The Week In Cannabis: Trump's DEA Pick, Tyson's Reform Push, Dutch Coffee Shop Crisis And More

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, this week brought a mix of developments that could shape its future. From the Trump administration's appointment of a new DEA administrator to celebrity advocacy and global market updates, let's dive into the key happenings in the cannabis world.

Trump's DEA Pick Raises Concerns

The Trump administration appointed Derek S. Maltz as the acting administrator of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). A 28-year veteran of the agency, Maltz is known for his hardline stance on cannabis and drug policy. His appointment has raised concerns among cannabis industry advocates and stakeholders due to his known opposition to cannabis legalization. Maltz has criticized cannabis legalization, citing its alleged links to public safety concerns, and accused the Department of Justice of politicizing the cannabis rescheduling process.

Maltz's appointment comes at a critical juncture in the ongoing cannabis rescheduling process, which is currently in the midst of formal rulemaking proceedings. The DEA has not yet published a final rule, and the current timeline suggests that this may not happen until the latter half of 2025. With Maltz at the helm, the DEA may slow down or even halt the ongoing rescheduling process, leading to further delays in the formal rulemaking process.

Mike Tyson and Weldon Angelos Push for Cannabis Reform

Mike Tyson and Weldon Angelos commended President Trump for his commitment to cannabis reforms, including rescheduling efforts, banking access, and clemency for non-violent cannabis offenders. Tyson called the cannabis industry a "multi-billion-dollar market" that fosters economic growth, while Angelos criticized the Biden administration's lackluster efforts on clemency for marijuana-related convictions.

Their advocacy for cannabis reform under the Trump administration has several implications for public perception and potential legislative changes. Their support for cannabis legalization, banking access, and clemency for non-violent cannabis offenders can help shape public opinion and influence policy decisions. As high-profile advocates, Tyson and Angelos can generate media attention and public pressure, which can influence the Trump administration's policy decisions.

Dutch Coffee Shop Crisis Highlights Global Market Concerns

A study by the Trimbos Institute revealed alarming levels of contaminants in cannabis sold in Dutch coffee shops. Out of 50 samples tested, one-fifth showed microbiological contamination, and one-third contained pesticide residues. Notably, some samples had lead levels nearly six times the permissible limit under forthcoming regulations for a government-licensed trial.

The findings from the Trimbos Institute's study underscore the urgent need for tighter oversight and regulations to ensure consumer safety in the cannabis market. As the global cannabis industry continues to grow and expand, it is crucial for regulators, producers, and retailers to prioritize quality control measures to protect consumers from harmful contaminants.

The Dutch coffee shop model serves as a cautionary tale for other countries considering or implementing similar cannabis regulations. The presence of contaminants in cannabis products highlights the importance of establishing robust testing and quality control standards to ensure the safety and purity of cannabis products.

Looking Ahead

As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and their potential impacts on the market. From the Trump administration's appointment of a new DEA administrator to celebrity advocacy and global market updates, this week brought a mix of developments that could shape the future of the cannabis industry.

To stay ahead of the curve, investors and stakeholders should monitor the ongoing cannabis rescheduling process, engage with policymakers, and advocate for the economic and social benefits of cannabis legalization. Additionally, they should prioritize quality control measures and promote transparency and accountability throughout the cannabis supply chain to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers while fostering a more responsible and sustainable market.




In conclusion, the cannabis industry faces both opportunities and challenges as it continues to grow and evolve. By staying informed about the latest developments and prioritizing quality control measures, investors and stakeholders can help shape the future of the cannabis market and ensure its long-term success.