2025 is underway, Leafly nation! February is a month for momentum and risk, and we have the best strains, from Xeno to Chemdog, to help you hit your stride.
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“An hour of planning can save ten hours of doing.” Apparently, Dale Carnegie said that. Mr. Carnegie was a 20th century influencer, who, as far as I can tell, never sold any weed. He did make a pile of money selling books and talks on how to be confident, charming, etc. That’s not my cup of tea (the “telling people” part), but I do like his quote. I would add that, as applied to legal matters, an hour of planning can save ten hours of doing, as well as undoing. Sometimes, it’s more than ten hours too.
For the past decade, I’ve taken several calls a week from individuals making a play in the cannabis industry. Some of these callers haven’t yet taken any formal steps; others are partway down the road, amid some episode with legal atmospherics; and a third group is similar to the second group, but dealing with self-inflicted wounds. We’re talking about the third group today.
In many cases, the third group is suffering because they failed to map out a course of action prior to someone doing something “material,” to use a lawyerly term. Or they mapped out a course of action without good advice. As a result, they signed something stupid, when they should not have; or they didn’t sign anything at all, when they should have. Much can go wrong without basic planning or serviceable documents. For better or worse, cleaning up those messes has kept me (and some of the litigators here) plenty busy over the years.
Most business deals are not particularly complex. If they are, you may be doing it wrong. The longer I persist as a lawyer, the more I lean on clients to keep it simple. You want agreements that are strictly necessary, not overbuilt, bespoke, and totally bombproof— or as close as you can get. Before anyone can draft them though, and before taking actions with legal ramifications, it’s critical to reduce things to writing. A roadmap can be helpful here.
A roadmap does not have to be overly long or complex. But it should be global, if that makes sense. It should hit the high notes. It should flesh out the basic structure of the cannabis enterprise, the required contributions of the players, their voting and economic rights, and any unique considerations. Often, would-be partners believe that everyone is on the same page, only to be surprised when either: a) they try to reduce their understandings to a writing, or b) something happens.
A classic example is a situation where a group of people hopes to “partner up”, and each brings disparate resources to the arrangement. One person has money; a second has connections; a third has expertise. They just start “doing things.” The person with money may sign a real estate or license purchase agreement in that person’s name, while intending that the asset become part of the business. The person with connections may register an ill-fitting corporate entity, or miss a critical deadline (easy to do). The person with expertise may just start working, in the expectation of receiving some sort of “salary.” There are so many hazards here.
I prefer working with clients at the outset of an enterprise or transaction. I know I can add value in every case, and I’d rather build a serviceable model than try to fix something— even if the fixing pays better. Yes, there is an up-front cost to working with a bona fide business lawyer or accountant who understands cannabis. Yes, there may be upfront negotiation—and even disagreements—with partners in dialing in terms. But, as Dale Carnegie also apparently said: “fear not those who argue, but those who dodge.” Once again I agree with Mr. Carnegie. Don’t dodge! You’ll pay.
See also:
Republicans have proposed a return to prohibition.
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Here's what you can do to effect real change.
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Berlin, Barcelona, and Bangkok—oh my!
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New blue hues and flavors from top breeders have arrived.
The post New Blueberry weed strains are about to make a wave appeared first on Leafly.
Germany’s snap elections on February 23, 2025, have the cannabis industry watching closely. A conservative government will likely emerge, but a key question remains: will it include the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD)? The collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s traffic-light coalition triggered this pivotal election. Polls show the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) leading with 29.1%, followed by the AfD at 21.2%.
The CDU/CSU has pledged to repeal Germany’s quasi-legalization law passed in 2024. Friedrich Merz, CDU leader and likely Germany’s next chancellor, has ruled out partnerships with the AfD or liberal parties. However, he remains open to coalitions with center-left parties like the SPD (15.5%) and Greens (13.2%). Without a majority, coalition-building will be essential to form a government. It will likely take weeks for a functioning government to emerge after Sunday’s election.
