
Weekly Cannabis Update: Legislative Hurdles and Scientific Insights
Welcome to your essential update on the latest happenings in the cannabis industry for the week of July 15 - July 22, 2025. This week saw significant legislative actions and research findings that continue to shape the landscape of cannabis in the U.S.
Congress Blocks D.C. Cannabis Sales: A Continued Fight for Local Control
In a move that keeps a tight grip on D.C. cannabis sales, a House subcommittee has voted to maintain the Harris rider, which prohibits the District from utilizing local funds to regulate recreational cannabis. This decision persistently disregards a mandate set forth by D.C. voters back in 2014, who legalized the substance. Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton vocally opposed this rider, framing it as a direct assault on the principle of home rule.
In contrast, recent Senate actions indicate a potential shift toward expanding medical access for veterans and analyzing how cannabis could mitigate the opioid crisis.
Debunking Myths: Cannabis Legalization and Youth Consumption
During a recent webinar hosted by SAMHSA, Dr. Ryan Vandrey from Johns Hopkins University challenged the longstanding belief that cannabis legalization boosts usage among teens. His insights highlighted that both data and trends show stable or declining patterns of use among youth in states where cannabis is legal. Vandrey advocated for regulatory approaches that prioritize comprehensive evaluations of various cannabinoids beyond just THC, promoting a better understanding of their effects.
Safety in Marketing: Florida’s Stricter Rules on Hemp Products
In Florida, regulators are stepping up to clarify what constitutes attractive packaging for hemp products targeting children. Proposed measures might impose stricter guidelines, particularly concerning cartoon imagery and candy-like forms. This local initiative signals a burgeoning concern over youth-targeted marketing in the hemp industry.
Texas Legislature at Odds Over Hemp Regulations
The ongoing debate in Texas regarding hemp regulations has reignited during the legislative special session. Following the recent veto of an extensive hemp ban, proposals to outlaw any detectable THC or cannabinoids beyond CBD are back on the table, raising alarm among advocates about potentially devastating impacts on the $1.9 billion industry.
Governor Greg Abbott has expressed a preference for robust regulations rather than prohibition, suggesting age limits and THC caps, while aiming for a structured approach akin to that of alcohol laws.
What’s Next in Cannabis
The dynamics of cannabis legislation continue to evolve, with new measures and research emerging that could redefine how cannabis is regulated and consumed. Stay informed as advocates, legislators, and researchers navigate this rapidly changing landscape.
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