Massachusetts’ U.S. Attorney Announces Limited Cannabis Enforcement Policies

7/12/2018

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Massachusetts‘ top federal prosecutor, U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling, announced on Tuesday that he will focus his cannabis enforcement efforts on the overproduction and diversion of products into other markets, “targeted” distribution to minors, and organized crime, the Boston Globe reports.

Notably, Lelling is not giving the industry a blanket exemption from federal laws but still plans to focus the efforts of his office on combating the opioid epidemic, not state-legal cannabis entrepreneurs.

“I will not effectively immunize the residents of the Commonwealth from federal marijuana enforcement. My office’s resources, however, are primarily focused on combating the opioid epidemic that claims thousands of lives in the Commonwealth each year.” — U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling, in a statement

In January, Lelling announced — much to the dismay of cannabis advocates throughout the state — that he could not “provide assurances that certain categories of participants in the state-level marijuana trade will be immune from federal prosecution.”

Cannabis advocates praised Lelling’s recent announcement.

“I’m thrilled the U.S. attorney put out such a statement. Targeting the opioid epidemic and, when it comes to marijuana, overproduction and distribution to minors are goals we totally support. …What he’s really saying is that he’s going to target the illicit market. Businesses that pay taxes and invest in this industry are not going to jeopardize that investment by selling to minors.” — David Torrisi, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Dispensary Association, in an interview with the Boston Globe

Some advocates hope Lelling’s announcement will ease the concerns of local officials who cite the federal prohibition of cannabis as reason to ban the industry on a local level.

“Hopefully people at the municipal level who were hesitant because of what’s going on federally get the message. [Lelling’s announcement] could absolutely improve access to the product.” — Kamani Jefferson, president of the Massachusetts Recreational Consumers Council, in the report

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Oklahoma Gov. Circumvents Voters, Signs Strict Cannabis Rules Into Effect

7/12/2018

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Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin (R) ratified strict emergency medical cannabis rules on Wednesday, flouting voters’ wishes on the issue, SF Gate reports. The rules were drafted by the governor’s appointees on the state Board of Health at an emergency meeting on Tuesday. The rules ban smokable cannabis and require pharmacists at all dispensaries.

Medical cannabis advocates like Green the Vote, a cannabis advocacy group that helped get the voter initiative on the ballot, say the move is deliberately designed to delay the rollout of a medical cannabis program authorized by 57% of Oklahoma voters.

“People are completely angry. They voted for (State Question) 788 and now you have the health department and our governor pull these shenanigans? It’s a slap in the face to all activists. It’s a slap in the face to all Oklahomans who voted on 788.” — Isaac Caviness, president of Green the Vote, via SF Gate

The general counsel of the state Board of Health was against the rules signed into effect by the governor, stating that the rules were likely beyond the legal authority of the board. Gov. Fallin said the rules were her effort to quickly set up a regulatory framework for medical cannabis.

“I know some citizens are not pleased with these actions, but I encourage everyone to approach this effort in a constructive fashion in order to honor the will of the citizens of Oklahoma who want a balanced and responsible medical marijuana law.” — Gov. Mary Fallin (R), in a statement

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B.C. Partners With 31 Licensed Producers for Looming Adult-Use Marketplace

7/12/2018

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British Columbia, Canada has signed agreements over production rights for the province’s adult-use cannabis market with 31 different licensed producers, the province’s Liquor Distribution Branch (LDB) announced on Wednesday. The LDB will be B.C.’s sole wholesale distributor of cannabis.

All 31 of the cannabis cultivators are currently registered with Canada‘s federal government under the nation’s medical cannabis program.

“We are thrilled to be reaching this significant milestone in developing a competitive wholesale assortment for non-medical cannabis. The volume, variety and quality of our product assortment speak to the LDB’s commitment to working towards eliminating the illicit market.” — Blain Lawson, general manager and CEO of the Liquor Distribution Branch

Small craft cannabis growers, however, say they were shut out of the bidding process. Some advocates are now warning that consumers in British Columbia will only have access to products sourced from the large, corporate licensed producers and that small, local growers currently do not have a place in the legal market.

“I have been screaming at the provincial government for a year to do something about these regulations, and we are now about to drive off the cliff and there’s still no bridge.” — Ian Dawkins, president of the Cannabis Commerce Association of Canada, in a Canadian Press report

The LDB also announced on Wednesday that the first B.C. Cannabis Store will be located within Kamloops’ Columbia Place Shopping Centre.

