June 4 - 5, 2025
Javits Convention Center
Cy Scott, CEO, Headset

Where is the Industry? What Will Happen With Rescheduling? The Comment Period is Over.

The Future is Upon Us. Where is the Industry?
What Will Happen With Rescheduling?
The Comment Period is Over.

What is the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) going to do now?

In our May and June newsletters we noted that the DEA was accepting public comments on rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. The public comment period is now over. The DEA has over 40,000 comments to sift through. What will the DEA do? What is a likely outcome? And will the impending election have any impact if the DEA does not have a decision or has not taken action prior to the election?

According to the latest HEADSET analysis, 94% of respondents favored rescheduling or descheduling cannabis.

Read the latest from HEADSET.

HEADSET’s Cy Scott delivered the Industry Update at CWCBExpo New York on June 5.  At that time, the comments were already overwhelmingly favorable for rescheduling or descheduling.  Listen to Cy’s entire presentation on this month’s archived video.

“If they take these comments seriously and really take into account what the people are saying, this is pretty overwhelming, right?

“You’re going to see new investors coming in, new opportunity, and more capital available, which is good, especially for an emerging market like New York.”

– Cy Scott, at CWCBExpo, June 5, 2024

HeadSet
Cy Scott, Co-founder. CEO, Headset
New York State Cannabis News

Licensing News from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM), Cannabis Control Board (CCB) 

 

  • Issuing more licenses across several categories bringing the total for 2024 to 730
  • Amendments to packaging, labeling and marketing regulations for licensees
  • Ongoing efforts to padlock illicit shops across NYC and NYS
New York State Government

At the meeting, the CCB asserted that the cannabis industry in NYS is thriving and growing and that cannabis sales in 2024 will reach $200MM by this June. They said that to date, NYS cannabis sales have surpassed $420MM.

NYS OCM Office of Cannabis Management

Recent Adult-Use Dispensary Openings

Just A Little Higher Murray Hill
NEW YORK CITY | 628 2nd Avenue, New York 10016
Website: justalittlehigher.com

 

Stoops NYC
NEW YORK CITY | 182 Fifth Ave, New York 10010
Website: stoopsnyc.com

 

RISE Dispensary Halfmoon
HALFMOON | 1675 Route 9, Watkins Plaza, Halfmoon 12065
Website: risecannabis.com

 

Riverbend Dispensary
HUDSON | 531 Warren Street, Hudson 12534
Website: riverbenddispensary.com

 

Happy Times Cannabis Co.
CHEEKTOWAGA | 3807 Harlem Road, Cheektowaga 14215
Website: happytimescannabis.com

 

Silver Cannabis Company
SARATOGA SPRINGS | 75 Weibel Avenue, Saratoga Springs 12866
Website: silver-therapeutics.com/location/saratoga/

 

Twisted Cannabis FLX
GENEVA | 501 Exchange Street, Geneva 14456
Website:
twistedcannabisflx.com

 

Kings House of Fire
CORTLANDT MANOR | 3006 E Main Street, Cortlandt Manor 10567
Website: kingshouseoffire.com

 

Green Genius NYC
NEW YORK CITY | 214 3rd Avenue, New York 10003
Website: greengeniusnyc.com

 

Cussin’s Cannabis
SCHENECTADY | 2075 Central Avenue, Schenectady 12304
Website: cussinscanna.com

 

Polanco Brothers Ridgewood
NEW YORK CITY | 6633 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood 11385
Website: polancobrothersridgewood.com

 

Herb-Z
NEW YORK CITY | 109 E Taft Road, North Syracuse, 13212
Website: herb-z.com

 

Robinson’s Dispensary
ALBANY | 106 Everett Road, Albany, 12205

 

Arkansas, Nebraska and North Dakota Cannabis News

New Ballot Measures

Cannabis advocates in several states organized and gathered signatures to get legalization measures on their 2024 state ballots. The advocates in three states, Arkansas, Nebraska and North Dakota, had more than enough signatures to get the respective measures on the ballots. Arkansas and Nebraska seek medical ballot measures while the North Dakota ballot measure supports adult-use legalization.

NORML
Delaware Cannabis News

Transitioning Dispensaries from Medical to Adult Use

Delaware Governor John Carney signed a legislative bill that allows a pathway for medical licensees and dispensaries to transition to adult-use operators. That pathway has fees to transition. The bill is meant to catapult the development of the adult-use cannabis market.

South Africa Cannabis News

South Africa Works to Build its Cannabis and Hemp Sectors

In November of 2023, CWCBExpo editors visited the South African Consulate in New York City to discuss developing a cannabis industry. CWCBExpo has  been following that country’s cannabis progress since our visit. Here are the latest developments.

