California Medical Cannabis Coalition
A feed of news, events, laws, and grow tips. Share what's happening and discuss it with the coalition.
Hot Topics & Community Notices
California and the nation — newest first
Upcoming Webinar on Cannabis and the Environment
The California Lawyers Association is hosting a virtual webinar on November 9th exploring the intersection of cannabis cultivation, environmental impacts, and the state's regulatory landscape. This educational session aims to shed light on how environmental rules shape the cannabis supply chain. What environmental practices are most important to you when choosing your cannabis medicine?
California Lawyers Association
Upcoming Webinar on Cannabis and the Environment
New Testing and Packaging Rules Set for 2027
California has enacted new laws expanding the Department of Cannabis Control's testing authority and requiring retailers to provide certificates of analysis upon request. The updated regulations also introduce stricter packaging and labeling guidelines for edibles and beverages. How important is access to detailed lab testing results when choosing your medicine?
Harris Sliwoski LLP
New Testing and Packaging Rules Set for 2027
New Law Restricts Cartoon and Fruit Imagery on Packaging
A newly signed California law bans cannabis packaging and marketing that appeals to children, specifically targeting cartoon and overly stylized fruit imagery on edibles and vape cartridges. The Department of Cannabis Control will be developing new compliance resources to help operators transition their labels. How do you feel about the current packaging of your medical cannabis products?
MJBizDaily
New Law Restricts Cartoon and Fruit Imagery on Packaging
Social Equity Cannabis Licenses Show High Active Rates
A recent review of California's retail registry found that 81% of social equity cannabis licenses remain active, outpacing the 76% active rate for non-equity licenses. This data highlights the resilience of equity retailers operating within the state's competitive medical and adult-use markets. Have you visited a social equity dispensary in your local area recently?
MJBizDaily
Social Equity Cannabis Licenses Show High Active Rates
California Seizes $230 Million in Illicit Cannabis
State authorities have seized over 139,000 pounds of illegal cannabis this year to protect the regulated market and public safety. The enforcement effort targets unlicensed operations that threaten the environment and legal dispensaries. Have you noticed a difference in product quality when shopping at licensed dispensaries?
Governor of California
California Seizes $230 Million in Illicit Cannabis
Regulators Recall Adulterated Cannabis Products
The Department of Cannabis Control recently suspended a cultivation permit and recalled three batches of infused cannabis flower. The enforcement action follows the discovery of illegal chemicals and a tragic worker fatality at the facility. How do you typically verify the safety and testing of the medicine you purchase?
MJBizDaily
Regulators Recall Adulterated Cannabis Products
DEA Requests Info on CA Medical Cannabis Program
State officials are currently waiting for clearer federal direction regarding recent rescheduling efforts. In the meantime, the DEA has formally requested information from California regarding its medical cannabis program. How do you feel about the potential for changing federal guidelines impacting your local access?
The Leaf Register
DEA Requests Info on CA Medical Cannabis Program
California Wholesale Cannabis Flower Prices Drop 22%
Recent industry data indicates that wholesale cannabis flower prices in California have decreased by 22% year-over-year. This shift in the wholesale market could potentially influence retail prices and product availability at local dispensaries. Have you noticed any changes in the cost of your preferred medications recently?
Cannabis Newz
California Wholesale Cannabis Flower Prices Drop 22%
CA Social Equity Retailers Outpace Traditional Licenses
Recent data shows that California's social equity cannabis retailers are maintaining active licenses at a rate of 81%. This outpaces the 76% active license rate for traditional, non-equity operators across the state. These figures highlight the ongoing evolution of our state's dispensary landscape. Have you noticed any new social equity dispensaries opening in your local area?
MunchMakers
CA Social Equity Retailers Outpace Traditional Licenses
New California Cannabis Testing Laws Enacted
California has enacted new legislation, including AB 1965, which expands the Department of Cannabis Control's testing authority. Retailers will now be required to provide certificates of analysis to patients upon request, ensuring greater transparency for product safety. State testing oversight can also continue even after a product enters the retail market. How important is having access to a product's certificate of analysis when you choose your medicine?
