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Oklahoma Introduces ‘Secret Shoppers’ to Help Regulate Medical Cannabis Industry

1/04/2024

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Under an Oklahoma state law taking effect this week, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) can now utilize “secret shoppers” in its effort to regulate the state’s medical cannabis industry, FOX25 reports. Specifically, the new law requires regulators to send at least 50 secret shoppers per year to licensed retailers to anonymously purchase medical cannabis products, and then have the products tested by a lab.

Rep. Josh West, who co-sponsored the bill, said the new law prioritizes the safety of Oklahomans by keeping potential bad actors in check. “Constituents, people in the industry, people outside of the industry, the average public, they wanted some checks and balances in place,” he said in the report.

“Consumer safety is the biggest part of it. And we want to ensure that we are keeping the bad actors out. And so it’s no different than what ABLE does when ABLE goes into a liquor store and ensures that they’re following the law.” — Rep. West, via FOX25

The bill (HB3971) was passed and signed into law in 2022 but didn’t take effect until the start of 2023.

The new law represents Oklahoma‘s latest strategy for cracking down on illegal cannabis operations in the state.

Cannabis regulators said in November they were seeking to revoke 165 medical cannabis cultivation licenses over the companies’ failure to post signage on their properties as required by state law, while the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics said in August that over the previous two years, officials shut down more than 800 unlawful cannabis farms.

State officials said last month that throughout their efforts to rein in the industry, the number of licensed medical cannabis cultivators in the state has dropped from about 9,400 in 2021 to about 3,200 at the end of 2023.

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CBD.market Responds to Growing Evidence That CBD Enhances Sleep

1/03/2024

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Recent research from medical experts at the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Utah, and the University of Illinois at Chicago indicated that taking 50 mg of CBD may significantly impact sleep quality while enhancing Natural Killer (NK) immune cell function. The study explored various claims regarding CBD and sleep and the human immune system’s role in regulating sleep. Online retailer CBD.market has responded to the growing interest in CBD products to promote natural sleep methods.

The Rising Trend in Using CBD for Sleep Management

Many people are desperate for high-quality sleep at night because of their stressful daytime environments. At the same time, they are reluctant to take prescription sleep aids because of potential side effects and the possibility of dependency. CBD offers a natural way to aid circadian sleep rhythms.

The study followed 28 participants with an average age of 25.9 years for eight weeks who took 50 mg of CBD nightly and were not currently taking sleep medications. Participants received either CBD or a placebo. After completing the eight-week course, the researchers found no significant changes in weight, BMI or body fat percentages among those taking CBD. However, the CBD group experienced significant improvements in sleep quality. This study confirms anecdotal evidence that CBD users experience better sleep.

Researchers believe CBD affects sleep by working on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the hypothalamus, impacting sleep regulation and body temperature. CBD can suppress stress hormone overactivation and equalize the sleep and wake rhythm.

CBD.market Delivers High-Quality Products for Better Sleep

CBD.market has recognized the sleep-related CBD demand by responding with increased products geared toward those who want better sleep quality. Overall, gummies are the preferred method of using CBD because they deliver a premeasured dose and are discreet.

“The most popular sleep support products in our store are CBD gummies, CBN gummies, ones with melatonin and other sleep aid additives,” said Michael Levin, CBD.market Head of Analytics. “Following these, tinctures and capsules are also in high demand.”

Consumers seeking high-quality CBD products for sleep and other uses will find many items available at CBD.market. Among the trusted CBD brands CBD.market sells are Wyld CBD, Lazarus Naturals, Joy Organics, NuLeaf Naturals and several others, all thoroughly tested by third parties prior to sale. The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

About CBD.market
CBD.market is a top online retailer focusing on elevating and educating consumers on how to use CBD for better wellness. The company provides access to premium CBD products from top-quality manufacturers, with efficacy tested by independent labs. Operating out of its headquarters in San Diego, the company remains on the cutting edge of CBD research to offer the best organic edibles, capsules, tinctures and more to prevent and treat disease and illness in a holistic manner. As the industry leader in high-quality CBD products, CBD.market maintains transparent shipping policies that have helped customers throughout the United States enjoy delivery of these products at reasonable prices.