Adult-use cannabis is set to become legal nationwide in Canada on October 17.

See below for an alphabetical list of the licensed producers who have signed up to provide cannabis for B.C.’s non-medical marketplace:

• Acreage Pharms Ltd.
• Agrima Botanicals Corporation
• Aphria Inc.
• Aurora Cannabis Enterprises Inc.
• Bloomera Inc.
• Broken Coast Cannabis Ltd.
• Canna Farms Ltd.
• CannTrust Inc.
• Canopy Growth Corporation
• Cronos Group Inc.
• DOJA Cannabis Ltd.
• Evergreen Medicinal Supply Inc.
• Experion Biotechnologies Inc.
• Hydropothecary
• Maricann Inc.
• MedReleaf Corp.
• Natural Med Company
• Redecan Pharm
• Seven Oaks Inc.
• Solace Health
• Starseed Medicinal Inc.
• THC BioMed Inc.
• The Flowr Corporation
• The Supreme Cannabis Company/7 Acres
• Tilray Canada Ltd.
• United Greeneries Ltd.
• UP Cannabis Inc.
• WeGrow BC Ltd.
• WeedMD RX Inc.
• Whistler Medical Marijuana Corp.
• Zenabis Ltd.

End

Israel to Vote On Cannabis Decriminalization

7/12/2018

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Israel’s legislative body, the Knesset, is expected to vote this week on a law that would decriminalize cannabis possession, according to a High Times report. The law would change the penalty for cannabis possession from jail time to a simple fine for the first three offenses.

The fine ranges from 1000 – 2000 shekels, approximately $275 – $550 US Dollars, and possibly community service for repeat offenders. Excluded from the law are soldiers, minors, and previously convicted criminals. The law’s duration is set at 3 years, as this draft is designed to be studied and then possibly changed.

Israel would be the first nation in the Middle East to decriminalize cannabis.

Member of the Knesset Meirav Ben-Ari, who serves on the Knesset’s Labor, Health and Welfare Committee, doesn’t believe people should receive a permanent police record for simple possession. All other members of the Knesset must agree, as the bill that is up for consideration was approved unanimously by legislators earlier this year.

“I definitely hope that the money [collected] from the fines will be allocated for the establishment of a fund for education, information, treatment, and rehabilitation of [drug] addicts, instead of taking the money to the state’s funds.” — MK Meirav Ben-Ari, in a statement

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California Dispensaries Struggle to Find Compliant Products

7/11/2018

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California’s new testing regulations took effect July 1 and dispensaries across the state are fighting against the weight of new restrictions. According to a Desert Sun report, many are struggling to get anything on their shelves at all and no dispensary has enough product to fill their shelves.

“I’m getting pictures every day of retailers that went from 45 strains to 5.” — Jerred Kiloh, President of the United Cannabis Business Association, via The Desert Sun

California‘s new testing requirements and dosage limits have changed the playing field for adult-use cannabis in the state. All cannabis grown and harvested before 2018 has been sold or trashed at this point. Retailers now must wait for cannabis that meets the state’s new standards, which include tests for 66 pesticides, 20 solvents, four heavy metals and three microbes, as well as cannabinoid profiles.

Cannabis testing labs anticipated the rush of business following the July 1 deadline, but are still far behind on testing. The state has essentially made the labs not only a center for testing but also for enforcement, due to their role in verifying label claims. One lab, Infinite Chemical Analysis in San Diego, reports many calls from scared growers, trying to figure out if they passed the testing process and are able to distribute to dispensaries desperate for stock.

“Lots of people are scrambling. They’re calling me every ten minutes saying, ‘Where’s my sample? Where’s my sample?’” — Josh Swider, co-owner of Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs, in the report

Industry observers wonder about the effectiveness of increasing restrictions placed on cannabis. Tom Adams, the Managing Director of BDS Analytics, urged the state to relax.

“This is not heroin, you know? To respond to cannabis’s misguided inclusion in Schedule 1 of the Controlled Substances Act for the past 50 years by over-regulating and over-taxing it is an enormous mistake if the goal is to legalize a largely illicit business.” — Tom Adams of BDS Analytics, via The Desert Sun

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Hawaii Governor Vetoes Bill Allowing MMJ for Opioid Addiction

7/11/2018

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On Tuesday, Hawaii Gov. David Ige, a Democrat, vetoed state Senate Bill 2407, which would have allowed for the treatment of opioid addiction with medical cannabis, according to a Marijuana.com report.

