Cannabis Legalization

Stay updated on cannabis legalization efforts across the U.S. and globally, including policy changes and legislative updates.

Close‑up of vibrant cannabis buds in full bloom, illustrating the premium flower used in Utah Medical Cannabis Pharmacy License operations.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Laws and Regulations, Utah

Utah Medical Cannabis Pharmacy License Applications Open for 2025: Eligibility, Deadlines, and Requirements

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The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) has officially launched the first application period for two independent medical cannabis pharmacy licenses, running from July 1 through July 31, 2025. Originating from House Bill 54, passed during Utah’s 2025 legislative session, these new pharmacy licenses aim to broaden medical cannabis access in medically underserved areas across the state.

Professional overwhelmed by cannabis startup costs, sitting at desk reviewing cannabis facility build-out expenses and working capital needs.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations

Cannabis Startup Costs: From Licensing to Profitability

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Starting a legal cannabis business isn’t just about getting a license—it’s about building a profitable, compliant, and sustainable operation in one of the world’s most capital-intensive and regulated industries. Many entrepreneurs enter this space with many goals, good intentions, and passion, but ultimately fail because they underestimate the cost, complexity, experience, and time required to turn a cannabis license into a thriving business.

A business professional figuratively trapped by a mousetrap symbolizes common cannabis license pitfalls and the need for proactive cannabis compliance and cannabis facility design planning.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations

Cannabis License Pitfalls: How to Avoid Common Cannabis Licensing Mistakes

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As new adult-use programs launch, many entrepreneurs are eager to start growing, processing, or selling cannabis. Excitement runs high, but the industry’s heavy regulations and complex operations can quickly overwhelm even experienced business owners. Common mistakes include underestimating compliance requirements, rushing facility design, skipping proper procedures, and more.

Minnesota cannabis microbusiness product display with vape pens and flower, highlighting cannabis compliance and consulting strategies.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations, Minnesota

Maximizing Your Minnesota Cannabis Microbusiness or Mezzobusiness License

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Minnesota’s new adult-use cannabis law allows microbusinesses (one store, up to 5,000 sq ft indoor, ½ acre outdoor) and mezzobusinesses (up to 3 stores, 15,000 sq ft indoor, 1 acre outdoor) to cultivate, manufacture, sell, and transport cannabis under one license. These vertically integrated licenses offer flexibility, but also come with complex state rules.

Man celebrating with phone in hand after winning a cannabis license in the Minnesota Lottery.
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Laws and Regulations, Minnesota

Minnesota Lottery Results: June 5 Cannabis License Drawings and What’s Next

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The Minnesota Lottery for cannabis business licenses reached a pivotal milestone on June 5, as the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) conducted randomized drawings for select license types. These lotteries were open to both social equity applicants and general applicants vying for limited licenses to operate as cultivators, manufacturers, and mezzobusinesses. Additionally, a separate lottery was held exclusively for social equity applicants seeking a retail cannabis license.

Modern New Mexico cannabis lounge interior design with compliant layout
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, New Mexico, Recreational

Open a Cannabis Lounge in New Mexico: Licensing & Compliance Guide

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New Mexico’s Cannabis Regulation Act (2021) explicitly authorizes On-Site Consumption Area licenses (often called “consumption lounge” permits) under the NM Cannabis Control Division (CCD). The CCD issues two types of permits: Type I (non-smoking, edibles/vapor) and Type II (smoking allowed). A consumption area license lets a venue legally serve non-infused snacks/beverages and allow consumption of cannabis products by patrons age 21+. These can be standalone lounges or add-ons to other licensees (e.g. a dispensary or restaurant that obtains a consumption license).

Modern interior of a licensed New York cannabis lounge
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, New York, Recreational, United States

New York Cannabis Lounge License: Guide to Compliance and Success

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New York State law provides for adult-use on-site consumption licenses under the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). As of 2025, New York is still in the early stages of issuing these licenses; only a handful of trial licenses have been granted. The Cannabis Law caps investment (no person can hold more than 3 consumption licenses) and prohibits vertical integration: lounge licensees cannot also hold dispensary, cultivation, or processor licenses. This was done to ensure lounges operate solely as consumption venues, not as sales outlets. Learn how to navigate the rules to successfully apply for your lounge license.

Modern cannabis lounge interior design with comfortable seating and stylish decor
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Recreational, United States, US Virgin Islands

U.S. Virgin Islands Cannabis Consumption Lounge Getting Started Guide

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The U.S. Virgin Islands legalized adult-use cannabis in 2023, and its regulators have explicitly created consumption lounge permits. Under the Virgin Islands Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Board’s rules (approved April 2024), a qualified operator can obtain an Adult-Use Lounge Permit. This permit allows on-site cannabis consumption by adults 21+ in a designated area. Unlike many states, the USVI permits both smoking and non-smoking lounges, provided you choose the correct permit type.

Modern interior design of a Nevada cannabis lounge with stylish seating and ventilation features
Cannabis Business Plans and Strategies, Cannabis Consulting, Cannabis Facility Design, Cannabis Licensing & Applications, Cannabis Operations and Optimization, Recreational

Nevada Cannabis Lounge License Guide: What You Need to Know

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Nevada has enthusiastically embraced consumption lounges. In 2021, Governor Sisolak signed AB 341 authorizing the Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) to license cannabis consumption lounges. After extensive stakeholder work, the CCB approved final regulations in late 2023. Lounges are split into two types: Retail Lounges (operated by licensed dispensaries or microbusinesses) and Independent Lounges (standalone sites).

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