South Africa has embarked on several priorities for their country’s Investment Strategy that will spur job creation and growth, and foster recognition of people’s rights.

This past spring, South African President Ramaphosa took significant action regarding the Cannabis and Hemp sectors. In May, President Ramaphosa signed a law called the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (CfPPA) which regulates the cultivation, possession and use of cannabis by adults in private settings. It also removed cannabis from their Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act. The President’s action opens up the medical market even further for the medicinal cannabis and for further regulatory opportunity for cannabis use among adults.

President Ramaphosa’s actions continued in June when he took the results of a Phakisa that explored the Cannabis and Hemp sectors. A “Phakisa” is a targeted program that seeks to fast-track the government’s targets and goals that help business, education, society and government. The Phakisa for cannabis and hemp brought stakeholders together from several groups. The goal was to develop a cohesive plan to define policy and get various sectors of the South African government to work together to build a meaningful regulatory program for the cannabis and hemp sectors.

President Cyril Ramaphosa
Art installation of South African record labels inside the South African Consulate in New York City, November 2023
Art installation of South African record labels inside the South African Consulate in New York City, November 2023.

THIS MONTH’S CWCBExpo NY 2024 ARCHIVED VIDEO

Industry Update by Cy Scott:
“Trends, Challenges and Opportunities –
Why New York is the Market to Watch in the Midst of Rescheduling”

This Industry Update, recorded at CWCBExpo on June 5, 2024, gives us a big-picture overview of the adult-use market across the United States including the implications of rescheduling from a Schedule I to a Schedule III classification. Also addressed are growth market trends, consumer behavior preferences and sales of different form factors. The data and analytics focuses on the New York Market and why you should put it front and center in your sights. This is a not to be missed market analysis.

Presented by Cy Scott, Co-Founder, CEO, Headset, with Tim Seymour, Portfolio Manager, CNBS Cannabis ETF; Co-Host, CNBC Fast Money.

Cy Scott and Tim Seymour, June 5 2024 at CWCBExpo NY

((from the left) Cy Scott and Tim Seymour

Don’t miss out. Get prime exhibit space now.

CWCBExpo, 11th Annual
June 4 – 5, 2025
Javits Convention Center, NYC

 

Unveiling Recent Research Highlights

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter (now X) to get the most recent edition when it’s published. 

 

In this month’s national news update, we’re exploring some notable developments in cannabis research, including its social impacts and upcoming studies focused on specific product types. Additionally, we’ll take a look at the market dynamics surrounding cannabis beverages and edibles, two high growth market segments that are popular with a wide range of consumers. Read on to learn more about some of the headlines affecting the cannabis industry nationwide.

 

Rolling paper company seeks volunteers to smoke pre-rolls 

Cannabis rolling paper company DaySavers is seeking 200 volunteers aged 21 and older to participate in their “Science of Smokeability” study. Volunteers will receive $4.20 as a stipend to smoke two free pre-rolls (shipped at the company’s cost) and provide feedback on their experience. 

 

In partnership with the Cannabis Research Coalition and the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), DaySavers aims to investigate how different cultivation and processing methods influence the quality and consistency of the smoking experience. Over a two-year period, researchers will analyze laboratory tests and consumer feedback to refine cultivation practices and overall smoke quality. 

 

“This research not only has the potential to improve product quality and consistency but also promote sustainability, profitability, and a deeper scientific understanding of cannabis as a medicinal and recreational product,” the company said in a press release.

 

Study finds older medical patients experience improvement in health and well-being 

A new study published in the journal Drugs and Aging highlighted promising findings regarding the therapeutic benefits of medical cannabis for older adults. The research indicates that cannabis products have the potential to significantly improve health, well-being, sleep, and mood among older patients – mainly related to pain severity and chronic pain. 

 

The study was conducted by a five-person research team and addressed what authors called “a common methodological practice of excluding those aged over 65 years from clinical trials.” Of the products prescribed during the study, patients over 64 were “more likely to receive CBD dominant oil and less likely to receive THC dominant flower by prescription.”

 

“International evidence that older individuals may be the fastest-growing increase in the use of medical marijuana, coupled with their frequent exclusion from controlled trials, indicates a growing need for real-world evidence to assess the effectiveness and safety of these drugs for older individuals,” reads the report. 

 

College enrollment increases in states with legal cannabis 

A recent study analyzing college enrollment trends in states that have legalized recreational cannabis reveals an impact on high education participation. According to the findings, the adoption of recreational cannabis laws increases college enrollments by approximately 9%, with no adverse effects on degree completion or graduation rates. 

 

The study also highlighted that legalization can enhance colleges’ competitiveness, attracting out-of-state students who perceive legal cannabis as a positive amenity. Researchers found no evidence that recreational cannabis laws affect college affordability, education quality, or enrollment rates for in-state students. 