To contact CBD.market please visit cbd.market or call 422-777-0177, or email info@cbd.market.

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UFC Removes Cannabis From Banned Substances List

1/03/2024

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The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has taken a significant step in sports health and safety by formally removing marijuana from its list of banned substances for athletes, setting a progressive example in the realm of professional sports.

The UFC’s decision to exclude cannabis from its prohibited substances is an extension of its earlier reform in 2021, which protected fighters from being penalized for testing positive for THC. The revised anti-doping policy aims to align with the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list, yet it notably deviates by excluding marijuana, reflecting a more nuanced approach to substance regulation in sports.

In a press statement, UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell highlighted the organization’s ambition to lead with the “most effective and progressive anti-doping program in all of professional sports.” The policy, which came into effect on December 31, is part of UFC’s broader effort to ensure a fair and safe competitive environment. This initiative also includes a new partnership with Drug Free Sport International for sample collection and shipping, further solidifying UFC’s commitment to athlete health and performance integrity.

Jeff Novitzky, UFC Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance, emphasized that the updated anti-doping program is the culmination of extensive input and trial, signifying an ongoing commitment to evolve based on scientific evidence and athlete welfare. The move is seen as a significant stride in acknowledging the changing societal and scientific perspectives on marijuana use and its implications for athletes.

The UFC’s policy shift mirrors a broader trend in sports organizations reevaluating their stance on marijuana amidst a growing legalization movement. Several entities have recently adjusted their drug policies to be more accommodating of cannabis use in the past few years, including the NCAA, NBA, and NFL, among others.

State sports regulators and other organizations like the New York Media Softball League have also adapted their approaches, reflecting a shift in recognizing the potential therapeutic benefits and reduced stigma surrounding marijuana. These changes in the sports world align with a broader societal shift toward more progressive views on cannabis, particularly given its legal status in various jurisdictions.

However, despite these evolving perspectives, the World Anti-Doping Agency continues to maintain a ban on cannabis, citing concerns about the “spirit of sport” and athlete role modeling. This stance has drawn criticism, particularly in the wake of high-profile cases like U.S. runner Sha’Carri Richardson’s Olympic suspension for a positive THC test. The case spurred a widespread call for policy reform, including from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, the White House, and congressional lawmakers, highlighting a growing consensus that international rules on marijuana need to be reconsidered to reflect contemporary understanding and attitudes toward the substance.

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New Mexico Regulators Revoke Two Cannabis Cultivator Licenses

1/03/2024

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The Cannabis Control Division (CCD) of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department on Tuesday revoked the licenses of two adult-use cannabis cultivators, the agency said in a press release.

The operators in question — Bliss Farm and Native American Agricultural Development Company (NAADC), both located in Torrance County — were said to have exceeded the legal plant count limits and failed to properly utilize the state’s mandatory track-and-trace system. Regulators noted at both locations signs of a recent harvest without any record of the plants or where they might have gone. Additionally, the companies were said to have fostered unsafe working conditions, among other violations.

Under the order, the companies must immediately cease their commercial operations and, in addition to losing their licenses, they have been ordered to pay $1 million in fines. Under state law, such cannabis industry fines go into the state’s school fund.

Clay Bailey, the Acting Superintendent of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, said in the release, “The illicit activity conducted at both of these farms undermines the good work that many cannabis businesses are doing across the state.”

“Compliance within the industry is the CCD’s main priority and our office is committed to ensuring New Mexicans have access to safe cannabis products. The team worked diligently on both of these cases to determine the appropriate action for violations at a scale we hadn’t seen before. The outcomes were justified under the law based on the egregious conduct of these individuals and I hope this serves as a reminder to those who might be violating the laws and rules the state has put forth.” — Todd Stevens, Cannabis Control Division Director, in a statement

After the order, New Mexico regulators have revoked six cannabis industry licenses since the market’s January 2022 launch.

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Police Officer Killed While Responding to Burglary at Cannabis Business

1/02/2024

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Tragedy struck the Oakland Police Department early Friday morning as Officer Tuan Le, 36, lost his life in the line of duty while responding to reports of a burglary at a cannabis business, as reported by CBS. This marked the second burglary incident at the same location within just four hours.

