AGP Executive Report

Clinical Breakthrough: A Phase 2 LiBBY trial presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference reports that an oral CBD+THC formulation (2 mg THC/100 mg CBD twice daily) rapidly cuts agitation in hospice-eligible advanced dementia patients, with benefits seen by Week 2 and sustained through Week 12. Industry Expansion: Cure By Design opened its first Chennai retail store in Anna Nagar, positioning it as an education-led medical cannabis and plant wellness hub as it pushes franchise growth across India. Legal/Policy Fight: Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee is pressing a federal court case against Meta over alleged fake CBD gummy endorsements, arguing the ads misused his name and likeness under Arkansas law. Research Partnerships: The University of Mississippi is teaming with Southern Sky Brands to study CBD’s effects on sleep quality in adult participants. Public Safety & Enforcement: Coast Guard seized about $2.8M in marijuana near the Bahamas; Paraguay’s SENAD seized 311 kg of high-THC marijuana hidden in imported trucks from Miami. Local Governance: Maryville, Missouri, is weighing changes to UTV rules and marijuana dispensary hours, reflecting how city policy keeps shaping cannabis access.

Roadside CBD/Cannabis Risk: A Sri Lanka doctor warned some roadside eateries may be using ganja leaves in food, raising the risk of drivers testing positive and facing legal trouble even if they didn’t intend to consume. Local Licensing Watch: Pasco, Washington reviewed options for cannabis revenue and retail license caps, with any expansion tied to state social equity licensing. Enforcement & Seizures: Lagos Taskforce arrested 33 suspects and recovered drugs including “Indian hemp” and marijuana, plus weapons, in a multi-location operation. Crime Targeting Cannabis Farms: Santa Barbara County named suspects in two Carpinteria cannabis farm burglaries that stole 2,000 pounds worth $500,000+. Public Health & Policy: SAMHSA reported fewer youth and young adults using alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and other drugs from 2021–2025, alongside continued mental health treatment gains. Driving Law Pressure: Queensland is considering “zero tolerance” drink/drug driving changes that could hit medicinal marijuana users, critics say. Local Cannabis Retail Rules: Springfield, Missouri delayed a vote on drive-thru dispensary hours, sending it back to committee.

Hemp vs THC Crackdown: Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers urged Congress to stop a planned federal recriminalization of hemp THC products, warning it could trigger “mass disruption” for farmers and retailers. Insurance Shield for Cannabis: Two U.S. senators introduced the CLAIM Act to protect insurers that cover state-legal cannabis businesses from federal prosecution risk. Local Control in NY: Lake Success delayed a zoning vote after a lawsuit could decide how much authority towns have over where adult-use dispensaries operate. Court Limits on Searches: Michigan’s Supreme Court rulings continue narrowing when police can search vehicles over low-level cannabis issues. Adult-Use Market Reality Check: A federal study found teen marijuana use keeps falling even as adult use rises. Hemp Regulation Push (NC): North Carolina law enforcement and prosecutors asked lawmakers to move hemp product rules forward after years of stalled legislation. CBD/THC in the Real World: Police reports and seizures kept coming—THC vapes, edibles, and marijuana tied to traffic stops, raids, and drug cases across multiple states. Research & Wellness Angle: A hemp-focused interview highlighted CBD’s role in wellness, while a dementia trial report claimed THC-CBD combos reduced agitation.

Synthetic “p iu-piu” in vapes: Malaysia’s anti-drug agency says “piu-piu” is a synthetic hallucinogen mixed into vape liquids, with warnings it may include fentanyl and target teens and young adults. Cannabis-linked court cases: A UK court heard a man bit an emergency worker after being caught with cannabis, while a separate case in Michigan ruled a city manager handling marijuana retail license rankings wasn’t covered by open-meetings rules. THC policy pressure: Queensland’s “zero-tolerance” drug-driving push drew alarm from the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, which says medicinal cannabis patients could be hit; in Texas, lawmakers are again laying groundwork for a THC product ban. Industry education vs regulation: A Fort Worth retailer is stepping up consumer education on THCA hemp flower versus medical marijuana, lab testing, and product basics. Medical cannabis trial: A U.S. hospice-eligible dementia study (LiBBY) reported THC/CBD treatment reduced agitation for most participants. Enforcement and misinformation: Birmingham dealers allegedly used AI to learn how to make strong cannabis before arrests, and police in New Zealand say a TikTok stunt led to cannabis oil and weapon finds.

