Veterans are getting psilocybin while cannabis laws keep bouncing back and forth
Federal support for MDMA and psilocybin therapy marks a new chapter in drug policy, as THC Therapeutics acquires cannabis operations in an $11 million merger.
The HHS and FDA say they plan to give veterans legal access to MDMA and psilocybin-assisted therapy within 12 months. Compass Pathways’ COMP360 beat placebo in a depression study, and Governor Polis has wiped psilocybin convictions from Colorado’s record books. Meanwhile, the cannabis world is under pressure. House Republicans introduced a bill to outlaw Delta-8 THC, but Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a measure that would have curbed high-THC hemp, and Thailand’s draft law would limit cannabis to medical use. Worth noting, too: ketamine VS electroconvulsive therapy, the launch of 10 mg THC lemonchello seltzer, the UK launched a “Drugbot”, a chatbot to promote safer use, and a handful of other news on cannabis and psychedelics.
Regulatory
Veterans Could Soon Access MDMA & Psilocybin Therapy
The Department of Health and Human Services and the FDA will accelerate research and establish a clear approval process so that veterans can receive psychedelic therapies for conditions like PTSD.
Michigan bill would legalize psilocybin for adults with PTSD
House Bill 4686 would exempt adults diagnosed with PTSD from state laws banning the possession, cultivation and use of psilocybin and psilocin without establishing a broader regulatory framework.
Texas Governor Vetoes Ban on THC products
Governor Greg Abbott rejected a bill that would have outlawed consumable hemp products containing cannabinoids, and asked lawmakers to meet in a special session to craft a regulatory framework.
Thailand Moves to Re-Medicalize Cannabis
Under a new draft law, recreational cannabis use would end, and legal access would be limited to patients with a physician’s approval.
Colorado Pardons All Psilocybin Possession Convictions
Following voter approval of mushroom decriminalization, Governor Polis erased every past conviction for psilocybin possession from state records.
Market
Beckley Retreats Expands Luxury Psilocybin Centers
Beckley Retreats will open additional high-end mushroom therapy resorts in Jamaica and the Netherlands to meet growing demand for guided psychedelic experiences.
Cookies Launches 10 mg Delta-9 THC Lemonchello Seltzer
The new sparkling beverage delivers a consistent 10 mg dose of Delta-9 THC per can, targeting experienced users.
Cannabis Europa 2025 Focuses on Policy, Finance and Healthcare
Europe’s major industry conference in London featured calls for EU-wide cannabis regulations, debates over patient access amid a 6.4 million NHS backlog, and updates on Swiss and French pilot programs.
THC Therapeutics and The Headquarters Group Merge in $11 M Deal
Through this deal, THC Therapeutics takes on The Headquarters Group’s cannabis operations in two states, which together brought in about $4.8 million in 2024.
Ayr Wellness Denies It Plans to Exit Connecticut Marijuana Market
A company spokesperson confirmed that Ayr continues to operate its Manchester store, despite an operating loss of $133 million in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Jones Soda Sells Off THC Beverage Line, Sticks with Hemp
The company has agreed to sell its “Mary Jones” THC beverage line, including trademarks, formulas, inventory, and equipment, to MJ Reg Disrupters for $3 million.
Weedmaps Principals Call Off Stock Purchase
Douglas Francis and Justin Hartfield have backed out of their plan to purchase WM Technology’s outstanding common shares at $1.70 per share, though they may revisit the deal with an alternative proposal.
Scientific
Single 25 mg Psilocybin Dose Eases Depression More Than Placebo
In a Phase 3 trial, one dose of COMP360 reduced depression scores by 3.6 points over placebo at six weeks, with no new safety concerns.
Scotland Considers Ketamine as an Alternative to ECT
One National Health Service psychiatrist hopes to open a clinic by the end of this year that will offer ketamine treatment as an alternative to electroconvulsive therapy for severe depression.
Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil May Reduce Anxiety
Early findings suggest that CBD edibles may help manage severe anxiety, reduce stress reactions, and cortisol levels.
Small Trial Shows CBD May Improve Autism Symptoms
Participants showed modest improvements in social behavior, however, strong placebo responses highlight the need for larger studies.
Social
UK Launches “Drugbot” Chatbot for Safe-Use Guidance
The new AI-driven assistant offers evidence-based advice to help recreational drug users minimize harm.
Psychedelic Science 2025 Emphasizes Equity
The conference mixed Juneteenth events with talks on Black liberation, community healing, and using psychedelics to fight systemic injustice.
Ipsos Survey: Most Americans Unaware of Psychedelic Treatments
The poll found that less than 30% of respondents know about psychedelic therapy.
Wyld Becomes First Cannabis Brand to Join The Conservation Alliance
The edibles maker joined The Conservation Alliance as a Pinnacle Member to fund and advocate for environmental protection in North America.
Michigan Dispensary’s 14-Foot Bigfoot Sparks Kid-Friendly Concerns
A 14-foot Sasquatch statue at Higher Love cannabis in Menominee, Michigan, has drawn criticism that its cartoonish design and placement may appeal to children.