AGP Executive Report

Georgia Medical Cannabis Expansion: Georgia’s “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act” (SB 220) took effect Wednesday, dropping the old 5% THC cap, renaming the program to “medical cannabis,” adding qualifying conditions like lupus, HIV, PTSD, and inflammatory bowel disease, and authorizing vaporized products—moves that dispensary leaders say could rapidly boost patient access. Back Pain + Opioid-Sparing Research: A new study on inhaled medical cannabis for treatment-resistant lower back pain reports sustained pain improvements and major reductions in opioid use, positioning cannabis as a potentially meaningful, opioid-sparing option after other therapies fail. Parkinson’s Sleep/Pain Gains: Observational data from Israel links daily medical cannabis use with “meaningful benefits” for Parkinson’s non-motor symptoms, including better sleep, pain relief, and fewer nighttime urinary issues. DEA Scheduling Push: The DEA is moving to temporarily place 7-OH and related substances (and other orphines) into Schedule I via emergency scheduling, signaling tighter controls for certain kratom-derived and synthetic opioid compounds. Hemp Ban Fight: With a federal hemp-derived product ban looming, lawmakers and industry groups are pushing back on proposed limits that could knock out most of the current market. CBD Label Literacy Launch: CBDrmd.com rolled out a CBD label education hub aimed at helping shoppers read lab reports, THC disclosures, ingredients, and refund/subscription terms before buying. Tennessee THCA/kratom Crackdown: A July 1 law restricts THCA products to 0.3% by weight and bans kratom sales statewide, with retailers warning it’s a tough blow and enforcement risk. Kentucky Farmer Affordability Concerns: Kentucky legislators heard testimony about sticker shock and uneven pricing for medical cannabis compared with other states, with questions about whether local farmers and patients are getting a fair deal. Global Drug Market Update: A new UNODC World Drug Report says global drug markets are evolving fast—new routes, mixes, and consumer patterns—while policy struggles to keep up. Pet Safety for July 4: Oregon’s “Rethink the Drink” campaign targets holiday alcohol harms, while pet-focused coverage warns fireworks can trigger panic and missing pets.

Medical Cannabis Expansion (Georgia): Georgia’s medical cannabis program just expanded under a new law, lifting the old 5% THC cap and adding new qualifying conditions plus new product options like flower and vaping—patients say faster relief matters most. Product Safety (Arizona): Arizona recalled a marijuana product after inspectors found a lab misreported failed Aspergillus testing as passing; officials say no illnesses reported yet and urge at-risk buyers to toss it. CBD Research (Anxiety/Depression): A new preclinical review in Molecular Psychiatry suggests CBD could help anxiety- and depression-like behaviors and cognition in animal studies, but human benefits still aren’t proven. Sleep & Dosing (Melatonin): A sleep-aid spotlight warns that melatonin can be helpful but product inconsistencies and improper dosing can cause real harms. Policy Watch (Tennessee): Tennessee’s THCA ban took effect July 1, tightening what hemp retailers can sell, while lawmakers and businesses brace for fallout. Addiction & Recovery (Kratom/Kava): North Carolina coverage highlights the ongoing debate over kratom and 7-OH access, with doctors and policymakers arguing over addiction risk vs. availability. Public Health (Heat): Health officials issued heat-safety reminders to prevent heat cramps, exhaustion, and stroke. Local Life (Pets & Fireworks): Animal groups urge pet owners to keep alcohol, cannabis products, and other toxins away during Fourth of July celebrations.