CBD/THC Clinical Update: A randomized LiBBY trial presented at the Alzheimer’s Association conference reports that a rapid-acting THC/CBD oral combo (2 mg THC + 100 mg CBD) reduced agitation in hospice-eligible late-stage dementia patients, a group often left out of prior studies. Public Safety & Synthetic Cannabinoids: In the UK, a man who set a homeless person on fire died in prison; an inquest linked the death to synthetic cannabinoid (Spice) inhalation. Policy & Enforcement: Ireland’s Gardaí seized about 392 kg of herbal cannabis at Dublin Port, valued at €7.84 million, with investigations ongoing. Cannabis Politics: Major cannabis firms reportedly donated $10 million to a Trump-aligned super PAC, highlighting growing GOP-aligned political spending despite shifting support for legalization. Local Response Models: Michigan approved an unarmed crisis response team (SPROUT) to handle non-violent mental health calls with clinicians and caseworkers, aiming to reduce reliance on armed police.

Clinical Breakthrough: A randomized LiBBY trial presented at the Alzheimer’s Association conference reports that a rapid-acting THC/CBD oral formulation (2 mg THC + 100 mg CBD) showed “robustly positive” results for agitation in hospice-eligible late-stage dementia patients, a group often left out of earlier studies. Medicinal Cannabis Banking: St. Kitts and Nevis’ Medicinal Cannabis Authority is pushing for a secure banking framework, citing correspondent banking hurdles with US institutions and bringing in a consultant to work with local banks and credit unions. Law Enforcement & Seizures: Gardaí seized about €7.84M worth of cannabis (around 392 kg) at Dublin Port in an intelligence-led operation, while Mexico’s Navy destroyed two large marijuana plantations in Tijuana (about 291,000 plants). Policy & Industry Politics: Cannabis firms reportedly donated $10M to a Trump-aligned super PAC, fueling concerns about “grease the palms” influence as hemp-THC faces renewed regulatory pressure. Courts & Custody Risks: UK court coverage highlights the serious consequences of bringing cannabis into prison, with a defendant warned he was “at risk of custody” after admitting he conveyed cannabis into HMP Berwyn. Public Safety: A Raleigh train-station assault case added a charge of attempted murder and included a seized marijuana vape described as a synthetic cannabinoid.

CBD Clinical Update: A randomized LiBBY trial presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference reported positive results for a THC/CBD oral combo (2 mg THC + 100 mg CBD) in hospice-eligible dementia patients with agitation, a group often left out of prior studies. Election & Industry Politics: Salon reports four major cannabis companies (Verano, Curaleaf, Trulieve, Vision Management Services) donated $10M to a Trump-aligned super PAC, highlighting how GOP support for legalization appears to be shifting. Public Safety & Policy Backlash: Florida’s Fraternal Order of Police opposes Amendment 3, arguing property tax relief could create funding uncertainty for law enforcement, fire rescue, and EMS. Hemp/Cannabis Enforcement: Virginia State Police say a week of crime suppression recovered 48.7 pounds of marijuana plus other drugs and seized firearms, while Ireland’s Cork operation netted about €108k cannabis and €484k cocaine. Culture & Marketing: Oakland’s baseball team plans a one-night “Oaksterdam Blazers” identity tied to cannabis education, turning an April Fools’ post into a real themed event.

DEA & Rescheduling: MMJ says it was blocked from a marijuana rescheduling hearing, then pointed to a DEA scientist’s testimony that allegedly undercut the agency’s “no factual basis” stance. Hemp Deadline Pressure: Kentucky hemp farmers warn they’re stuck with unsold stock as a Nov. 12 rule could reclassify many hemp products as Schedule I, while a bipartisan Lawful Hemp Protection Act is pitched as a possible lifeline. Public Health Regulation: Hopkinton’s Board of Health voted to ban kratom and synthetic THC products, citing safety concerns. Industry Shift to Trust: A new push for cleaner, more transparent cannabis products is reshaping what buyers demand—ingredients, sourcing, and testing—not just THC. Enforcement Snapshot: Police raids and busts kept coming—Israel seized 200+ kg of marijuana/hashish from a nursery; Bangladesh police arrested 428 and seized cannabis plus yaba and other drugs; Michigan traffic stops turned up 97 kg processed marijuana and cash. Culture & Community: A Jacksonville mural is set to cover a Sunburn Cannabis wall in 5 Points, celebrating LGBTQ history. Court/Policy Ripple: A Supreme Court ruling clarified geofence warrants as Fourth Amendment “searches,” adding pressure to how tech data is handled in criminal cases.

