US State Lawmakers Challenge Governor's Proposed Cannabis Amendments

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a 4/20-themed public education campaign against marijuana-impaired driving. Virginia recreational marijuana bill sponsors pushed back against Gov. Abigail Spanberger's (D) proposed amendments, saying they raise "serious concerns about fairness, access and public safety." Separately, Gov. Spanberger vetoed legislation protecting people from drug residue possession charges. Maryland lawmakers sent Gov. Wes Moore (D) a bill allowing firefighters and rescue workers to use medical cannabis off duty; the sponsor said first responders "should not be punished for seeking legal, medically prescribed relief." Tennessee lawmakers sent Gov. Bill Lee (R) legislation blocking an automatic review that could have legalized medical cannabis following federal marijuana rescheduling. The Pennsylvania House Health Committee approved a bill allowing terminally ill patients to use medical cannabis in hospitals, long-term care nursing facilities, assisted living residences, and other healthcare facilities. A new study found "vaporization reduced harmful byproducts by up to 99% compared to joint smoke," with researchers concluding combustion rather than cannabis itself drives harmful inhalation byproducts. Idaho activists report 100,000+ signatures for a medical cannabis November ballot initiative as the month-end deadline approaches. Nebraska's Medical Cannabis Commission approved licensing, business, and product rules, forwarding them to Attorney General Mike Hilgers (R) and Gov. Jim Pillen (R). Federal: The DEA promoted a podcast on the "growing dangers of vaping and high-potency cannabis among youth." The GAO reported on DOJ enforcement against unauthorized e-cigarettes. States: The Maine House rejected a medical cannabis testing and tracking bill. A New Jersey hemp restriction law took effect. California filed proposed cannabis pesticide testing rule changes. Colorado and Michigan issued marijuana compliance and tax guidance. Washington, D.C. regulators are seeking to dismiss a lawsuit over medical cannabis licensing. Oregon adopted a health plan with a strategy to "destigmatize psilocybin as a culturally responsive option for healing and wellness." Michigan retailers sold $255.5 million in legal marijuana products in March. International: British Columbia's health minister called it "disappointing" that the province reversed its drug decriminalization trial. Science: A study found CBD well tolerated in anorexia nervosa patients with indications of better weight recovery and improved eating disorder symptoms. A second study found adolescent cannabis criminal legal system-referred treatment rates fell 81.6% from 2010 to 2022. Business: Verano faces a lawsuit alleging mishandling of medical cannabis patients' private data.