Georgia Medical Cannabis Expansion: Georgia’s “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act” kicks in July 1, dropping the old 5% THC cap and letting licensed dispensaries sell flower and vape, plus adding new qualifying conditions like lupus and intractable pain—supporters say it could rapidly grow patient access. Tennessee THCA Ban: Tennessee’s THCA product ban starts July 1 under HB 1376, tightening what hemp shoppers can buy and raising concerns for businesses that built sales around THCA pre-rolls and similar products. Medical Cannabis Access + Safety: A separate Georgia update highlights that patients can now vape at home (21+), with more product types available beyond low-THC oils. Emergency Room Warning: Doctors report a rise in marijuana-induced illness, pointing to cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) as an underrecognized cause of severe vomiting in heavy users. Pets & CBD/Cannabis Caution: Fourth of July fireworks anxiety is driving pet losses, and shelters warn to keep toxic items out of reach—including alcohol, lighter fluid, and cannabis products. Public Health Alert: South Carolina confirmed a rabid raccoon near Columbia; two people were exposed and should contact healthcare providers. Outdoor Health Reminder: Poison ivy stories are popping up again—one Newmarket resident described a month of worsening rash and breathing trouble before getting the right diagnosis.

Medical Cannabis Policy: Georgia’s Patient First Act kicks in July 1, expanding qualifying conditions (including HIV, lupus, IBS), removing the 5% THC cap, and adding vaporization options—dispensaries expect a surge. Rescheduling Fight: State-licensed medical marijuana operators move to intervene in the D.C. Circuit rescheduling litigation, arguing they’re already complying with DEA/FDA pathways while others challenge the rules. Hemp Crackdowns: Tennessee’s new hemp laws start July 1, banning online sales and limiting cannabinoids (including THCA), pushing some businesses to close or relocate; Wisconsin hemp shop owners rally against a looming federal THC limit. Public Health & Safety: An EPA roundtable is set to address safety concerns around paraquat, linked in research to Parkinson’s risk. Cannabis Enforcement Abroad: Customs in Ahmedabad seized 467.5g of suspected ganja from a Thailand parcel declared as “wooden blocks.” Community Health: A clinical psychologist warns poor sleep is fueling anxiety and depression, citing widespread short sleep and emotional regulation impacts. Local Drug Case: A Brenham man was arrested after a traffic stop turned up meth and marijuana, plus syringes with methamphetamine.

EPA & Public Health: The Trump EPA approved more “forever chemical” pesticides (PFAS) for corn and soybeans, adding diflufenican and epyrifenacil and expanding other chemical allowances—sparking fresh backlash from health and environmental groups. CBD Consumer Watch: CBDWatchlist.com launched a 2026 Transparency Review for CBD gummies and CBD oil, pushing consumers to compare lab tests, labeling, and refund/shipping terms before buying. Medical Cannabis Access: Florida says its medical marijuana program stays available after recreational ballot efforts failed to qualify or pass, keeping qualifying patients on the existing medical track. Hemp Under Pressure (Wisconsin): Wisconsin hemp shop owners rallied against a new federal ban that could shut many THC-over-limit hemp products starting in November; customers cite pain relief and endometriosis support. Rescheduling Hearing (DEA/FDA): On day one of marijuana rescheduling, DEA and FDA framed cannabis as having medical value and lower abuse/overdose risk than alcohol and opioids. Pain Research: A new study reports inhaled cannabis may deliver large, sustained improvements in treatment-resistant lower back pain while reducing reliance on opioids and other meds. Industry/Business: Avicanna promoted Nick Hilborn to CFO, signaling continued push in plant-derived cannabinoid products.

DEA Rescheduling & Medical Access: A Massachusetts ballot measure would repeal recreational cannabis laws while keeping medical marijuana legal, but it raises questions about who qualifies for cards and what it would cost patients to keep access. Hawaii CBD Crackdown: Hawaii’s new hemp/CBD rules start enforcement Wednesday, with many shops reportedly unregistered and products on shelves potentially illegal—retailers warn they could lose most inventory. Virginia Budget + Retail Pot Plans: Virginia’s budget amendments are finalized, including a plan to launch retail marijuana stores and new rules that will affect law enforcement and other sectors as July 1 laws kick in. Medical Cannabis Business Move: Tilray Brands expands its medical cannabis platform and Canadian patient access via the HelloMD acquisition. Public Health Watch: A study finds obesity may worsen breathing during exercise for young e-cigarette users, suggesting routine lung tests may miss exertional effects. Cannabis in the Courts: Hemp sellers head to court to fight new rules, while separate legal battles keep swirling around cannabis policy and enforcement. Roundup Fallout (Adjacent): The Supreme Court’s Monsanto/Roundup liability shield is prompting EPA to continue glyphosate reviews amid MAHA backlash.