Industry Layoffs: The Cannabist is shutting down two Vineland, New Jersey cultivation sites, cutting 86 jobs, as it exits the NJ market and sells three dispensaries to Vireo Growth. Legal & Enforcement: Michigan’s Supreme Court ruled marijuana odor alone can’t justify vehicle searches, reshaping how police handle probable cause for drivers. Public Safety: Swindon police seized cannabis-laced “fruit pastilles” gummies and high-THC vapes, warning parents to watch for lookalike sweets. Hemp Growth: Indiana hemp backers say farmers could benefit from expanded industrial hemp products, though regulatory uncertainty remains. Medical/Health Policy: Georgia’s medical cannabis program expanded July 1, boosting registrations sharply and removing the 5% THC cap while adding new qualifying conditions. Global Trade/Seizures: Hong Kong Customs arrested three passengers after seizing about 9.5kg of suspected cannabis buds at the airport. Road Risks: A driver in Elgin, Manitoba was banned after testing at 6.7 microgrammes of THC per litre of blood—over the legal limit.

Supreme Court Home Distilling: An Ohio brewer-backed petition asks the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit the federal ban on making spirits at home, challenging whether the “dwelling house” rule is a fair use of federal power. CBD & Cannabis Retail Security: Police in Worth, Illinois investigated a hidden camera found inside a Curaleaf dispensary restroom, raising fresh concerns about privacy and store controls. Europe Smuggling Pressure: A Telegraph investigation claims legal Canadian cannabis is fueling black-market shipments into Europe, with Belgium’s Antwerp port seeing a sharp rise in seizures. Regulation Watch (Thailand): Thailand’s market is shrinking as tighter medical rules shut down non-compliant shops, pushing operators toward licensed, prescription-based models. Hemp-Derived THC Warnings (US): Erie County health officials urged consumers to understand risks of delta-9 THC hemp products, including impairment, anxiety, and accidental overconsumption. Guam Licensing: Guam’s Cannabis Control Board conditionally approved its third-ever cannabis establishment license, pending remaining government clearances. Health Research: Oregon State University research links frequent cannabis use with higher morning cortisol, suggesting possible stress-response disruption. Industry Access: ZenZest expands New York cannabis retail via direct online ordering and local delivery across Queens, Nassau, and Staten Island.

Policy & Regulation: Alabama health officials held a hearing on whether to block or adopt federal marijuana rescheduling, keeping the state from automatically moving certain medical products to Schedule III. Pregnancy & Public Health: Ohio launched a pregnancy-focused cannabis education push after surveys found over half of pregnant or planning women reported using marijuana; officials warn of low birth weight and developmental risks. Research: A University of Minnesota study found teen cannabis use hit a record low (down to 5% in 2025), but gaps persist for LGBTQ+ youth, American Indian/Alaska Native youth, and youth in poverty. Medical Outcomes: Minnesota chronic pain patients reported improvements after joining the state’s medical cannabis program. Industry & Hemp Drinks: The hemp-derived THC beverage fight continues as a federal ban could take effect Nov. 12, with retailers pushing for a carve-out. Enforcement & Courts: Michigan State Police seized 200+ pounds of marijuana and $346K in cash in an I-75 stop; in Alabama, a woman was arrested after child endangerment allegations tied to marijuana-positive hair tests. Global Supply Chains: Macau airport police arrested a Malaysian woman with 6.7 million patacas worth of cannabis; separate reports describe drone-linked prison smuggling in Georgia.

Hemp Policy Push: U.S. Rep. Andy Barr backs the Lawful Hemp Protection Act to regulate intoxicating hemp-derived THC products instead of an outright federal ban, proposing age limits (21+), FDA-set THC caps, and a ban on ads aimed at kids. Child Safety Alarm: Kentucky’s child fatality panel flagged a sharp rise in overdose ingestion cases and warned that cannabinoids are among the most commonly ingested substances by children, including a case involving a THC dab pen wax. Wellness Market Watch: A new report projects rapid growth for hemp-infused seltzers, driven by demand for alcohol-free “relaxation” drinks. Public Health & Pregnancy: Ohio’s OneOhio Recovery Foundation is set to launch a statewide education campaign on cannabis use during pregnancy, targeting expectant mothers and healthcare conversations. Enforcement & Risk: Nepal’s APF says it seized marijuana and other drugs in anti-smuggling and anti-drug operations, while police in Pokhara tested boat drivers and arrested those found to have used marijuana. Global Crime Tech: A UN report warns criminal networks are using tech and AI to expand scams and trafficking, with children increasingly at risk.

