Eco Friendly CBD OIL

The Best Eco Friendly CBD Oil

Cannabis News

Legal Dispute Heats Up in Illinois: Week in Review

by

<![CDATA[

The big story this week has been the legal fallout and ongoing turmoil in Illinois, where several lawsuits target Illinois’ licensing process to award 185 new cannabis dispensary licenses. It’s part of a longer saga in that state’s adult-use market. It’s also a good example of the countervailing forces present in much of cannabis licensing ca. 2021: lottery systems v. social equity policies v. free-market demand v. geographic interests, and so on. A perfect storm.

Read Senior Digital Editor Melissa Schiller’s latest, linked below, to get a sense of how these ongoing disputes might alter the landscape for license holders (and license aspirants) in Illinois.

Here are some of the key cannabis headlines from this past week:

  • From Assistant Editor Andriana Ruscitto: “Shortly after Apple loosened its restrictions, Weedmaps, an app and website that lets users find local dispensaries and cannabis-related businesses, updated its app to allow consumers to purchase cannabis.” Read more 
  • “In the latest of several lawsuits that take aim at Illinois’ licensing process to award 185 new cannabis dispensary licenses, two applicants, Suite Greens LLC and So Baked Too LLC, claim state officials wrongfully forced them to give up three of their spots in the state’s third and final licensing lottery, which is scheduled for Aug. 19.” Read more 
  • “Texas expanded its limited medical cannabis program during its 2021 legislative session, and Texas Original Compassionate Cultivation (TOCC), one of the state’s three vertically integrated cannabis licensees, is planning an expansion of its own to meet increased patient demand.” Read more 
  • “Michigan’s total cannabis sales had yet another record-breaking month, topping $171 million in July, according to a monthly data report released from the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency.” Read more 
  • “A federal court has overturned Maine’s requirement that all medical cannabis dispensaries must be owned by Maine residents.” Read more 
  • “After years of regulatory limbo that allowed registered patients in Georgia to possess—but not purchase—low-THC cannabis oil, the state has established a regulated market and has licensed six businesses to produce and sell the oil. However, some industry stakeholders question the state’s licensing process and the businesses that ultimately won the right to operate in Georgia’s market.” Read more 
  • “The North Carolina Senate Judiciary Committee reviewed a medical cannabis legalization bill for the second time Aug. 18 to discuss technical changes to the legislation, according to the Winston-Salem Journal.” Read more 
  • “The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Advisory Board voted Aug. 17 to reject requests to add five new qualifying conditions to the state’s medical cannabis program.” Read more 
  •  

]]>

New Jersey Adopts Initial Rules for State’s Adult-Use Cannabis Program

by

Most months, Cannabis Business Times brings readers the feature “Cultivation Matters,” a recurring series focusing on plant cultivation by researchers from North Carolina State University that can steer growers toward successful operations.

Understanding micro- and macronutrients, for example, and their roles in helping plants grow properly to complete their lifecycles, equips cultivators with the knowledge to produce healthy plants with optimal yields.

Biological controls, plant oddities, plant physiology, nutrient lockout, fertility management, water quality and the like are explored and explained in this series. Well-versed cultivators who just need a refresher as well as less experienced growers who are just getting going can both benefit from findings to reduce their trial-and-error growing pains.

For in-depth analysis, findings and best practices, read the following “Cultivation Matters” articles previously published in Cannabis Business Times:

 

What To Do When Micronutrients Become Macro Problems (August 2021)

Plants require certain micro and macronutrients to thrive. Although plants do not need micronutrients in the same concentration as the meat-and-potatoes macronutrients, they are just as important for plant growth, development and biomass production.

Micronutrients iron (Fe), boron (B), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and molybdenum (Mo) are all essential to produce healthy plants. With the recommended rates of micronutrients being smaller in comparison to macronutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S)), it is easy for growers to overapply them. But just because plants require these essential elements in lesser amounts doesn’t mean an imbalance won’t have an outsize impact on crop health and yield.

Excess application of micronutrients can cause nutrient antagonism and imbalance, which limits nutrient concentration and uptake, meaning key elements are unavailable to plants. There is a specific range where micronutrient fertility is optimized, but not overapplied.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Biological Controls Can Help You Tackle Aphid Issues (July 2021)

Biological control is a plant protection strategy used in different horticultural cropping systems that minimizes plant damage so that plants are marketable and/or there are no effects on yield.

Biological control involves releasing parasitoids, which will regulate insect and/or mite pest populations. The primary parasitoids and predators used in controlled environments are associated with aphid parasitoids and predatory mites.

Commercially available parasitoids can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations of cannabis crops.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Fight Cannabis Pests With Bugs (August 2021)

The following article is the second of a two-part series (first part is above) that describes commercially available parasitoids and predators, which can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations on cannabis crops. Here, we examine the predatory mites that attack fungus gnats, mites, thrips, and whiteflies. 

Predatory mite behavior needs to be understood before release because their ability to regulate specific insect or mite pests is primarily dependent on feeding habit, though plant volatiles (i.e. odors emitted by plants when fed upon by herbivores that may attract certain predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis) and dispersal can also affect regulation. Predatory mites are classified into three categories: Type I, II, and III, based on their food preferences and dispersal capabilities among and within plants.

The entire article can be read here.

 

Funky Stems: What Does Fasciation Mean for Your Cannabis Grow? (June 2021)

As plant scientists, we observe how plants grow and develop over time, and we are intrigued by variations or oddities that occur in growth. Recently, a seed-born cannabis plant in our greenhouse developed abnormal shoot growth with a flattened apical stem. Other cannabis growers have posted images online when they too discover an odd, flat stem.

We grew the plant for two months to observe the advancement of growth patterns. Over time, the shoot tip developed a mass of leaves growing out of the top. As the plant continued to grow, the deformed portion of the stem, which measured more than 3 centimeters across, enlarged and flattened.

This phenomenon is referred to as fasciation. So, what causes this fascinating, distorted growth?

The entire article can be read here.

