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Trump's Controversial Cannabis Stance, Snoop Goes To University & More!
Plus, the one place Seth Rogen won't smoke.
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Happy Friday, Benzinga Cannabis community! Maureen Meehan here with the latest buzz in the world of cannabis. Today, we've got a little bit of everything—politics, new dispensary openings, celebrity vibes, research challenges and even a fresh approach to packaging.
So, grab your favorite snack and let’s dive into today’s top cannabis stories.
In today's issue:
Politics & Regulation 🏛️
On Friday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful," and let’s just say it’s raising some eyebrows in the cannabis world. The order includes a task force designed to revitalize Washington D.C., but it’s not all good news for cannabis advocates.
In the fact sheet, cannabis decriminalization is described as a failed policy that “opened the door to disorder.” Yikes. While some industry members still hold out hope for cannabis banking reform—something Trump previously endorsed—this latest move isn't exactly an encouraging signal.
🎤 Pop Culture & Celebrities
Even Seth Rogen has boundaries when it comes to cannabis! In an interview on The Howard Stern Show, Rogen revealed that he spent three days in Singapore back in 2012 and learned the hard way that weed is a big no-no there. The country’s anti-drug laws are no joke, with a warning on visitors' passports that essentially says, “we’ll literally fucking kill you if you smoke weed here.” Definitely a place to keep your stash at home.
🎓 Snoop Dogg To Deliver USC Business School’s Commencement Speech
Snoop Dogg—yes, the rap legend, cannabis icon, and entrepreneur—is set to deliver the commencement speech at USC Marshall School of Business on May 17, 2025. Snoop is known for his hustle, and now, he’ll be inspiring the next generation of business leaders. He’s been a huge influence in the cannabis space, so it’s no surprise that the students are pumped. “Snoop Dogg giving our commencement speech is the most iconic thing ever,” said Joshua Bustein, a senior finance major. 🚀
🔬 Research & Innovation
A new paper has dropped some interesting insights on how federal marijuana prohibition is hindering cannabis research in legalized states. Researchers have pointed out that the federal classification of cannabis as a Schedule I drug makes some states hesitant to fund studies due to complicated federal requirements. This isn’t just a minor issue—without more research, it’s harder to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis legalization. As the study suggests, “there’s a need for more states to consider adopting mechanisms to support cannabis research.”
♻️ Packaging & Sustainability
In the world of cannabis packaging, Contempo Specialty Packaging is making history with what they’re calling the world’s first child-resistant, plastic-free cigarette box for cannabis pre-rolls. The box is made of recyclable materials like FSC-certified or recycled paperboard, and it’s been designed to meet child resistance standards. This is a huge win for both safety and sustainability—finally, a packaging solution that works for the environment and the little ones. 🌍
📉 Industry News
Tough news for Gold Flora Corporation (Cboe Canada: GRAM) (OTCQB: GRAM), as they filed for voluntary receivership after struggling with legacy lawsuits from their acquisition of TPCO Holding Corp (The Parent Company) and mounting operational costs. Despite filing for protection, the company will continue operating as it seeks an orderly sale of its California operations, which include 16 dispensaries and a massive cultivation campus. “This was a difficult but correct decision,” said CEO Laurie Holcomb.
🎬 Entertainment & Fun
Here’s a wild thought: What if movie theaters started selling cannabis alongside popcorn? That’s one of the ideas floating around in Variety's latest take on how to revive the moviegoing experience. With a declining audience, theater owners are considering offering cellphone-friendly screenings, allowing weed consumption, and even creating sing-along versions of movies. It might be time for a full cinema makeover. 🍿🎥
🌱 New Developments
Hold up, the East Coast just got a little greener, thanks to Ice-T. The rapper-turned-entrepreneur, alongside cannabis mogul Charis Burrett, opened The Medicine Woman Jersey City on March 27, 2025. The dispensary is more than just a business; it's a mission to give back to communities hardest hit by the War on Drugs. “This isn’t just about selling cannabis—it’s about creating opportunity and correcting injustice,” Ice-T said.
The grand celebration for the dispensary is set for April 19-20, so if you're in the area, don't miss it! 🏙️🌿
That’s all for today’s recap, folks! Stay tuned, stay informed, and as always, stay lifted. ✌️🌱
👉 Got thoughts? Tips? Wild stories from your dispensary visits?
Hit reply or send a note to [email protected] — we love hearing from you!
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