In 2021, Legal Cannabis Industry Scored Wins, But Still Lags In Diversity, Say Experts

As Dickens once wrote, “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” This iconic opening line from the novel “A Tale of Two Cities” applied tenfold to the legal cannabis industry in 2021. Although there were a number of notable developments that buoyed the sector; there were also snags, which delayed progress as well. Below are myriad reflections from top industry professionals on this year as well as what to expect for 2022.

Andrew DeAngelo, a cannabis industry consultant and strategic advisor, said 2021 was marked by growth; yet it was also replete with stagnation and false promises. Still, there is a beacon of hope.

“The American people continue to be on the side of legalization and the cause is sweeping the globe,” he opined. “Momentum is still strong. New York and New Mexico were big wins in 2021, not just for adult use legalization but the frameworks are more inclusive and smarter.”

Unfortunately, problems abound. Diversity in business ownership remains a problem that continues to plague the industry, continued DeAngelo. He also singled out California, the first state to legalize medical in 1996, as “the poster child for how not to legalize cannabis for adults with no reform in sight.” [Read more at Forbes]