Gov. Ige announced his rationale for the veto on Tuesday.

“The Department of Health already has a formal evidenced-based petition process, made available annually to patients and physicians, so patients and physicians can apply to add qualifying conditions to the list of uses for medical cannabis.” — Hawaii Gov. David Ige, via Hawaii.gov

The process of approval by the Department of Health can take up to a year and requires the submission of a lengthy, evidence-based petition. Some wanted quicker, direct action through SB2407. Lawmakers had apparently agreed with that sentiment, as the bill passed both sections of Hawaii‘s state legislature with just minor amendments by April, after which it sat on the governor’s desk without action for months.

In June, Gov. Ige filed his intent to veto, which culminated in an actual veto on Tuesday despite pleas for the governor to reconsider.

 

End

Oklahoma MMJ Program Forges Ahead; Health Officials Tack On New Restrictions

7/11/2018

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Since Oklahoma voters decided to legalize medical cannabis last month, state officials have fast-tracked the creation of regulatory guidelines for the new industry which, under the voter-approved law, are required within 60 days of the election. Pushback from concerned health officials, however, now threatens to stunt the program’s effectiveness from the outset, the Associated Press reports.

Specifically, the state Board of Health voted this week to prohibit the sale of smokeable cannabis products and to establish a rule requiring dispensaries to have a pharmacist on staff. The restrictions were added despite warnings from the board’s own attorney that it could lead to legal issues.

Advocates have already accused the board of defying the will of voters.

“The people were clear. They wanted to be able to smoke medical marijuana. This flies in the face of what the people10 wanted.” — Former state Sen. Connie Johnson, a longtime cannabis advocate, in the report

Oklahoma‘s voter-approved medical cannabis initiative is one of the most progressive successful pieces of cannabis legislation. The program allows doctors to recommend cannabis for any condition they see fit — this is very different from most other states, where regulators establish lists of medical conditions that qualify patients to access the program.

Chip Paul, who helped author the initiative to legalize medical cannabis, said the last-minute changes were unfortunate but not a deal breaker.

“Even with a pharmacist on site, even with no smokable marijuana, we now have a program where patients who are suffering can at least get some relief, and that’s a giant, huge deal.” — Chip Paul, via the Associated Press

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Mother Carrying Epilepsy Medication is First Person to Bring Cannabis Legally Into UK

7/11/2018

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A woman returning from Amsterdam to her home in the United Kingdom this week became the first person to legally carry THC-rich cannabis oils into the country, according to The Independent.

Hannah Deacon was carrying a five-month supply of cannabis oils for her son, Alfie Dingley, who, at six years old, suffers regularly from epilepsy-induced seizures. Holding an emergency license issued on June 19 by the Home Office to access and import the heavily controlled substance, Ms. Deacon touched down yesterday evening at London City Airport.

“Today, for the first time ever in this country, we have bought back THC oil through the airport legally, which is amazing. It is very, very important for him to have a normal, happy life so it’s a momentous occasion for us, his whole family and for him, most importantly.” — Hannah Deacon, after passing through customs, via The Independent

Ms. Deacon arrived back in the UK on the same day that another six-year-old — a girl living in Northern Ireland named Sophia Gibson — was rushed to the hospital and placed in an induced coma because of a severe epileptic seizure. The Gibson family is still awaiting their own emergency license to access the life-saving medical cannabis oils.

Pressure has mounted recently against the government for its heavy-handed treatment of parents with epileptic children seeking the medical cannabis “miracle” drug. Last month, critics railed against the Home Office for confiscating cannabis oils from Charlotte Caldwell, who had declared the substance to customs officials while returning from Canada but did not have an emergency license to bring cannabis oils across the border at that time.

End

Cannabis fan leaves spread out underneath an indoor grow operation's LED grow lights.

Maine Lawmakers Override Governor’s Veto, Approve Sweeping MMJ Expansions

7/10/2018

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Maine lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a medical cannabis reform bill on Monday in a sweeping override of Republican Gov. Paul LePage’s veto, the Press Herald reports.

The reforms will ease access to the program by allowing doctors to make cannabis recommendations for any condition that they think it might help, establishing six new medical cannabis dispensaries, permitting caregivers in the program to further expand their businesses, and giving municipalities some more local control over the industry.

The bill will become law 90 days after the end of Maine’s legislative session.