Harris Sliwoski
New California Cannabis Testing Laws Enacted
Cheech & Chong Open First California Dispensary
The legendary comedy duo Cheech and Chong have officially opened their first California dispensary, located in Forestville, Sonoma County. The new location celebrated its grand opening with a special meet-and-greet event for fans and patients. It marks a new chapter for the iconic pair in the state's regulated cannabis market. What is your favorite memory or experience visiting a newly opened dispensary?
The Mercury News
Cheech & Chong Open First California Dispensary
State Regulators Face Court Pushback on Product Embargoes
California state regulators recently embargoed hundreds of pounds of cannabis products, prompting legal challenges from operators. A recent court ruling has scrutinized the Department of Cannabis Control's enforcement timeline and methods for handling recalls and embargoes. This could affect how quickly products reach dispensary shelves or get recalled in the future. Have you ever been impacted by a product recall at your local dispensary?
Cannabis Business Times
State Regulators Face Court Pushback on Product Embargoes
California Tightens Cannabis Packaging Requirements
California has enacted new legislation that tightens cannabis packaging requirements and imposes additional restrictions on the regulated market. Meanwhile, state cannabis sales have shown signs of recovery from an earlier slump. How important is clear and secure packaging to you when selecting your wellness products?
Dentons
California Tightens Cannabis Packaging Requirements
DCC Announces Economic Impact Assessment Services
The California Department of Cannabis Control has issued a Notice of Intent to Award a new contract for economic impact assessment services. The contract is slated to go to ERA Economics, LLC, as the state continues to evaluate the financial footprint of the regulated cannabis market. This assessment will help guide future regulatory and program decisions. How has the economic shift in the cannabis market impacted your access to medicine?
Department of Cannabis Control
DCC Announces Economic Impact Assessment Services
DCC Updates on Economic Impact and Conviction Clearances
The Department of Cannabis Control recently announced its intent to award a contract for economic impact assessment services to evaluate the state's legal market. Regulators also noted that California has cleared over 215,000 cannabis convictions over the past decade. How has the transition to a regulated market impacted your access to care?
Department of Cannabis Control
DCC Updates on Economic Impact and Conviction Clearances
Voluntary Recall Issued for Cali Lean Tincture
A voluntary recall has been issued for Cali Lean Tincture products in California due to adulteration. The California Department of Cannabis Control posted the safety notice on September 15, 2026. Consumers should verify their products against the recall details.
California Department of Cannabis Control
Voluntary Recall Issued for Cali Lean Tincture
Voluntary Recall Issued for Hi Pre-Roll
The California Department of Cannabis Control has announced a voluntary recall for Hi Pre-Roll products. The recall was initiated due to microbial contamination, specifically Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus terreus. Patients are advised to check their products and avoid consumption.
California Department of Cannabis Control
Voluntary Recall Issued for Hi Pre-Roll
CA DCC Expedites License Splits for DEA Registration
California's Department of Cannabis Control is allowing combined A/M licensees to split into separate medicinal and adult-use licenses on an expedited basis. This emergency rulemaking aims to help retailers and microbusinesses apply for DEA registration before a 60-day federal window closes. This information is educational and does not constitute legal advice.
CannabisRegulations.ai
CA DCC Expedites License Splits for DEA Registration
California Updates Delta-9 THC Rules Under AB 8
California has updated its regulations regarding Delta-9 THC under AB 8. Hemp-derived Delta-9 food, beverage, and supplements are now prohibited at general retail, while standard limits continue to apply in licensed cannabis channels.
CannabisRegulations.ai
California Updates Delta-9 THC Rules Under AB 8
Walmart Faces Wrongful Termination Suit Over Cannabis Test
A wrongful termination lawsuit has been removed to a California federal court after Walmart fired an employee for a positive cannabis test. The suit alleges the employee only tested positive for a nonpsychoactive metabolite and showed no signs of impairment at work. This case highlights ongoing legal battles regarding employment protections for medical cannabis patients.
Law360
Walmart Faces Wrongful Termination Suit Over Cannabis Test
Supreme Court Asked to Resolve CA Cannabis Commerce Split
A California litigator has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review state and local cannabis regulatory regimes. The lawsuits allege that these residency and licensing rules violate the Constitution's dormant commerce clause. This ruling could significantly impact how medical cannabis businesses operate and are licensed in the state.
Law360
Supreme Court Asked to Resolve CA Cannabis Commerce Split
California Signs AB 2249 Cannabis Packaging Ban
California has signed AB 2249 into law, introducing a strict cannabis packaging ban. The legislation provides a clear definition and operative date, notably excluding any safe harbor provisions for current operators.
