AGP Executive Report

Board & Compliance: KND Labs president Nicholas Wilson was elected to the National Animal Supplement Council board as the Colorado manufacturer expands from hemp-derived work into broader animal and human wellness manufacturing. Medical Market Expansion: Alabama’s first medical cannabis dispensary, Callie’s Apothecary in Montgomery, opened this week, letting patients legally buy products as more storefronts are planned along the Gulf Coast. Local Enforcement & Community Repair: Somerset County prosecutors and the sheriff are seeking proposals for $40,000 in community nonprofit funding tied to recent illegal cannabis grow case convictions. Travel Rules: TSA updated medical marijuana travel guidance, offering clearer permission for compliant products in carry-on and checked baggage, while still warning that discovery of illegal substances can trigger law enforcement. Tech for Cannabis Processing: EnWave signed a tech evaluation deal for its Radiant Energy Vacuum dehydration system with Swiss Cannabis Selection AG, aiming to speed drying while preserving product quality. Tax Pressure: Michigan’s new 25% wholesale cannabis tax is underperforming, bringing in far less than projected in early 2026. Industry & Product News: Canopy Growth’s Claybourne Frosted Flyers won Best Infused Pre-Roll at the 2026 Grow Up Awards, with new variety pack formats rolling out in Canada.

Medicare CBD Access: The FDA says it won’t interfere with CMS coverage for certain hemp-derived CBD products, with limits of 0.3% delta-9 THC and 3mg total THC per serving (oral forms only), while inhalable products are excluded. Travel Rules: TSA updated its “What Can I Bring?” guidance for medical marijuana, reiterating patients may travel with state-licensed medication for use after arrival. Regulatory Pressure on Markets: Washington’s cannabis regulators warn federal rescheduling uncertainty and state oversupply are squeezing the legal market, even as they keep targeting illicit sales. Industry/Investing: Tilray is trying to pivot from cannabis into broader consumer brands after buying craft brewer Brewdog, a move critics say may be risky given Brewdog’s recent performance. Enforcement Snapshot: Sri Lanka’s STF seized 227kg of Kerala cannabis; Indonesia arrested two Russians after a chase tied to about 7.8kg of hashish. Health & Safety: A COPD Q&A notes marijuana and tobacco smoking can fit COPD risk, but diagnosis needs lab lung function testing.

Regulated Travel Guidance: TSA updated its medical marijuana “What Can I Bring?” rules, urging patients to separate travel from use and avoid using cannabis on the plane. Prison & Enforcement: Merced County clarified a May 26 case where a private investigator was arrested at a correctional facility for bringing concentrated cannabis and tobacco into the prison. Retail Market Push: Virginia lawmakers are trying again to build a legal recreational cannabis marketplace after Gov. Spanberger’s veto, while hemp-derived CBD/THC products already operate in the state. Industry Finance Watch: Innovative Industrial Properties (IIPR) is pitched as a niche cannabis REIT buy, citing regulatory barriers and “mission-critical” facility demand. Public Health & Research: A large survey of older adults found many use complementary health approaches including cannabis/psychedelics, while a separate study links sleep problems to brain aging markers. Local Cannabis Compliance: Santa Barbara County growers rushed odor-control tech after license threats, showing how enforcement pressure can reshape operations. Crime & Supply Chains: Spanish investigators suspect a third cannabis smuggling tunnel in Ceuta tied to an ongoing network. Retail Novelty: A Toronto shop is selling World Cup trophy bongs to capture tourism-driven cannabis demand.