“Maine’s medical cannabis program is already one of the best in the country. The passage of L.D. 1539 will make it even stronger. More access and choice for patients. More flexibility for legal businesses. And more integrity to the overall program.” — State Sen. Eric Brakey (R-Auburn), co-chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee, via the Press Herald

Maine Gov. LePage is a longstanding opponent of cannabis reforms. He railed against the state’s cannabis legalization initiative when it appeared before voters in 2016 and, earlier this year, vetoed the regulations approved by state lawmakers to establish the adult-use industry; lawmakers also voted to override that veto.

Medical cannabis advocates rejoiced the legislature’s vote.

“Seeing the House vote unanimously for a bill you believe is an amazing feeling. Maine’s medical cannabis program has always been unique and it deserves to be protected. These bills create the structure that Maine’s patients, caregivers, dispensaries and medical professionals deserve.” — Amanda Melnick, a cannabis consultant, in the report

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Denver Revokes All Licenses for Sweet Leaf Retailer

7/10/2018

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Sweet Leaf, once one of the largest cannabis retailers in Colorado, has had all of its cannabis licenses revoked by the city of Denver, Westword reports. The decision was expected, as earlier in April a city official had called for the move during a hearing by the city to determine a course of action.

Sweet Leaf held 26 medical and adult-use cannabis business licenses in Denver, which included many grow operations and infusion processing and manufacturing centers as well as seven retail dispensaries. The company was raided in December 2017 by the Denver Police Department after a year-long investigation into illegal sales.

“Enforcing rules when violations occur is an essential part of Denver’s successful regulation of one of the largest legalized marijuana markets in the world. After reviewing the overwhelming evidence, it’s clear the Hearing Officer made the correct decision in recommending the revocation of these licenses. Sweet Leaf’s illegal actions undermine the entire regulatory framework created by Amendment 64, the General Assembly and Denver City Council. This decision supports the will of the voters for a regulated legal marijuana market, safeguards the legal marijuana industry, and protects the safety and welfare of the public.” — Ashley Kilroy, Executive Director of the Denver Department of Excise and License

The official revoking of Sweet Leaf’s licenses is the final step in a process that started earlier this year. Several customers and budtenders were also arrested by Denver police; many received misdemeanor citations that were dropped for community service but several budtenders face felony charges that are still pending.

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Adult-Use Legalization Question Expected for North Dakota’s November Ballot

7/10/2018

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North Dakota advocates have successfully submitted enough signatures in favor of adult-use cannabis legalization to put the issue on November’s ballot, the Bismarck Tribune reports.

Advocates submitted some 18,700 signatures to the Secretary of State’s office on Monday; they needed a total of 13,452 signatures to put the issue before voters.

“The measure legalizes the use, sale, possession, and distribution of marijuana for anyone 21 years or older. For anyone under the age of 21, the law creates a new specific subset of non-felony penalties. Additionally, the law legalizes “paraphernalia” for marijuana exclusively. Finally, records are expunged for anyone that followed the new law even if it occurred in the past, except for cases of someone being under the age of 21.” — Excerpt from the Legalize ND website

The signatures were collected by 100 volunteers over the course of six months. The signatures must now be validated, which the Secretary of State’s office says could take up to 35 days, after which the actual ballot initiative will be drafted.

“Not a single penny was spent on petitioning and gathering, because we wanted this to be the will of the people, not the will of some big company out in Lord knows where. This is, primarily, a grassroots effort.” — Dave Owen, chairperson of the ND Legalization Initiative, to the Bismarck Tribune

Nine other states plus Washington D.C. have already passed some form of adult-use cannabis legalization.

End

Michigan Adds 11 Qualifying Conditions to MMJ Program

7/10/2018

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The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs added 11 more qualifying conditions to the state’s medical cannabis list on Monday, WZZM 13 reports. The additions mean that Michigan‘s list of qualifying conditions now contains 22 ailments for which doctors can recommend cannabis.

The Department of Licensing’s director Shelly Edgerton approved the 11 new conditions, but also denied the addition of 11 others. The medical cannabis program expansions involved hearings with public testimony regarding the proposed conditions and investigations into the latest research for each condition.