 

Can Cannabis Benefit from Silicon? (May 2021)

Silicon (Si) has been touted as a miracle chemical by many. It is the second-most abundant element of the Earth’s crust, at 25.7% by weight. Much of the Si on Earth is tied up in silicate forms, such as quartz, that are unavailable for plant uptake.

Nevertheless, with natural weathering, abundant Si becomes available in the soil for plants. With Si being prevalent on Earth, it has become an important element for some plant species and can improve plant growth and prevent disease. That said, Si is classified as a beneficial element, not an essential one, because it is not required for the plant to complete its lifecycle.

The entire article can be read here.

Ideal Rates of Iron in Cannabis Cultivation Vary Depending on End Goal (April 2021)

When most people think of iron, it’s in the context of construction and manufacturing, and considerations focus more on quality and stress ratings. But iron plays a crucial role in both human and plant physiology. (The metallic taste in blood is from its iron content, as anyone who has bit their tongue will attest.) In the plant world, iron (Fe) is an important part of protein synthesis, chloroplast development, and the photosynthetic process of energy storage in cannabis.

In plants, Fe is an immobile element, meaning it cannot be moved (translocated) within the plant from older portions of the plant to satisfy the demand in newer developing plant portions. This is important information given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will be seen on the new and expanding leaves.

The entire article can be read here.

RELATED: Read our “Nutrient Matters” ebook, a collection of similar articles by these authors from North Carolina State University

 

What Are the Optimal Rates for Magnesium in Cannabis? (March 2021)

Macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields, and complete their lifecycle. Substantial quantities of the essential macronutrient magnesium (Mg) are necessary for proper plant growth and development.

In plants, Mg is a mobile element that is used in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Therefore, Mg is often moved (translocated) in the plant from the older leaves to satisfy the demand in newer developing leaves that are often more photosynthetically active. Given Mg is the central atom of the chlorophyll molecule, which converts light energy into essential carbohydrates, Mg is directly related to optimal plant growth.

Cannabis is a determinate plant, which means that once flowering begins, the terminal growing tips develop into floral material. Mg will directly impact the size, quality, and yield of a plant, which will directly impact the grower’s bottom line.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Optimize Phosphorus Fertility for Cannabis (February 2021)

Plants, much like humans, require certain nutrients and minerals to thrive. These macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields and complete their lifecycle. Aside from nitrogen (N), phosphorus is perhaps the most important of the macronutrients. Phosphorus (P) is essential for energy storage and utilization, root development and growth, flower formation, and metabolic activities in cannabis.

In plants, P is a mobile element that is necessary for many key metabolic processes, in addition to cell elongation and root growth and development. Therefore, P can be moved (translocated) from older growth segments of plants to satisfy demand in newer, developing plant portions. This is important to note, given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will appear in older leaves as the plant moves P resources into the new and developing leaves and other sinks such as developing flower buds.

The entire article can be read here.

 

3 Tips to Avoid Nutrient Lockout in Cannabis (January 2021)

One of the primary goals for cannabis cultivators is to optimize plant growth for stronger, healthier yields. To optimize plant growth, monitoring and managing nutrient levels is essential; however, numerous factors can affect nutrient availability and uptake for cannabis plants.

As growers know, cultivation is a balancing act of providing adequate nutrient levels in proper ratios, and, most importantly, ensuring that the substrate pH is within the recommended range. Each of these factors properly applied together optimize plant growth, but if one factor is out of balance, the plant will suffer.

Nutrient “lockup” or “lockout” is when a particular nutrient is unavailable for the plant to uptake. This is usually caused by an elevated substrate pH, a situation that has plagued cannabis growers for many years.

A second problem is improperly balanced nutrient levels. This is referred to as an antagonism. In addition, one must ensure that adequate levels of fertility are provided. While these can all limit nutrient availability, their fundamental causes are different. And perhaps the most important factor is substrate pH.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Establish a Cannabis Nutrient Monitoring Program (November 2020)

Fertility management can be challenging for many crops. To ensure your plants are receiving the fertility they require, a stepwise nutrient monitoring program that examines both systems and plants should be implemented.

When setting up a holistic greenhouse or indoor monitoring program, it is important to monitor and test each step along the supply chain, examining the irrigation pipes and flow of water and nutrients. The main steps include:

  • the water source
  • the mixing tank and injector
  • the drip emitters or delivery system
  • the substrate
  • the plant.

At each step, complications and challenges can arise. By taking a “pipe-to-plant” approach, you can determine where along the supply chain problems arise and identify them early to prevent costly ramifications to plant growth and development.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Does Your Cannabis Fertilizer Recipe Compare? (October 2020)

Fertilization management can be considered both a science of what plants require and an art of how nutrients are supplied. The major nutrients taken up by plants are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). With these three elements being the heavy lifters, most fertilizer programs focus on delivering NPK to the plant.

The other elements included in fertilizers are still essential but generally are provided at constant levels. We evaluated two commercial cannabis fertilizer programs developed by suppliers who were willing to share their recipes and compared each program to our cannabis fertility research program at North Carolina State University (NCSU).

The entire article can be read here.

How to Monitor Irrigation Water Quality and Correct Imbalances in Container-Grown Cannabis (September 2020)

Water is the single largest input for growing cannabis and therefore an essential resource for growing healthy plants. Plants, by weight, are comprised of 90% to 95% water.

Elements in irrigation water can affect plant growth, especially in container-grown plants, due to those plants’ restricted root masses and the high potential for change within the soilless substrate because of its relatively low buffering capacity, or the ability to regulate pH changes. Because of this, it is important to regularly monitor your irrigation water to be sure it is not creating nutrient imbalances and inhibiting plant growth.

The entire article can be read here.

Former California Mayor Arrested on Wire Fraud and Bribery Charges Alleging Illicit Payments for Support of Commercial Cannabis Activity

by

Most months, Cannabis Business Times brings readers the feature “Cultivation Matters,” a recurring series focusing on plant cultivation by researchers from North Carolina State University that can steer growers toward successful operations.

Understanding micro- and macronutrients, for example, and their roles in helping plants grow properly to complete their lifecycles, equips cultivators with the knowledge to produce healthy plants with optimal yields.

