalization only a legislative power, while also setting English as the state’s official language.

Cannabis Policy & Regulation: Idaho lawmakers approved ballot language for two constitutional amendments, including one that would keep legalization of marijuana and other narcotics limited to the Idaho Legislature. Hemp/CBD Product Rules: Illinois is moving to regulate intoxicating hemp products while loosening parts of its cannabis framework, as states continue to redraw the line between hemp and marijuana. Local Enforcement & Crackdowns: Baltimore seized 73 pounds of illegal cannabis and 18,000 tobacco products in a targeted operation tied to concerns about child exploitation and weak oversight. Local Governance & Moratoriums: New Carlisle, Ohio approved a year-long moratorium on dispensaries and vape shops (plus data centers and solar farms) to buy time for a long-range plan. Driving & Public Safety: NSW is pushing reforms that would let medicinal cannabis users drive under a prescription “three strikes” approach, drawing sharp criticism from medical voices warning THC can impair driving.

Medical Cannabis Access: Louisiana’s governor let a bill take effect without his signature, allowing terminally ill patients to use medical marijuana in hospitals under strict storage and non-smoking rules. Driving Reform: NSW is moving to protect medicinal cannabis drivers with a prescription-based medical defence for limited THC levels, a change Unions NSW says will end fear of losing jobs and licences. Federal Tax Fight: GOP lawmakers warned Treasury that marijuana rescheduling could trigger tax relief for businesses, potentially undermining the 280E penalty that has blocked normal deductions. Local Dispensary Updates: East Grand Forks received an update on a new Red Iris dispensary, with another lottery-selected operator also preparing to open. Public Safety & Enforcement: Police in Fiji reported destroying nearly 47,400 marijuana plants in a major cultivation crackdown, while Hong Kong Customs seized 31kg of assorted drugs in a Mong Kok operation. Community Safety: Durban CBD held an imbizo focused on rising crime and tensions tied to immigration and anti-illegal protest impacts on businesses. Policy/Politics: Missouri voters are being urged to vote NO on Amendments 4 and 5, with opponents arguing they weaken citizen-led constitutional changes and shift tax burdens.

NSW Drug-Driving Reform: New South Wales is moving to let medicinal cannabis patients keep driving if lab THC is under 50 ng/mL, with a registration step and a three-strike approach—while roadside saliva tests still trigger an initial 24-hour ban. Regulatory Crackdown (Europe): France is tightening enforcement on CBD foods and flowers under EU “novel food” rules, threatening the non-psychoactive cannabis snack market across Europe. Local Cannabis Business Pressure: California’s City Council approved a temporary moratorium on new cannabis businesses and expansions, citing odor, zoning, environmental review, and public safety concerns. State Oversight (New York): New York’s Senate confirmed OCM executive leadership, including John Kagia, as the state continues to refine its cannabis enforcement and licensing. Public Safety & Enforcement (Nigeria): NDLEA and related agencies reported major drug-crime operations and arrests, including efforts targeting trafficking networks and seized illicit drugs. Market Economics (US): Albuquerque’s guaranteed income pilot is funded via its recreational cannabis tax, highlighting how cannabis revenue is being used for social programs. Hemp/THC Policy (Wyoming): Wyoming’s attorney general filed an objection to automatic marijuana rescheduling under state law, arguing it should be handled by the legislature.

Nevada Politics: President Trump endorsed GOP attorney general candidate Adriana Guzmán Fralick, spotlighting the Nevada AG race ahead of the June 9 primary. Medicinal Cannabis Driving Reform: New South Wales is moving toward “commonsense” THC-in-prescription rules so registered patients won’t face automatic penalties, though roadside testing and a three-strike style approach remain. Cannabis Research Access: A Michigan State University researcher says federal limits force studies on low-potency cannabis that doesn’t match what’s sold in dispensaries, calling for policy changes to improve real-world health answers. Retail Expansion: Sweetspot is opening its first Central Jersey dispensary in Hamilton, adding another NJ storefront for the multi-state operator. Tribal Cannabis Policy Shift: Six Nations Elected Council says it’s “transitioning out” of its cannabis control role and is considering phasing out its cannabis regulations. Addiction & Psychedelics Policy: Missouri lawmakers discussed psychedelic-assisted therapy trials, including MDMA-assisted therapy interest for veterans and a separate push to fund ibogaine clinical trials using opioid settlement dollars. Industry Market Watch: A new report projects strong growth for controlled environment agriculture, with cannabis included among crop categories.

