AGP Executive Report

Federal push for drugged-driving standards: A bipartisan House transportation bill would require the U.S. to study marijuana and other drug impairment and then propose “evidence-based impairment standards,” plus a national drug-involved crash data system—aiming to close the gap as drugged driving rises. Regulatory shakeups: France moves to ban CBD edibles under EU food rules, while Washington finalizes “contract kitchen” rules letting breweries use mobile food units to meet restaurant licensing needs. Market/legal pressure: Minnesota’s appeals court reversed a city’s denial of a cannabis business registration, and Missouri’s biggest marijuana firm faces a second antitrust lawsuit in two weeks. Public health + behavior: A new study finds older adults often use cannabis for sleep, pain, and mental health—usually based on word of mouth, not clinician guidance. Industry operations: Connecticut enacts major employment-law changes (pay transparency, “stay-or-pay” limits, and more) taking effect Oct. 1, 2026.

Cannabis Policy Shock: France has banned CBD edibles starting May 15, citing an EU “novel foods” rule from 1997—gummies and tinctures are out, but other hemp products stay on shelves. U.S. Federal Shift: DOJ/DEA moved FDA-approved marijuana products and state-licensed medical marijuana into Schedule III and set an expedited hearing to consider broader rescheduling, with industry watching for knock-on effects for patients and providers. Minnesota Deal-Maker: Minnesota lawmakers passed a cannabis bill that merges medical and adult-use supply chains, cuts indoor canopy limits, and creates a new microbusiness license. Public Health Flashpoints: Illinois reported six middle-schoolers hospitalized after pot gummy ingestion. Research Watch: A new study links cannabis + tobacco co-use to a much higher long-term risk of psychotic disorders in youth at clinical high risk. Industry Tech: Algorae says its AI platform finished a multi-anchor drug-combination prediction phase expanding beyond cannabidiol.

Cannabis + Tobacco Risk: A new study following 1,000+ teens and young adults already at clinical risk for psychosis finds co-use of cannabis and tobacco nearly triples the chance of developing full psychotic disorders—while cannabis or tobacco alone mainly worsens short-term symptoms. Youth Safety Push: Colorado’s CDOT is expanding teen-driver education in Spanish, warning that cannabis impairment can still mean DUI for drivers of any age. Policy Pressure on CBD: A Medicare pilot to reimburse hemp-derived products could get derailed by a federal hemp ban that would criminalize many CBD items. Market/Consumer Buzz: A California vape brand markets “smoke weed and earn bitcoin,” drawing criticism for gamifying use even as it says rewards are app-only. Health Watch: Separate research links cannabis use with smaller waistlines, but a new study argues the “high” compound THC may not be the driver of the metabolic effect.

Hemp-CBD on the line: CMS is piloting Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement for hemp-derived products (up to $500/year), but a looming federal hemp ban could criminalize many CBD items—especially those with THC above the new threshold—putting the program’s future at risk. Indiana policy shift: State Sen. Mike Bohacek says he’s drafting medical marijuana legislation for 2027, citing federal rescheduling momentum and a need for regulated, healthcare-led access. Public health + cannabis: A new UC San Diego long-term study links childhood cannabis use to worse cognitive outcomes, adding to growing pressure for stronger youth protections. Safety crackdown: Thailand tightened cannabis handling to licensed medical facilities and herbal shops, while medical flower stays allowed under stricter supervision. Prison pressure: Scotland’s HMP Addiewell reported 42 drug-smuggling incidents over five years, including drones and throw-overs—spice and valium among the targets. Local education: Colorado’s CDOT is pushing teen-driver messaging in Spanish about cannabis impairment and DUI risk.

Youth & Brain Health: A UC San Diego long-term study adds to growing concern that cannabis use in childhood can harm cognitive development, with researchers linking youth use to lasting learning and memory effects. Public Safety & Driving: Colorado’s CDOT is pushing Spanish-language messaging to teens and parents ahead of summer, warning that cannabis impairment can mean DUI for drivers of any age. Policy Clampdown: Thailand is tightening cannabis access, limiting handling to licensed medical facilities and registered herbal shops, while keeping medical flower allowed under stricter supervision. Science & Harm Reduction: A Pax Laboratories study comparing vaporizing vs smoking herbal cannabis reports vapor cuts combustible smoke and many harmful compounds. Legal/Industry Whiplash: Texas hemp businesses are still stuck in court back-and-forth over smokeable hemp and delta-8 THC, leaving retailers unsure what can be sold next. Health Care Access: Medicare is set to cover free CBD for some patients as the U.S. moves cannabis further into mainstream healthcare research.

Medical Cannabis Expansion (Georgia): Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed SB 220, expanding the state’s medical cannabis program by allowing vaporized products for patients over 21, adding qualifying conditions like lupus, removing the old 5% THC cap, and replacing it with a much higher THC limit per labeled container—while keeping smoking prohibited. Road Safety Push (Colorado): CDOT is ramping up Spanish-language education for teens and parents, warning that cannabis impairment can still lead to DUI for drivers of any age. Legal/Enforcement (Texas hemp): The Texas Supreme Court gave hemp companies more time to seek rehearing in the smokeable delta-8 THC fight, keeping the “what’s allowed” question unsettled. Public Health & Safety (US): A Texas 4-year-old was hospitalized after ingesting a high-dose THC gummy found at a playground, reigniting concerns about child access and packaging. Industry Watch (CBD): Medicare patients may soon be able to get CBD for free as the program expands, aiming to track whether it improves quality of life and reduces costs.