Cannabisregulations.ai
California Signs AB 2249 Cannabis Packaging Ban
Governor Vetoes Medical Cannabis Home Delivery Bill
Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed Assembly Bill 1332, which would have allowed licensed microbusinesses to ship medical cannabis directly to patients via common couriers. Newsom cited that the proposed direct-shipping program would be overly complex and burdensome to administer.
Cannabis Business Times
Governor Vetoes Medical Cannabis Home Delivery Bill
Cannabis residency rules head to Supreme Court
The United States Supreme Court is reviewing a challenge to the constitutional legality of state-mandated residency requirements for cannabis businesses. This federal ruling could directly impact California's licensing framework and operators.
CRB Monitor News
Cannabis residency rules head to Supreme Court
Fairfax Denies Application for Medical Marijuana Shop
The Fairfax Town Council majority opposed an application for a new medical marijuana shop. The denial marks a setback for efforts to revive a local dispensary in the area. The decision was reported in early July 2026.
The Press Democrat
Fairfax Denies Application for Medical Marijuana Shop
Governor Newsom Signs New Cannabis Legislation
In September 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a pair of bills revising various state cannabis regulations. Meanwhile, California regulators announced they are appealing a recent court ruling that faulted the state's cannabis tracking system.
Marijuana Moment
Governor Newsom Signs New Cannabis Legislation
Updated Cannabis Rules in Torrance
While California permits adult-use and medicinal cannabis, the city of Torrance has maintained restrictions on commercial cannabis operations and deliveries originating within city limits. Understanding local rules is important for patients navigating access in different municipalities. How do local city ordinances affect your ability to access your medicine?
The Hype Magazine
Updated Cannabis Rules in Torrance
California Appeals Court Ruling on Cannabis Tracking System
California's cannabis regulator is appealing a state court judgment that faulted the agency's tracking system. The court previously found that the state failed to properly implement a system to highlight suspicious transactions as required by law. Ensuring a secure tracking system is meant to keep the medical market safe and transparent for everyone. How important is product tracking and transparency to you when choosing your medicine?
Law360
California Appeals Court Ruling on Cannabis Tracking System
New Enforcement Guidance Shifts Legality of THC Beverages
California has issued new enforcement guidance clarifying that any beverage causing intoxication must be sold through state-licensed cannabis channels. This closes a loophole for untaxed and untested products, ensuring that all THC drinks meet the state's strict safety and testing standards. Patients can expect to see these regulated beverages exclusively at licensed dispensaries. What is your favorite way to consume medical cannabis beverages?
CannIntel
New Enforcement Guidance Shifts Legality of THC Beverages
CA Regulators Await Federal Rescheduling Guidance
The California Department of Cannabis Control has reported receiving no formal implementation guidance from the DEA regarding federal marijuana rescheduling. State regulators are waiting for this federal clarity before making further changes to California's medical cannabis rules. What changes do you hope to see if federal rescheduling moves forward?
Marijuana Moment
CA Regulators Await Federal Rescheduling Guidance
CA Governor Signs Marijuana Packaging Bill Into Law
The Governor of California has officially signed a new marijuana packaging and advertising bill into law. The legislation introduces updated requirements for cannabis product marketing and packaging across the state. The signing was reported at the end of August 2026.
The Marijuana Herald
CA Governor Signs Marijuana Packaging Bill Into Law
Governor Signs Cannabis Packaging and Advertising Bill
The California Governor has signed a new marijuana packaging and advertising bill into law. Additionally, the state legislature unanimously passed a bill allowing the state to conduct off-the-shelf marijuana testing. These measures aim to improve consumer safety and product transparency.
The Marijuana Herald
Governor Signs Cannabis Packaging and Advertising Bill
AB 2537 Cannabis Enforcement Bill Halted
California Assembly Bill 2537, which sought to strengthen enforcement against unlicensed cannabis operations, was held in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The measure will not advance this legislative year, pausing efforts to provide additional tools against illegal market activity.
CSLEA
AB 2537 Cannabis Enforcement Bill Halted
LA DCR Announces Social Equity In-Person Training
The Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation announced an upcoming in-person training event for the Social Equity Program scheduled for August 27, 2026. The department also released a new installment of their Day in the Life video series featuring Pauwels Cannabis Company. The bulletin also reminded licensees of increased renewal fees.
