By Jill Nolin | Editor
“People got very confused about what to take, how to take it, is this potent, is this not so potent, so we’re doing away with all of that.” - Dr. Tiffanni Forbes, an internal medicine physician and certified cannabis doctor based in Fayetteville, referring to changes to the state’s medical cannabis program.
A new Georgia law eases barriers that advocates and physicians said hindered access to medical cannabis and hampered interest for those who may benefit. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images
HEALTH
By Alander Rocha
A new state law that took effect Wednesday fundamentally changed Georgia’s medical cannabis program.
The new law, named “Putting Georgia’s Patients First Act,” significantly eases barriers that advocates and physicians said have hindered access to medical cannabis and hampered interest for patients.
Georgia lawmakers first opened the door to medical cannabis in 2015 and created what has been called the state’s low THC oil program ever since. Under the bipartisan measure passed during the 2026 legislative session, Georgia’s program will have a new straightforward name – medical cannabis – and new rules.
There were few crowds as attendees explored different exhibits at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on June 30, 2026. (Photo by Sam Gauntt/States Newsroom)
DC BUREAU
By Sam Gauntt
The Great American State Fair on the National Mall has all the trappings of a classic state fair: food vendors, merchandise, a Ferris wheel and scores of activities.
But on Tuesday, just days before the nation’s 250th anniversary, one thing was, for the most part, notably absent. The crowds.
People cool off with their dogs at the dog-friendly section of Montrose Beach on June 30, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. High humidity and temperatures in the 90s with heat indices above 100 degrees are expected to remain in the city for the next several days. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
ENVIRONMENT
By Sam Gauntt
As outdoor celebrations and events marking the nation’s 250th anniversary and the World Cup reach their peak, local officials across the country are urging caution amid a heat wave blanketing many East Coast and Midwestern states.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for parts of about 20 states, including for the entirety of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. In a warning issued early Wednesday, the weather service advised that temperatures will be in the upper 90s through the weekend, with many locations reaching highs of well over 100 degrees.
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