News Roundup: Week 2025-09: AL seeks to delay medical program, FL regulates hemp, ID institutes minimum fines for possession, MT considers lowering potency cap, NM allows firefighters to use cannabis

Week of 1 Mar, 2025

Alabama's medical cannabis licensing battle, Florida’s push for tighter hemp regulations, and Montana’s proposed THC caps. Plus, we explore Idaho’s new mandatory fines, New Mexico’s decision to allow firefighters to use cannabis off-duty, and Washington’s effort to legalize public consumption. Tune in for the latest on cannabis reform!

 

Covered states: AL, FL, ID, MT, NJ, NM, TX, UT, WA

 

 

 

 

 

ALABAMA

In Alabama, a proposed bill seeks to overturn previously awarded medical cannabis business licenses and restart the licensing process, citing flaws in the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission’s evaluation system. The proposal has drawn widespread criticism from industry leaders, patients, and existing license holders, who argue that starting over will lead to more delays and legal uncertainty. With Alabama patients waiting nearly four years for legal access to medical cannabis, opponents of SB 72 say the bill would set the program back even further.

FLORIDA

In Florida, legislators introduced 2 bills to regulate hemp. The proposed measures include capping Delta-9 THC levels in hemp products to 2 milligrams per serving and 20 milligrams per container, banning Delta-8 THC products, prohibiting the sale of hemp extracts intended for smoking, and restricting sales in certain locations such as gas stations and within 500 feet of schools or daycare facilities. 

IDAHO

In Idaho, Governor Brad Little has signed House Bill 7, introducing a mandatory minimum $300 fine for first-time marijuana possession offenses involving three ounces or less. The law, taking effect July 1, 2025, maintains felony penalties for larger amounts, including potential imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $10,000.

Idaho remains one of the few states with no legal cannabis allowances, even as neighboring states expand legalization. With HB 7 now signed into law, Idaho continues to enforce some of the strictest cannabis policies in the nation.

MONTANA

Montana lawmakers are considering two cannabis-related senate bills. One bill reduces the cap on recreational marijuana products from 35 to 15% THC, while the other redirects cannabis tax revenue away from outdoor conservation programs, veterans' services programs, and the Montana Board of Crime Control. Instead, funds would be allocated to addiction recovery initiatives and the state’s general fund. 

NEW JERSEY

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has proposed a significant tax increase on cannabis, raising the Social Equity Excise Fee from 2 dollars and fifty cents to $15 per ounce, as part of his budget plan for the fiscal year 2026. The tax hike aims to generate $70 million in revenue to fund social equity programs, violence intervention initiatives, and other state services, but faces opposition from lawmakers concerned about its impact on legal cannabis sales

 

NEW MEXICO

The largest county in New Mexico has officially allowed firefighters to use cannabis while off duty without being subject to random drug tests. The unanimous vote by the county commission marks a major shift in workplace policies for first responders, aligning with the state’s legalization laws. Union leaders praise the move as a step toward recognizing the medical benefits of cannabis, particularly for managing job-related stress and PTSD. However, the policy could put nearly $1 million in annual transportation funding at risk if the state Department of Transportation objects. County officials believe the risk is minimal and have pledged to work with regulators if issues arise.

TEXAS

In Texas, a new bill has been introduced in the Texas legislature to decriminalize the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana. If passed, the bill would lower penalties from a Class B to a Class C misdemeanor, eliminating jail time and reducing fines.

UTAH

In Utah, a Bill  intended to expand the state's medical cannabis program has cleared a Senate committee following notable revisions. The updated bill now plans for two additional medical cannabis pharmacies, down from the originally proposed 25, and has eliminated the creation of a medical cannabis ombudsman. These changes were made in response to opposition from conservative groups and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

WASHINGTON

In Washington, state lawmakers are considering House Bill 19 32, which would legalize cannabis consumption at regulated public events. The bill, introduced by State Representative Melanie Morgan, aims to create safe, controlled spaces for marijuana use while addressing public safety concerns. If passed, the law would allow licensed organizers to host monthly cannabis consumption events under strict regulations enforced by the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board.