If Merz partners with center-left parties, repealing German cannabis laws would be difficult. Convincing these former traffic-light coalition members to reverse their stance on legalization seems unlikely. In this scenario, pilot programs for cannabis commerce might halt, but full repeal appears improbable. Existing laws allowing personal possession, cultivation, and medical expansion would likely remain intact.
If, however, the AfD gains significant ground or is permitted to join a coalition with the CDU/CSU, cannabis reform could face serious threats. With 38% of voters still undecided, the outcome remains uncertain. Germany’s cannabis industry anxiously awaits Sunday’s election results to see whether progressive policies endure or face rollback under new leadership.
While Germany will likely pause its cannabis reforms, Switzerland continues advancing science-based proposals to liberalize cannabis. On February 14, 2025, the Social Security and Health Committee of the National Council approved a plan to legalize and regulate adult-use marijuana by a 14-9-2 vote. The proposal emphasizes public health, youth protection, and harm reduction through strict regulation. Key measures include:
The proposal still has a long way to go, but it builds on pilot programs launched in 2023 that study legalization effects in specific Cantons. Early results have been promising; however, opposition from the Swiss People’s Party (SVP) could slow progress.
Switzerland is uniquely positioned to lead Europe in adult-use cannabis reform due to its independence from EU law. Unlike Germany, Malta, Luxembourg, and the Czech Republic—EU nations are bound by EU Commission oversight— Switzerland is not. This independence eliminates risks of EU sanctions related to Switzerland’s cannabis legalization efforts.
Still, Switzerland must comply with international agreements like the Schengen Agreement governing cross-border trade/movement policies with EU countries. To likely address concerns about cannabis “leakage” into neighboring nations, Switzerland’s proposal includes strict state-controlled retail operations and limits on personal cultivation.
Switzerland also remains bound by the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs (1961), which strictly regulates cannabis for medical, scientific, and industrial purposes only. Its proposed legalization framework mirrors approaches taken by Canada and Uruguay, which legalized cannabis while prioritizing public health and safety under “wider UN human rights obligations that need to be respected . . . over drug control obligations.”
The Swiss plan frames legalization as an evidence-based measure to protect public health by reducing black market activity, ensuring product safety, and funding harm reduction programs. By maintaining cannabis’s classification as a narcotic while creating a tightly regulated market, Switzerland aims to balance international obligations with domestic public health priorities.
Switzerland’s continued focus on advancing commonsense cannabis reforms based on science and public health sets it apart as a leader in pragmatic cannabis reform. The proposed state-controlled model eliminates profit motives, while directing revenue toward prevention programs and addiction support services. If enacted, Switzerland could become Europe’s first country to implement a fully legalized adult-use cannabis market under strict government control— a potential blueprint for other nations navigating complex legal frameworks.
As Germany hesitates amidst political uncertainty, Switzerland’s evidence-based approach may set a new standard for balancing regulation with public health priorities.
The cannabis industry is expanding nationwide, but securing trademark protection remains a complex challenge due to federal restrictions and evolving state laws. If you’re a cannabis business owner, lawyer, or entrepreneur looking to protect your brand, you won’t want to miss our upcoming webinar on cannabis and trademarks.
Our expert panel, consisting of moderator Matt Goldberg, and presenters Fred Rocafort and Elijah Hartman, will break down key legal barriers and share practical strategies to help cannabis businesses navigate trademark law effectively.
Topics include:
✔️ Cannabis entrepreneurs & business owners
✔️ Attorneys & legal professionals specializing in intellectual property
✔️ Brand managers & marketing professionals in the cannabis industry
✔️ Anyone interested in the future of cannabis branding & trademarks
Don’t miss this opportunity to get expert insights and stay ahead of the legal curve on cannabis trademark. Register now to ensure your cannabis business is legally protected and ready for growth.
Have questions? Feel free to reach out at firm@harris-sliwoski.com. We look forward to seeing you there!
Candies, Z, OGs, and more from Leafly’s senior editor.
The post David Downs’ sickest weed genetics picks of 2025 appeared first on Leafly.