Regulation & Markets: Virginia lawmakers are trying again to build a legal recreational cannabis marketplace after Gov. Spanberger vetoed an adult-use retail bill, keeping the Danville area in limbo while negotiations continue. Enforcement & Illicit Trade: Washington’s cannabis regulators warn federal rescheduling uncertainty and oversupply are squeezing the legal market, while illicit enforcement remains a major headache. Retail Innovation: A Toronto shop is selling World Cup trophy-themed bongs to ride tourism demand as Canada’s cannabis market stays fully legalized. Public Health & Consumer Safety: Denver investigators seized unregulated PolkaDot chocolate bars and gummies after tests found illegal psychoactive ingredients, highlighting how supplement-style loopholes can get risky products onto shelves. CBD in the Mix: Kuwait authorities say they arrested an Egyptian suspect after finding CBD-related material along with hashish and crystal meth hidden on chemically treated paper. Industry/Community: A Barrie “shroom shop” is defying a proposed zero-tolerance policy after police raids, keeping psilocybin and unlicensed cannabis retail openly operating. Big Picture: Kerala police report major arrests and seizures tied to an anti-drug operation, including cannabis and hashish oil.

CBD in the crosshairs of enforcement: Kuwait’s drug police arrested an Egyptian man after seizing hashish, crystal meth, and CBD-related material hidden in chemically treated A4 papers, plus scales used for packaging. Mail-order drug crackdown: UK police jailed three men behind a “highly sophisticated” Royal Mail drugs ring that shipped 1,724 parcels in months, including cannabis resin and THC edibles, alongside cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, LSD, and psilocybin mushrooms. Public health + unregulated products: Colorado investigators pulled PolkaDot-branded mushroom-infused chocolate and gummies after tests found illegal psychoactive ingredients, warning how supplement loopholes and false labels can get risky products onto shelves. CBD research signal: A mouse study reports inhaled CBD reduced brain inflammation markers tied to Alzheimer’s models, though it’s not human evidence. Hemp/CBD legal pressure: Ohio hemp sellers sued over a law that reclassified their products as marijuana, shifting sales to state-approved dispensaries. Retail regulation push: Philadelphia passed bills tightening smoke shop rules, including permits, testing, and age limits for kratom and hemp-based THC. Cannabis exposure incident: California’s Siskiyou County reported THC-positive cookies sickened a teacher and students; officials are following up with families.

Regulation & Courts: A Minnesota group is taking its fight over CMS access to federally legal hemp products to the D.C. Circuit after a judge tossed it for lack of standing, keeping pressure on how hemp-derived CBD/THC can be sold. Public Health & Safety: A Siskiyou County school incident is under review after a teacher and students tested positive for THC; the sheriff says cookies in a classroom contained THC and charges are being considered. Local Enforcement: Philadelphia City Council passed bills to tighten smoke shop rules, including permits, testing, and age limits for kratom and hemp-based THC, plus penalties for landlords renting to unlicensed operators. Science & Risk: A new study links cannabis use disorder to psychosis, finding a stronger causal pathway from CUD to psychosis than the reverse. Industry Moves: Vireo Growth closed its Bridgewell acquisition and lined up Nevada and Maryland dispensary deals, signaling continued consolidation. Business & Markets: TerrAscend filed for a shareholder vote on an August 24 share consolidation aimed at positioning for a potential NYSE uplisting. Medical Access: Kentucky expanded executive-order medical cannabis eligibility to 21 conditions, and a new Kentucky dispensary opened to serve cardholders. Enforcement Backdrop: Barrie, Ontario’s “zero-tolerance” push is meeting defiance as “shroom” shops reopen after raids. Criminal Justice: A Missouri AG deal forces American Shaman to suspend in-state kratom and 7-OH sales after allegations of misleading “free sample” marketing.

