This Week in Cannabis News: November 4, 2022

Welcome to our wrap-up of Episode 16 of This Week in Cannabis News.

Here’s what you need to know this week

Some big pronouncements coming from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer ahead of Tuesday’s election. In a campaign debate, Schumer stated that SAFE Banking is “very close” to having enough votes in the Senate.

Expect lots of news in the coming week—including election news in 5 important states that have elections: North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri, Arkansas, and Maryland go to the cannabis polls Tuesday, and Congress may be in for a shake-up. So be sure to join us for our upcoming webinar, The Impact of the 2022 Elections on the Cannabis Industry.

New York cannabis regulations go live

The regulations and guidance for adult-use dispensaries were introduced last week—keeping countless cannabis insiders up late last Friday to unpack what all the rules mean, what they don’t mean, and what they ‘might’ mean. Read more in Guidance for Adult Use Retail Dispensaries.

And with those regulations, the first group of adult use licenses could be issued within “weeks” according to a story in Marijuana Moment. The Cannabis Control Board is set to meet on November 21st, so mark your calendars!

Berner opens Cookies NYC

Speaking of New York and dispensary regulations, certainly the people at Cookies are making moves as they await adult-use in the state. And they aren’t wasting time, either. Cookies opened in New York City this past week—and from the looks of it, it was not a low-key affair. While you can't purchase recreational cannabis NYC just yet, if you're looking for want cool gear, cool music, and a cool scene, this is your place.

Canadian cannabis market updates

There is a City Councillor in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada that wants to make that city the World Cannabis Capital. With 164 adult-use cannabis shops, Edmonton is already saturated with cannabis-buying opportunities. But Councillor Michael Janz wants to add lounges, spas, restaurants, and other touristy attractions to the mix.

Featured cannabis expert: David Côté, Founder and CEO of Northern Helm

This week, our guest is David Côté, Founder and CEO of Northern Helm—a multi-store cannabis retail operator in Ontario. David has a rich background in retail and hospitality, which he was kind enough to share with us during the Retail Cannabis Council of Ontario (RCCO) program.