Biological controls, plant oddities, plant physiology, nutrient lockout, fertility management, water quality and the like are explored and explained in this series. Well-versed cultivators who just need a refresher as well as less experienced growers who are just getting going can both benefit from findings to reduce their trial-and-error growing pains.

For in-depth analysis, findings and best practices, read the following “Cultivation Matters” articles previously published in Cannabis Business Times:

 

What To Do When Micronutrients Become Macro Problems (August 2021)

Plants require certain micro and macronutrients to thrive. Although plants do not need micronutrients in the same concentration as the meat-and-potatoes macronutrients, they are just as important for plant growth, development and biomass production.

Micronutrients iron (Fe), boron (B), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and molybdenum (Mo) are all essential to produce healthy plants. With the recommended rates of micronutrients being smaller in comparison to macronutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S)), it is easy for growers to overapply them. But just because plants require these essential elements in lesser amounts doesn’t mean an imbalance won’t have an outsize impact on crop health and yield.

Excess application of micronutrients can cause nutrient antagonism and imbalance, which limits nutrient concentration and uptake, meaning key elements are unavailable to plants. There is a specific range where micronutrient fertility is optimized, but not overapplied.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Biological Controls Can Help You Tackle Aphid Issues (July 2021)

Biological control is a plant protection strategy used in different horticultural cropping systems that minimizes plant damage so that plants are marketable and/or there are no effects on yield.

Biological control involves releasing parasitoids, which will regulate insect and/or mite pest populations. The primary parasitoids and predators used in controlled environments are associated with aphid parasitoids and predatory mites.

Commercially available parasitoids can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations of cannabis crops.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Fight Cannabis Pests With Bugs (August 2021)

The following article is the second of a two-part series (first part is above) that describes commercially available parasitoids and predators, which can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations on cannabis crops. Here, we examine the predatory mites that attack fungus gnats, mites, thrips, and whiteflies. 

Predatory mite behavior needs to be understood before release because their ability to regulate specific insect or mite pests is primarily dependent on feeding habit, though plant volatiles (i.e. odors emitted by plants when fed upon by herbivores that may attract certain predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis) and dispersal can also affect regulation. Predatory mites are classified into three categories: Type I, II, and III, based on their food preferences and dispersal capabilities among and within plants.

The entire article can be read here.

 

Funky Stems: What Does Fasciation Mean for Your Cannabis Grow? (June 2021)

As plant scientists, we observe how plants grow and develop over time, and we are intrigued by variations or oddities that occur in growth. Recently, a seed-born cannabis plant in our greenhouse developed abnormal shoot growth with a flattened apical stem. Other cannabis growers have posted images online when they too discover an odd, flat stem.

We grew the plant for two months to observe the advancement of growth patterns. Over time, the shoot tip developed a mass of leaves growing out of the top. As the plant continued to grow, the deformed portion of the stem, which measured more than 3 centimeters across, enlarged and flattened.

This phenomenon is referred to as fasciation. So, what causes this fascinating, distorted growth?

The entire article can be read here.

 

Can Cannabis Benefit from Silicon? (May 2021)

Silicon (Si) has been touted as a miracle chemical by many. It is the second-most abundant element of the Earth’s crust, at 25.7% by weight. Much of the Si on Earth is tied up in silicate forms, such as quartz, that are unavailable for plant uptake.

Nevertheless, with natural weathering, abundant Si becomes available in the soil for plants. With Si being prevalent on Earth, it has become an important element for some plant species and can improve plant growth and prevent disease. That said, Si is classified as a beneficial element, not an essential one, because it is not required for the plant to complete its lifecycle.

The entire article can be read here.

Ideal Rates of Iron in Cannabis Cultivation Vary Depending on End Goal (April 2021)

When most people think of iron, it’s in the context of construction and manufacturing, and considerations focus more on quality and stress ratings. But iron plays a crucial role in both human and plant physiology. (The metallic taste in blood is from its iron content, as anyone who has bit their tongue will attest.) In the plant world, iron (Fe) is an important part of protein synthesis, chloroplast development, and the photosynthetic process of energy storage in cannabis.

In plants, Fe is an immobile element, meaning it cannot be moved (translocated) within the plant from older portions of the plant to satisfy the demand in newer developing plant portions. This is important information given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will be seen on the new and expanding leaves.

The entire article can be read here.

RELATED: Read our “Nutrient Matters” ebook, a collection of similar articles by these authors from North Carolina State University

 

What Are the Optimal Rates for Magnesium in Cannabis? (March 2021)

Macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields, and complete their lifecycle. Substantial quantities of the essential macronutrient magnesium (Mg) are necessary for proper plant growth and development.

In plants, Mg is a mobile element that is used in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Therefore, Mg is often moved (translocated) in the plant from the older leaves to satisfy the demand in newer developing leaves that are often more photosynthetically active. Given Mg is the central atom of the chlorophyll molecule, which converts light energy into essential carbohydrates, Mg is directly related to optimal plant growth.

Cannabis is a determinate plant, which means that once flowering begins, the terminal growing tips develop into floral material. Mg will directly impact the size, quality, and yield of a plant, which will directly impact the grower’s bottom line.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Optimize Phosphorus Fertility for Cannabis (February 2021)

Plants, much like humans, require certain nutrients and minerals to thrive. These macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields and complete their lifecycle. Aside from nitrogen (N), phosphorus is perhaps the most important of the macronutrients. Phosphorus (P) is essential for energy storage and utilization, root development and growth, flower formation, and metabolic activities in cannabis.

In plants, P is a mobile element that is necessary for many key metabolic processes, in addition to cell elongation and root growth and development. Therefore, P can be moved (translocated) from older growth segments of plants to satisfy demand in newer, developing plant portions. This is important to note, given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will appear in older leaves as the plant moves P resources into the new and developing leaves and other sinks such as developing flower buds.

The entire article can be read here.

 

3 Tips to Avoid Nutrient Lockout in Cannabis (January 2021)

One of the primary goals for cannabis cultivators is to optimize plant growth for stronger, healthier yields. To optimize plant growth, monitoring and managing nutrient levels is essential; however, numerous factors can affect nutrient availability and uptake for cannabis plants.