NYSE Move: Trulieve says its subordinate voting shares are cleared to uplist to the NYSE next week, starting June 10 under ticker “TRLV,” citing the U.S. medical marijuana rescheduling to Schedule III as the catalyst. Regulatory Watch: Michigan’s Treasury pushed back on early criticism of the state’s new 24% wholesale marijuana tax, saying it’s too soon to judge collections and that the dispute is headed to the Michigan Supreme Court. Compliance & Enforcement: Michigan regulators flagged a processor’s inventory and labeling problems after an inspection found thousands of untagged or improperly labeled products, including items in “California packaging.” Tech for Operators: QRlogix promoted a Metrc-connected labeling workflow that auto-populates state-specific labels to cut manual rekeying and reduce errors. Medical Retail: NatureMed is set to open a second Kentucky medical cannabis dispensary in Erlanger, expanding access for qualifying patients. Policy & Public Safety: Baltimore launched a crackdown on illegal smoke shop sales, seizing 73+ pounds of illegal cannabis and nearly 18,000 untaxed tobacco items. Product & Market Signals: The Hemp Doctor was named in a “best THC drinks” roundup, highlighting hemp-derived Delta 9 and other cannabinoid options.

Cross-Border Crackdown: Telangana’s EAGLE Force says it dismantled a Thailand-linked hydroponic cannabis smuggling syndicate, arresting 40 and seizing OG grown in cultivation chambers, allegedly moved via nearly 300 mule carriers through multiple Indian airports. Seizure Spotlight: DRI in Andhra Pradesh seized 79.45 kg of ganja from a truck with a hidden compartment, arresting two and launching a network probe. Kenya Enforcement: Nairobi DCI arrested a suspect on Waiyaki Way and recovered 29 kg of cannabis meant for distribution in the CBD. US Street-Level Cases: Illinois police charged two after a traffic stop turned up 72+ grams of cannabis, Ecstasy pills, and a loaded handgun; another Illinois juvenile case cited alleged marijuana possession after shots-fired and resisting arrest. Medical Market Moves: Alabama’s first medical cannabis dispensary opened in Montgomery, with access tied to state card rules and in-person physician certification. Research & Health: A mouse study in eNeuro reports inhaled CBD reduced neuroinflammation and improved memory in an Alzheimer’s model, pointing to a multi-target approach. Policy Watch: Okanogan County, Washington, is weighing tighter limits on licensed cannabis operations despite an economic analysis showing $70M+ in local activity. Retail/Branding: Ireland customs seized nearly €3m in cannabis products at Rosslare Europort, including “Gelato”-branded herbal cannabis.

Medical Research: FDA greenlit the first human trial of kratom’s mitragynine for opioid use disorder, signaling a new push to study contentious natural compounds in controlled settings. Public Health & Youth Risk: A new study links cannabis + tobacco co-use in teens/young adults to lower cognitive scores, adding fuel to early-intervention arguments. Regulatory & Tax Pressure: GOP lawmakers warned that marijuana rescheduling could change federal tax treatment, but 280E limits may still trap operators. State Enforcement: Arkansas agents seized 25+ pounds of illegal THC products and arrested two for operating outside hemp/medical rules. International Crackdowns: India’s EAGLE Force says it dismantled a hydroponic cannabis syndicate spanning Thailand and India, with carriers, flights, and money trails; separate arrests targeted ganja transport networks. Market Access: Alabama’s first medical cannabis purchase and dispensary openings continue, while Kentucky dispensaries promote patient specials tied to concerts. Business Reality: A Fingerboard Farm hemp operator says farmers are surviving via multiple revenue streams as costs rise. Policy Culture: A cannabis industry commentary argues companies build compliance binders, not compliance culture—warning it could get more expensive.

