February 2025: Cannabis News You Need to Know
Michigan’s Proposed Cannabis Tax Hike
Governor Whitmer is pushing to raise cannabis taxes to help fund Michigan’s road repairs, aiming to generate nearly half a billion dollars. While the plan could mean smoother highways, dispensary owners are worried it might push customers back to the unregulated market. With Detroit’s cannabis scene still growing, some fear this could do more harm than good.
Former Navy SEAL Enters the Cannabis Industry
Robert O’Neill, the Navy SEAL known for his role in the mission that killed Osama bin Laden, is stepping into the cannabis business. His new company, Operator Canna Co., is focused on helping veterans with PTSD, with a portion of proceeds supporting disabled vets. His products will be available in several New York City dispensaries, marking a unique crossover between military service and the cannabis industry.
Brazil Invests in Cannabis Research
Brazil’s leading agricultural research agency is planning a 12-year study on cannabis cultivation, pending government approval. The goal is to develop strains suited to the country’s climate and establish a national seed bank. With cannabis laws evolving in Brazil, this could be a major step toward expanding the country’s medicinal and industrial cannabis sectors.