Department of Cannabis Regulation
LA DCR Announces Social Equity In-Person Training
DCC Proposes Group Tagging of Cannabis Plants
The Department of Cannabis Control has proposed new regulations to reduce the economic burden on licensees by allowing group tagging of cannabis plants. Public comment for this regular rulemaking action is accepted through October 2, 2026. This change aims to decrease environmental harm while maintaining oversight capabilities.
Department of Cannabis Control
DCC Proposes Group Tagging of Cannabis Plants
DCC Seizes Over 63,000 Pounds of Illegal Cannabis
The California Department of Cannabis Control announced the seizure of more than 63,000 pounds of illegal cannabis over a three-month period. This enforcement action is part of the state's ongoing crackdown on the illicit market to protect licensed operators and patients.
California Department of Cannabis Control
DCC Seizes Over 63,000 Pounds of Illegal Cannabis
California Seizes 63,000 Pounds of Illegal Cannabis
Governor Gavin Newsom announced new results from California's Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force. The state seized over 63,000 pounds of illegal cannabis in three months. This highlights continued efforts to dismantle illegal operations tied to organized crime and environmental destruction.
Department of Cannabis Control
California Seizes 63,000 Pounds of Illegal Cannabis
LA DCR Announces 2027 Renewal Period Webinars
The Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation hosted a series of webinars focused on the 2027 renewal period. The department also highlighted upcoming fee increases and building permit requirements for licensees.
LA Department of Cannabis Regulation
LA DCR Announces 2027 Renewal Period Webinars
LA DCR Releases 2027 Renewal Requirements Guide
The Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulation released its June 2026 bulletin detailing the upcoming 2027 renewal process. The regular renewal period will run from September 1 to November 2, 2026, and the department has published a comprehensive guide to help licensees prepare.
Department of Cannabis Regulation
LA DCR Releases 2027 Renewal Requirements Guide
DCC Proposes Track and Trace Updates
New rulemaking proposed by the DCC aims to provide safeguards against fraudulent transactions and lab shopping. The updates would require all parties to approve a transfer before a shipping manifest is generated. Public comment was accepted through July 20, 2026.
Department of Cannabis Control
DCC Proposes Track and Trace Updates
Flying with Medical Marijuana in California
It is generally acceptable to pack medical marijuana when flying out of California airports. However, travelers should be aware that whether those products remain with them upon landing depends heavily on their destination and federal jurisdiction.
Los Angeles Times
Flying with Medical Marijuana in California
California Issues Emergency Rules for DEA Registration
California's Department of Cannabis Control issued emergency regulations allowing dual-licensed retailers and microbusinesses to separate their adult-use and medicinal licenses. This enables medicinal operations to apply independently for Schedule III DEA registration. Operators must maintain physically separate products and distinct inventory records.
Business of Cannabis
California Issues Emergency Rules for DEA Registration
DCC Streamlines Medical Cannabis License Process
The California Department of Cannabis Control announced a streamlined process for businesses to change their license designation. Cultivation licensees no longer need to wait until renewal to request a change to their medicinal-use designation.
Cannabis Business Times
DCC Streamlines Medical Cannabis License Process
California Marks 10 Years of Cannabis Legalization
California celebrated the 10th anniversary of voter-approved cannabis legalization in April 2026. The Governor's office highlighted recent legislative efforts, including the reversal of scheduled state excise tax increases to support the legal industry.
Governor of California
California Marks 10 Years of Cannabis Legalization
New California Cannabis Laws Take Effect for 2026
Assembly Bill 8 has taken effect, establishing tighter regulations for hemp-derived ingredients used in foods, beverages, and supplements. The new rules aim to protect consumers and clarify the boundaries between the hemp and licensed cannabis markets.
The Sacramento Bee
New California Cannabis Laws Take Effect for 2026
New Hemp Product Restrictions Take Effect in 2026
Key provisions of Assembly Bill 8 took effect on January 1, 2026, restricting the incorporation of industrial hemp raw extract into food and beverages. Additionally, a December 2025 court ruling found the state's cannabis tracking system non-compliant with current diversion laws.
LA Department of Cannabis Regulation
New Hemp Product Restrictions Take Effect in 2026