Medical Cannabis Milestone (US): Alabama recorded its first state-sanctioned medical marijuana purchase as Callie’s Apothecary in Montgomery opened and patient Amanda Taylor bought THC products—marking a long-awaited rollout after years of legal delays. Regulatory & Enforcement (US): New York Senate confirmed John Kagia to lead the Office of Cannabis Management, while Wyoming officials filed objections tied to marijuana rescheduling—pushing the debate over how federal changes should (or shouldn’t) flow into state rules. Consumer Access & Driving Rules (Australia): NSW will allow registered medicinal cannabis users to avoid automatic penalties when THC stays under a set limit, but roadside testing and bans still apply. Industry & Finance: A cannabis tax-funded guaranteed income pilot in Albuquerque is being highlighted as funded via the city’s recreational-use cannabis tax, while a legal fight over 280E refunds continues to draw attention from operators. Crackdowns & Public Safety: Police in Jhapa arrested four people with 5 kg cannabis; Greece reported a major cannabis plantation bust; and an Alabama DUI checkpoint used California’s Cannabis Tax Fund grant. CBD/Non-psychoactive Products (Europe): France moved to tighten enforcement on CBD foods and flowers under EU rules, threatening the grey-market supply chain. Business Impact (Local): Spring Valley’s Route 59 bridge closure is already worrying nearby shops, including a cannabis business.

Medical Access Expansion: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order adding 15 new qualifying conditions to the state’s medical cannabis program, aiming to clarify eligibility and broaden patient access. Regulatory Roadblock: Virginia’s adult-use retail cannabis framework remains stalled after Gov. Abigail Spanberger vetoed legislation, leaving legal possession without a regulated retail market. Launch in Alabama: Alabama’s long-awaited medical cannabis program begins with Callie’s Apothecary opening in Montgomery, while North Alabama patients still wait for local outlets. Local Governance: Massachusetts’ Hopkinton voted to opt out of statewide cannabis delivery to homes, seeking a waiver over youth access and “normalizing” use. Research & Health: A new BMJ study links GLP-1 drugs to lower risks of substance use disorders and overdoses, including for cannabis. Public Safety & Enforcement: Police operations and seizures continue across multiple regions, including cannabis-related busts and investigations into illegal grows and illicit vape liquids. Industry & Markets: Curaleaf confirms its reverse stock split effective June 5, while Pot + Pan announces a nationwide THC edible rollout tied to Aspen’s Food & Wine Classic.

Hemp THC policy showdown: A key House Rules Committee blocked amendments that would have kept hemp THC products federally legal or delayed their recriminalization, leaving the November crackdown timeline in place. THC drinks pressure: South Carolina lawmakers are still negotiating how to regulate THC-infused beverages sold in convenience stores, with talks stuck after a first conference committee meeting. Virginia cannabis rules: Virginia’s retail cannabis transition commission heard that federal Schedule III reclassification and narrower hemp definitions could reshape dispensary finances, but lawmakers say there’s no clear national timeline. Michigan research limits: A Michigan State researcher warns federal rules force studies on low-potency cannabis, making it hard to assess risks from the higher-THC products sold in state dispensaries. Colorado safety recall: Colorado regulators issued a recall for two THC vape brands after banned flavor compounds were found in vape oil. Criminal justice and cannabis: A corrupt prison watchdog chairwoman was jailed for smuggling cannabis to a life-sentenced killer, while a major Paraguay case involving a MrBeast jet winner ended with release after prosecutors said he wasn’t connected to the smuggling. Public health: New research links combined cannabis and tobacco use to worse cognitive outcomes in adolescents and young adults at risk for psychosis. Local market moves: A village planning commission advanced a Brookfield dispensary application, and a Massachusetts board of health voted to recommend opting out of new cannabis delivery rules.

Law & Order: A UK woman who chaired the HMP Liverpool watchdog has been jailed for running a “Deliveroo for prisoners” drug-smuggling operation, with cannabis and other contraband linked to explicit inmate relationships and texts. Enforcement: Ghana’s Tema Regional Police arrested a truck driver after intercepting a large haul of compressed plant material suspected to be Indian hemp on the Tema–Ada Road. Major Seizure: Ghana’s Narcotics Control Commission says it seized 2.3+ tonnes of suspected cannabis in a raid near Hohoe, with investigations ongoing. Retail/Compliance: Oregon’s OLCC begins enforcement of its Hemp Registry rules, requiring registered cannabinoid hemp products (including online) with accurate CBD/THC info. Market Watch: Oklahoma growers say the state’s cannabis boom is “going to pot” after oversupply crushed wholesale prices. Corporate Moves: AYR Wellness is closing the transfer of Florida, New Jersey and Nevada operations into Arboretum subsidiaries as it winds down. Industry Education: TheAnswerPage.com launched a new clinician CME/CE bundle for cannabis medicine amid rescheduling-driven demand. Consumer Promo: RYTHM and The Daily Green kick off a Summer of RYTHM sweepstakes with a Montauk getaway and in-store rewards.

