This week has seen important developments in the marijuana industry, covering legislative changes, industry shifts, and new research findings. Here are the top 10 marijuana news stories you need to know as of January 16, 2025:

1. Major Cannabis Groups Merge to Advocate for Federal Reforms Under Trump America's largest legal cannabis companies have united to form the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable, combining the U.S. Cannabis Council and the National Cannabis Roundtable. This new advocacy group aims to push for federal cannabis reforms under incoming President Donald Trump, focusing on reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III and advancing the SAFER Banking measure to integrate state-legal cannabis businesses into the federal financial system. MarketWatch

2. New York's Legal Cannabis Market Faces Challenges Amidst $1 Billion Sales Since its legalization in 2021, New York's legal cannabis market has encountered significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles, high taxation, and competition from illegal sellers. Despite generating $1 billion in retail sales and $80 million in taxes in 2024, many entrepreneurs are struggling due to delays in licensing and the proliferation of unlicensed dispensaries. The Times & The Sunday Times

3. DEA Judge Cancels Marijuana Rescheduling Hearings Amid Legal Challenges The first hearings on the Biden administration’s marijuana rescheduling proposal, initially set for next week, have been canceled following a legal challenge from pro-reform attorneys. This development delays potential changes to marijuana's federal classification for at least three months. Marijuana Moment

4. People Are More Physically Active on Days They Use Marijuana, Study Shows A new federally funded study challenges the 'lazy stoner' stereotype, revealing that individuals are more physically active on days they use marijuana. This research adds to the evolving understanding of cannabis's effects on lifestyle and behavior. Marijuana Moment

5. Top Federal Drug Official Suggests 'State Monopolies' for Marijuana Sales A leading federal drug official has proposed the idea of state-run monopolies for marijuana sales as a means to promote public safety. This suggestion indicates a potential shift in federal perspectives on cannabis regulation. Marijuana Moment

6. Arkansas Governor Plans to Use Medical Marijuana Revenue for Student Meals The Republican governor of Arkansas has announced a plan to allocate tax revenue from medical marijuana sales to provide free breakfast and lunch for students. This initiative highlights the diverse ways cannabis tax revenue can be utilized for public benefit. Marijuana Moment

7. Dallas Police Instructed Not to Arrest for Low-Level Marijuana Possession The Dallas Police Department has directed officers to cease arrests or citations for possession of up to four ounces of marijuana, aligning with recent voter-approved decriminalization measures. This policy change reflects shifting attitudes toward cannabis enforcement at the local level. Marijuana Moment

8. Colorado Lawmakers Propose Bill Allowing Psilocybin Prescriptions Bipartisan lawmakers in Colorado have introduced a bill that would permit the prescription of psilocybin, pending federal approval. This legislative effort signifies growing interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Marijuana Moment

9. NORML Releases List of Top Marijuana Policy Events of 2024 The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) has published its list of the top ten events in marijuana policy for 2024, highlighting significant milestones and challenges in the ongoing effort for cannabis reform. The Marijuana Herald

10. Study Finds Medical Marijuana Improves Quality of Life in Patients A recent study reports that medical marijuana use leads to rapid and significant improvements in health-related quality of life over the first three months of treatment, providing further evidence of its therapeutic benefits. The Marijuana Herald

These stories illustrate the ongoing evolution of the marijuana industry, highlighting key shifts in public opinion, legislation, and market trends. Stay tuned as the cannabis landscape continues to change rapidly across the U.S.