Last Wednesday, the Oregon cannabis lawsuit we’ve been waiting for finally dropped. Industry operators should tip their hats to plaintiffs Ascend Dispensary and Bubble’s Hash, and our friends at the law firm Fisher Phillips LLP, for stepping up and challenging Ballot Measure 119 in U.S. District Court.
BM 119 passed in November 2024 with 57% of the vote. It requires all OLCC licensed retailers, processors and labs to provide a signed labor peace agreement (LPA) with a bona fide labor organization, to renew or apply for an OLCC license. The requirement took effect almost immediately— we therefore urged eligible OLCC businesses to renew licenses prior to December 5th, to dodge the LPA requirement for at least another year.
I’ve been bagging on BM 119 since before the vote, when I wrote that it would probably pass and observed that “I’m surprised people aren’t talking about it more.” It did end up passing, which seemed to catch the local cannabis industry flatfooted. Fortunately for the gang, BM 119 is legally suspect and this challenge appears strong.
You don’t have to be anti-union (I’m not) to think BM 119 was poorly conceived. I previously highlighted BM 119’s Constitutional and labor law exposure, and explained how this initiative arose after a stymied legislative effort by the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555 (“UFCW 555”). The plaintiffs’ complaint traces this history thoroughly, including how UFCW 555 brought a failed recall effort against Representative Paul Hovey for having the stones to inquire whether its proposal was unconstitutional and could be preempted.
The complaint’s specific allegations include a series of violations of the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, including on freedom of speech, due process, equal protection and right to contract, as well as violation of the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause. So, several hooks upon which the District Court could hang its hat. The complaint left off seemingly viable state law causes of action, likely for strategic reasons beyond my expertise.
The complaint seeks both declaratory relief (“you did it wrong”) and injunctive relief (“you have to cut it out”). As to the latter, the complaint mentions that plaintiffs subsequently filed a Motion for Temporary Restraining Order, which means that the State of Oregon would have to cut it out sooner rather—that is, stop enforcing the LPA requirement. (The TRO motion hadn’t yet showed up on the docket as of close of business on Friday, when this post is being written, or I’d link it for you. Courts are closed for President’s Day; we should see it soon.)
From what I’ve gathered, OLCC isn’t particularly thrilled with having to enforce BM 119. My guess is DOJ won’t enjoy defending it. For now, it seems that a lot of cannabis licensees are submitting renewal applications without an LPA, hoping for a lawsuit like this one, and hoping the LPA requirement goes away. My information is that OLCC is processing those applications in due course: it’s worth noting that the Commission would have to follow a series of administrative steps before proposing to revoke or non-renew a license on LPA grounds, regardless.
So let’s see how it goes, now that it’s finally going. My guess is the Court will find that UFCW and Oregon voters overstepped with BM 119.
For previous posts discussing the BM 119 saga, check out the following:
Sheep counters everywhere can get excited about a new product from the effects-obsessive folks at Rare Cannabinoid Company, the THC+CBN Sleep Gummies.
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Australia’s cannabis laws are complex, with federal, state, and local regulations all playing a role in determining the legal framework. Businesses looking to enter Australia’s medicinal cannabis market must understand how these jurisdictions overlap.
This article breaks down how cannabis is regulated in Australia, including federal laws, state law variations, key regulatory bodies, and Australia’s cannabis importation rules.
Australia operates under a federal system, meaning cannabis laws are enforced at three levels.
Australian federal laws govern the overall legality of medicinal cannabis and control activities like cannabis importation, cultivation, and production.
Australian state and territory laws determine whether personal use, possession, and local business activities are permitted. These laws differ across Australia, leading to variations in enforcement and penalties.
Local government laws apply to business operations, zoning, and licensing, meaning cannabis-related businesses must comply with both state and local regulations.
Growing cannabis for personal use remains illegal in most of Australia’s states and territories, except for the Australian Capital Territory. In the Australian Capital Territory (the “ACT”), adults can possess up to 50 grams of dried cannabis and grow two plants per person, with a maximum of four per household. However, selling, supplying, or sharing cannabis remains illegal.
In all other states and territories, personal cultivation and recreational use remain criminal offenses or subject to fines.
