Hey Benzinga Cannabis Community, Maureen Meehan here bringing you today’s top cannabis industry news, hot and fresh. We’ve got some exciting developments from the stock market to the political sphere, plus a bit of sports (Travis Kelce!) and pop culture (cannabis meets Call of Duty) for good measure.

So grab your coffee, sit back, and let’s dive right in.

In today's issue:

• 💸 Cannabis Stocks Make a Comeback in April!

• 🇺🇸 Politics & Cannabis: Big Moves on the Horizon

• 🌿 Stateside: Legalization Buzz Heats Up IN PA, Oh …

• 🚨 Legal Drama: MMJ vs. DEA

• 🌍 Global Moves: Cayman Islands

• 🏈 Marijuana’s Impact on the NFL

• 🎮 Weed Meets Gaming: A New Call of Duty Map

Cannabis Stocks Bounce Higher in April

The cannabis market has shown some positive movement in April, giving investors a little more to smile about. The Global Cannabis Stock Index, which had a rough start to 2025, rebounded this month with a rise of 11.5%. After a rollercoaster ride that saw some heavy losses earlier in the year, we’re finally seeing some upward momentum.

The stars of the month? Canopy Growth (NASDAQ: CGC), Glass House Brands (OTC: GLASF), and Verano Holdings (OTC: VRNOF) all saw gains of 38% or more. But not everyone joined the rally. Tilray Brands (NASDAQ: TLRY), Scotts Miracle-Gro (NYSE: SMG) and Jazz Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: JAZZ) had a rough go, with Tilray dropping a significant 26.2%.

Check out the full breakdown of April's cannabis stock performance, including a detailed look at the American Cannabis Operator Index and Ancillary Cannabis Index right here.

🧠💊 VA Secretary Talks Psychedelics for Veterans’ Mental Health

In a Cabinet meeting with President Donald Trump, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Doug Collins discussed the potential of psychedelics to address the ongoing suicide crisis among military veterans. While Collins didn’t get into specifics, he noted that the VA is exploring the option of psychedelic treatments for veterans suffering from mental health challenges. The conversation highlighted the growing interest in alternative therapies and marked a significant moment in the intersection of psychedelics, cannabis, and veteran care.

Cannabis Push in Pennsylvania Gains Bipartisan Support

Pennsylvania is seeing a renewed push for recreational cannabis legalization, with key figures in the state’s legislature coming together to propose new bills. With Pennsylvania facing a budget gap and losing out on cannabis tax revenue to neighboring states, lawmakers are eyeing legal marijuana as a way to bridge the gap. State Reps. Emily Kinkead (D-Pittsburgh) and Abby Major (R-Armstrong) are leading the charge with a bill that would allow the private market to run dispensaries, which they believe is the key to securing GOP support.

For more details, check out the full story on the Pennsylvania cannabis debate here.

🍃💼 Ohio Senate Votes to Require Hemp Products to be Sold in Marijuana Dispensaries

The Ohio Senate has voted to limit the sale of certain hemp products to marijuana dispensaries, aiming to address the gray market surrounding delta-8 THC products. If this legislation passes, dispensaries will have exclusive rights to sell intoxicating hemp products, with a tax on sales to benefit the state.

MMJ to File Emergency Injunction Against DEA’s ‘Unconstitutional Marijuana Hearing’

In legal news, MMJ BioPharma Cultivation is making waves by taking action against the DEA. The company is preparing to file an emergency motion to block an administrative hearing, arguing that the DEA’s actions are unconstitutional. MMJ, which has been waiting years to cultivate cannabis for research purposes, claims that the DEA unlawfully delayed its application and caused significant financial harm. This legal battle could have major implications for cannabis research moving forward.

🇰🇾🌿 Cayman Islands Voters Approve Marijuana Decriminalization Referendum

Big news from the Caribbean: Voters in the Cayman Islands have approved a referendum that supports removing criminal penalties for the possession and consumption of small amounts of cannabis. Although this referendum doesn’t legalize cannabis outright, it signals a shift in the territory’s approach to cannabis law, which could set the stage for broader reform in the region.

Travis Kelce Reflects on Marijuana Suspension and NFL Draft Stock

Finally, in sports, Travis Kelce, the star tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, took a moment to reflect on how his college suspension for marijuana use impacted his NFL Draft stock. Kelce, who was suspended during his time at the University of Cincinnati, admitted that the situation almost derailed his football career, but it ultimately shaped who he is today.

🌿🎮 Here’s a Look at the New Call of Duty’s Weed-Themed Nuketown Map

In gaming news, Call of Duty has launched a weed-themed version of its iconic Nuketown map, called Blazetown, as part of the Season 3 Reloaded update. This fun, colorful twist features stoner vibes, with Jay and Silent Bob operator skins taking center stage.

That’s all for today, friends! Stay tuned for more news and don’t forget to follow Cannabis Daily for your daily dose of cannabis updates. Until tomorrow!! ✌️🌱

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