DEA Rescheduling Hearing: On opening day, DEA lawyers argued cannabis should be judged by medical benefits versus risks, while critics say reform supporters were shut out and the session wasn’t livestreamed. Legal Cannabis Business: Tilray moved to expand Canada access by buying HelloMD, aiming to connect education, physician support, and direct-to-patient fulfillment. Court Shock for Weedkiller Claims: The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Monsanto/Bayer in Roundup labeling liability, with lawmakers now pushing to restore consumers’ ability to sue. Virginia Policy Watch: Virginia lawmakers approved Spanberger’s budget amendments, and the state’s legal cannabis rollout is still tied to the budget timeline. Hemp/Marijuana Rules Shift: Farmers and retailers are bracing for changing state and federal hemp and marijuana regulations. Medical Cannabis in the Market: A Minnesota operator rebranded from low-THC to full recreational sales, signaling how licensing changes can rapidly reshape local product availability. Global Drug Use: A UN report says 331M people used drugs in 2024, with cannabis still the most widely used.

Cannabis & Sleep: A National Sleep Foundation-funded survey found nearly 10% of U.S. adults use cannabis to sleep, but users reported poorer sleep quality than non-users, keeping the debate alive over whether it helps or traps people in worse patterns. Pain & Health Claims: A personal account of complex regional pain syndrome highlights how severe chronic pain can be life-altering, while another piece notes insomnia’s links to health risks—both fueling demand for safer, clearer options. Legal/Policy Shockwaves: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of Roundup “failure to warn” cancer lawsuits, a major blow to people trying to hold pesticide makers accountable. Public Health & Drug Trends: The UN World Drug Report says global drug use hit a record 331 million users in 2024, with cannabis still the most used and cocaine at record levels. Enforcement: Nigeria’s NDLEA reported major seizures, including 4,959 kg of Canadian “Loud” cannabis and 7.5 kg of cocaine hidden in luggage.

Sleep & CBD/Cannabis Use: A National Sleep Foundation-funded survey says nearly 10% of US adults use cannabis to sleep, but users report poorer sleep quality and researchers can’t tell if cannabis causes the problem or people turn to it because sleep is already bad. Adolescent Mental Health: A major JAMA Health Forum study tracking teens into young adulthood links cannabis use in adolescence to higher later risks of psychotic disorders and bipolar disorder (about double for both). THC Drinks Q&A: The HAZE Company’s Adrian Larrea talks scaling delta-9 THC beverages and the patchwork of state rules that keep changing for hemp-derived drink makers. Legal THC Access for Teens: Wisconsin prevention groups are pushing policies to limit youth access to legal THC products like delta-8/delta-10 edibles and vapes. Enforcement Roundup (Cannabis & Cocaine): Nigeria’s NDLEA reports a Lagos port seizure of 4,959kg of Canadian Loud cannabis and arrests tied to cocaine hidden in luggage. Road Safety (Cannabis Driving): A UK court heard a driver used a THC joint believing it was a cigarette; he was banned from driving for a year. Public Health & Policy: A Supreme Court ruling blocks pesticide makers from failure-to-warn lawsuits over cancer warnings, adding pressure to how regulators handle label risk.