“With the changes in state law to include marijuana-infused products, and the advancement of marijuana research, and upon the recommendation of the panel members, I’ve added these eleven conditions to the approved list.” — Shelly Edgerton, via WZZM 13

The new conditions added to the list: arthritis, autism, chronic pain, colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Parkinson’s, Rheumatoid arthritis, spinal cord injury, Tourette’s syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

The conditions denied: anxiety, asthma, brain injury, depression, diabetes, gastric ulcer, non-severe and non-chronic pain, organ transplant, panic attacks, schizophrenia, social anxiety disorder.

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Hawaii Issues First Industrial Hemp Licenses

7/10/2018

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Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture licensed three separate farmers in June to grow hemp under the state’s pilot industrial hemp program, Maui Now reports. One grower is located on Kauai and the other two are located on Hawaii Island.

The industrial hemp licenses last for just two years and licensees are required to pay annual fees of $250 plus a $2-per-acre assessment charge. Growers are allowed to sell the hemp they harvest but must produce regular reports on the planting, harvesting, and distribution of their crops. 

“Hawaii’s first licensed hemp growers will help to demonstrate the real potential of the industrial hemp industry. We look forward to the entrepreneurial spirit that will help to invigorate and strengthen agriculture across the state.” — Gov. David Ige, via Hawaii News Now

The pilot hemp program, which officially opened in April 2018, has so far received applications from ten interested individuals. Officials with the Agriculture Department are still reviewing the remaining applications and will continue to license qualified partners as their applications are approved. 

“The potential here in Hawaii is just enormous when you look at 25,000 different products … made from this miracle plant.” — State Sen. Mike Gabbard, in the report

Officials faced difficulties trying to acquire seeds for the program. By working with federal and state drug enforcement agencies, however, the Department of Agriculture was eventually able to source seeds of the hemp varietal Yuma from China, which experts predict will perform well in Hawaii‘s tropical climate.

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Caribbean Community of Nations to Consider Legalizing Cannabis

7/09/2018

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The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) of nations have embraced a report by their own regional commission on cannabis and intend to rethink the legal status of cannabis, Tom Angell reports for Marijuana Moment.

In a report covering the latest session of CARICOM, the organization decided:

Heads of Government recognised that the current classification of marijuana as an illicit drug presented a challenge in the conduct of research to fully understand and ascertain the medicinal benefits to be derived.

They agreed that action should be taken at the national level by the relevant authorities to review marijuana’s current status with a view to reclassification taking into account all international obligations.

The chairperson for CARICOM’s regional cannabis commission, Prof. Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, took a clear stance on rescheduling cannabis while releasing her commission’s report, The Guardian of Trinidad and Tobago reports.

In the report, Prof. Antoine indicated the correct course was, “a public health and rights approach instead of this criminal law approach where people are criminalised.”

“The medical and scientific evidence is clear that marijuana has substantial value. Thousands of people are being imprisoned especially the most vulnerable and most marginalised in the region.” — Prof. Rose-Marie Belle Antoine, Chair of CARICOM’s Regional Marijuana Commission, via The Guardian

Prof. Antoine’s report also indicates that changing the plant’s legal status is necessary, but not removing all constraints on its use. The members of CARICOM have agreed to study cannabis’ current status in law as indicated by the cannabis commission’s report.

End

South Carolina’s Industrial Hemp Expansions Taking Shape

7/09/2018

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The South Carolina Department of Agriculture announced it has received 162 industrial hemp applications for 2019, according to a WYFF report. The state is doubling the number of industrial hemp farmers from 20 to 40 — and doubling their allowed acreage from 20 acres to 40 acres — for next year’s harvest.

“Expanding the Industrial Hemp Pilot Program will give us a greater opportunity to assess where and how this crop grows best in South Carolina. Ultimately, industrial hemp is about crop diversity, new business for our rural farmers and economic development in South Carolina.” — Hugh Weathers, South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture, via WYFF

Farmers possessing hemp licenses from 2018 must re-apply for 2019. Applicants also must meet a series of qualifications, released earlier this year.

South Carolina farmer David Builick, who was issued a permit in 2018, is reapplying for 2019. Builick initially decided to grow industrial hemp after becoming aware of the medicinal needs of a friend’s daughter, who has a condition requiring CBD oil. Builick is also aware of the commercial demand for a variety of hemp products.

“Volvo, BMW, those guys, their dashboards and side panels are all made from industrial hemp. It’s brought in from overseas but we don’t have enough acreage to grow that here to be a competitor for manufacturers in our own state.” — David Builick, in an interview with WYFF

Farmers approved for 2019 permits will be named by the state in September.