The cultivation, production, and supply of cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes have been legalized under Australian federal law. Patients must meet strict criteria and obtain prescriptions from authorized medical professionals.
Each state and territory has different regulations regarding how medicinal cannabis can be accessed, with some jurisdictions making it easier than others. The Therapeutic Goods Administration oversees approvals for medicinal cannabis products, and most patients require approval through the Special Access Scheme.
The following table provides a quick reference to cannabis laws across Australian states and territories, summarizing the differences in personal use regulations and medicinal cannabis access.
Several Australian federal agencies regulate cannabis-related activities.
The Office of Drug Control grants licenses for the cultivation, production, and manufacture of medicinal cannabis.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration regulates medicinal cannabis products and approvals for patient use.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry manages import and export regulations, including issuing permits for plant materials.
The Australian Border Force enforces border restrictions on illicit cannabis imports and ensures compliance with legal import permits.
Businesses and individuals seeking to work with cannabis must navigate multiple layers of licensing and approvals from these regulatory agencies.
Because cannabis supply is highly regulated, plants can only be sourced legally. This includes licensed Australian producers approved by the Office of Drug Control and international suppliers where cannabis cultivation is legal and in compliance with the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.
Importing cannabis or cannabis-derived products requires approval from multiple agencies.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry issues import permits for cannabis plants and seeds. The Therapeutic Goods Administration and Office of Drug Control must approve medicinal cannabis imports. The Australian Border Force enforces border security checks to ensure no illicit or unapproved substances enter Australia.
A federal medicinal cannabis license may authorize one or more of the following activities:
These activities can be licensed separately or combined under a single license. Businesses must comply with various security, reporting, and compliance requirements to maintain their authorizations.
Based on what we have seen in other countries, we strongly recommend that foreign companies interested in Australia enter the cannabis market now rather than later. Many countries have started with limited legalization, whether only for medical use or in certain regions, and the companies that established themselves early became the market leaders when expansion occurred.
Some key examples:
Companies that strategically entered these markets early secured a decisive competitive advantage by acquiring in-depth regulatory experience, establishing dominant brand recognition, cultivating crucial strategic partnerships, developing robust infrastructure, and gaining invaluable first-mover status, positioning them for sustained success as legalization expanded.
We are already seeing Australia following a similar trajectory, and companies that enter early will gain a competitive edge as the Australian cannabis market expands beyond medical use.
Australia’s cannabis regulations are constantly evolving, reflecting shifting public opinion and growing recognition of the potential benefits of cannabis, particularly for medicinal purposes. Several trends are shaping the future of cannabis in Australia:
While nationwide legalization for recreational use is not currently on the agenda, there are increasing discussions and pilot programs exploring decriminalization models in various states and territories. These models often focus on diverting individuals caught with small amounts of cannabis to health and education programs rather than criminal charges. The ACT’s existing model serves as a case study for other jurisdictions considering similar approaches.
Efforts are underway to streamline the process for patients to access medicinal cannabis. This includes exploring options like allowing pharmacies to dispense certain medicinal cannabis products, increasing the number of authorized prescribers, and expanding the range of qualifying conditions. Research into the efficacy of cannabis for various medical conditions is also ongoing, which could lead to further expansion of its medicinal applications.
As the medicinal cannabis industry grows, there is a strong emphasis on ensuring product quality, safety, and consistency. Regulatory bodies are working to establish stricter standards for cultivation, manufacturing, and testing of medicinal cannabis products. This will help build trust among patients and healthcare professionals and could accelerate expansion beyond medical use.
The cannabis industry is poised for significant growth in Australia, creating new business opportunities in cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and research. This growth is attracting investment and fostering innovation in the sector.
Open public discussions about cannabis are becoming more common, helping to reduce stigma and promote informed decision-making. Educational initiatives are also playing an increasingly important role in providing accurate information about cannabis and its potential benefits.
The New Mexico legislature is considering several bills that address the state’s cannabis industry. With a two-month session held only every other year, there is an opportunity for meaningful changes aimed at strengthening the industry. Among the many bills under consideration, four stand out for their potential impact– both for industry and for consumers seeking high-quality, regulated cannabis products.