Federal Cannabis Rescheduling Fight: Indiana AG Todd Rokita and allies sued to block the DOJ’s move to ease marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, arguing the process was improper—raising fresh uncertainty for patients relying on medical cannabis. Adult-Use Market Stalls: Virginia’s governor vetoed bills that would have finally launched recreational sales, leaving the adult-use market in limbo despite earlier legislative momentum. Hemp Rule Shock: Tennessee finalized rules that will tighten hemp THC sales, with THCA and other hemp products becoming illegal to sell starting July 1—forcing retailers to clear shelves or pivot. Japan Policy Update: Japan expanded restrictions by banning cannabinol (CBN), adding another headwind for cannabinoid product makers. Industry Finance/Tax Strategy: Cannabis firms are leaning into ESOPs to navigate 280E tax hurdles as rescheduling talks continue, with new analysis focused on how ownership structures may reduce tax drag. Research & Consumer Claims: A new study links cannabis use to higher testosterone in young Swiss men, but researchers warn fertility impacts still need follow-up. On-the-Ground Enforcement: Police cases this week ranged from cannabis smuggling busts (including bhang seizures) to a prison watchdog charged with smuggling cannabis and phones into jail.

Hemp THC crackdown: Tennessee finalized rules ahead of a June 30 ban on hemp-derived THC products, with regulators expecting major sales impact. Regulatory uncertainty: Waterford, Ireland, keeps CBD shop owners in legal limbo as courts weigh conflicting Justice vs Agriculture views on THC thresholds. International shift: Japan moved to ban CBN after reports tied to hazardous behavior and hospitalizations, while also allowing limited medical use for intractable epilepsy. Policy + compliance: Illinois lawmakers advanced a bill to strengthen hemp oversight and consumer protections, but a separate downtown Springfield development vote stalled in the House. Business moves: C3 closed its Fort Myers hemp café Seed & Bean on May 31 as it consolidates into its Cape Coral concept; Sweetspot opened a new NJ dispensary in Hamilton. Market + capital: NewLake Capital Partners will join June cannabis conferences, and Vireo announced a 30-for-1 share consolidation. Safety headlines: A 4-year-old in West Virginia was hospitalized after THC gummy ingestion, and police in Ireland seized cannabis tied to a CBD product case.

U.S. Policy Watch: The DOJ’s medical marijuana rescheduling (Schedule I to III) is helping some businesses with federal tax and research access, but states still face a messy split between federal and state rules as the DEA prepares more hearings. Regulatory Compliance: Georgia’s medical cannabis overhaul takes effect July 1, expanding patient eligibility, removing end-stage/severe-condition limits for many diagnoses, and widening product options. Workplace Rules: Even after federal rescheduling, DOT says truckers and airline pilots can’t use marijuana in safety-sensitive roles, keeping drug-test rules unchanged. Public Safety Research: A Johns Hopkins study warns cannabis edibles plus alcohol can impair driving more than being legally drunk, and roadside alcohol tests won’t catch it. Enforcement: Nigeria’s NDLEA reports major seizures, including ketamine and MDMA hidden in water purifier machines, plus large cannabis hauls and military-grade ammunition. Hemp & Industry: FIFA licensed a Ningxia hemp-weave craft brand for the 2026 World Cup, pushing rural artisans to scale up for global demand. Market Reality: Alabama’s long-stalled medical program is finally moving, with dispensaries opening and more expected soon.