Officer Le, originally from Vietnam, moved to Oakland and became a naturalized citizen on September 11, 2001. He graduated from the 183rd police academy in 2020 and had been serving as the community resource officer in West Oakland for the past two years.

In a heartfelt statement, the Oakland Police Department expressed their grief, stating, “Officer Le was a devoted husband to his wife. His passing leaves a void in the law enforcement community, the city of Oakland, and in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his smile, and the positive change he brought to the lives of those around him. He is a true hero who dedicated his life to making our community safer.”

The shooting has once again brought to the forefront a critical issue concerning the federal status of cannabis in the United States. While many states have legalized or decriminalized cannabis for medical and recreational use, it remains classified as a federally illegal substance. This conflicting legal landscape forces cannabis dispensaries to operate predominantly as cash-based businesses, making them vulnerable targets for robberies.

Without access to traditional banking services, such as credit card processing and business loans, dispensaries are left with little choice but to deal primarily in cash. This cash-heavy environment not only poses significant security risks but also complicates financial management, tax reporting, and regulatory compliance.

Dispensary operators and advocates have been calling for federal reform for years, emphasizing the urgent need to address the discrepancies between state and federal cannabis laws. The ongoing federal prohibition not only endangers the safety of those involved in the cannabis industry but also puts law enforcement officers like Officer Tuan Le in harm’s way when responding to incidents at these businesses.

Reform efforts have gained momentum in recent years, with calls for comprehensive legislation that would provide a safe and legitimate banking framework for the cannabis industry. The SAFE Banking Act, for instance, aims to allow cannabis-related businesses access to the traditional banking system, reducing their reliance on cash transactions and minimizing the associated risks.

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New York Cannabis Market Tops $150M During First Year of Operations

1/02/2024

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New York licensed cannabis retailers sold more than $150 million worth of products during the legal market’s first year of operations, according to data from the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

Regulators said that while just 40 adult-use cannabis dispensaries have opened for business across the state, there were more than 6,900 cannabis industry applications received in 2023, including:

538 cannabis processor applications,
372 cultivation license applications,
351 distributor license applications,
1,349 microbusiness license applications, and
4,324 retail dispensary applications.

Of the 6,934 total applications, 3,826 — about 55% — were equity applications, regulators said.

“New York Cannabis has momentum heading in to 2024 and we’ll keep working to make this market grow. We have a lot of work to do, and we have much to be proud of; now that the core market architecture is in place, my team at OCM is ready to scale and help this industry thrive across New York State.” — Chris Alexander, OCM Executive Director, in a statement

Ultimately, the state’s adult-use roll-out was slower than expected due to a lawsuit that blocked the early licensing of equity applicants; officials settled that lawsuit in November.

To alleviate the pressure from the state’s slow retail roll-out, New York regulators last year approved a “cannabis showcase” project that enabled producers to distribute their stockpiled products through a farmers market-style arrangement. The state’s first such showcase opened in August and, over the course of 141 showcase days, businesses earned $4.8 million in cannabis sales across 43 cities and towns.

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Johns Hopkins Researchers to Track 10,000 Medical Cannabis Patients

12/29/2023

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Researchers from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine are set to track 10,000 medical cannabis patients across the U.S. at length to better understand cannabis medicine. The study, which is supported by a $10 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), aims to inform clinicians about the efficacy of medical cannabis.

Ryan Vandrey, one of the creators of the Johns Hopkins Cannabis and Health Research Initiative and a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, said that while cannabis is available “as a therapeutic” in the majority of U.S. states, “we’re lacking the quality of data that we have with other medicines.”

“Our mission with this research is to understand the health impacts of therapeutic cannabis use. We hope to provide some starting points for understanding what types of products may or may not be helpful and what types of products may be more risky for use in certain populations or for certain therapeutic purposes.” — Vandrey, in a press release

Johannes Thrul, associate professor of mental health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and collaborator on the project, said the researchers will follow the 10,000 patients as they start as new patients through a year or more of medical cannabis use.

“We’re tracking them with multiple assessments over the course of their first year with more tightly spaced assessments toward the beginning because our assumption is that as people are starting their medical cannabis journey, they’re likely going to try different products until they find the products that best help them with their symptoms,” Thrul said.