As growers know, cultivation is a balancing act of providing adequate nutrient levels in proper ratios, and, most importantly, ensuring that the substrate pH is within the recommended range. Each of these factors properly applied together optimize plant growth, but if one factor is out of balance, the plant will suffer.

Nutrient “lockup” or “lockout” is when a particular nutrient is unavailable for the plant to uptake. This is usually caused by an elevated substrate pH, a situation that has plagued cannabis growers for many years.

A second problem is improperly balanced nutrient levels. This is referred to as an antagonism. In addition, one must ensure that adequate levels of fertility are provided. While these can all limit nutrient availability, their fundamental causes are different. And perhaps the most important factor is substrate pH.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Establish a Cannabis Nutrient Monitoring Program (November 2020)

Fertility management can be challenging for many crops. To ensure your plants are receiving the fertility they require, a stepwise nutrient monitoring program that examines both systems and plants should be implemented.

When setting up a holistic greenhouse or indoor monitoring program, it is important to monitor and test each step along the supply chain, examining the irrigation pipes and flow of water and nutrients. The main steps include:

  • the water source
  • the mixing tank and injector
  • the drip emitters or delivery system
  • the substrate
  • the plant.

At each step, complications and challenges can arise. By taking a “pipe-to-plant” approach, you can determine where along the supply chain problems arise and identify them early to prevent costly ramifications to plant growth and development.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Does Your Cannabis Fertilizer Recipe Compare? (October 2020)

Fertilization management can be considered both a science of what plants require and an art of how nutrients are supplied. The major nutrients taken up by plants are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). With these three elements being the heavy lifters, most fertilizer programs focus on delivering NPK to the plant.

The other elements included in fertilizers are still essential but generally are provided at constant levels. We evaluated two commercial cannabis fertilizer programs developed by suppliers who were willing to share their recipes and compared each program to our cannabis fertility research program at North Carolina State University (NCSU).

The entire article can be read here.

How to Monitor Irrigation Water Quality and Correct Imbalances in Container-Grown Cannabis (September 2020)

Water is the single largest input for growing cannabis and therefore an essential resource for growing healthy plants. Plants, by weight, are comprised of 90% to 95% water.

Elements in irrigation water can affect plant growth, especially in container-grown plants, due to those plants’ restricted root masses and the high potential for change within the soilless substrate because of its relatively low buffering capacity, or the ability to regulate pH changes. Because of this, it is important to regularly monitor your irrigation water to be sure it is not creating nutrient imbalances and inhibiting plant growth.

The entire article can be read here.

Learn More, Grow Better – Cannabis Business Times

by

Most months, Cannabis Business Times brings readers the feature “Cultivation Matters,” a recurring series focusing on plant cultivation by researchers from North Carolina State University that can steer growers toward successful operations.

Understanding micro- and macronutrients, for example, and their roles in helping plants grow properly to complete their lifecycles, equips cultivators with the knowledge to produce healthy plants with optimal yields.

Biological controls, plant oddities, plant physiology, nutrient lockout, fertility management, water quality and the like are explored and explained in this series. Well-versed cultivators who just need a refresher as well as less experienced growers who are just getting going can both benefit from findings to reduce their trial-and-error growing pains.

For in-depth analysis, findings and best practices, read the following “Cultivation Matters” articles previously published in Cannabis Business Times:

 

What To Do When Micronutrients Become Macro Problems (August 2021)

Plants require certain micro and macronutrients to thrive. Although plants do not need micronutrients in the same concentration as the meat-and-potatoes macronutrients, they are just as important for plant growth, development and biomass production.

Micronutrients iron (Fe), boron (B), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and molybdenum (Mo) are all essential to produce healthy plants. With the recommended rates of micronutrients being smaller in comparison to macronutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S)), it is easy for growers to overapply them. But just because plants require these essential elements in lesser amounts doesn’t mean an imbalance won’t have an outsize impact on crop health and yield.

Excess application of micronutrients can cause nutrient antagonism and imbalance, which limits nutrient concentration and uptake, meaning key elements are unavailable to plants. There is a specific range where micronutrient fertility is optimized, but not overapplied.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Biological Controls Can Help You Tackle Aphid Issues (July 2021)

Biological control is a plant protection strategy used in different horticultural cropping systems that minimizes plant damage so that plants are marketable and/or there are no effects on yield.

Biological control involves releasing parasitoids, which will regulate insect and/or mite pest populations. The primary parasitoids and predators used in controlled environments are associated with aphid parasitoids and predatory mites.

Commercially available parasitoids can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations of cannabis crops.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Fight Cannabis Pests With Bugs (August 2021)

The following article is the second of a two-part series (first part is above) that describes commercially available parasitoids and predators, which can be purchased from biological control suppliers and then released to regulate insect or mite pest populations on cannabis crops. Here, we examine the predatory mites that attack fungus gnats, mites, thrips, and whiteflies. 

Predatory mite behavior needs to be understood before release because their ability to regulate specific insect or mite pests is primarily dependent on feeding habit, though plant volatiles (i.e. odors emitted by plants when fed upon by herbivores that may attract certain predatory mites such as Phytoseiulus persimilis) and dispersal can also affect regulation. Predatory mites are classified into three categories: Type I, II, and III, based on their food preferences and dispersal capabilities among and within plants.

The entire article can be read here.

 

Funky Stems: What Does Fasciation Mean for Your Cannabis Grow? (June 2021)

As plant scientists, we observe how plants grow and develop over time, and we are intrigued by variations or oddities that occur in growth. Recently, a seed-born cannabis plant in our greenhouse developed abnormal shoot growth with a flattened apical stem. Other cannabis growers have posted images online when they too discover an odd, flat stem.

We grew the plant for two months to observe the advancement of growth patterns. Over time, the shoot tip developed a mass of leaves growing out of the top. As the plant continued to grow, the deformed portion of the stem, which measured more than 3 centimeters across, enlarged and flattened.

This phenomenon is referred to as fasciation. So, what causes this fascinating, distorted growth?

The entire article can be read here.

