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Thomas Howard

Thomas Howard

A seasoned commercial lawyer and the Managing Director of Collateral Base. With over 15 years of experience, Tom specializes in the cannabis industry, helping businesses navigate complex regulations, secure licenses, and obtain capital. He has successfully assisted clients in multiple states and is a Certified Ganjier. Tom also runs the popular YouTube channel "Cannabis Legalization News," providing insights and updates on cannabis laws and industry trends.

IRC 471(c)

How Cannabis Businesses Can Use IRC 471(c) to Navigate Around IRC 280E

The Challenge of IRC 280E for Cannabis Businesses For cannabis business operators, IRC 280E is a tax code that can feel like an insurmountable barrier. Introduced during the War on Drugs, IRC 280E disallows standard business deductions for companies trafficking in controlled substances, including cannabis. This restriction can result in effective tax rates as high […]

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Rhode Island Social Equity Cannabis Licenses

Rhode Island Social Equity Cannabis Licenses: What You Need to Know in 2025

Introduction Cannabis in Rhode Island is leading the charge in the licensed industry with its progressive social equity licensing program. Rhode Island Social Equity Cannabis Licenses aim to create opportunities for communities disproportionately impacted by past cannabis prohibitions. With the 2025 licensing cycle in full swing, it’s crucial to understand the application process, qualifications, and

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Open a Dispensary in Rhode Island

How to Open a Dispensary in Rhode Island: The Complete Guide for 2025

Opening a dispensary in Rhode Island is an exciting opportunity, with the state’s cannabis market steadily expanding. Whether you are an entrepreneur entering the cannabis industry or looking to grow an existing venture, understanding the regulatory landscape is critical. This guide on How to Open a Dispensary in Rhode Island for 2025 will walk you through

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Illinois hemp rules

Updates to Illinois Hemp Rules: Key Changes and What They Mean

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has implemented significant amendments to the hemp regulations under the Industrial Hemp Act, 505 ILCS 89. These rule changes redefine how hemp is cultivated, processed, and regulated in Illinois, marking a critical shift in the delineation between hemp and cannabis in the state, but the rules only apply to cultivators

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Missouri Marijuana SOPs

Missouri Marijuana SOPs – A Compliance Guide for Microbusinesses

Introduction Missouri’s marijuana industry is expanding, offering significant opportunities for microbusinesses. However, navigating the Missouri cannabis laws’ rigorous compliance requirements is essential for success. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) play a critical role in ensuring that your business adheres to regulations while operating efficiently. This guide will help you develop and implement effective Missouri Marijuana SOPs,

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Apply for a Cannabis License in the U.S. Virgin Islands

How to Apply for a Cannabis License in the U.S. Virgin Islands: Step-by-Step Guide for 2024

Let’s discuss how to apply for a cannabis license in the U.S. Virgin Islands in 2024 and 2025. The US Virgin Islands (USVI) has introduced a structured, merit-based process to regulate the cannabis industry and support local business growth. If you’re interested in starting a cannabis business in the USVI, this guide will walk you

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Maryland cannabis financing

Unlocking Maryland Cannabis Financing: 2024 Eye-Opening Developments

The The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) recently released new guidelines on Maryland cannabis financing to help social equity cannabis businesses get more financing options. As the cannabis industry keeps growing in Maryland, these updates are important for entrepreneurs, investors, and others who are navigating the complex rules. With new funding options becoming available, Maryland cannabis

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cannabis litigation

Navigating Cannabis Litigation: A Comprehensive Guide for Business Owners in 2025

As the cannabis and hemp industry expands across the U.S., state-by-state legalization brings with it an evolving set of regulatory and legal challenges. Each day, cannabis businesses confront new obstacles, from complex licensing disputes to compliance issues and protecting intellectual property. The rapidly changing legal landscape requires business owners to understand the intricacies of cannabis

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Illinois Dispensary Rules

Illinois Dispensary Rules: Key Updates for 2024

As the Illinois cannabis market continues to evolve, so too does the regulatory landscape. In August 2024, the Illinois Dispensary Rules changed when the Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) implemented significant updates to the cannabis dispensary regulations. This is a major update to Illinois laws regarding cannabis purchase and possession in Illinois beyond

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