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Alabama’s Medical Cannabis Licensing Process to be Disputed in Court Today

12/28/2023

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In the latest development from Alabama’s nascent medical cannabis industry, several companies including Southeast Cannabis, TheraTrue 3 Notch Root, Alabama Always, and Jemmstone are set to make their legal case against the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) today, as reported by the Alabama Political Reporter. The applicants are contesting the commission’s methods of awarding medical cannabis licenses, asserting that the AMCC’s decisions during a crucial December 12 meeting were procedurally flawed, specifically criticizing the handling of application scoring and electronic files, as well as a restrictive 10MB limit on submission portals.

Alabama Always, LLC is also seeking expedited discovery in its lawsuit against the AMCC, alleging violations of the Alabama Administrative Procedure Act and the Open Meetings Act. They argue that this discovery is essential to challenge the Commission’s rejection of their license application effectively. Concurrently, 3 Notch Roots and Jemmstone are looking to consolidate their cases with Alabama Always, as they are addressing similar grievances against the AMCC’s actions.

This series of lawsuits is indicative of growing discontent with the AMCC’s transparency and fairness, potentially setting the stage for a major legal battle. Earlier this month the AMCC made headlines with their decision to award Trulieve — a publicly-traded company out of Florida — the only license reserved for “minority-owned” businesses. Cannabis operators from Alabama and other states decried the decision, pointing out that large corporate brands should not be allowed to capitalize on licensing provisions intended to boost market diversity.

The outcomes of today’s hearings are anticipated to have far-reaching implications not only for Alabama’s medical cannabis industry but also for the national conversation around how a legalized cannabis market should function, and who should be granted opportunities to participate.

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Vermont Department of Health Opposes Removal of THC Potency Cap

12/28/2023

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As cannabis has been legalized for adult use and medical purposes in different US states, vastly different rules have been implemented in different markets, with one of the most controversial regulatory practices being the implementation of maximum THC caps and taxes based on product potency. In Vermont, a 60% THC potency cap on cannabis concentrates has been the focus of a heated policy debate within the state, with cannabis regulators calling for its removal, pointing out that other states like Washington and Colorado have opted to focus on consumer education and daily purchase limits rather than the potency of the products themselves.

In a recent report submitted to policymakers by the Vermont Department of Health, a special commission has recommended keeping those caps in place, pointing to risks associated with high-potency products. The report states: “The SMPC supports the potency cap for cannabis concentrates due to the negative public health implications of high potency THC products.”

According to the report, the Substance Misuse Prevention Oversight and Advisory Council (SMPC) is “charged with reviewing the current prevention policies and initiatives in Vermont and providing advice to the Governor and General Assembly on the prevention system throughout the state.” One key argument cited by the report is that high potency products are often to blame when children ingest cannabis accidentally, resulting in more hospital visits. The report also cited studies suggesting a link between high potency cannabis and psychosis.

A section of the report highlights a perceived increase in cannabis use by young adults over time, comparing surveys from 2017 and 2018 focused on all Vermonters over age 12, to surveys from 2020 and 2022 focused on Vermonters aged 18-25. According to the data, the 2017 and 2018 surveys showed that approximately 19% of respondents acknowledged using cannabis within the past month. The 2020 and 2022 surveys showed cannabis consumption rates of 40% for the age range 18-25.

It is worth noting, however, that these surveys’ framing criteria do not align with each other, and that other variables could be playing a significant role in the discrepancy: for example, respondents may be influenced by the current legal status of cannabis in their decision to answer surveys truthfully. As Ganjapreneur has reported extensively in the past, the legal status of cannabis can also play a role in whether or not parents are willing to bring their children to the hospital over accidental cannabis ingestion. Additionally, potency caps that focus on percentage of THC as opposed to total milligrams of THC per container do not account for the inherent differences in product types.

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Ghana Legalizes Cannabis for Medical & Industrial Purposes

12/27/2023

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Lawmakers in Ghana’s Parliament voted this month to legalize the cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes, according to AfricaNews.com.

Under the December 14 decision, the country’s Interior Minister was given the authority to begin issuing cultivation licenses. Licenses are ultimately expected for every aspect of the cannabis industry including cultivation, distribution, processing, sale, import, and export, according to the report.

