New York has topped $4 billion in recreational marijuana sales since the market launched, with $1.5 billion recorded this year alone, according to the state Office of Cannabis Management.
Florida activists file two new legalization measures
Florida officials added two fresh 2028 ballot initiatives for marijuana legalization, after a third proposal remains pending approval.
Virginia seeks patient feedback
The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority will ask medical marijuana patients to complete a satisfaction survey that gauges the impact of upcoming recreational sales.
Autism study links medical cannabis to symptom relief
A Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management study found that autistic adults using medical cannabis reported reduced anxiety, lower depression scores and better sleep, with some noting decreased behavioral severity.
North Carolina weighs public use rules
The North Carolina Advisory Council on Cannabis is reviewing recommendations on public consumption policies if the state proceeds with legalization.
Oregon hemp industry warns of federal law changes
Oregon hemp retailers fear new federal regulations could eliminate access to CBD products for pets and aging adults, potentially ending their businesses.
Federal GAO report urges DOJ‑DHS collaboration
The Government Accountability Office released a report recommending tighter coordination between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security on counternarcotics investigations.
Sen. Ricketts highlights China‑linked cannabis threat
Senator Pete Ricketts (R‑NE) tweeted that Chinese criminal groups dominate U.S. marijuana markets, exploiting land, workers and prohibited chemicals, posing security risks.
New Jersey lawsuit over alleged social‑equity fraud
A former chief of staff sued a New Jersey senator, claiming he recruited individuals to act as “owners” of cannabis businesses without genuine control, violating social‑equity requirements.
Virginia hemp firms seek to withdraw lawsuit
Virginia hemp businesses asked to dismiss a lawsuit challenging recent product restrictions, saying they will refile a revised complaint.
State regulators issue updates
Colorado issued health advisories on vaping‑related cannabis products; Connecticut released guidance on new marijuana laws; Missouri published testing rules for cannabis concentrates; Illinois issued annual cannabis reports; Minnesota’s Cannabis Expungement Board opened a search for an executive director; New York granted a research license to study cannabis‑based chronic pain treatment; Michigan revoked a marijuana business license and fined the operator; Oregon will consider hemp registration rule changes on Oct. 21.
International and science updates
Trinidad and Tobago passed legislation amending cannabis, alcohol, tobacco and gambling laws; Israeli officials consider narrowing an investigation into Canadian medical cannabis exports; a review identified the endocannabinoid system as a promising target for endometriosis pain; research suggested cannabis‑derived nanovesicles could enhance cancer immunotherapy.
Advocacy, business moves
The NRA, Second Amendment Foundation and Firearms Policy Coalition filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to review the federal gun‑ownership ban on a man convicted of marijuana cultivation; Curaleaf received Australian approval for an inhalation device delivering cannabis extracts; AYR Wellness transferred its Ohio operations into subsidiaries of Arboretum Bidco LLC.