Medicare CBD Rollout: The Trump administration is moving CBD into mainstream healthcare, with thousands of Medicare patients set to receive free CBD to test whether it improves quality of life and lowers costs. THC/He​mp Court Clash: Texas’ Supreme Court set a deadline on an injunction in a smokeable hemp case, keeping the THC rules in flux as the state’s “total THC” fight drags on. Medical Cannabis Expansion (Georgia): Georgia signed “Putting Georgia’s Patients First,” expanding medical cannabis beyond low-THC oil, lifting potency limits, and widening qualifying conditions. Research Push (IBD): New York’s cannabis regulator will run a clinical study on CBD/THC for inflammatory bowel disease. Safety & Scrutiny: Studies keep raising alarms—heavy marijuana smoking is linked to higher cancer risk, and researchers warn about lung and head/neck cancer signals. Industry & Money: Charlotte’s Web is betting on a BAT deal to strengthen liquidity, while Hydrofarm reported a sharp sales and profit drop. Policy Tightening Abroad: Thailand tightened cannabis sales to strictly medical use, shifting shops toward clinic-style operations.

Medical Policy Shock in Georgia: Gov. Brian Kemp signed the “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act,” expanding medical cannabis access, adding new qualifying conditions (including lupus and autism), and replacing the old 5% THC cap with a milligram-based system; THC gummies are now allowed and vaping is permitted for patients (smoking still banned), with rules due by Jan. 1, 2027. Regulators Under Pressure: In Massachusetts, GraniteLeaf’s Matt Simon highlights NH’s medical cannabis maze, while New Hampshire’s GraniteLeaf/CCC coverage underscores how access and oversight keep colliding. Safety and Backlash: A UK court jailed a 19-year-old e-bike rider for six years nine months after a cannabis-limit crash killed an 86-year-old great-grandmother on a zebra crossing. Market Reality Check: Michigan’s April sales rose to about $276M, but analysts warn the “Walmart of weed” price war is squeezing margins. Science Watch: A UC Riverside study links cannabis oil to metabolic benefits in obesity/diabetes models, while Stanford experts warn older adults face rising risks as today’s products get stronger.

Federal Rescheduling Shock: The U.S. reclassified cannabis after 50 years, and Montana policy voice Jamie Pearson is already breaking down what Schedule III could mean for states and businesses. Medical Access Push: Georgia signed a law expanding medical cannabis—removing the THC cap and adding vaping, plus new qualifying conditions like lupus—while Alabama’s first dispensary is “days away,” with patients set to buy tightly regulated products in Montgomery. Public Safety & Enforcement: A Manchester woman was charged after allegedly giving a child a THC gummy, and Rhode Island reports drugged driving is rising as breathalyzers prove less reliable for younger drivers. Mental Health Warning: New research flags higher psychosis risk when cannabis is mixed with tobacco, and clinicians are urging clearer separation of substance-induced psychosis from primary psychiatric illness. Research & Health Claims: A small trial suggests daily fresh coconut water may improve ulcerative colitis symptoms, and another study points to non-THC cannabis compounds supporting glucose metabolism.

Federal Cannabis Clash: A House Appropriations rider just advanced to block marijuana rescheduling funding, even as the Trump administration pushes ahead—leaving patients and businesses in limbo over what changes actually stick. Policy Momentum in Georgia: Gov. Brian Kemp signed a bill expanding medical cannabis access and allowing vaping for qualifying patients, adding new qualifying conditions. Public Safety Push: A new study warns cannabis edibles plus alcohol can impair driving more than either alone, and standard roadside tests may miss cannabis-related impairment. Global Supply-Chain Pressure: AFP reports Indian firms are still exporting millions of tapentadol tablets to West Africa, fueling a deadly opioid crisis and even showing up in “zombie drug” kush. Market & Company Updates: Avicanna posted record Q1 results; Splash Beverage named a new interim CEO as it pivots toward regulated wellness and cannabinoid markets. Local Enforcement: Doncaster ordered a business closure after illegal vape findings, while Kentucky’s medical cannabis program got an OIG review calling it transparent and fair.

Georgia Medical Cannabis Expansion: Gov. Brian Kemp signed SB 220, rebranding “low THC oil” as medical cannabis, adding lupus and easing qualifying-condition rules, and—biggest change—allowing qualified patients (21+) to vape, with the old 5% THC cap replaced by a 12,000mg THC possession limit. Medical Oversight Crackdown: New Jersey temporarily suspended Bergen County physician Alfred D. Kulik after allegations he disregarded safeguards by authorizing medical marijuana for about 95% of patients, including many minors. Public Safety Push: Manitoba RCMP marked Road Safety Week by warning that driving drunk or high still fuels fatal crashes. Youth Vape Alarm: Grant County warned of counterfeit vape products that may contain synthetic cannabinoids or undisclosed THC, urging parents to talk to teens and buy only from verified sources. Global Supply-Chain Pressure: Nigeria’s Ogun Customs reported major cannabis and “Ghana Loud” interceptions worth billions, alongside other contraband. Ongoing Health Research: A small trial reported coconut water improved gut inflammation symptoms in mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis.