 

Can Cannabis Benefit from Silicon? (May 2021)

Silicon (Si) has been touted as a miracle chemical by many. It is the second-most abundant element of the Earth’s crust, at 25.7% by weight. Much of the Si on Earth is tied up in silicate forms, such as quartz, that are unavailable for plant uptake.

Nevertheless, with natural weathering, abundant Si becomes available in the soil for plants. With Si being prevalent on Earth, it has become an important element for some plant species and can improve plant growth and prevent disease. That said, Si is classified as a beneficial element, not an essential one, because it is not required for the plant to complete its lifecycle.

The entire article can be read here.

Ideal Rates of Iron in Cannabis Cultivation Vary Depending on End Goal (April 2021)

When most people think of iron, it’s in the context of construction and manufacturing, and considerations focus more on quality and stress ratings. But iron plays a crucial role in both human and plant physiology. (The metallic taste in blood is from its iron content, as anyone who has bit their tongue will attest.) In the plant world, iron (Fe) is an important part of protein synthesis, chloroplast development, and the photosynthetic process of energy storage in cannabis.

In plants, Fe is an immobile element, meaning it cannot be moved (translocated) within the plant from older portions of the plant to satisfy the demand in newer developing plant portions. This is important information given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will be seen on the new and expanding leaves.

The entire article can be read here.

RELATED: Read our “Nutrient Matters” ebook, a collection of similar articles by these authors from North Carolina State University

 

What Are the Optimal Rates for Magnesium in Cannabis? (March 2021)

Macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields, and complete their lifecycle. Substantial quantities of the essential macronutrient magnesium (Mg) are necessary for proper plant growth and development.

In plants, Mg is a mobile element that is used in photosynthesis and protein synthesis. Therefore, Mg is often moved (translocated) in the plant from the older leaves to satisfy the demand in newer developing leaves that are often more photosynthetically active. Given Mg is the central atom of the chlorophyll molecule, which converts light energy into essential carbohydrates, Mg is directly related to optimal plant growth.

Cannabis is a determinate plant, which means that once flowering begins, the terminal growing tips develop into floral material. Mg will directly impact the size, quality, and yield of a plant, which will directly impact the grower’s bottom line.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Optimize Phosphorus Fertility for Cannabis (February 2021)

Plants, much like humans, require certain nutrients and minerals to thrive. These macro- and micronutrients help plants grow properly, obtain optimal yields and complete their lifecycle. Aside from nitrogen (N), phosphorus is perhaps the most important of the macronutrients. Phosphorus (P) is essential for energy storage and utilization, root development and growth, flower formation, and metabolic activities in cannabis.

In plants, P is a mobile element that is necessary for many key metabolic processes, in addition to cell elongation and root growth and development. Therefore, P can be moved (translocated) from older growth segments of plants to satisfy demand in newer, developing plant portions. This is important to note, given that nutrient deficiency symptoms will appear in older leaves as the plant moves P resources into the new and developing leaves and other sinks such as developing flower buds.

The entire article can be read here.

 

3 Tips to Avoid Nutrient Lockout in Cannabis (January 2021)

One of the primary goals for cannabis cultivators is to optimize plant growth for stronger, healthier yields. To optimize plant growth, monitoring and managing nutrient levels is essential; however, numerous factors can affect nutrient availability and uptake for cannabis plants.

As growers know, cultivation is a balancing act of providing adequate nutrient levels in proper ratios, and, most importantly, ensuring that the substrate pH is within the recommended range. Each of these factors properly applied together optimize plant growth, but if one factor is out of balance, the plant will suffer.

Nutrient “lockup” or “lockout” is when a particular nutrient is unavailable for the plant to uptake. This is usually caused by an elevated substrate pH, a situation that has plagued cannabis growers for many years.

A second problem is improperly balanced nutrient levels. This is referred to as an antagonism. In addition, one must ensure that adequate levels of fertility are provided. While these can all limit nutrient availability, their fundamental causes are different. And perhaps the most important factor is substrate pH.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How to Establish a Cannabis Nutrient Monitoring Program (November 2020)

Fertility management can be challenging for many crops. To ensure your plants are receiving the fertility they require, a stepwise nutrient monitoring program that examines both systems and plants should be implemented.

When setting up a holistic greenhouse or indoor monitoring program, it is important to monitor and test each step along the supply chain, examining the irrigation pipes and flow of water and nutrients. The main steps include:

  • the water source
  • the mixing tank and injector
  • the drip emitters or delivery system
  • the substrate
  • the plant.

At each step, complications and challenges can arise. By taking a “pipe-to-plant” approach, you can determine where along the supply chain problems arise and identify them early to prevent costly ramifications to plant growth and development.

The entire article can be read here.

 

How Does Your Cannabis Fertilizer Recipe Compare? (October 2020)

Fertilization management can be considered both a science of what plants require and an art of how nutrients are supplied. The major nutrients taken up by plants are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). With these three elements being the heavy lifters, most fertilizer programs focus on delivering NPK to the plant.

The other elements included in fertilizers are still essential but generally are provided at constant levels. We evaluated two commercial cannabis fertilizer programs developed by suppliers who were willing to share their recipes and compared each program to our cannabis fertility research program at North Carolina State University (NCSU).

The entire article can be read here.

How to Monitor Irrigation Water Quality and Correct Imbalances in Container-Grown Cannabis (September 2020)

Water is the single largest input for growing cannabis and therefore an essential resource for growing healthy plants. Plants, by weight, are comprised of 90% to 95% water.

Elements in irrigation water can affect plant growth, especially in container-grown plants, due to those plants’ restricted root masses and the high potential for change within the soilless substrate because of its relatively low buffering capacity, or the ability to regulate pH changes. Because of this, it is important to regularly monitor your irrigation water to be sure it is not creating nutrient imbalances and inhibiting plant growth.

The entire article can be read here.

iPhone Users Can Now Purchase Cannabis Using Weedmaps App

by

Upon Apple revising its App Store Review Guidelines in early June, apps allowing users to make in-app cannabis purchases have hit the market. 

Apple’s changes to the App Store Review Guidelines cleared up existing policies, added new specifications for app makers and altered rules about what available apps for purchase can do, Cannabis Dispensary previously reported.  

