NJ Considers Clinical Cannabis Research Partnerships

New Jersey regulators are soliciting public input on a proposal to introduce "clinical registrant permits," enabling dispensaries to collaborate with research institutions for in-state cannabis studies.

This move seeks to enhance research into medical cannabis's therapeutic benefits while utilizing products sold to patients directly.

The permits would prohibit the concurrent operation of other cannabis businesses and aim to bridge research gaps caused by federal prohibition and low-quality government-grown marijuana.

Massachusetts: Calls for Oversight Amid Turmoil At Cannabis Control Commission

Top lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr, are urging the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy to hold an oversight hearing to investigate issues such as the suspension of CCC chair Shannon O'Brien, licensing delays, public record mishandling, and a controversial proposal allowing sex offenders in the marijuana industry.

Lawmakers are also promoting legislation to establish an independent internal audit unit within the CCC to improve transparency and accountability.

Colorado Governor Supports Reclassifying Marijuana to Schedule III

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado has expressed support for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' recommendation to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
In a letter to President Biden, Polis urged federal action to grant marijuana businesses access to banking services, reduce criminal penalties, and address immigration-related issues.

Alaska Considers Shift From Ounce To Sales Tax For Marijuana

Alaska's House Labor and Commerce Committee has discussed a proposal, House Bill 119 that could change the state's marijuana tax system from an ounce-based tax to a sales tax.
The move is intended to help the state's marijuana businesses compete with the illicit market, which offers lower prices.

While the change may impact state revenue in the short term, proponents argue it could benefit the legal market in the long run.

States Urge Congress To Amend 2023 Farm Bill For Hemp Regulation

The Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA), a nonpartisan association representing cannabis and hemp regulatory agencies from 45 U.S. states and territories, has called on Congress to amend the 2023 Farm Bill to address issues created by the 2018 Farm Bill.

CANNRA seeks to close regulatory gaps that have allowed intoxicating hemp-derived products like Delta-8. Proposed changes include refining the definition of hemp, reported Debra Borchardt for GMR.

New Hampshire: Franchise Model For Cannabis Sales?

The New Hampshire commission tasked with preparing legislation for the legalization of marijuana is considering an alternative proposal to establish a franchise model for cannabis sales.

Under this model, the state's Liquor Commission would act as the franchisor, while private owners would be the franchisees responsible for retail operations.

This approach aims to allow the state to oversee administration, marketing and safety aspects while maintaining a standardized "look and feel" for cannabis retail stores, akin to national chains like McDonald's or Dunkin' Donuts.

Retail operators would be required to contribute 15 percent of gross monthly sales to the state, reported Marijuana Moment.

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Photo by Isaac Quesada on Unsplash.