Regulatory Shock (France/EU): France is moving to ban CBD edibles starting May 15, citing stricter EU “novel food” enforcement—another sign that hemp-derived foods may face tighter rules across Europe. Law & Order (US/CT): A 34-year-old woman in Westport, Connecticut was arrested for allegedly giving a THC-infused gummy to a minor, with the case tied to a DCF report. Public Safety (Driving): A new JAMA Network study finds edible cannabis plus alcohol impairs driving more than either alone, raising the stakes for “party” use. Industry Moves (US/CA): California dispensary chain Off The Charts announced new locations across the state, pushing more retail access. Enforcement (Nigeria): Nigerian customs and drug agencies reported large cannabis parcel interceptions in Ogun, framing them as preventive action. Medical Cannabis (US/IL): Verano says it has filed DEA registration applications for state-licensed medical operators after the federal rescheduling to Schedule III.

DOJ Rescheduling Ripple: Arkansas accountants say moving medical marijuana to Schedule III could lower cannabis business taxes by easing the hit from federal 280E. Mental Health Risk: A Nature Mental Health study links cannabis+tobacco co-use with higher psychosis risk in people already considered high-risk. Public Safety Crackdowns: New York shut a Middletown retailer after undercover reports of illicit sales to a 16-year-old; Oshkosh police seized suspected synthetic cannabinoids and Suboxone during a prison visit. Older Adults Turning to Edibles: A JAMA Network Open qualitative study finds seniors use edibles for pain, sleep, and mood—often without clear medical guidance. Workplace/Access Fight: A UK tribunal case suggests a rail worker using prescribed medical cannabis may have faced disability discrimination. Policy Moves: Georgia expanded medical marijuana access (including vaping) and added qualifying conditions. Industry Watch: Jushi reported Q1 2026 results with $66.4M revenue and a gross margin of 45%.

Cannabis Awareness Push: Ohio officials are rolling out a $20M public education campaign on marijuana risks, even as a new poll shows broad acceptance and legalization support—aiming messages at young people and mothers. Research & Mental Health: A new global review links cannabis use disorder with major depression, with bidirectional risk signals (and the usual “why” still unclear). Regulatory Momentum: Indiana’s Board of Pharmacy is waiting on federal marijuana reclassification to become official, while a state senator says he’ll draft 2027 medical legalization. Access Expansion: Iowa lawmakers sent a bill to double medical dispensary caps from 5 to 10, now headed to Gov. Kim Reynolds. Industry Watch: B.C. cannabis wholesale sales are slipping as “novelty” fades, with alcohol still vastly outpacing weed. Clinical Innovation: Incannex Healthcare won a MedTech Breakthrough award for its IHL-42X combo therapy in obstructive sleep apnea.

Medical Cannabis Access: Telemedicine is speeding up medical marijuana card access in states like Virginia and Florida, cutting weeks of paperwork and waiting-room time down to same-day virtual evaluations. Federal Policy Shift: The DOJ/DEA rescheduling move is pushing state-licensed medical operators into a new federal registration pathway (Schedule III), while recreational cannabis remains stuck in federal Schedule I—setting up a compliance and tax scramble for businesses. Regulatory Pressure: Trulieve is fighting Florida DEP wastewater discharge rules, arguing it’s an agricultural operation exempt from permit requirements. Local Enforcement & Rules: Victoria’s Cannabis Buyers Club says the province filed civil forfeiture documents to seize its Quadra St property after raids tied to licensing disputes. Public Use Debate: Mamaroneck, NY is weighing a proposal to ban smoking/vaping marijuana in outdoor public places, with fines and jail time on the table. Health Watch: ERs in the Philadelphia region report a surge in cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome cases tied to marijuana use. Research Roundup: A UCR preclinical study suggests cannabis compounds may improve metabolism and diabetes risk, while a small trial claims coconut water could reduce ulcerative colitis gut inflammation.

Cannabis & Health Watch: A Chatsworth charity fair in South Africa is under scrutiny after a mother says her 12-year-old fell ill after a stranger allegedly convinced him to try a cannabis-infused gummy, and the child-welfare group says it will review vendor rules. Product Clarity: A fresh explainer is circulating on how delta-8, delta-9, THCA and other THC forms differ in regulated hemp-derived products—highlighting how confusing labels can get. Policy Pressure: Nigeria is moving toward mandatory drug tests for secondary students, with repeat offenders facing suspension and rehab. Industry Moves: Bioxyne says it has secured the first medicinal cannabis flower supply into Costa Rica’s regulated market, expanding its LATAM footprint. Research Angle: A small double-blind trial reports daily fresh coconut water improved gut inflammation symptoms in mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis—another reminder that “wellness” claims are increasingly being tested in controlled studies.