Notably, the new law includes a 0.3% THC cap for cannabis crops grown in the country, which matches the restrictions for industrial hemp crops grown in the U.S.

Experts predict that cannabis and hemp cultivation could prove to be a significant boon to the country because the crop will grow readily in every region of Ghana and will bring a multitude of employment opportunities, the report said.

The move marks Ghana’s next step in aligning itself with the international trend of reforming cannabis laws, which lawmakers had set as a priority in 2020 with the Narcotics Control Commission Act.

Other African countries that have legalized medical cannabis and/or industrial hemp include Lesotho, Malawi, Morocco, South Africa, Eswatini, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe; South Africa has also decriminalized the personal possession of cannabis.

A 2022 report described the cannabis sector in Africa as “poised” for significant growth, and New Frontier Data reported in 2019 that approximately one-third of the world’s cannabis consumers live in Africa.

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Florida Arrests Two for Falsifying Cannabis Legalization Petition Signatures

12/27/2023

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The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has arrested two paid canvassers for allegedly falsifying signatures on petitions to put an adult-use cannabis legalization on the state’s 2024 ballot, Marijuana Moment reports. FDLE said it also arrested a third canvasser who was petitioning for a gambling-related initiative.

Officials did not disclose how many fraudulent signatures had been submitted by the canvassers but said that there were “dozens” of affected petitions submitted for the state’s cannabis legalization and gambling-related initiatives.

“The Florida Constitution is a sacred document by which Florida’s government, voters and citizens are adjudicated. Florida Law lays out a detailed process by which issues can be submitted to Florida’s voters for consideration before they are added to Florida’s Constitution.” – Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, in a statement

“To fraudulently misappropriate this process for personal gain is not only illegal but also violates the trust of law-abiding Floridians across the state,” Byrd said.

A spokesperson for the Smart & Safe Florida legalization campaign told Marijuana Moment it is “fully supportive” of the investigation, that it intends to cooperate with any law enforcement requests, and — if the allegations are substantiated — that “we hope the individuals involved are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” according to the report.

A recent poll found that about 67% of Florida voters would support the bid to legalize adult-use cannabis.

The campaign was challenged in August by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody as potentially breaking the state’s single-subject rule for ballot initiatives but the state Supreme Court ruled recently in the campaign’s favor.

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President Biden Issues Additional Cannabis Pardons

12/26/2023

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In an expansion of last year’s sweeping federal pardons for cannabis possession, President Joe Biden (D) on Friday issued additional pardons for thousands of individuals convicted of simple cannabis use and possession on federal lands and in Washington D.C., the Associated Press reports.

The White House announced on Friday that the president was also granting clemency to 11 people serving “disproportionately long” prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenses. But, while the pardons represent a symbolic shift in the federal government’s approach to cannabis convictions, the president’s cannabis pardons – both those recently announced and those carried out last year – will not result in the release of any prisoners currently serving time for cannabis-related sentences. Rather, the goal of the pardons is to prevent past cannabis convictions from hindering individuals’ efforts to find a job and/or acquire housing.

The president said that the pardons would help make the “promise of equal justice a reality,” the report said.

“Criminal records for marijuana use and possession have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. It’s time that we right these wrongs.” – President Joe Biden, via the AP

President Biden also reiterated his wishes for governors in the U.S. to nullify state cannabis convictions, stating, “Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely due to the use or possession of marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either.”

Officially, cannabis remains federally prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule I substance, which is reserved for substances that have “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended in August that cannabis be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III.

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Cannabis Researchers Have Published 32,000+ Studies In Last Decade

12/26/2023

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In the last 10 years, researchers around the world have published more than 32,000 inquiries into the science of cannabis and cannabinoids, NORML reports. Additionally, 2023 was the third consecutive year in which scientists published more than 4,000 papers specific to cannabis, cannabinoids, and their varied effects.

NORML says the claim is based on a keyword search of the National Library of Medicine and PubMed.gov.

The development stands in stark contrast to the majority of political arguments against cannabis policy reforms, which typically claim that more research into the potential dangers of cannabis is needed before loosening restrictions on the plant.