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Judge Drops Church’s Case Defending Cannabis Use as Sacrament

7/09/2018

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The Indianapolis-based First Church of Cannabis saw its 3-year-old case seeking protections for cannabis use under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) dismissed on Friday, the IndyStar reports.

Bill Levin, the church’s founder and spiritual leader, wrote on Friday to his Facebook followers, “It’s far from over. We are just getting started.” An attorney for the church has previously said the group would appeal if the case was not won.

Judge Sheryl Lynch wrote in her order to dismiss the case that city and state law enforcement officers should not be expected to treat the church’s patrons differently from the rest of the public.

“The undisputed evidence demonstrates that permitting a religious exemption to laws that prohibit the use and possession of marijuana would hinder drug enforcement efforts statewide and negatively impact public health and safety…”

“It is compelling and appropriate to treat the illicit drug market in a unitary way.” — Judge Sheryl Lynch, in her dismissal of the First Church of Cannabis’ case

Meanwhile, the church — which is recognized as a non-profit corporation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) — argued that the government can’t cherry-pick which religious beliefs it chooses to protect.

“Whether one agrees with the beliefs of the church is irrelevant. The church is a religious organization engaged in exercise of religion.” — Bill Levin, during the trial

Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill called the church “a pro-marijuana political crusade that turned into a legal stunt.”

“Indiana’s laws against the possession, sale and use of marijuana protect the health, safety and well-being of Hoosiers statewide. When the state has justifiable and compelling interests at stake, no one can evade the law simply by describing their illegal conduct as an exercise of religious faith.” — Indiana Attorney General Curtis Hill, via IndyStar

Levin replied to Hill’s comments online, writing that, “Cannabis is safer than Curtis Hill.”

End

Oklahoma Officials Release Rules Proposal for State’s Medical Marijuana Authority

7/09/2018

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The Oklahoma State Department of Health released the final draft of rules outlining the state’s newly established Medical Marijuana Authority program on Sunday, according to a KOCO 5 News report. The move was mandated by voters when they approved a ballot initiative last month legalizing the medical use of cannabis.

A rough draft of the rules was first released for public comment on June 26.

“Those public comments, as well as comments from other state agency partners and other interested groups, have been carefully reviewed and considered from a legal perspective with the overarching responsibility of the Department of Health to promote and protect public health while implementing the will of the people as demonstrated in the passage of State Question 788.” — Statement included with the updated rules, via KOCO 5 News

The proposal includes rules that dictate who can make recommendations and write prescriptions for medical cannabis, who is allowed access to the program, and other restrictions such as capping THC count for cannabis products at 12 percent and requiring pregnancy tests for women of “childbearing years” before they can access the program.

A meeting on Tuesday — scheduled for 11:00 a.m. in Room 1102 at the Oklahoma State Department of Health Building — may be the last chance for public comment on the proposal, which will be submitted for review and possible adoption later this week.

End

Canadian Cannabis Workers Targeted By U.S. Border Patrol

7/06/2018

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The U.S. Border Patrol has been giving lifetime bans at the border to those associated with Canada’s legal cannabis industry, according to The Star Vancouver. Because the border is under federal jurisdiction — even in states like Washington that have legalized cannabis — Border Patrol agents are required to obey U.S. federal requirements and issue lifetime bans to anyone who profits from cannabis.

One doesn’t need to handle cannabis plants directly or even have ever used cannabis — agricultural equipment manufacturers in the cannabis industry have been targeted as well. Jay Evans, CEO of Canadian processing equipment manufacturer Keirton Inc., was briefly detained and given a lifetime ban while crossing into the U.S. to begin the process of designing a new cannabis processing machine.

“We had not yet designed the product, we had not yet marketed the product and we’d not yet sold the product.” — Jay Evans, in an interview with The Star Vancouver

However, Evans doesn’t blame the border patrol; instead, Evans blames the U.S. Department of Justice and Jeff Sessions‘ paranoid anti-cannabis stance. The feds have not gone light on enforcing drug trafficking laws and still prevent banks and other financial institutions from dealing with the industry.

According to the report, the best thing to do for those detained by border patrol because of their work in the cannabis industry is to not admit anything. Lying is also grounds for a lifetime ban, so the best strategy is to neither confirm nor deny their questions and simply rescind the request to enter the United States.

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California Cannabis Festivals Struggling Under New Rules

7/06/2018

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According to an East Bay Times report, California’s new cannabis rules are causing difficulties for cannabis festivals.