 

“The results indicate that both women’s and men’s enrollments rose significantly after the fourth year of the first dispensary opening,” the report says, noting that the delay could be due to the time it takes for students to decide on and apply to college, as well as the often slow rollout of cannabis retail markets.

 

Cannabis beverage sales grow more slowly than edibles sales 

Cannabis beverage sales have grown more slowly than the total edibles category between Q1 2022 and Q1 2024, according to recent data from BDSA reported by Cannabis Business Times. In Q1 2024, cannabis beverage sales generated $50 million in total across BDSA-tracked markets (AZ, CA, CO, FL, IL, MA, MD, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA). That represents a 6% share of total edible sales, and a 1% share of total cannabis sales. Comparatively, in Q1 2023, beverage sales totaled $48M across those markets. BDSA forecasts that cannabis beverages will maintain approximately 1% of total cannabis sales across legal markets moving forward.

 

Cannabis gummies continue to dominate the edible market, consistently outpacing other types of edibles in consumer preferences. Three-quarters (75%) of medical and recreational edible consumers have enjoyed gummies in the past six months, while just 8% of the same group report drinking cannabis beverages or teas during the same period. 

 

Continue exploring trends with CWCBExpo 

As more national research and trends unfold, staying informed and connected is essential for industry professionals and consumers alike. Cannabis World Congress Business Expo (CWCBExpo) is the premier event for staying updated on the latest developments and networking with industry leaders. Join us next year and follow us on socials to immerse yourself in the forefront of cannabis and stay connected within the industry.

Rescheduling, Fireside Chats, Market Trends, Pavilions, Networking Events

Rescheduling, Fireside Chats, Market Trends,
Pavilions, Networking Events

CWCBExpo New York –
Here We Come

“Rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III would be a game-changer for New York’s newly legal adult-use market…Ultimately, it will accelerate the already strong pace of growth we are currently seeing in New York’s legal cannabis market.

 

Cy Scott, Co-Founder & CEO, Headset

Don’t miss the Industry Update by Cy Scott, “Trends, Challenges and Opportunities – Why New York is the Market to Watch in the Midst of Rescheduling” on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

Cy Scott, Co-founder. CEO, Headset
Cy Scott, Co-Founder & CEO, Headset
Federal Rescheduling

While not the ideal designation the industry wants, May was all lit up with news of rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug. More needs to be done, such as completely descheduling cannabis.

A public comment period is underway after the Justice Department published the proposed rescheduling rule. The public comment period runs through July 22, 2024, and comments can be submitted electronically through their portal. Now is the time to add your comments.

The CWCBExpo Conference Program will Address Rescheduling
Josh Kesselman, Cy Scott, Tim Seymour, Tremaine Wright

The latest news and impact of rescheduling cannabis will be energetically discussed in our workshops, conference seminars, networking events, and on the show floor. A few of the exciting conference highlights are:

  • Market Trends & Opportunities with Cy Scott, Co-Founder & CEO Headset
  • Fireside Chat featuring Chair Wright of the Cannabis Control Board, with Kristin Jordan, Esq., Founder & CEO, Park Jordan
  • Fireside Chat & Keynote featuring Josh Kesselman, Founder & CEO, HBI International/RAW Rolling Papers, with Tim Seymour Portfolio Manager, CNBS Cannabis ETF; Co-Host, CNBC Fast Money
  • Where is Wall Street?
  • Behind the Headlines: Meet the Cannabis Press and Editors
  • Business & Culture at a Crossroads: Cannabis & Psychedelics
  • The Politics & Medicine of Cannabis: A Multi-state Approach
  • Cannabis Retail Marketing in the Digital Era
  • High Tech: How Technology Can Drive Your Business
  • Transactions and Services to Expand Your Cannabis Business
  • Journey to Legitimacy: The OGs and OQs of Cannabis
Kymberly Byrnes, Kristin Jordan, Gia Morón, Dawne Morris
NYS Licensing News

Changes in the NYS Office of Cannabis Management and Cannabis Control Board

A lot has happened regarding the NYS Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and the Cannabis Control Board (CCB). As May unfolded, we learned of the impending departure of Chris Alexander, Executive Director of the OCM, effective June 7, 2024.

In addition, NYS Governor Kathy Hochul mandated several significant operational changes to the OCM for the short and long-term. The changes came on the heels of the final report that Jeanette Moy, Commissioner of the Office of General Services, issued after her 30-day research mission of the OCM.

The operational changes will have an impact on several aspects of what the OCM manages including:

  • A new task force to deal with illicit cannabis activity
  • Licensing procedures
  • Capital for justice-involved CAURD licensees

Learn more about what Governor Hochul announced and about the operational changes and new task force from the Finger Lakes Daily News.