HB 10 is a bipartisan bill, supported by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. It addresses a key challenge: the inability of the Cannabis Control Division (CCD) to effectively manage the growing number of operators in New Mexico who are in violation of the Cannabis Act.
This bill proposes the creation of an Enforcement Bureau within the CCD, granting it powers to investigate and act on suspected violations. Key powers include:
Licensees facing enforcement actions would have 10 days to request an administrative hearing. If found in violation, the CCD would have the authority to impose penalties, including:
HB 10 passed the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee. It is now under consideration by the House Judiciary Committee, before going to a full floor vote. If passed, it would take effect on July 1, 2025.
HB 112 amends the Cannabis Act by increasing criminal background check requirements on applicants. Under the bill, both state and federal criminal background checks will be required for CCD applicants. (Currently, only a state report is required.) This bill also mandates that the CCD receive and maintain these background reports. HB 112 is currently under review by the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee.
HB 346 amends the state’s hemp laws to address a regulatory chasm concerning finished hemp products. Among the amendments, the bill would:
This bill requires the Department of Environment and the Environmental Improvement Board to establish rules for the manufacturing and retail sale of hemp products, including requirements for labeling, licensing, and recordkeeping. Additionally, hemp products will be subject to state food laws.
HB 346 is currently with the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee for review.
SB 89 takes a simple but important step: it repeals the incremental tax increases laid out in the Cannabis Act. Tax increases are set to start after July 1, 2025. The bill would keep the cannabis excise tax at its current rate of 12%, rather than gradually raising it over the next five years:
The bill is currently in the Senate Tax, Business, and Transportation Committee for review.
While HB 112 and SB 89 focus on administrative changes, HB 10 and HB 346 have the potential to significantly reshape enforcement and regulation in both New Mexico’s marijuana and hemp industries. If these bills pass, operators in both sectors will need to revisit their operating procedures to ensure full compliance with New Mexico’s cannabis laws.
As a licensed New Mexico attorney with years of experience in the cannabis and hemp industries, I am available for free consultations to help operators navigate these changes. If you’re a current New Mexico operator or interested in entering the industry, feel free to reach out.
Lil Baby, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop's latest.
The post Celebs’ biggest cannabis products of 2025 appeared first on Leafly.
Cannabis industry insiders are set to converge this March 19th-20th for the 2025 Hall of Flowers industry-only trade show. The iconic event brings all the movers and shakers of the cannabis industry together in one place.
The post Ventura Hall of Flowers is March 19–20—is your business ready? appeared first on Leafly.
Including New Mexico's biggest medical shop.
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Australia’s cannabis laws are complex, with federal, state, and local regulations all playing a role in determining the legal framework. Businesses looking to enter Australia’s medicinal cannabis market must understand how these jurisdictions overlap.
This article breaks down how cannabis is regulated in Australia, including federal laws, state law variations, key regulatory bodies, and Australia’s cannabis importation rules.
Australia operates under a federal system, meaning cannabis laws are enforced at three levels.
Australian federal laws govern the overall legality of medicinal cannabis and control activities like cannabis importation, cultivation, and production.
Australian state and territory laws determine whether personal use, possession, and local business activities are permitted. These laws differ across Australia, leading to variations in enforcement and penalties.
Local government laws apply to business operations, zoning, and licensing, meaning cannabis-related businesses must comply with both state and local regulations.
Growing cannabis for personal use remains illegal in most of Australia’s states and territories, except for the Australian Capital Territory. In the Australian Capital Territory (the “ACT”), adults can possess up to 50 grams of dried cannabis and grow two plants per person, with a maximum of four per household. However, selling, supplying, or sharing cannabis remains illegal.
In all other states and territories, personal cultivation and recreational use remain criminal offenses or subject to fines.
The cultivation, production, and supply of cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes have been legalized under Australian federal law. Patients must meet strict criteria and obtain prescriptions from authorized medical professionals.
