Newsletter
Trump’s drug czar says cannabis is a “bipartisan issue” (Newsletter: September 18, 2025)
GOP senator: Congress must “step up” on marijuana; Dem lawmaker talks Trump & cannabis; OH’s $3B in sales; Study: cannabis as tobacco substitute
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/ TOP THINGS TO KNOW
Sara Carter, President Donald Trump’s nominee for director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, said the administration is continuing to “explore all options” on a pending marijuana rescheduling proposal—declining to take a clear position on what she called a “bipartisan issue.”
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) said it’s time for the federal government to “step up” as more states legalize marijuana and “get serious about regulatory regimens.”
- “Congress needs to step up and try to figure out how we can manage this, exploit its efficacy in areas that are helpful, particularly for the treatment of persons with PTSD” and pain.
Congressional Cannabis Caucus Co-chair Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) told Marijuana Moment that President Donald Trump’s rescheduling comments have led to increased discussions about the issue on Capitol Hill, and that industry banking access is something she’ll “continue to push for.”
The Ohio Division of Cannabis Control reported that retailers have now sold more than $3 billion worth of legal marijuana products, and that the average price per gram is currently $6.55.
A new study looking at 20 countries found that higher medical marijuana sales are linked to lower tobacco and amphetamine use rates—suggesting a “strong potential substitution effect.”
- “The observed substitution effect with tobacco consumption suggests that as [medical cannabis] becomes more accessible, a portion of consumers may reduce tobacco use.”
/ FEDERAL
Cannabis entrepreneur Wanda James is running for a Colorado congressional seat.
The House bill to move marijuana to Schedule III got one new cosponsor for a total of one.
/ STATES
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) discussed his support for regulating hemp products.
A Florida representative authored an op-ed urging President Donald Trump to reschedule marijuana.
A Hawaii representative spoke about how legalizing marijuana could boost tourism.
A Pennsylvania senator tweeted, “Are you against intoxicating hemp being sold to teens with no age checks? Me too. It’s time for a Pennsylvania Cannabis Control Board.”
Maryland regulators announced a recall of marijuana products due to the presence of total coliforms.
Oklahoma’s top medical cannabis regulator said she expects the number of businesses in the industry to continue to decrease, as “some people are just closing up shop because they just can’t make money right now.”
A Connecticut regulator’s decision to order an unannounced inspection on a cannabis business after its CEO testified at a legislative hearing is detailed in newly revealed documents.
New Jersey regulators sent guidance about cannabis consumption areas.
California regulators sent an update about cannabis business compliance inspections and other issues.
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/ LOCAL
The St. Louis County, Missouri Council delayed a vote on a proposal to restrict sales of intoxicating hemp products to marijuana dispensaries.
/ INTERNATIONAL
Colombian President Gustavo Petro criticized the U.S.’s decision to decertify the country as a partner in the “war on drugs.”
Jersey’s attorney general issued guidance on how law enforcement should deal with low-level drug possession.
/ SCIENCE & HEALTH
A review concluded that “studies suggest that phytocannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), along with endogenous and synthetic compounds such as palmitoyletanolamide (PEA) and dronabinol, can improve [atopic dermatitis] symptoms, primarily because of their anti-inflammatory, antipruritic and antioxidant properties.”
A study found that “psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy appears safe and may offer durable relief from depression and anxiety in individuals with a life-threatening illness.”
/ ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS
The Hemp Beverage Alliance is establishing a coalition to create and support a regulatory framework for hemp beverages in Michigan.
/ BUSINESS
High Times filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against a company that allegedly fraudulently registered its name to sell dog food, alcohol and other products.
Canopy Growth Corporation has a new chief financial officer.
Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. announced a quarterly dividend.
Virginia dispensaries sold $29.9 million worth of medical cannabis products in July and August.
/ CULTURE
Matthew McConaughey and Joe Rogan discussed psychedelics.
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Photo courtesy of Chris Wallis // Side Pocket Images.