THC Drinks Alarm: Doctors say THC sodas and “hemp” beverages sold beside regular drinks are landing kids in the ER, with weak labeling and spotty ID checks flagged in a STAT report as a Farm Bill loophole nears its November close. Federal Marijuana Push: Sen. John Fetterman and Senate Democrats reintroduced the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act to federally legalize marijuana, decriminalize, expunge some offenses, and set up a national regulatory framework. Youth Treatment Delays: A new study finds more teens seeking help for cannabis use disorder are facing longer waits for publicly funded treatment, reversing earlier declines. Hemp Rule Shock (Virginia): A coalition of Virginia hemp businesses plans a federal lawsuit over a new state definition that could reclassify many hemp products as adult-use/medical cannabis after a key ratio change. Local Delivery Politics (Massachusetts): Massachusetts towns may opt out of home delivery for cannabis unless they allow it, and one board is weighing enforcement questions and public input. Safety + Enforcement (Kentucky): Kentucky’s child overdose review panel reports cannabinoid exposures rising sharply over five years, with packaging rules not fully preventing accidental ingestion. Industry News (US): CANNA Continental debuted CANNA Control, a thyme-oil foliar spray labeled for greenhouse crops and agricultural hemp.

Maritime Disaster in Guyana: The MV Barima ferry capsized off Guyana’s coast, with the death toll revised to at least 41 and dozens still missing; authorities say the captain and crew tested positive for marijuana, while investigators focus on passenger manifests, loading and safety compliance. Major CBD/Cannabis Enforcement: South Australia police say they found a hydroponic cannabis grow hidden under a trapdoor in a rural shed near Adelaide, seizing 26 plants and 24kg of dried product plus assets tied to the alleged operation. UK Cannabis Crackdown: Wiltshire Police uncovered a large “sophisticated” cannabis farm in a disused poultry unit near Burbage, with 1,500+ plants and an estimated £500,000 street value, powered by illegal grid electricity. Crime & Courts: In the US, a Florida case links marijuana to a fatal I-75 crash, while in California a jury convicted Carlos Reales Dominguez of involuntary manslaughter in a 2023 stabbing spree where cannabis was found during a search. Policy/Politics: North Carolina media coverage highlights the ongoing “hemp vs marijuana” controversy as THC products remain legal while marijuana stays illegal.

Missouri Ballot Fight: A new push for Amendment 4 would force citizen initiatives to win in every congressional district, not just statewide—raising alarms that it could block recent voter-led measures. Packaging Crackdown: Oklahoma’s HB 4454 targets “child-attractive” medical cannabis edible branding, with $500-per-product fines—prompting confusion from advocates and patients. Public Health Recall: Arizona flagged a voluntary recall of infused marijuana products after possible Aspergillus contamination, warning of allergic reactions and infection risk. Enforcement & Smuggling: UK authorities jailed a man for trying to smuggle £430,000 of cannabis from Thailand through Glasgow Airport, as arrests of air couriers keep climbing. Safety in the Real World: Roadside testing in Ireland found cocaine in 58% of positive drug tests, while cannabis presence fell—still showing dangerous drug-and-alcohol combinations. Local Cannabis Business: Hackensack, NJ discussed a closed-loop micro-cultivation plan for a former theater, while Rapho Township approved data-center rules that include closed-loop water cooling.

Maritime Disaster Probe: Guyana’s MV Barima capsized with 27 confirmed dead and 83 missing; officials say the passenger manifest was inaccurate and the captain and at least one crew member tested positive for marijuana, triggering a criminal investigation. Drug Enforcement & Seizures: Namibia’s Hardap police destroyed drugs worth about N$462,510, including cannabis and crack; Lagos police arrested 147 suspects and recovered “Indian hemp” plus weapons during Operation Ko Saye III; and Trinidad’s Point Fortin police found marijuana-infused cigarettes and cannabis during a beach patrol. Cannabis in Court: Scotland’s Ayr Sheriff Court heard two men plead guilty to producing cannabis after an electricity meter was altered; Isle of Wight magistrates handled multiple drug-driving/possession cases involving cannabis. Policy/Health Watch: A UNODC report warns South-East Asia’s criminal economy is becoming more interconnected and tech-driven, with criminals sharing laundering and trafficking services. Public Safety Angle: A Kentucky panel reported a sharp rise in child overdose ingestion cases, naming cannabinoids among top substances.