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1. Introduction
The cannabis industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world, and 2024 is no exception. With more and more states legalizing cannabis for recreational and medical use, the industry is expected to continue to grow rapidly in the coming years.
If you are considering starting a cannabis business in 2025, there are a few things you need to know. First, it is important to understand the legal status of cannabis in the state where you want to operate your business. Cannabis is legal in some states for both recreational and medical use, but it is still illegal at the federal level. This means that even if cannabis is legal in your state, you may still face challenges, such as obtaining banking services.
Second, you need to be aware of the necessary certifications required to operate a cannabis business in your state. These certifications may vary depending on the type of cannabis business you are starting, but some common certifications include:
- Business license: All businesses, including cannabis businesses, need to obtain a business license from their state.
- Cannabis license: In addition to a business license, most states also require cannabis businesses to obtain a special cannabis license. This license may be specific to the type of cannabis business you are operating, such as a cultivation license, a processing license, or a dispensary license.
- Employee certifications: In some states, cannabis employees are also required to obtain certain certifications. For example, budtenders may need to obtain a cannabis sales certification.
Third, you need to be aware of the initial capital requirements for starting a cannabis business. Starting a cannabis business can be expensive, and the initial capital requirements will vary depending on the type of business you are starting and the size of your operation. However, you can expect to spend tens of thousands of dollars, or even millions of dollars, to start a cannabis business.
Fourth, you need to be aware of the essential systems that you will need to run a cannabis business. These systems include:
- Point-of-sale (POS) system: A POS system is used to track sales and inventory. It is important to choose a POS system that is specifically designed for the cannabis industry.
- Seed-to-sale tracking system: A seed-to-sale tracking system is used to track the movement of cannabis products throughout the supply chain. This system is required by most states.
Payroll and HR system: A payroll and HR system is used to manage payroll, benefits, and other employee-related tasks. It is important to choose a system that is compliant with all applicable cannabis regulations.
2. New laws and changes in 2023-2024
A number of new laws and regulations have been implemented in 2023 and 2024 that affect cannabis businesses. Some of the most notable changes include:
- Maryland: Maryland legalized recreational cannabis use in 2022, and sales began in July 2023. Maryland voters approved a ballot referendum in the 2022 General Election to allow use of cannabis by adults 21+ (hence, “adult-use”) starting July 1, 2023.
- Minnesota: State agencies have set a target date of May 2024 to begin accepting applications for adult-use cannabis retailers, according to a report from Minnesota Public, with dispensary sales of recreational marijuana anticipated to start in January 2025.
- Delaware: On April 23, 2023, adult-use cannabis became legal in Delaware following Gov. John Carney’s decision not to veto HB 1, a bill that legalizes possession of cannabis by adults 21 years old and older.
- Kentucky: On March 31, 2023, Governor Andy Beshear signed Senate Bill 47 making medical marijuana use and sale legal in Kentucky, effective January 1, 2025. (Source)
- Ohio: On November 7, 2023, Ohio voters approved Issue 2, legalizing recreational cannabis for adults 21 and older. Possession and home cultivation rights took effect on December 7, 2023. Retail sales are anticipated to begin sometime in 2024 once the state establishes regulatory frameworks and licensing processes.
- Nebraska: In November 2024, Nebraska voters approved Initiative 437, legalizing medical cannabis in the state. This initiative allows patients with qualifying conditions to access medical marijuana, marking a significant shift in the state’s cannabis policy. (Source)
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California: Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill permitting cannabis retailers to offer food, non-alcoholic beverages, and live entertainment, similar to Amsterdam-style cannabis cafes. This law is set to take effect on January 1, 2025, aiming to enhance the consumer experience and boost the state’s cannabis industry. (Source)
- Federal Rescheduling Efforts: The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced plans to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This move acknowledges the medical efficacy and safety of cannabis, potentially easing federal restrictions and impacting the cannabis industry’s regulatory landscape. (Source)
These changes are a positive sign for the cannabis industry, and they make it easier for people to start and operate cannabis businesses. However, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations in your state before you start a cannabis business.
3. How UZIO Contributes to the Entire Ecosystem
UZIO is an all-in-one payroll, HRIS, and benefits software that can help cannabis businesses meet all of their essential system needs and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. UZIO consolidates people, taxes, and costs into one place, providing businesses with a complete picture of their finances and workforce.
UZIO also helps cannabis businesses track employee certifications, generate reports required by state regulators, and manage payroll and benefits in compliance with all applicable cannabis regulations.
Overall, UZIO is a valuable tool for cannabis businesses of all sizes. By providing a comprehensive solution for payroll, HR, and benefits, UZIO can help cannabis businesses save time and money, and focus on what matters most: growing their business.
If you are considering starting a cannabis business in 2025, be sure to do your research, create a business plan, build a team, and market your business. And don’t forget to choose a payroll and HR system that is designed specifically for the cannabis industry, such as UZIO.
4. Additional Tips for Starting a Cannabis Business in 2025
Here are a few additional tips for starting a cannabis business in 2025:
- Stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations: The cannabis industry is constantly evolving, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest laws and regulations. This includes both state and federal laws.
- Network with other cannabis businesses: Networking with other cannabis businesses can be a great way to learn more about the industry and get advice from other entrepreneurs.
- Market your business to the right audience: When marketing your cannabis business, it is important to target the right audience. This includes understanding the demographics of cannabis consumers in your state.
Starting a cannabis business can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of success.
Recommended Reading: Biggest pain point with Payroll and HR software
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