The updated guidelines also loosen restrictions for in-app purchases from a cannabis dispensary and licensed pharmacies.

And shortly after Apple loosened its restrictions, Weedmaps, an app and website that lets users find local dispensaries and cannabis-related businesses, updated its app to allow consumers to purchase cannabis.

Before Weedmaps’ revisions, users could only use the app to locate adult-use or medical cannabis dispensaries or browse their menus due to Apple’s restrictions and local and federal guidelines, TechCrunch reported.

But now users can “browse, select, purchase cannabis and have it set up for pick-up or delivery—all within the app,” according to TechCrunch.

RELATED: Cannabis Delivery App ‘Eaze’ Launches in Apple App Store

Unlike the cannabis delivery app ‘Eaze,’ which launched in the Apple App Store in early July, Weedmaps will not deliver cannabis directly to consumers’ doors. Instead, the app is only “providing a platform for licensed delivery dispensaries to list their goods and services,” TechCrunch reported.

However, similar to Eaze, Weedmaps will use geo-restricted areas and only allow users who live in a place where cannabis sales are legal to make in-app purchases—meaning users who reside in a place where cannabis sales are illegal are prohibited from purchasing from a dispensary in a legal area, according to TechCrunch.

“Our ability to enable ordering functionality through our mobile iOS app is a game-changer that will improve accessibility for both our customers and business partners alike,” said Justin Dean, chief technology officer at Weedmaps Technology Inc. “We commend companies like Apple that work with industry leaders to find solutions that drive innovation in our space. It’s encouraging to see policies and attitudes toward cannabis shift in a way that promises remarkable growth, and we look forward to introducing an even simpler way to order cannabis from retailers through our platform.”

Kaycha Labs Joins NIST’s CannaQAP

by

Kaycha Labs, a cannabis lab testing company headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has announced their participation in the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Cannabis Quality Assurance Program (CannaQAP).

The NIST is an organization under the U.S. Department of Commerce that promotes innovation through standards, technology and advancing science. The NIST’s CannaQAP platform works with cannabis labs to help improve competence in analytical science and standardization.

The program requires participating labs to conduct exercises that help inform the NIST about current industry standards and capabilities for hemp and cannabis testing. One of the goals of the program is aiding in the design and characterization of cannabis reference materials.

Kaycha Labs took part in two exercises for the CannaQAP study. Exercise 1 included testing for potency with 17 cannabinoids in hemp oil and Exercise 2 included potency, heavy metals and moisture content testing in plant materials.

Chris Martinez, president of Kaycha Labs, says the program can benefit the entire industry when it comes to regulatory compliance testing. “As a leading cannabis lab company with a network of labs in multiple states, it is imperative we demonstrate that our labs apply compliant and consistent testing methodologies,” says Martinez. “Assuring all industry participants, including State and Federal government regulators, that precise and consistent testing data is the norm will benefit the entire industry.”

Kaycha Labs, while based in Fort Lauderdale, actually has cannabis testing labs in California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon and Tennessee, making them an ideal candidate for CannaQAP.

Exercise 1 has been completed in its entirety and published here. Exercise 2 has completed the participation and data submission legs of the study and NIST is preparing it for publication. On their website, it says that announcements about their upcoming Exercise 3 are coming soon.

North Carolina Medical Cannabis Bill Gets Second Review By Senate Judiciary Committee

by

Despite a busy year on the state level and multiple bills announced and introduced into Congress, not much legislative progress has been made on federal cannabis policy in 2021. 

Late last month, the House took yet another preliminary step towards the regulation of financial services for cannabis by including banking provisions in a limited budget proposal approved by a full floor vote.

The “minibus” package, which includes appropriations for important government agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Social Security Administration, also contains a section preventing federal dollars from being used to penalize financial institutions for doing business with cannabis companies.

Including the standalone Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, which passed the House twice on its own and once as part of an October 2020 COVID relief bill, the minibus marks the fourth time the full House of Representatives has approved cannabis banking since 2019. 

Will the fourth time be the charm for financial services and cannabis? Could the acceptance of standalone banking regulations sap momentum for full scale reform? 

Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary spoke with prominent associations in the industry to answer these questions and determine whether or not banking protections have a real chance of passing this year.

Comparing the minibus cannabis regulations to its predecessors

Experts and analysts have pointed out that the banking protections included in the spending package aren’t as comprehensive as the SAFE Banking Act. And unlike the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act recently announced by Sens. Booker and Wyden, it doesn’t address the legal standing of the plant.

For cannabis advocates, the smaller focus is less desirable than wholesale cannabis reform but may indicate the issue still matters to legislators.

“While limited in scope, appropriations riders are important opportunities for Congress to demonstrate its priorities and intent. They are often precursors to comprehensive reform legislation,” said Bo Bryant, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the U.S. Cannabis Council, via email.

Amber Littlejohn, Executive Director of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, agreed: “I believe lawmakers understand the importance of access to capital and want a solution that actually addresses the issue.”

The narrower provisions could also make the language more likely to make it through the more conservative Senate, which has to finalize the budget before it’s sent to President Biden for approval. 

“The House has spoken on this issue conclusively at this point, but in terms of the Senate, I don’t really see strong opposition to keeping it [cannabis banking protection] in the final bill considering the standalone legislation has bipartisan support,” said Morgan Fox, Media Relations Director at the National Cannabis Industry Association. 

Reconciling standalone banking with descheduling 

The limited nature of the budget’s provisions on cannabis banking also raise another concern: accepting financial reform or pushing for full legalization. These ideas aren’t mutually exclusive, but Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) seemed to raise the issue at the press conference unveiling his new reform bill, promising to “do everything I can to stop an easy banking bill that’s going to allow all these corporations to make a lot more money on this as opposed to focusing on the restorative justice aspects.” 

Booker later backtracked, expressing support for the SAFE Banking Act, but his original line of thinking – that financial reform alone would detract from efforts to pass criminal justice changes – isn’t new.

Industry insiders pushed back against the idea that pursuing banking reform and full-scale federal legalization is an either/or proposition.