“Scientists’ interest in studying cannabis has increased exponentially in recent years,” NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano said in a recent blog post on the political advocacy group’s website.

“It is time for politicians and others to stop assessing cannabis through the lens of ‘what we don’t know’ and instead start engaging in evidence-based discussions about marijuana and marijuana reform policies that are indicative of all that we do know.” – Armentano, via NORML

NORML, which was founded in 1970, is the oldest and largest organization in the U.S. advocating for the legalization of cannabis.

Some of the stand-out cannabis studies published in 2023 have supported the following claims:

That people who consume cannabis to help them sleep tend to stop relying on over-the-counter sleep aids,
That cannabis consumers who contracted COVID-19 experienced reduced mortality and better outcomes compared to non-consumers, and
That cannabis appears to have a positive impact on the sex lives of those who consume it.

Meanwhile, researchers have also investigated the societal effects of reforming cannabis laws at the local and state levels, including one recent study that found the average home values in states with adult-use cannabis laws have outpaced average home values in non-legal states.

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Ukraine passes medical cannabis legislation

Ukraine Lawmakers Pass Medical Cannabis Legalization Bill

12/22/2023

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Ukrainian lawmakers on Thursday approved a bill to legalize medical cannabis, sending the bill to President Volodymyr Zelensky for his signature, the Kyiv Post reports.

The bill was passed by 248 votes in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, which is the nation’s 450-seat unicameral parliament. The proposal will legalize cannabis access for cancer patients and as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) resulting from its military defense against Russia, which invaded the country in February 2022.

Under the new law, medical cannabis patients would require a doctor’s prescription, and adult-use cannabis would remain strictly prohibited. To speed up patient access, the law will allow for the import of raw cannabis materials, the report said.

President Zelensky is expected to sign the legislation after having voiced his support for cannabis-based medicines in June — and during his 2019 presidential campaign — and the new law will take effect six months after receiving the president’s signature.

“The draft law on medical cannabis is aimed exclusively at treating Ukrainians who really need it. Medicines only by prescription, only medicinal products and modern production in Ukraine to avoid all possible corruption risks.” — Ukrainian MP Maria Mezentseva, via Marijuana Moment

While the bill only explicitly lists cancer and PTSD, the health committee chair said in July that lawmakers had been pressured to expand the law to cover other severe illnesses including Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy, the report said.

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Rhode Island Tops $100M During First Year of Adult-Use Cannabis Sales

12/22/2023

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Rhode Island dispensaries sold more than $100 million worth of combined medical and recreational cannabis products during the state’s first year of adult-use operations, according to data from the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.

Adult-use cannabis sales launched in the state on December 1, 2022, and the state’s monthly adult-use sales exceeded $7 million for the first time in August, which also marked the year’s peak total sales of just under $9.7 million. In total, the state sold $35.1 million worth of medical cannabis products and $69.8 million worth of adult-use products during the first 12 months of recreational sales, which far exceeded initial projections of $50 million, MJBizDaily reported.

The boosted sales could be attributed to the statewide legalization of cannabis advertisements midway through the year.

“A year into adult-use cannabis sales in Rhode Island, we are proud of the careful execution that defined our entry into this industry. This success represents growing opportunity for our state’s economy but also for the nearly 70 licensed cultivators, processors, and manufacturers in the State of Rhode Island which we know are integral to our local cannabis supply chain.” Gov. Dan McKee (D), in a statement

Notably, the number of registered medical cannabis patients in Rhode Island fell from 15,062 last December to 10,037 in November.

Rhode Island, which passed its adult-use cannabis legalization law in May 2022, was the 19th U.S. state to adopt the reforms.

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MedMen Exiting Arizona and Nevada Cannabis Markets

12/21/2023

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MedMen Enterprises Inc., a Florida-based multistate cannabis operator (MSO), announced on Wednesday that it is exiting the Arizona and Nevada state markets and will sell off its assets to Mint Cannabis, an Arizona-based MSO.

The sale covers MedMen’s wholly-owned operating subsidiary in Arizona and its two dispensaries located in Clark County, Nevada, according to a press release. The company said that the transactions are part of its “strategic review and evaluation of divestiture opportunities of its non-core assets,” and will be carried out “subject to customary closing conditions, including … the receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.”