During the first year of adult-use legalization, promoters had planned to switch away from the loose, medical industry’s system that they had been using (where every attendee had to get or already have a doctor’s recommendation). However, many California jurisdictions have been denying event permits, making what should be an easy switch to a completely legal market much more difficult for event organizers.

California’s new laws limit festivals to fairground venues authorized by the Department of Food and Agriculture. On top of that, they need permission not only from the venue owner or manager but also an annual license from the state and approval from the city or county where the event will be held. These requirements are proving to be too stringent for many festivals.

Approximately 10 fairground venues in California on the state’s list are in cities or counties that permit adult-use cannabis sales. In two of those 10, the local authorities have chosen to disallow cannabis events. That leaves eight venues in all of California where it would be possible to have a cannabis festival. Southern California had no events so far in 2018 and none are planned for the rest of the year. Northern California has only two licensed festivals, one in Sacramento and one, the famed Emerald Cup, in Santa Rosa.

These remaining festivals are working hard to stay compliant with the state’s new rules.

“It’s costing us a lot of money, but it’s going to come back in the long run. We’re going to really be teaching them how it should be done.” — Tim Blake, Emerald Cup Founder, via the East Bay Times

End

Saskatchewan Establishes Fines for Cannabis Crimes

7/06/2018

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Authorities in Saskatchewan, Canada have established a provincial fine structure for cannabis offenses for after federal legalization takes place in October. According to a Global News report, the fines will range from between $200 and $2,250 depending on the severity of the offense. 

Justice Minister Don Morgan said the goal was to create “an appropriate disincentive for certain kinds of conduct” but not to go completely overboard on cannabis crackdowns.

“One of the major considerations when we went into this was trying to keep marijuana out of schools and out of the hands of children. Bringing marijuana into a school area we knew would be a significant issue so we wanted to have a large disincentive there.” — Justice Minister Don Morgan, in an interview with Global News

The following are the crimes (and their fines) targeted at cannabis consumers:

  • Consumption of cannabis in public — $200
  • Consumption of cannabis on school grounds or at a child care facility — $1,000
  • Possessing or consuming cannabis in a campground, when a prohibition is in effect — $200
  • Purchasing cannabis from a jurisdiction outside of Saskatchewan — $300
  • Possessing or consuming cannabis in a vehicle — $300
  • Possessing more than 30 grams of dried cannabis in public — $200

The following fines apply to commercial cannabis entities:

  • Selling, giving or distributing to a minor — $2,250
  • Selling or distributing to a person who appears to be intoxicated — $2,250
  • Purchasing from a non-authorized source — $300
  • Consuming or permitting consumption while being transported — $2,250

Notably, the fines for commercial cannabis entities are higher than the fines alcohol companies face for the same offenses (except for the $300 fine for purchasing from a non-authorized source).

“Cannabis is new. We’re worried about what the effect might be, so we’re starting with a higher penalty structure. Alcohol is something that’s been around for as long as the province has been in existence, and it’s something where people have a greater understanding and acceptance, so we want to have a greater disincentive, at least at the beginning.” — Justice Minister Don Morgan, in the report

The rules will take effect following the October 17 launch of Canada’s federal adult-use marketplace.

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Mexico’s President-Elect Favors Drug Decriminalization

7/05/2018

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Mexico’s general elections were held on Sunday, July 1 and the emerging victor for the country’s presidential run, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, is likely to push for criminal drug law reforms, according to a teleSUR report.

President-elect López Obrador, who is a former mayor of Mexico City, is already considering decriminalizing recreational cannabis use and regulating the country’s illegal opium trade, said senior aide and former Supreme Court judge Olga Sánchez Cordero. According to Cordero, it doesn’t make sense to continue enforcing drug prohibition when close to a dozen U.S. states plus Canada have chosen to legalize cannabis.

“What are we thinking? Tell me. Killing ourselves. Really, keep on killing when… North America is decriminalizing?” — Olga Sánchez Cordero, in an interview with W Radio

Medical cannabis was legalized in Mexico in 2017 and, in 2016, current President Enrique Peña Nieto spoke in favor of decriminalizing the possession of up to an ounce of cannabis flower. Mexico, however, continues to experience extreme violence and political corruption resulted from drug prohibition, largely carried out by the country’s infamous drug cartels.