World Cup & Health-Care Crossover: Congo stunned Uzbekistan 3-1 to reach the knockout stage for the first time, setting up a clash with England—yet the bigger takeaway for Medical Bud News readers is how quickly “mainstream” attention is moving toward wellness and mental health conversations. Public Health & Youth THC: Dane County officials are pushing policies to limit teen access to legal THC products, warning that hemp-derived Delta 8/10 can end up in vapes and candy-like edibles. Mental Health Risks: A major JAMA Health Forum study links teen cannabis use to about double the later risk of psychotic and bipolar disorders, with diagnoses often showing up years after use. Road Safety: A UK driver was banned for a year after being caught smoking a THC joint while driving, with a blood test placing him over the legal limit. Drug Enforcement: Nigeria’s NDLEA seized 4,959kg of Canadian “Loud” cannabis worth billions at Lagos’ Apapa Port and arrested a woman with 7.5kg of cocaine at the airport. CBD/THC in Pet Care: A D.C.-area pet owner plans to use CBD/THC drops to calm a fireworks-anxious dog for July 4. Kansas Kratom Crackdown: Kansas’ kratom and 7-OH ban starts July 1, with local health and law enforcement preparing for withdrawals and emergency-room risk.

Global Drug Use Snapshot: The UNODC World Drug Report 2026 says 331 million people used drugs in 2024 (6.2% of the world’s 15–64 population), with cannabis still leading (256M users) as synthetic substances keep reshaping markets. Courtroom & CBD-adjacent Legal Climate: A Supreme Court ruling blocks thousands of Roundup cancer lawsuits via federal preemption, adding to the broader legal pressure on how health claims get litigated. Mental Health + Cannabis in Focus: In a Dominguez retrial, an expert testified that cannabis worsens severe mental illness, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Local Policy Watch (Herbicides, not CBD but health-adjacent): Ashland, Oregon paused glyphosate spraying and is weighing a longer-term weed management plan after resident pushback. Community Cannabis Culture: Idaho’s Boise Hempfest returns July 16 with family-friendly vendors and speakers aimed at reducing stigma and pushing for legal cannabis. Drug Enforcement Updates: Nigeria’s NDLEA reported major seizures and arrests tied to International Day Against Drug Abuse, including large cannabis and psychotropic hauls.

Global Drug Snapshot: The UNODC World Drug Report 2026 says 331 million people used drugs in 2024 (6.2% of adults 15–64), with cannabis still the most-used drug (256M) as synthetic substances keep reshaping risk. Idaho Kratom Crackdown: Idaho lawmakers delayed a full kratom ban after hearings on HB 864, which would schedule kratom derivatives and could criminalize users and sellers; the debate also centers on 7-OH potency. Hemp/THC Retail Pressure: Wisconsin cannabis shops say a new federal hemp rule (Nov. 12) could shut them down by banning hemp products above 0.3% delta-9 THC. Packaging for Kids: Oklahoma’s new medical marijuana packaging law targets kid-appealing designs after a child ate a high-dose THC gummy. Federal Court Ripple: The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Monsanto/Bayer in Roundup labeling and liability fights, a win that’s fueling backlash from MAHA activists. Local CBD/Canna Business: Stillwater Hemp in Montana highlights pain and sleep-focused cannabinoid products for people and pets.

DEA Rescheduling Push: Marijuana Moment and Rep. Steve Cohen are asking the DEA to livestream next week’s federal marijuana rescheduling hearings, arguing the process should be truly public. Courtroom Blow to Weedkiller Claims: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of Roundup cancer lawsuits, limiting state “failure to warn” claims and dealing a major setback to plaintiffs. CBD/THC Policy Clash: A federal judge temporarily paused parts of Ohio’s new hemp law, reigniting debate with Michigan’s tightly regulated THC market. Sleep Gummies Review: A firsthand look at Canna River’s CBD+CBN sleep gummies claims fast, non-foggy nighttime relief. Pain-Patient Testimony: DEA says a doctor will testify that medical marijuana benefits pain patients in the rescheduling record. Drug Enforcement Numbers: NDLEA reports large cannabis and other drug seizures plus arrests in Bayelsa and Edo, alongside counseling and rehab efforts. Kansas Opioid Warning: Kansas is moving to ban kratom and 7-OH starting July 1, with officials urging residents to dispose of products before the deadline.