“I’m deeply troubled by the idea that it’s one or the other,” said Littlejohn. “This idea that SAFE Banking is about corporate cannabis is preposterous. Big cannabis doesn’t need SAFE. In fact, cash strapped small and minority owned businesses help big cannabis companies maintain their competitive advantage.”

“Every time an incremental bill is passed it becomes easier for lawmakers on the fence to feel comfortable voting in favor of farther-reaching legislation,” agreed Fox, who called the idea that passing SAFE Banking would detract from criminal justice reform “a common misconception.”

“We need banking reform and cannabis legalization,” added Bryant. “Small businesses, particularly minority-owned ones, urgently need access to basic banking services — right now.”

The continued focus on federal cannabis reform is inarguably a good sign. But with the Senate in recess until September and the House expected to end its break early to vote on trillions of dollars in infrastructure spending, the fate of legislation on cannabis banking – or any other reform – is still mostly up in the air.

 

 

Applicants Claim They Were Wrongfully Forced to Give Up Lottery Spots in New Lawsuit Against Illinois Cannabis Licensing Process

by

Despite a busy year on the state level and multiple bills announced and introduced into Congress, not much legislative progress has been made on federal cannabis policy in 2021. 

Late last month, the House took yet another preliminary step towards the regulation of financial services for cannabis by including banking provisions in a limited budget proposal approved by a full floor vote.

The “minibus” package, which includes appropriations for important government agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Social Security Administration, also contains a section preventing federal dollars from being used to penalize financial institutions for doing business with cannabis companies.

Including the standalone Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, which passed the House twice on its own and once as part of an October 2020 COVID relief bill, the minibus marks the fourth time the full House of Representatives has approved cannabis banking since 2019. 

Will the fourth time be the charm for financial services and cannabis? Could the acceptance of standalone banking regulations sap momentum for full scale reform? 

Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary spoke with prominent associations in the industry to answer these questions and determine whether or not banking protections have a real chance of passing this year.

Comparing the minibus cannabis regulations to its predecessors

Experts and analysts have pointed out that the banking protections included in the spending package aren’t as comprehensive as the SAFE Banking Act. And unlike the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act recently announced by Sens. Booker and Wyden, it doesn’t address the legal standing of the plant.

For cannabis advocates, the smaller focus is less desirable than wholesale cannabis reform but may indicate the issue still matters to legislators.

“While limited in scope, appropriations riders are important opportunities for Congress to demonstrate its priorities and intent. They are often precursors to comprehensive reform legislation,” said Bo Bryant, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the U.S. Cannabis Council, via email.

Amber Littlejohn, Executive Director of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, agreed: “I believe lawmakers understand the importance of access to capital and want a solution that actually addresses the issue.”

The narrower provisions could also make the language more likely to make it through the more conservative Senate, which has to finalize the budget before it’s sent to President Biden for approval. 

“The House has spoken on this issue conclusively at this point, but in terms of the Senate, I don’t really see strong opposition to keeping it [cannabis banking protection] in the final bill considering the standalone legislation has bipartisan support,” said Morgan Fox, Media Relations Director at the National Cannabis Industry Association. 

Reconciling standalone banking with descheduling 

The limited nature of the budget’s provisions on cannabis banking also raise another concern: accepting financial reform or pushing for full legalization. These ideas aren’t mutually exclusive, but Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) seemed to raise the issue at the press conference unveiling his new reform bill, promising to “do everything I can to stop an easy banking bill that’s going to allow all these corporations to make a lot more money on this as opposed to focusing on the restorative justice aspects.” 

Booker later backtracked, expressing support for the SAFE Banking Act, but his original line of thinking – that financial reform alone would detract from efforts to pass criminal justice changes – isn’t new.

Industry insiders pushed back against the idea that pursuing banking reform and full-scale federal legalization is an either/or proposition.

“I’m deeply troubled by the idea that it’s one or the other,” said Littlejohn. “This idea that SAFE Banking is about corporate cannabis is preposterous. Big cannabis doesn’t need SAFE. In fact, cash strapped small and minority owned businesses help big cannabis companies maintain their competitive advantage.”

“Every time an incremental bill is passed it becomes easier for lawmakers on the fence to feel comfortable voting in favor of farther-reaching legislation,” agreed Fox, who called the idea that passing SAFE Banking would detract from criminal justice reform “a common misconception.”

“We need banking reform and cannabis legalization,” added Bryant. “Small businesses, particularly minority-owned ones, urgently need access to basic banking services — right now.”

The continued focus on federal cannabis reform is inarguably a good sign. But with the Senate in recess until September and the House expected to end its break early to vote on trillions of dollars in infrastructure spending, the fate of legislation on cannabis banking – or any other reform – is still mostly up in the air.

 

 

New Director Appointed to Lead Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority

by

Despite a busy year on the state level and multiple bills announced and introduced into Congress, not much legislative progress has been made on federal cannabis policy in 2021. 

Late last month, the House took yet another preliminary step towards the regulation of financial services for cannabis by including banking provisions in a limited budget proposal approved by a full floor vote.

The “minibus” package, which includes appropriations for important government agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Social Security Administration, also contains a section preventing federal dollars from being used to penalize financial institutions for doing business with cannabis companies.

Including the standalone Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, which passed the House twice on its own and once as part of an October 2020 COVID relief bill, the minibus marks the fourth time the full House of Representatives has approved cannabis banking since 2019. 

Will the fourth time be the charm for financial services and cannabis? Could the acceptance of standalone banking regulations sap momentum for full scale reform? 

Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary spoke with prominent associations in the industry to answer these questions and determine whether or not banking protections have a real chance of passing this year.

Comparing the minibus cannabis regulations to its predecessors

Experts and analysts have pointed out that the banking protections included in the spending package aren’t as comprehensive as the SAFE Banking Act. And unlike the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act recently announced by Sens. Booker and Wyden, it doesn’t address the legal standing of the plant.

For cannabis advocates, the smaller focus is less desirable than wholesale cannabis reform but may indicate the issue still matters to legislators.

