Hemp Under Fire, Cannabis Festivals, How To Keep Your Weed Business Resilient

Hey there, Cannabis family! It’s Maureen here, bringing you all the latest from the ever-evolving cannabis world. Today, we’ve got some major headlines, from political moves that could shake up the industry to exciting news on cannabis festivals and cultural milestones.

And we’ve got some great advice on making and keeping your cannabis business financially resilient in an often challenging atmosphere.

Let’s dive in and break it down!

🚨 GOP Proposal Threatens Hemp Industry’s Future

The GOP-led House Appropriations Subcommittee just dropped a bombshell—introducing a bill that could drastically impact the hemp industry. The new legislation is proposing to ban most consumable cannabinoid products, including popular items like CBD that have trace amounts of THC. If passed, this could redefine hemp under federal law and essentially wipe out many of the products currently on the market.

Supporters argue it's about closing the "hemp loophole," which allowed products like Delta-8 THC and hemp flower to flood gas stations and online shops. While the prohibitionist organization Smart Approaches to Marijuana is celebrating this move, hemp advocates are sounding the alarm, warning that it could be devastating for the industry.

“[This bill] supports the Trump Administration and mandate of the American people by…closing the hemp loophole that has resulted in the proliferation of unregulated intoxicating hemp products,” the committee said in a press release.

🇺🇸 Trump Budget Plan Would Strip Medical Cannabis Protections

For the first time since 2014, a federal budget proposal from the White House seeks to repeal protections that prevent the DOJ from prosecuting state-legal medical marijuana patients and providers. If Congress agrees, patients in 39 medical cannabis states could once again be exposed to federal enforcement.

The move has raised concerns across the industry, though it remains up to lawmakers to keep or cut the language.

🌱 Colorado Eases Cannabis Rules, Expands Psychedelics Law

Governor Jared Polis signed off on new bills that reduce red tape for cannabis companies and clean up the implementation of the state’s psychedelics law. The new legislation also allows the governor to pardon past psychedelics-related offenses and updates reporting requirements for cannabis licensees.

Colorado’s evolving framework could become a national example for regulating cannabis and psychedelics hand in hand.

🌿 Island Peži Cultivation Site Opens in Minnesota

Island Peži, the dispensary launched by the Prairie Island Indian Community, is going vertical with the opening of a massive 13-acre cannabis cultivation campus. With 20+ strains already in production, the tribe says it’s all about sovereignty, sustainability, and sharing the harvest with Minnesotans.

“We are proud to take this step while respecting our traditions and ensuring responsible stewardship of our land,” said Grant Johnson, PIIC president.

💰 Strategies for a Financially Resilient Cannabis Business

Between tax challenges (hello 280E), regulatory chaos, and a shifting competitive landscape, staying solvent in the cannabis space isn’t easy. But the folks at MGO are offering key advice: build strong governance, manage cash flow, diversify revenue streams, and track performance.

In short, expect volatility—but prepare like a pro.

💌 300+ Kilos Of Cannabis Shipped As Yankee Candles!

True story: British authorities intercepted over 300kg (661 lbs!) of weed disguised as Yankee Candles shipped from the U.S. to bogus addresses in Wales. A skeptical postal worker blew the whistle, leading to a full-blown investigation.

Police said the boxes were too light to be real candles—and sure enough, they were packed with vacuum-sealed bud.

🎶 The Miracle in Mundelein Returns—With Damian Marley & More

RYTHM Premium Cannabis and Green Thumb Industries (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) are bringing back The Miracle in Mundelein this September—and it’s bigger than ever. Damian Marley, De La Soul, Umphrey’s McGee, and Dark Star Orchestra are all set to light up the stage in one of the only U.S. festivals with legal on-site consumption.

CEO Ben Kovler called it a cultural milestone for cannabis, music, and community. We agree.

🎤 D.C.’s Black-Owned National Cannabis Fest Is Back

Set for July 18–19, the National Cannabis Festival is returning to Washington D.C. with a purpose. Founder Caroline Phillips is bringing together Big Boi, Three 6 Mafia, Ty Dolla $ign, and Curren$y for a two-day party-meets-policy summit at RFK Stadium Festival Grounds.

More than 35,000 are expected to turn up for this East Coast staple focused on equity and advocacy in cannabis.

✊ Trulieve Launches "Roll-Up for Justice" Campaign

Trulieve Cannabis Corp (OTC: TCNNF) just launched “Roll-Up for Justice,” a campaign to raise money for Mission [Green], which helps free those still imprisoned for outdated cannabis laws. Customers can round up their purchase to the nearest dollar at Trulieve stores in five states, with every penny going toward cannabis clemency.

Founder Weldon Angelos said, “Together, we can turn spare change into real change.”

 🌿That’s a wrap for today’s Cannabis Daily! Stay high on the news and low on the drama—we’ll catch you tomorrow. ✌️

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