Cannabis Beverage Growth, Mike Tyson’s DEA Visit, Florida’s MMJ Struggles, Mississippi Tribe Moves

Hey there, Benzinga Cannabis community! Maureen here, bringing you today’s top headlines. We’ve got a jam-packed update for you today, so let’s get into the latest shifts in the cannabis world. From an exciting new breakthrough in the cannabis beverage sector to some major developments on the policy front, today’s roundup has all the key stories you need to stay in the know.

Yesterday’s Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago wrapped up successfully, and it was a hotbed for fresh perspectives and big ideas. Whether it was the growth potential of cannabis beverages or new legislative challenges in states like Florida and Mississippi, there’s no shortage of action. And there’s another bankruptcy to report.

We’re diving into these hot topics and more below, so grab your coffee, sit back, and let’s get caught up on all things cannabis.

🍻 Cannabis Beverage Sector: Big Potential, But Education Is Key

The cannabis beverage sector is buzzing with potential, but there’s a significant challenge ahead: educating consumers. At the 2025 Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Chicago, a panel of industry experts discussed the growth opportunities in this space, especially with larger beverage companies like Boston Beer Company (NYSE: SAM) entering the market.

Paul Weaver, Head of Cannabis at Boston Beer, shared his thoughts: “We think this is a source of long-term growth for us,” adding that cannabis beverages could be an ideal entry point for new cannabis users, especially those hesitant to step into a dispensary. Products like their cannabis-infused iced tea, Teapot, could be the game-changer.

Other experts on the panel, including Ted Whitney from Cheech and Chong Global Holding Company and Kyle Cooke, CEO of Loverboy, highlighted the growing consumer demand for cannabis-infused beverages, as alcohol consumption trends continue to drop. Whitney emphasized that people “needing better access to recreational relief” is fueling interest in cannabis drinks, while Cooke noted the “monumental shift” away from traditional alcoholic beverages.

🚨 Florida Bill Could Revoke Marijuana Cards From Some Medical Patients

In Florida, lawmakers are advancing a controversial bill that could revoke medical marijuana registrations for people convicted of cannabis-related crimes. Under the proposed legislation, individuals with convictions for purchasing over 10 grams of cannabis would lose their medical marijuana access.

This bill is causing quite a stir, especially as it affects both patients and caregivers. While the language isn’t final, House lawmakers have signaled their willingness to include this restriction, adding another layer of complexity to Florida’s medical marijuana landscape.

🥊 Mike Tyson Promotes Cannabis Brand Amid DEA Lab Visit

Mike Tyson isn’t just throwing punches in the ring—he’s also working to break down barriers in the cannabis space. Tyson visited a DEA lab this week, touring the facility with a federal prosecutor and promoting his cannabis brand’s commitment to safety.

Tyson, who’s been vocal about the need for cannabis education, spoke about his newfound understanding of fentanyl risks after his visit, saying, “I just found out that a pin of fentanyl can kill somebody.” He also spoke about his cannabis brand, which is dedicated to high-quality, safe products.

The visit came just a day after a photo of Tyson with President Trump surfaced, adding another layer of intrigue to Tyson’s public cannabis advocacy.

🏛 GOP-Led Panel Calls For Investigation Into Biden’s Cannabis Rescheduling

A GOP-led House Appropriations Committee is demanding an investigation into the cannabis rescheduling process under the Biden administration, citing “deviations” from previous reviews and expressing concerns over “mental health hazards” related to high-potency marijuana.

The committee has attached their concerns to a large-scale spending bill for the 2026 fiscal year. Their report also touches on the potential mental health risks of cannabis, especially among teens, and calls for further research into links between marijuana and conditions like schizophrenia.

This move is reigniting debates over cannabis policy and its potential implications for public health.

💥 4Front Ventures Enters Bankruptcy Proceedings

In a tough turn for 4Front Ventures Corp. (CSE: FFNT, OTC: FFNTF), the company has officially entered bankruptcy proceedings in Canada under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act. This follows their previous petition for receivership in the U.S.

The company’s board cited significant liabilities and a lack of available financing as the driving forces behind the decision to enter restructuring. This marks a significant moment for the cannabis company, as they seek an orderly sale of their businesses.

🍄 Religious Leaders Report Positive Effects From Psilocybin

A new study reveals that religious leaders from various faiths reported profound spiritual experiences and improved effectiveness in their roles after using psilocybin, the psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms.

In fact, 96% of the clergy who participated in the study rated the experience as one of the most spiritually significant of their lives. The study suggests that psychedelics can lead to deeper spiritual practices, including enhanced prayer, meditation, and interfaith understanding.

This research challenges the long-standing notion that psychedelic experiences are incompatible with faith-based practices.

💸 Tilray Stockholders Approve Reverse Stock Split

Tilray Brands, Inc. (Nasdaq: TLRY; TSX: TLRY) has announced that its stockholders approved a reverse stock split at a ratio ranging from 1-to-10 to 1-to-20. However, the company has paused implementation as it evaluates the best timing for this move.

The reverse split is aimed at ensuring compliance with Nasdaq Global Select Market’s continued listing requirements, making Tilray more attractive to institutional investors, and saving up to $1 million annually on shareholder meeting costs.

🌍 Area 52 Expands Nationwide, Now Shipping to Texas

Big news from Area 52, the online dispensary making waves for shipping premium hemp-derived products to all 50 U.S. states, including Texas.

Founder of Area 52 boasted that, unlike other companies, they've cracked the code to legally ship cannabis products nationwide, ensuring strict compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill. This milestone means legal, top-tier products like Delta 8 and Delta 9 edibles are now available in Texas—a major victory for the industry and consumers alike.

🌿 Mississippi Tribe Votes to Legalize Marijuana

The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians has voted to approve a referendum to legalize marijuana within its jurisdiction. The vote passed with 55% in favor, making it the first jurisdiction in Mississippi to take this step toward cannabis legalization.

While the vote does not automatically legalize marijuana, it marks a significant milestone in the state’s cannabis reform movement, with the tribe planning to develop legislation to regulate marijuana within its territory.

🌱 That’s a wrap for today’s edition! Stay tuned and stay lifted —we’ll be back with more updates and insights from the cannabis industry tomorrow. Thanks for reading!

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