“While limited in scope, appropriations riders are important opportunities for Congress to demonstrate its priorities and intent. They are often precursors to comprehensive reform legislation,” said Bo Bryant, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the U.S. Cannabis Council, via email.

Amber Littlejohn, Executive Director of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, agreed: “I believe lawmakers understand the importance of access to capital and want a solution that actually addresses the issue.”

The narrower provisions could also make the language more likely to make it through the more conservative Senate, which has to finalize the budget before it’s sent to President Biden for approval. 

“The House has spoken on this issue conclusively at this point, but in terms of the Senate, I don’t really see strong opposition to keeping it [cannabis banking protection] in the final bill considering the standalone legislation has bipartisan support,” said Morgan Fox, Media Relations Director at the National Cannabis Industry Association. 

Reconciling standalone banking with descheduling 

The limited nature of the budget’s provisions on cannabis banking also raise another concern: accepting financial reform or pushing for full legalization. These ideas aren’t mutually exclusive, but Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) seemed to raise the issue at the press conference unveiling his new reform bill, promising to “do everything I can to stop an easy banking bill that’s going to allow all these corporations to make a lot more money on this as opposed to focusing on the restorative justice aspects.” 

Booker later backtracked, expressing support for the SAFE Banking Act, but his original line of thinking – that financial reform alone would detract from efforts to pass criminal justice changes – isn’t new.

Industry insiders pushed back against the idea that pursuing banking reform and full-scale federal legalization is an either/or proposition.

“I’m deeply troubled by the idea that it’s one or the other,” said Littlejohn. “This idea that SAFE Banking is about corporate cannabis is preposterous. Big cannabis doesn’t need SAFE. In fact, cash strapped small and minority owned businesses help big cannabis companies maintain their competitive advantage.”

“Every time an incremental bill is passed it becomes easier for lawmakers on the fence to feel comfortable voting in favor of farther-reaching legislation,” agreed Fox, who called the idea that passing SAFE Banking would detract from criminal justice reform “a common misconception.”

“We need banking reform and cannabis legalization,” added Bryant. “Small businesses, particularly minority-owned ones, urgently need access to basic banking services — right now.”

The continued focus on federal cannabis reform is inarguably a good sign. But with the Senate in recess until September and the House expected to end its break early to vote on trillions of dollars in infrastructure spending, the fate of legislation on cannabis banking – or any other reform – is still mostly up in the air.

 

 

Texas Original Compassionate Cultivation Expands Operations as State Expands Medical Cannabis Access

by

Despite a busy year on the state level and multiple bills announced and introduced into Congress, not much legislative progress has been made on federal cannabis policy in 2021. 

Late last month, the House took yet another preliminary step towards the regulation of financial services for cannabis by including banking provisions in a limited budget proposal approved by a full floor vote.

The “minibus” package, which includes appropriations for important government agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Social Security Administration, also contains a section preventing federal dollars from being used to penalize financial institutions for doing business with cannabis companies.

Including the standalone Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, which passed the House twice on its own and once as part of an October 2020 COVID relief bill, the minibus marks the fourth time the full House of Representatives has approved cannabis banking since 2019. 

Will the fourth time be the charm for financial services and cannabis? Could the acceptance of standalone banking regulations sap momentum for full scale reform? 

Cannabis Business Times and Cannabis Dispensary spoke with prominent associations in the industry to answer these questions and determine whether or not banking protections have a real chance of passing this year.

Comparing the minibus cannabis regulations to its predecessors

Experts and analysts have pointed out that the banking protections included in the spending package aren’t as comprehensive as the SAFE Banking Act. And unlike the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act recently announced by Sens. Booker and Wyden, it doesn’t address the legal standing of the plant.

For cannabis advocates, the smaller focus is less desirable than wholesale cannabis reform but may indicate the issue still matters to legislators.

“While limited in scope, appropriations riders are important opportunities for Congress to demonstrate its priorities and intent. They are often precursors to comprehensive reform legislation,” said Bo Bryant, Senior Vice President of Government Relations at the U.S. Cannabis Council, via email.

Amber Littlejohn, Executive Director of the Minority Cannabis Business Association, agreed: “I believe lawmakers understand the importance of access to capital and want a solution that actually addresses the issue.”

The narrower provisions could also make the language more likely to make it through the more conservative Senate, which has to finalize the budget before it’s sent to President Biden for approval. 

“The House has spoken on this issue conclusively at this point, but in terms of the Senate, I don’t really see strong opposition to keeping it [cannabis banking protection] in the final bill considering the standalone legislation has bipartisan support,” said Morgan Fox, Media Relations Director at the National Cannabis Industry Association. 

Reconciling standalone banking with descheduling 

The limited nature of the budget’s provisions on cannabis banking also raise another concern: accepting financial reform or pushing for full legalization. These ideas aren’t mutually exclusive, but Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) seemed to raise the issue at the press conference unveiling his new reform bill, promising to “do everything I can to stop an easy banking bill that’s going to allow all these corporations to make a lot more money on this as opposed to focusing on the restorative justice aspects.” 

Booker later backtracked, expressing support for the SAFE Banking Act, but his original line of thinking – that financial reform alone would detract from efforts to pass criminal justice changes – isn’t new.

Industry insiders pushed back against the idea that pursuing banking reform and full-scale federal legalization is an either/or proposition.

“I’m deeply troubled by the idea that it’s one or the other,” said Littlejohn. “This idea that SAFE Banking is about corporate cannabis is preposterous. Big cannabis doesn’t need SAFE. In fact, cash strapped small and minority owned businesses help big cannabis companies maintain their competitive advantage.”

“Every time an incremental bill is passed it becomes easier for lawmakers on the fence to feel comfortable voting in favor of farther-reaching legislation,” agreed Fox, who called the idea that passing SAFE Banking would detract from criminal justice reform “a common misconception.”

“We need banking reform and cannabis legalization,” added Bryant. “Small businesses, particularly minority-owned ones, urgently need access to basic banking services — right now.”

The continued focus on federal cannabis reform is inarguably a good sign. But with the Senate in recess until September and the House expected to end its break early to vote on trillions of dollars in infrastructure spending, the fate of legislation on cannabis banking – or any other reform – is still mostly up in the air.