MedMen sold off its Florida-based operations last year following the previous departure of its embattled co-founders over unpaid loans.

“MedMen is pleased with the outcome of our strategic review and has made good progress in our restructuring efforts. These transactions will bolster liquidity in the short term, reduce liabilities, and enable the Company to focus on operating efficiencies and executing our long-term asset-light growth strategy in our core markets.” – Ellen Deutsch Harrison, MedMen CEO, in a statement

Mint Cannabis co-founder and CEO Eivan Shahara said the sale will “expand our portfolio of flagship dispensaries” in Arizona and continue to bolster the company’s vertical presence in Nevada.

Following the sale, MedMen’s remaining operations will include the California, Illinois, Massachusetts, and New York adult-use cannabis markets.

The company had previously considered selling off its New York-based assets to Ascend Wellness but the deal ultimately fell through last August.

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California AG Rules Out Interstate Cannabis Commerce

12/21/2023

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California Attorney General Rob Bonta said on Tuesday that opening up interstate cannabis commerce for the state’s cannabis industry would carry too much risk of federal enforcement.

Gov. Gavin Newsome (D) last year signed into law a proposal giving licensed cannabis companies the right to export their products into other state-legal markets. However, the law would only apply if there was some assurance that there would be no legal interference from the federal government, which still prohibits cannabis as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act.

California cannabis regulators asked the Attorney General’s office to consider the issue nearly one year ago and their response is finally ready, confirming that:

“Yes. State-law authorization for commercial cannabis activity between out-of-state licensees and California licensees could ‘result in significant legal risk to the State of California under the federal Controlled Substances Act.'” – Attorney General Rob Bonta, in an opinion statement

In his statement, Bonta highlights the “risks of federal preemption of state law and criminal prosecution of state employees,” and says that the law remains “unsettled as to whether state officials could be federally prosecuted for implementing state law in this area.”

California’s northern neighbor Oregon passed its own interstate cannabis commerce law in 2019 but the program requires approval from the federal government before cross-state sales can begin. Meanwhile, Maine lawmakers considered a similar proposal earlier this year but the bill was ultimately shot down in committee, Marijuana Moment reported.

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Concealed Carry Laws for Cannabis Users in CO

Voter Initiative Seeks to Let Cannabis Consumers Obtain Concealed Carry Permits

12/20/2023

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A Colorado voter initiative is seeking to let voters decide whether or not cannabis consumers should be allowed to qualify for concealed carry firearm permits under state law, according to a Denver7 report.

Currently, state sheriffs are prohibited from issuing the permits to anyone who would be disqualified under federal law, which still recognizes cannabis as a prohibited, Schedule I substance. The initiative seeks to update state laws so that the lawful use of cannabis does not stymie one’s application for a concealed carry permit.

Guns for Everyone co-founder Edgar Antillon said he considers the proposal a “freedom issue.”

“It’s one of those silly things that has been going on for a while. We’ve legalized marijuana, but we don’t give [users] the ability to defend themselves. Alcohol users get to defend themselves. Why not marijuana users?” – Antillon, via Denver7

The initiative, which is being championed by a pro-gun advocacy group called Guns for Everyone, appeared before the Colorado Legislative Council Staff on Tuesday to determine whether the proposal satisfies the single-issue requirement for Colorado voter ballot initiatives.

The initiative’s next hurdle will be whether it is accepted and titled by the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office, at which point organizers would be cleared to begin collecting the required 125,000 signatures to put the issue before voters.

The federal criminalization of gun ownership by anyone who uses federally-illegal drugs of any kind, including cannabis purchased legally under state law, has recently come under scrutiny on the national stage via criminal charges that were filed against Hunter Biden pertaining to his gun ownership in a period of time when he admitted to taking drugs regularly. Though Biden is accused of owning a firearm while using crack cocaine, his lawyers referenced cannabis legalization in their argument that his prosecution is “unconstitutional.”

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New York Officials Shut Down Illegal Dispensary As Licensed Stores Begin to Open

12/20/2023

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New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D), Attorney General Letitia James, and the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) on Monday announced the forced closure of Big Chief Smoke Shop, an unlicensed cannabis retailer in Brooklyn. The closure came just one day before the opening of the borough’s first licensed adult-use dispensary.