Local Ballot Watch (LA): Los Angeles voters face three primary measures tied to cannabis taxes and hotel tax updates—including a proposal to apply existing cannabis business taxes to unlicensed dispensaries, with analysts estimating $30M–$35M in annual general-fund revenue. Hemp THC Policy Fight (US Congress): A House Rules Committee blocked amendments that would have delayed or softened a planned federal ban/recriminalization of certain hemp THC products, keeping the November timeline in play. Medical Cannabis Access (Pennsylvania): The Pennsylvania House approved Ryan’s Law, sending it back to the Senate to let terminally ill patients use medical marijuana in hospitals and care settings. THC Drinks Regulation (South Carolina): SC lawmakers are still negotiating a fix for THC-infused beverages sold without age limits, with a conference committee meeting ending without agreement. Federal Rescheduling Reality Check: New DOT guidance says truckers and pilots still can’t use state-licensed medical marijuana, since rescheduling doesn’t remove it from the Controlled Substances Act. Workplace Safety (Washington): Regulators opened a full probe after a deadly chemical tank implosion at Nippon Dynawave, while worker pay disputes add pressure.

Cannabis Enforcement: Neath Port Talbot Council says five people were fined £6,822 after a cannabis farm’s remains were fly-tipped at a Welsh beauty spot, with prosecutors citing documents, CCTV, and witness accounts. U.S. Policy & Markets: A new report says the DOJ’s medical marijuana reclassification (Schedule I to III) may unlock some federal tax benefits, but states still face a fragmented patchwork while broader rescheduling is debated. Rescheduling Legal Fight: Indiana AG Todd Rokita joins Nebraska and Louisiana in a lawsuit aiming to block federal marijuana rescheduling, arguing the rule change didn’t follow proper procedure. Adult-Use Delay: Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger defended her veto of adult-use retail legalization, saying the state needs more time to “get it right” on licensing and details. Industry Economics: Oklahoma growers warn oversupply has crushed wholesale prices, turning the “boom” into a squeeze on cultivation margins. Corporate Moves: Verano announced a 1-for-5 reverse split as uplisting rumors build, following similar moves from other cannabis firms. Public Safety & Politics: Louisiana Gov. Landry signed a bill increasing penalties for smoking marijuana near school properties, including college campuses, after complaints about cannabis odor at games.

Cannabis Policy & Regulation: Belfast City Council is set to consider ordinance changes to allow recreational adult-use cannabis retail stores, alongside a separate move to confirm a new full-time EMT/firefighter. Hemp/THC Rules: Tennessee finalized rules ahead of a June 30 hemp THC ban, and businesses are bracing for major shelf changes as THCA and other hemp products face tighter limits. Federal Rescheduling Fight: Indiana AG Todd Rokita joined a lawsuit challenging federal marijuana rescheduling, arguing proper procedures weren’t followed and warning patients could lose access. Adult-Use Market Stalled: Virginia’s governor vetoed bills that would have launched adult-use cannabis sales, leaving the market in limbo. Local Governance & Public Safety: Skowhegan, Maine’s town meeting will vote on a moratorium on new cannabis establishments, while Belfast officials warn about rising “spice” vape availability. Drug Enforcement: Zimbabwe’s Bulawayo police arrested 39 suspects and shut an illegal rehab center as authorities intensify drug crackdown. Elections: New Mexico’s open primary drew heavy early voting, with governor nominees including Deb Haaland and Sam Bregman.

Federal cannabis policy shift: The DOJ’s move to reclassify medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III could unlock some federal tax benefits, but states still face a patchwork future as the DEA prepares for a first hearing on broader de-scheduling. Local tax pressure on cannabis: D.C. medical cannabis operators warn a proposed tax hike could be the “last straw” in an oversaturated market, with officials framing it as a way to close a major budget gap. Hemp THC crackdown: Tennessee finalized rules ahead of a June 30 ban on selling THCs from hemp, with the change expected to hit most hemp product sales. International cannabinoid ban: Japan banned CBN after reports tied it to hazardous behavior and hospitalizations, allowing it only for limited epilepsy treatment. Regulatory enforcement in Ireland: A Waterford CBD shop case continues as courts weigh conflicting Justice vs Agriculture views on THC thresholds. State regulation update (Illinois): Illinois advanced a bill to strengthen hemp oversight and consumer protections, adding licensing, testing, labeling, and enforcement. Local governance & cannabis access: Palm Bay voted to ban new medical marijuana dispensaries citywide, while Fillmore County debated cannabis business setback rules that could block a microbusiness license. Business openings: Sweetspot Cannabis Dispensary opened in Hamilton, New Jersey, expanding its East Coast retail footprint.

Medical Cannabis Policy: Georgia signed SB 220 to expand access to its medical cannabis program starting July 1, removing end-stage/severe-condition limits for many diagnoses and broadening product options. Hemp Regulation: Tennessee finalized rules making it illegal to sell THCA and other hemp products starting July 1, tightening the state’s hemp market. Dispensary Openings: Kentucky’s first licensed medical cannabis dispensary, Green Releaf in Elizabethtown, is set to open and serve registered patients seven days a week. Federal/State Rescheduling Fallout: A new DOJ move downgrading medical marijuana classification is expected to unlock some federal tax benefits, but states still face uncertainty as recreational cannabis remains federally restricted. Enforcement & Smuggling Busts: Nigeria’s NDLEA reported major seizures, including ketamine and MDMA hidden in imported water purifier machines, plus large cannabis hauls and military-grade ammunition interceptions. International Airport Crackdown: Hong Kong Customs seized about 5 kg of suspected cannabis buds concealed in snack packaging and arrested a passenger. Local Government & CBD/Cannabis Markets: Illinois advanced HB5470, including changes tied to cannabis social equity reporting and economic incentive program updates. Industry/Legal Watch: A cannabis lawyer says TSA-related “flying with weed” confessions may not create the federal risk people assume, shifting focus to what operators sign to go legal.

