A government-operated cannabis dispensary in Anoka, Minnesota is preparing to open its doors next week, marking another milestone in the evolving U.S. marijuana landscape. The city’s mayor says the municipality is uniquely positioned to succeed, pointing to Anoka’s long history of running profitable municipal liquor stores and reinvesting millions of dollars back into the community—experience officials believe provides a strong blueprint for public-sector cannabis retail.
This development comes amid a flurry of cannabis-related political, regulatory, scientific, and business activity across the country, underscoring how quickly marijuana policy continues to shift at every level of government.
Arizona Lawmakers Clash Over Legalization
In Arizona, Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) told Marijuana Moment that he supports a ballot initiative aimed at rolling back cannabis legalization in the state. At the same time, he acknowledged that President Donald Trump holds significant influence through his ongoing marijuana rescheduling directive.
Meanwhile, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-AZ) took a harder stance, arguing that marijuana should remain in Schedule I under federal law. He claimed the existing social safety system forces taxpayers to fund rehabilitation services, saying the federal government should “keep marijuana where it was.”
Virginia Advances Recreational Cannabis Sales
On the East Coast, momentum is building in Virginia. The Virginia House General Laws Committee approved legislation to legalize and regulate recreational marijuana sales. A companion bill—featuring a different timeline for launching the retail market—is also advancing in the Senate, setting the stage for potential negotiations between the two chambers.
Hawaii Projects Massive Cannabis Revenue
A newly released report commissioned by the Hawaii Department of Health estimates that legalizing adult-use marijuana could generate up to $90 million in monthly sales. The report highlights tourism as a major driver, projecting that visitors alone could contribute at least $11.5 million per month in cannabis purchases.
Utah Moves Toward Decriminalization
In Utah, a lawmaker has introduced legislation to decriminalize marijuana possession, eliminating jail time for first-time, low-level cannabis offenses. The proposal reflects a broader trend toward reducing criminal penalties for minor marijuana-related conduct.
Maryland Expands Psychedelics Research
Maryland lawmakers introduced bills to extend the Task Force on Responsible Use of Natural Psychedelic Substances for an additional year. The legislation would also require a new report with updated recommendations aimed at ensuring equitable, affordable, and broad access to psychedelic substances.
THC Drinks Head to a Major Sports Arena
In a notable business development, the United Center in Chicago—the largest entertainment arena in the U.S. and home to both the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks—has entered a multi-year partnership to sell THC-infused beverages. Products from Señorita and RYTHM will be available at concerts and live events, signaling growing mainstream acceptance of cannabis drinks.
Federal Updates: DEA, Sentencing, And Hemp
At the federal level, the Drug Enforcement Administration has appointed a new assistant administrator for its Diversion Control Division. Separately, the U.S. Sentencing Commission is expected to consider publishing additional proposed changes to sentencing guidelines later this week.
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) also weighed in on cannabis-adjacent policy, criticizing federal interference in Kentucky’s hemp industry. He said bureaucratic overreach is harming family farms and announced legislation that would allow state hemp regulations to override a federal ban.
State-Level Cannabis Developments Continue
-
New York Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado (D), now challenging Gov. Kathy Hochul in a primary, criticized her handling of cannabis policy.
-
A Virginia Senate committee rejected a proposal that would have allowed vehicle searches based solely on the smell of marijuana.
-
In Maryland, the Senate Finance Committee heard briefings from cannabis regulators, while the Cannabis Public Health Advisory Council also met.
-
Illinois lawmakers introduced bills addressing cannabis business signage and labeling.
-
Vermont regulators issued new guidance on marijuana retail business relocation.
-
Oklahoma regulators suspended a medical cannabis business for alleged violations.
-
Oregon officials announced a cannabis listening session scheduled for Wednesday.
-
The Tennessee Medical Cannabis Commission is set to meet Thursday.
-
A Washington state senator announced a hearing for legislation regulating kratom products.
Local, Science, And Health Highlights
Locally, the Boston Cannabis Board will meet Wednesday.
On the research front, a new study found that starting cannabis-based medicinal products was linked to meaningful improvements in depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and overall health-related quality of life. Another review concluded that benzodiazepine-opioid combinations and psilocybin show promise in easing anxiety for end-of-life patients.
Advocacy, Business, And Market Data
The Boston Globe editorial board urged Massachusetts officials to crack down on illegal diversion of marijuana products coming from other states.
In business news:
-
Canix announced it is acquiring Trym.
-
SHF Holdings, Inc. (Safe Harbor) is expanding its cannabis payments solutions through new partnerships with Lüt and GreenCard.
Finally, Rhode Island reported $120.1 million in legal marijuana sales in 2025, highlighting continued growth in regulated state markets.
As government-run dispensaries, policy debates, and commercial innovations expand nationwide, we at Jolly Green Life continue tracking how cannabis reform reshapes communities, industries, and public health.
FAQs
Where is the government-run cannabis dispensary opening next week?
The government-operated cannabis dispensary is opening in Anoka, Minnesota, marking a rare example of a municipally run marijuana retail operation in the U.S.
Why is the Minnesota cannabis dispensary government-run?
The city is operating the dispensary based on its prior success managing municipal liquor stores, using that experience as a model to regulate cannabis sales and reinvest profits locally.
When will recreational marijuana sales begin at the dispensary?
The dispensary is scheduled to begin cannabis sales next week, pending final operational readiness and compliance checks.
Are other U.S. states considering changes to marijuana laws in 2026?
Yes, lawmakers across several states are debating cannabis legalization, decriminalization measures, workplace protections, and expanded access to psychedelics during the 2026 legislative session.
What does this mean for the future of cannabis legalization in the U.S.?
The opening reflects a growing trend toward regulated and publicly accountable cannabis markets as states continue refining legalization frameworks nationwide.
James Carter has a background in science communication and a knack for breaking down complex topics into easy-to-understand stories. He loves diving deep into the facts behind CBD’s rise—from policy updates and market trends to new research. James is passionate about sharing the latest news and helping others understand what it all means. He writes clear and honest articles to keep readers updated on CBD laws, health benefits, and new products. When he’s not writing, he enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring natural ways to stay healthy.