Mr. López Obrador upset Mexico’s political paradigm with a landslide victory on Sunday, wherein more than half the country’s voters supported the 64-year-old leftist. His victory is made even more historic, however, because Mexico’s government will be governed by a single party for the first time in 89 years.

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Alberta Chooses Cannabis Producers to Serve Its Adult-Use Market

7/05/2018

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The Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis Commission (AGLC) announced the 13 licensed producers who will serve the province’s adult-use marketplace when cannabis becomes federally legal in Canada on October 17, the Calgary Herald reports.

Only two of the companies, Aurora Cannabis and Canopy Growth, actually have production facilities located in Alberta. The other 11 companies are:

  • 7 Acres
  • ABCann Global
  • Aphria Inc.
  • CannTrust
  • Emblem Cannabis
  • Maricann Group Inc.
  • MedReleaf Corp.
  • Starseed Medicinal Inc.
  • UP Cannabis Inc.
  • Weed MD
  • Organigram

All of the companies except New Brunswick-based Organigram operate primarily out of Ontario.

“The AGLC is committed to providing the Alberta market with access to federally regulated cannabis in a safe and fiscally responsible manner while helping to shrink the illicit market. We are confident that those we are working with will help us fulfil our responsibilities to Albertans.” — Niaz Nejad, CEO and VP for the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis Commission, in a statement

AGLC said that it received pitches from 31 different companies and plans to sanction more licensed producers as necessary, but in the future will focus on Alberta-based companies. The province plans to open up to 700 retail cannabis locations and will also be distributing cannabis products via the official AGLC website AlbertaCannabis.org. 

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Efforts to Legalize Adult-Use Cannabis Progress in Oklahoma

7/05/2018

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Hot on the heels of Oklahoma‘s successful medical cannabis vote, advocates in the state are collecting signatures to put adult-use legalization on the November ballot, Oklahoma’s News 4 reports.

The initiative, State Question 797, would allow adults who are 21 or older to possess, use, grow, process, and sell cannabis for recreational purposes.

Advocates with ‘Green the Vote’ say they have collected 64,000 of the necessary 124,000 signatures to get SQ 797 on the ballot. The group hopes to deliver the necessary signatures to the state Capitol by August 8.

“We feel we are on track but would like to really ramp it up to get this done with overwhelming numbers.” — Isaac Caviness, President of Green The Vote, in an interview with KJRH

Last month, Oklahoma became the 30th U.S. state to legalize medical cannabis when voters overwhelmingly approved SQ 788, which establishes a program wherein medical doctors — not politicians — determine when patients “qualify” to use medical cannabis.

Opponents of medical marijuana had lambasted SQ 788 as being too loosely regulated and too close to adult-use legalization; Oklahomans did not seem to mind that comparison, however, and now advocates may get to test voters with even more progressive cannabis reforms.

Editor’s note: A previous version of this article incorrectly listed the adult-use ballot initiative as SQ 979 instead of SQ 797.

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Texas GOP Endorses Cannabis Decriminalization, Rescheduling, & Industrial Hemp

7/03/2018

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The Republican Party of Texas officially endorsed the decriminalization of cannabis last month. Party leaders also called on the federal government to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule II under the Controlled Substances Act and to legalize industrial hemp.

“Civil Penalty: We support a change in the law to make it a civil, and not a criminal, offense for legal adults only to possess one ounce or less of marijuana for personal use, punishable by a fine of up to $100, but without jail time. …

“Cannabis Classification: Congress should remove cannabis from the list of Schedule 1 and move to Schedule 2. …

“Hemp: We recognize industrial hemp as a valuable agricultural commodity. We urge the Texas Legislature to pass legislation allowing cultivation, manufacture, and sale of industrial hemp and hemp products.” — Texas GOP party platform excerpts

The Texas GOP also called on state lawmakers to expand the state’s 2015 Compassionate Use Act and give doctors the right to determine the best uses and scenarios for medical cannabis.

These are yet further signs that cannabis is becoming an increasingly mainstream issue and, following the Texas GOP announcements, 2018 appears to be shaping out as yet another banner year for cannabis policy.

“Texas Republicans, like the majority of Americans, are ready to see more sensible marijuana policies enacted. Our state wastes valuable criminal justice resources arresting between 60,000-70,000 Texans annually. Delegates took a stand this week for a better approach.” — Heather Fazio, coalition coordinator for Texans for Responsible Marijuana Policy, in a Forbes interview

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