Each state and territory has different regulations regarding how medicinal cannabis can be accessed, with some jurisdictions making it easier than others. The Therapeutic Goods Administration oversees approvals for medicinal cannabis products, and most patients require approval through the Special Access Scheme.
The following table provides a quick reference to cannabis laws across Australian states and territories, summarizing the differences in personal use regulations and medicinal cannabis access.
| State/Territory | Personal Use (Possession/Cultivation) | Medicinal Cannabis Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT | Legal (up to 50g, 2 plants per person, 4 per household) | Legal with prescription | Selling/supplying remains illegal |
| NSW | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Strict qualifying conditions |
| VIC | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Specific access schemes apply |
| QLD | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Limited authorized prescribers |
| SA | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Some product availability varies |
| WA | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Patient registry maintained |
| TAS | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Telehealth consultations allowed |
| NT | Illegal | Legal with prescription | Police discretion for minor offenses |
Several Australian federal agencies regulate cannabis-related activities.
The Office of Drug Control grants licenses for the cultivation, production, and manufacture of medicinal cannabis.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration regulates medicinal cannabis products and approvals for patient use.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry manages import and export regulations, including issuing permits for plant materials.
The Australian Border Force enforces border restrictions on illicit cannabis imports and ensures compliance with legal import permits.
Businesses and individuals seeking to work with cannabis must navigate multiple layers of licensing and approvals from these regulatory agencies.
Because cannabis supply is highly regulated, plants can only be sourced legally. This includes licensed Australian producers approved by the Office of Drug Control and international suppliers where cannabis cultivation is legal and in compliance with the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs.
Importing cannabis or cannabis-derived products requires approval from multiple agencies.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry issues import permits for cannabis plants and seeds. The Therapeutic Goods Administration and Office of Drug Control must approve medicinal cannabis imports. The Australian Border Force enforces border security checks to ensure no illicit or unapproved substances enter Australia.
A federal medicinal cannabis license may authorize one or more of the following activities:
These activities can be licensed separately or combined under a single license. Businesses must comply with various security, reporting, and compliance requirements to maintain their authorizations.
Based on what we have seen in other countries, we strongly recommend that foreign companies interested in Australia enter the cannabis market now rather than later. Many countries have started with limited legalization, whether only for medical use or in certain regions, and the companies that established themselves early became the market leaders when expansion occurred.
Some key examples:
Companies that strategically entered these markets early secured a decisive competitive advantage by acquiring in-depth regulatory experience, establishing dominant brand recognition, cultivating crucial strategic partnerships, developing robust infrastructure, and gaining invaluable first-mover status, positioning them for sustained success as legalization expanded.
We are already seeing Australia following a similar trajectory, and companies that enter early will gain a competitive edge as the Australian cannabis market expands beyond medical use.
Australia’s cannabis regulations are constantly evolving, reflecting shifting public opinion and growing recognition of the potential benefits of cannabis, particularly for medicinal purposes. Several trends are shaping the future of cannabis in Australia:
While nationwide legalization for recreational use is not currently on the agenda, there are increasing discussions and pilot programs exploring decriminalization models in various states and territories. These models often focus on diverting individuals caught with small amounts of cannabis to health and education programs rather than criminal charges. The ACT’s existing model serves as a case study for other jurisdictions considering similar approaches.
Efforts are underway to streamline the process for patients to access medicinal cannabis. This includes exploring options like allowing pharmacies to dispense certain medicinal cannabis products, increasing the number of authorized prescribers, and expanding the range of qualifying conditions. Research into the efficacy of cannabis for various medical conditions is also ongoing, which could lead to further expansion of its medicinal applications.
As the medicinal cannabis industry grows, there is a strong emphasis on ensuring product quality, safety, and consistency. Regulatory bodies are working to establish stricter standards for cultivation, manufacturing, and testing of medicinal cannabis products. This will help build trust among patients and healthcare professionals and could accelerate expansion beyond medical use.
Growing Industry and Economic Opportunities
The cannabis industry is poised for significant growth in Australia, creating new business opportunities in cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and research. This growth is attracting investment and fostering innovation in the sector.
