Jen's predictions for 2026

2025 Wrap and What I’m Watching in 2026

Over on my blog, I wrap up 2025 in cannabis, and speak to 2026! I believe that legal cannabis will be a bright spot in Minnesota’s economy in 2026. Some of my predictions for the upcoming year include:

• A flood of dispensaries to open in 2026, and thoughts about oversaturation and how dispensaries can have staying power

• The first non-tribal / non-medical harvests will hit the market yet this month

• Large outdoor harvests will come to market in the fall

• Regulatory changes I’m watching, both federal and state

• Minnesota will welcome craft products and dispensaries - IF these things are true

Check out the 2025 wrap up and the full list of 2026 predictions. READ HERE →

MN CANNABIS UPDATES

OCM Updates

OCM has published the warnings required to be included on all advertisements (whether in print, radio, television, online, or through social media). Cannabis businesses and products and hemp THC businesses and products are subject to this rule.

Here's the one for cannabis businesses, cannabis flower and cannabinoid products:

Warning: Cannabis products are not for use by anyone under the age of 21. Cannabis use may cause drowsiness, affect focus, reaction time, and decision-making. These products are not evaluated or approved by the FDA. Pregnant people should avoid cannabis due to the risk of low birth weight, premature birth, stillbirth, and harm to fetal brain development.

Notably, signs on the exterior of a business do not have to carry this warning. The guidance memo also reiterates where and how licensed businesses & products may advertise, including that they may advertise "in any print publication or on radio, television, or any other medium if 30 percent or more of the audience of that medium is reasonably expected to be individuals who are under 21 years of age."

See Guidance Memo 2025-07, "Cannabis and hemp advertising guidance" and Minn. Stat. 342.64 for the full language, including more about what licensed businesses can and cannot do with regard to advertising. 

OCM Licensing Progress

Other Minnesota Cannabis News

A seventh tribe signed a compact with the state of Minnesota, the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, on Dec. 30. The tribe currently operates an on-reservation dispensary near Vermillion and publicly said they are considering starting a cultivation facility.

Guest Blog: Minnesota Right-to-Know Requirements: What the Cannabis Industry Needs to Know

By Cathy Hovde of Resilient EHS

As Minnesota’s cannabis industry continues to expand, employers are navigating a regulatory landscape that blends traditional workplace safety rules with the unique hazards of cannabis cultivation, processing, and retail operations. Within OCM’s worker safety requirements, is a requirement to comply with Minnesota Employee Right-to-Know (ERTK) Standard, found in Minn. Stat. § 182.653 and Minn. R. 5206. Whether you’re a grower, manufacturer, testing lab, or dispensary, ERTK applies to you. Cathy breaks down what employers must do to stay compliant and protect their workforce.

READ HERE →

Interested in OSHA-compliant forms and resources? LET CATHY KNOW

UPCOMING EVENTS

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