NYS OCM Office of Cannabis Management
Finger Lakes Daily News
New Jersey News

New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission

Governor Phil Murphy also instituted some major changes at the the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) in May. Executive Director Jeff Brown is transitioning to a new position at the NJ Department of Health (DOH) where he will be the new deputy commissioner. His replacement at the CRC will be Christopher Riggs, who previously held the role of deputy executive director and was formerly chief counsel of the CRC.

Cannabis Risk Manager
NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission
Get the CWCBExpo Run Down from Christine Ianuzzi

In this conversation with KymB, Christine Ianuzzi, Founder and CEO of CWCBExpo, shares her insights on rescheduling and gives a rundown of what’s happening at next week’s 10th Annual CWCBExpo, including the many exciting happenings there that you won’t want to miss.

“This is the year that CWCBExpo celebrates the community, the industry, our clients, and all the newcomers who’ll be joining in – the industry is about to grow again.” – Christine Ianuzzi
Christine Ianuzzi
In addition to the full conference program, CWCBExpo offers pre-show workshops, a dynamic exhibit floor, and legendary networking events.

Two Pre-Show Workshops:

Dispensary Ownership & Operations Bootcamp

Deep dive into seed-to-sale discussions including licensing, site selection, real estate, regulations, advertising, design, staffing, security, delivery, compliance, taxation, and product knowledge.

Separate Ticket Required, includes coffee and lunch

Cultivation: Licensing, Technology and Operation

Explore regulations, licenses, funding, challenges, technology, ROI, facility design, security, humidity, lighting, strains, and artificial intelligence.

Separate Ticket Required, includes coffee and light snack

Dynamic Exhibit Floor:

Discover the CWCBExpo exhibit floor. Meet great exhibitors, showcasing cutting-edge products, services, and innovations. Don’t miss the specialized pavilions:

 

  • Women’s Pavilion: Meet new female entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry.
  • Cannifest Seed Pavilion: Explore the latest in seed innovation and genetics.
  • New York Small Farma Pavilion: Meet and learn from local small-scale cannabis farmers.
  • New York Cannabis Workforce Pavilion Job Fair: Discover career opportunities and workforce development in the cannabis sector.
  • Governmental Area: Get your questions answered from Cannabis NYC, NYS Office of Cannabis Management, NJ Business Action Center and other agencies

Networking Events:

B2B Rooftop Bash with the NORML FORML at the Yotel (separate ticket required)
At the Yotel Rooftop, 570 Tenth Avenue at West 42nd Street

Enjoy an open bar, appetizers, and drinks while networking with industry professionals. Support NORML’s mission and participate in NORMAL’s gift basket give-away.

 

Yacht Party (separate ticket required)
Enjoy the stunning sunset and New York City skyline with an open bar delicious dinner, dessert, music, dancing and ample networking opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to connect and celebrate in style.

 

Women in Cannabis Business Luncheon (separate ticket required)
Sponsored by Proteus420

Located on the show floor.

Enjoy a networking lunch featuring opening remarks by Kymberly Byrnes, a fireside chat with Dawne Morris, and a panel discussion “Entrepreneurship While Female: Motivated, Intelligent, and Successful.” Connect with inspiring women leaders and gain valuable insights into the cannabis industry.

 

Proteus420

THIS MONTH’S ARCHIVED VIDEO

“The Future of Cannabis Tourism in the Big Apple and Beyond”

Presented on June 1, 2023, at CWCBExpo, Jacob Javits Convention Center, New York City.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, opportunities emerge to engage with an international audience interested in the plant’s history, lifestyle, and culture. Increasingly, conversations around cannabis tourism are moving from consumption opportunities to education and exploring the plant’s social impact or place in history and pop culture. While adult-use legalization continues to move like wildfire through state-side tourist meccas like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York City, what opportunities exist for entrepreneurs who recognize the plant as a potential draw for tourism dollars?

This session was moderated by Will Yakowicz, Staff Writer, Forbes; with Precious Hester Brown, Founder, CEO, Entertaining & Elevating With Cannabis; Ariel Palitz, Founding Director, NYC Mayors Office of Nightlife;  and “Hawaii” Mike, Founder, Chef for Higher

Tourism, 2023

(pictured from the left) Precious Hester Brown, Ariel Palitz, “Hawaii” Mike, and Will Yakowicz

The CWCBExpo BLOG: Timely News & In Depth Articles

CWCBExpo blogs contain relevant, timely information. Recent subjects include cannabis rescheduling and other legalization and regulatory updates.

Gavel and Cannabis
CWCBExpo, 11th Annual
June 4 – 5, 2025
Javits Convention Center, NYC

 

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