Cross-Border Enforcement: Paraguay’s Navy seized 1,037 kg of marijuana near the Paraná River border with Argentina after people fled when patrols arrived, with an exchange of fire reported. India Crackdown: India’s Directorate of Revenue Intelligence seized 104.9 kg of ganja in Bihar and arrested two transporters under the NDPS Act; the agency also cited nearly Rs 46.5 crore in drug seizures in Bihar over the past year. Nigeria Operations: NDLEA reported finding high-potency drugs hidden in water purifier machines shipped from Europe (including ketamine and MDMA) and also intercepted military-grade ammunition during nationwide actions. Local Drug Busts (Edo): Edo State Security Network arrested two suspects in Benin City with multiple illicit drugs including cannabis and methamphetamine, saying cases will be handed to NDLEA. Public Health Signal: Halifax clinicians say more youth are arriving with severe, longer-lasting symptoms linked to high-potency cannabis, tied to rising THC concentrations. Policy/Politics: Nevada’s AG race is heating up, with cannabis industry ties showing up in candidate backgrounds and campaign dynamics.

Federal Cannabis Rescheduling Fight: Three Republican state attorneys general (Nebraska, Indiana, Louisiana) sued to block the Trump administration’s move to reclassify certain medical cannabis products from Schedule I to Schedule III, arguing the rule overreaches and skips required steps. Regulatory Uncertainty for Operators: State marijuana officials say the lack of clear federal guidance still leaves businesses guessing what the rescheduling means in practice, even as medical operators may gain access to some federal tax benefits. Illinois Cannabis Policy Push: With the spring session nearing its end, Illinois cannabis businesses are lobbying for changes to security and video surveillance rules they say are outdated and too costly for a now-mature market. Local Enforcement & Cannabis-Adjacent Crime: A California report describes immigration raids that also hit a cannabis company, while other coverage highlights ongoing drug enforcement actions tied to cannabis dealing and cultivation. Medical Cannabis Demand in the UK: A feature looks at how the UK’s medical cannabis market has expanded since 2018, with more patients exploring regulated cannabis-based treatment for chronic conditions.

Federal Cannabis & Guns: A proposed federal ATF Form 4473 update tied to marijuana rescheduling is back in the spotlight as Hawaii reports many gun-permit denials stem from medical marijuana status, keeping pressure on how state patients’ rights play out under federal rules. Regulatory Pushback: Illinois cannabis operators are urging lawmakers to loosen costly dispensary security and video-surveillance rules as the legislative session winds down. Rescheduling Litigation: Multiple states and groups are challenging Trump-era marijuana rescheduling in court, while a judge temporarily blocked DOJ payouts tied to an “anti-weaponization” fund—another reminder that federal cannabis policy is still being fought in the courts. Local Enforcement & Compliance: Northern California sheriffs are training to spot human trafficking at illegal cannabis grows, and Nova Scotia’s RCMP outlined how street-crime units target illegal cannabis alongside other drugs. Industry on the Ground: Joliet’s new Bisa Lina dispensary opened with a community-focused grand opening, while California’s cannabis tax revenue hit $248M in Q1.

Federal Cannabis Rescheduling Fight: Indiana AG Todd Rokita has joined Nebraska and Louisiana in a lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s move to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, arguing the process was improper. State Legal Battles: Puff Cannabis is asking a Menominee judge to reconsider dismissal of its bid for a recreational dispensary license, after a waiver in an updated application became the key sticking point. Medical Market Watch: A federal judge is temporarily blocking payouts tied to Trump’s $1.776B “anti-weaponization” settlement fund, a reminder that major policy shifts can still get tied up in court. Enforcement & Seizures: Tanzania reported 1,074.72 tonnes of narcotics seized in 2025, with cannabis down 55.97% year over year; NDLEA in Edo seized 498kg of skunk cannabis from a shrine; and India’s railway police seized Rs 18.18 lakh of marijuana in an interstate smuggling case. Regulation Tightening: Louisiana signed a bill creating jail time for smoking marijuana within 2,000 feet of school property, including college campuses. Industry Expansion: Green Releaf Dispensary opens June 1 in Elizabethtown, Kentucky’s first Hardin County licensed medical cannabis dispensary. Tech & Safety: Cannabix says its BreathLogix alcohol screening is rolling out in Australia’s mining, municipal, and aviation sectors.