Welcome to the latest edition of “Last Week In Weed,” catching you up on the latest breaking news and industry developments in the world of cannabis.
Here’s what you may have missed over the last week:
$10 Million in Public Funds Diverted to Anti-Legalization Efforts in Florida
An investigation reveals that $10 million intended for Florida taxpayers was redirected into efforts opposing cannabis legalization, raising serious questions about transparency and the use of public funds. The spending reportedly supported messaging campaigns designed to influence voter perception ahead of legalization efforts.
The situation underscores the high stakes of cannabis policy battles, particularly in large markets like Florida. As legalization campaigns gain momentum, opposition strategies are becoming more sophisticated and better funded blurring the line between public interest and political influence.
Alabama Prepares to Open First Medical Cannabis Dispensary
Alabama is preparing to open its first medical cannabis dispensary, marking a major milestone after years of delays and regulatory hurdles. The launch signals that the state’s long-awaited program is finally beginning to take shape, offering patients access to legal products for the first time.
However, the rollout remains cautious and tightly controlled, reflecting broader trends in Southern states where legalization is approached incrementally. For operators and patients alike, the opening represents progress, but also highlights how uneven access remains across the country.
Bam Margera Enters the Cannabis Space with BAM THC Launch
Bam Margera is stepping into the cannabis industry with the launch of BAM THC, a brand built around movement, recovery, and a lifestyle that doesn’t slow down. Positioned for “people who live loud,” the company launched with a topical roll-on designed for everyday use, with plans to expand into inhalables and edibles. The brand emphasizes accessibility, quality, and a no-frills approach to integrating cannabis into daily routines.
Unlike many celebrity-backed ventures, BAM THC is leaning into authenticity and product utility rather than pure name recognition. Built in collaboration with experienced operators and grounded in Margera’s own history of injury and recovery, the brand reflects a broader shift toward function-driven products that meet real consumer needs. As celebrity brands face increasing scrutiny, BAM THC enters the market with a focus on credibility, consistency, and culture.
Read more: A Berlin Survival Guide for the Cannabis Executive
Texas Judge Pauses Ban on Hemp-Derived Products
A Texas judge has temporarily blocked new rules that would have banned certain hemp-derived products, including smokable THCA flower, following a legal challenge from industry groups. The pause allows businesses to continue operating while the courts consider the broader implications of the restrictions.
This case is part of a growing national battle over how hemp-derived cannabinoids should be regulated. As lawmakers attempt to close perceived loopholes, the industry is pushing back, arguing that abrupt bans could disrupt businesses and limit consumer access without clear scientific or regulatory consensus.
Michigan Cannabis Sales Continue to Decline
Cannabis sales in Michigan have dropped again, continuing a trend that reflects increasing market saturation and sustained price compression. As more operators enter the space, competition has intensified, driving down prices and squeezing margins across the board.
While consumers may benefit from lower prices, the long-term outlook for Michigan cannabis businesses is more uncertain. The market’s struggles highlight the risks of rapid expansion without corresponding demand growth and reinforce the need for operational discipline in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Marijuana Rescheduling Faces Internal Delays in Washington
Efforts to reschedule cannabis at the federal level appear to be stalled, with reports suggesting that someone within the administration is holding up the process. The delay adds to ongoing frustration among industry stakeholders who have been anticipating reform as a catalyst for growth and investment.
The situation reflects the broader complexity of federal cannabis policy, where progress is often slow and subject to internal political dynamics. For now, the industry remains in a holding pattern, waiting for a decision that could reshape banking, taxation, and research.