Open public discussions about cannabis are becoming more common, helping to reduce stigma and promote informed decision-making. Educational initiatives are also playing an increasingly important role in providing accurate information about cannabis and its potential benefits.
Ready to unlock the potential of the Australian cannabis market? Schedule a free consultation today by clicking here. Let’s discuss how I can help you achieve your business goals.
THC and CBD-infused lubricants can be a game-changer.
The post Best cannabis and hemp lubes appeared first on Leafly.
There is too much weed in Oregon. There is not enough weed in Oregon.
Allow me to explain. On February 1, the OLCC released its 2025 legislative report on local, regulated marijuana supply. We get these reports every two years, as required by ORS 475C.529. They tend to be downers. And this one could be the worst one yet.
The report came in as expected; which is to say, both supply and demand are trending badly for Oregon operators. Specifically:
“[t]he retail median price-per-gram of usable marijuana is at the lowest point the market has seen since legalization. The low price can be attributable to oversupply.”
Prices aren’t just low. They have never been lower. The report confirms the conclusions in my State of the State post from December 19, 2024, where I highlighted a static number of OLCC licensees, a static enforcement environment (inside and outside the OLCC system), and Oregon’s largest fall harvest, ever. I predicted downward pricing pressure. I could go on and on about all these things, but I don’t mean to bore you, and we’d like some encouraging words.
I have another way to think about the report. Oregon is not producing too much cannabis. We have stellar terroir, delicious appellations and virtuosic growers. The problem ‘round here is we cannot export it. We can’t send our record harvest to non-agricultural states, and places where cannabis can only be grown in buildings. Here are some reasons:
Here is some color on that:
Early local thinkers like the Craft Cannabis Association (RIP) and Adam Smith were ahead of their time. Oversupply in the OLCC market has been around since the Oregon program started. Advocates pushing for interstate sales and federal legalization are making the only practical argument.
In the last few years, local industry seems to have gone away from this. You’ll hear complaints that we cannot sell cannabis to other states, even while industry litigates against the prevailing testing standards in other states. In that sense, Oregon is not well positioned for when the floodgates open.
I do hope the floodgates open. That is the only thing that could put an appreciable dent in oversupply, even if the fires return in the fall of 2025; even if the OLCC starts talking tough again; and even if we get some tax relief through federal rescheduling. As the report concludes:
“The Oregon recreational marijuana market . . . is continually disadvantaged by the marketplace being limited to Oregon. Year after year, supply has outpaced demand.
Until the federal government creates pathways to interstate commerce, the Oregon recreational marijuana market will be characterized by variations on the same theme: a competitive marketplace that features low prices for consumers but low margins for businesses. As we enter 2025, it remains to be seen how narrow the margins will be and how well the Oregon cannabis industry can operate within them.”
I would add to this the fact that with record-high output and record-low pricing, Oregon growers will be incentivized to sell cannabis out the back door or leave the OLCC program altogether. Options there include the intoxicating hemp market or simply assuming the risks of growing unlicensed weed and selling interstate.
The bottom line is it’s difficult to make any money growing cannabis in Oregon if you do not own the land. And it’s a shame we have too much weed in Oregon for Oregon, but not for other states.
The post Oregon Cannabis Oversupply in 2025 appeared first on Harris Sliwoski LLP.
Find the best bongs of 2025. Leafly reviewed popular bongs and chose what we think are the top picks for different needs and budgets.
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With ongoing tensions between U.S. state and federal marijuana laws, U.S. marijuana investments present significant legal and logistical challenges. This is especially true for investors with ties to federally regulated businesses. While some investors have accepted the risks of U.S. marijuana, others are waiting for major federal reforms. But what if there was a way to invest in marijuana without the looming threat of federal enforcement?
International marijuana operators might offer just that opportunity. Marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance within the U.S. (See Thoughts on the Terrible Pageant of Marijuana Rescheduling) Even if marijuana is moved into Schedule III, it will still be illegal to buy and sell interstate without a DEA license, and state markets won’t fundamentally change. This opens the door for investment and operational partnerships in legal marijuana markets abroad — without many of the risks associated with U.S. marijuana operators.