Supreme Court & Pesticides: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of Roundup cancer lawsuits, ruling Monsanto/Bayer can’t be sued under state “failure to warn” claims—fueling fresh backlash from MAHA supporters. Regulation Watch: The EPA says it’s stepping up enforcement against smuggled, unapproved pesticides entering via L.A./Long Beach, including a seized “SNIPER” product. CBD/Wellness Product News: A new review finds CBD-based acne treatments may cut acne and inflammation (up to ~40% in some studies), while “Topical CBD Calms Acne Redness” points to growing consumer interest. Medical Cannabis Access: Rutgers Health reports older adults use cannabis more but discuss it with doctors far less—raising safety concerns for people on multiple meds. Policy/Market Pressure: Wisconsin cannabis shops warn a new federal hemp law (starting Nov. 12) could effectively ban many THC/CBD products, threatening jobs. Enforcement & Illicit Drugs: Nigeria’s NDLEA says it destroyed 51 hectares of cannabis and arrested 281 suspects in Ekiti for World Drug Day. Criminal Justice: An Austin man was sentenced to 20 years for fentanyl distribution resulting in death.

Supreme Court Roundup Fallout: The U.S. Supreme Court blocked thousands of state lawsuits against Bayer/Monsanto over Roundup cancer warning claims, ruling federal pesticide labeling rules preempt state “failure to warn” suits—an 8-1/7-2 style win that could reshape liability for glyphosate. CBD for Skin: A new review in Molecules points to CBD-containing hemp extracts as promising for acne and skin inflammation, citing findings of up to ~40% acne reduction over 12 weeks. Cannabis Rescheduling Hearing: A DEA judge set the schedule for the June 29 marijuana rescheduling hearing, with only opponents invited—raising concerns reform advocates won’t get a fair hearing. Adolescent Cannabis Warning: Deschutes County health officials flagged early cannabis use risks, including mental health effects and higher odds of later cannabis use disorder, noting today’s products are more potent. Medical Cannabis in Public Health: Rx Kids’ cash-stipend program is credited with cutting Flint neonatal deaths roughly in half, with reported drops in preterm birth, low birth weight, and NICU admissions. Local Retail: Sweetspot Cannabis Dispensary opened in Hamilton Township, NJ, with a weekend grand opening and promotions. Animal Appetite Study: Research suggests THC can drive “munchies” in both rats and humans, hinting at shared biology behind appetite changes.

Paraquat Crackdown: Vermont became the first U.S. state to ban paraquat, a weed killer tied by advocates to Parkinson’s disease, while farmers warn the move could squeeze margins. Hemp Rules Update: Washington State’s agriculture department finalized new hemp production rules, including license fees, criminal-history reporting, THC testing, and tighter sampling timelines. Cannabis Policy Shift (Ireland): An Oireachtas committee recommended repealing a key Misuse of Drugs Act section to fully decriminalise possession of drugs for personal use, keeping trafficking powers intact. DEA Rescheduling Hearing: A DEA judge set the schedule for next week’s marijuana rescheduling hearing, with multiple groups slated to present. Medicinal Cannabis & Driving (Australia): NSW’s proposed medical cannabis driving bill would stop automatic penalties for eligible patients who aren’t impaired, though roadside testing and bans still apply. Local Enforcement (UK): PSNI says nine cannabis factories were found in a £1.1m drugs bust, with multiple arrests across Fermanagh and South Tyrone. Roadside Cannabis Case (UK): A driver in Cumbria admitted driving with THC above the legal limit, saying cannabis use was meant to help with depression and calming. Hemp Industry Trust: A cannabinoid sector piece argues the next phase of CBD depends on quality and clinical validation, not just product visibility.