This week’s newsletter covers the uncertain future of cannabis legalization under the Trump administration, alarming findings about synthetic cannabinoids in unregulated hemp products, the cancellation of federal marijuana research grants, and a sweeping THC ban passed by the Texas Senate.
Noteworthy Read
Donald Trump Is Going to Ruin Legal Marijuana (New Republic)
In this op-ed from The New Republic, the author discusses the potential negative impacts of President Trump’s approach to legalization. The article suggests that Trump’s efforts to reclassify and legalize marijuana could lead to increased corporatization and consolidation within the cannabis industry, potentially sidelining smaller businesses and affecting consumers.
More Noteworthy Reading
California Lab Tests Expose Massive Fraud, Illegal Products & the Cannabis Equivalent of Ultra-Processed Junk Food (Project CBD)
A new study from an industry advocacy group in California examines the content of dozens of unregulated intoxicating “hemp” products that are easily available in the Golden State despite being banned by state law.
The study’s findings indicate that many so-called hemp products are infused with synthetic psychoactive cannabinoids, which can actually make users feel loopier than natural Delta-9 THC. What’s more, synthesized Delta-9 THC is present in many of these products, despite being prohibited in both California’s cannabis and hemp programs. And finally, these products, mostly vended through websites, are effectively dodging the taxman — raising no revenues for state or local governments.
Read more
View more in Synthetic Cannabinoids
Research Round-Up
Musk’s DOGE Touts Cancellation of Marijuana Research Grant from Federal Health Agency (Marijuana Moment)
A parody account affiliated with Elon Musk highlighted the federal government’s quiet cancellation of a marijuana research grant, sparking criticism over the slow pace and inconsistent support for cannabis science.
Major Cannabis Brand Donated $250,000 to Trump’s Inauguration (Marijuana Moment)
A major cannabis company contributed $250,000 to Donald Trump’s 2017 inauguration, reflecting early efforts by industry leaders to gain political traction and support for federal reform.
Milwaukee Mother Deported to Laos Over Cannabis Plea Deal (Yahoo News)
A Milwaukee woman was deported to Laos after taking a plea deal for a nonviolent cannabis charge, drawing attention to how harsh immigration policies intersect with evolving drug laws.
Texas Senate Passes Bill Banning All Forms and Any Amount of THC (Ganjapreneur)
The Texas Senate has passed a sweeping ban on all forms and concentrations of THC, a move that would effectively outlaw most cannabis and hemp-derived products in the state.
A heartfelt thank you to all of the CBD brands whose generous support makes it possible for Project CBD to shine a light on the research and stories that matter most to the plant medicine community. We are grateful for every one of you.