Makes it illegal to manufacture, distribute, or possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance within the U.S.
Extends the reach of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), criminalizing the intent to import a Schedule I substance into the U.S. This explicit reference to unlawful importation shows that Congress anticipated extraterritorial application of the CSA for certain sections (e.g. § 959) and not others (e.g. § 841(a)).
Criminalizes monetary transactions involving proceeds from “specified unlawful activity”, including violations of the CSA. Unless a foreign investment or operational partnership resulted in the import of marijuana into the U.S., it would not rise to the level of a “specified unlawful activity.”
Both conspiracy and aiding and abetting confer extraterritorial jurisdiction to the same extent as the underlying offense. Therefore, unless the foreign investment resulted in marijuana being imported into the U.S., such investment would not trigger these violations.
The CSA does not speak specifically to foreign investment into an operation that would otherwise be illegal in the U.S. As such, we must look to judicial precedent.
The Supreme Court has emphasized that unless Congress speaks to the extraterritorial application of a law, then it does not generally apply to foreign activities. The relevant issue here centers on whether the foreign activity is intended to, or could reasonably be expected to, result in a violation on U.S. soil. For example, investing in a foreign operator that intends to illegally export marijuana into the U.S., would trigger a CSA violation. However, investing in a foreign operator that intends only to manufacture and sell marijuana outside of the U.S., would not trigger a CSA violation (ensuring robust SOPs and internal oversight policies is also critical).
The leading case on this topic is United States v. LopezVanegas, which relied on Supreme Court precedent on extraterritorial application of U.S. law. The Eleventh Circuit held that where “the object of the conspiracy was to possess controlled substances outside the United States with the intent to distribute outside the United States” the CSA does not apply to those foreign activities. The Court noted that it did not matter whether the alleged conspirators planned some of the operations from within the U.S. The key to a CSA violation centered around whether the conspirators intended to possess or distribute a controlled substance inside the U.S.
Courts in the First Circuit, Fifth Circuit, D.C. Circuit, and the Eastern and Northern District (States v. Daniels, 2010 WL 2557506 (N.D. Cal. June 21, 2010)) have either cited Lopez-Vanegas or reached similar conclusions in cases with both similar and differing circumstances.
These judicial interpretations show that investing in or providing operational support to legal foreign marijuana operators does not pose a risk of violating U.S. law— provided that the investment does not involve importing marijuana into the U.S. While some U.S. banks may remain cautious, these concerns can often be alleviated with a well-supported legal memorandum or opinion.
If you or your team are interested in exploring opportunities to support legal marijuana operations abroad (e.g. Canada, Germany, Thailand, Colombia, Portugal, etc.), please reach out for a free consultation.
The post Why Don’t More U.S. Investors Look Abroad for Marijuana Investment? appeared first on Harris Sliwoski LLP.
Meet the tight-knit Queens family that turned their dad's 1990s cannabis arrest into a legal dispensary license.
The post Alto Dispensary is a family affair in Tribeca appeared first on Leafly.
At least 11 states racked up medical and adult-use cannabis sales over $1 billion in 2024.
The post These states sold more than $1 billion in weed in 2024 appeared first on Leafly.
Michigan’s cannabis market is buzzing with excitement as we enter February 2025. Whether you’re searching for the best weed in Michigan or looking for the best strains in Michigan to enhance your experience, the state’s cannabis landscape is constantly evolving. If you’re on the hunt for the best strains in Michigan, our updated guide has […]
The post Best strains in Michigan: weed trends February 2025 – Melonade and Cherry Runtz on the rise appeared first on Leafly.
California’s cannabis scene is thriving this February 2025, and we’re here to spotlight the best weed brands in California. Whether you’re into top-shelf flower, flavorful edibles, or potent concentrates, we’ve scoured the shelves to bring you the hottest picks right now. In particular, these four brands are setting the standard for quality and keeping California’s […]
The post California Cannabis Highlights: Must-Try Picks for February 2025 appeared first on Leafly.