Big Chief Smoke Shop had been selling cannabis products without a license since at least November 2022, according to a press release from the governor’s office. Officials said they previously inspected the location in August and October and, as part of each of those actions, they issued a Notice of Violation and Order to Cease Unlicensed Activity against the shop. They also claim to have confiscated more than 600 pounds of untagged cannabis and cannabis products from the site across both visits. In addition to the forced closure, officials say they are also seeking penalties from the shop’s owner and the owner of the building that hosted the unlicensed retailer.

Gov. Hochul said in a statement that New York has “no tolerance” for unlicensed cannabis retailers in the state.

“This site egregiously violated New York’s cannabis laws and I’m proud to be working with the Attorney General to shut this down. With Brooklyn’s first legal cannabis retailers opening this month and illegal shops continuing to close, we are turning the corner towards building a stronger, safer cannabis industry.” – Hochul, in a press release

Following the action, AG James said that public health and safety are a “top priority” for officials: “New Yorkers who buy and use cannabis shouldn’t have to worry about the quality and safety of the products they are purchasing, which is why all shops must be licensed and regulated.”

Meanwhile, Brooklyn’s first licensed adult-use cannabis dispensary, Grow Together, opened on Tuesday, according to a Brooklyn Paper report.

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New Protections for Employees Who Use Cannabis in California Coming in 2024

12/19/2023

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For the first time since California passed sweeping cannabis reforms, new laws to protect employees in the state who consume cannabis will take effect on January 1, 2024, according to a FOX40.com report.

The new protections will make it illegal for employers to fire, refuse to hire, or otherwise penalize employees for off-duty cannabis use, per an amendment to California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (AB 2188). Signed by Gov. Gavin Newsome in September, the new law also mandates that employment-related drug screening must only test for on-the-job impairment, not long-term use. Additionally, employers will not be allowed to use evidence of past marijuana use against their employees, and employers will no longer be allowed to ask potential hires whether they have used cannabis.

Notably, AB 2188 does not stop employers from prohibiting and/or penalizing on-the-clock cannabis use or impairment. The new protections also do not apply to jobs in “the building and construction trades,” according to the report, nor to applicants for federal positions that would require clearance from the U.S. Department of Defense.

Previously, employers in California have been free to terminate or refuse to hire someone who tested positive for cannabis use whether or not their use was limited to outside of the workplace.

In September, members of the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability advanced a bipartisan measure that would let cannabis consumers qualify for security clearances and become federal employees.

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New York Governor Vetoes Bills to Legalize Hemp for Animal Feed

12/19/2023

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New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) last week vetoed a bill that would have let the state’s animal feed makers utilize hemp seeds in the production of certain animal feed products, Marijuana Moment reports.

Under the bill, commercial makers of animal feed for pets, horses, or camelids would have been allowed to use hemp seed or hemp seed-derived products as ingredients for their products. Supporters of the bill had argued that the seed hulls and seed meal from hemp would be nutritious animal feed additives with high protein and fiber content, the report said.

Lawmakers approved the bill months ago but Gov. Hochul, who has historically supported the New York hemp industry, did not receive the proposal until late November. The governor wrote in her veto message last week that the decision to block the proposal was based on the lack of federal recognition of hemp seed as a viable animal feed ingredient.

“To that end, I am directing the Department of Agriculture and Markets to work with Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to research the impacts of the use of hemp seed or hemp seed products in animal feed. This study is to be completed in an expeditious manner to better inform the industry on the questions raised by the potential for expanded use of hemp products.” – Gov. Hochul, in her veto statement

The now-vetoed proposal had been backed by the National Hemp Association and similar legislation was already adopted in Montana and Pennsylvania.

In October, the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded a nearly $300,000 grant to Texas’ Prairie View A&M University to study the use of hemp as animal feed.

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DynaVap Launches The WoodWynd Dry Herb Vaporizer

12/18/2023

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In 2016, DynaVap introduced the concept of a dry herb vaporizer composed of wood fitted with modular metal components. This device, the “Ti Woody”, represented a pivotal moment in DynaVap’s history and had a seismic effect on the dry herb vaporizer market. It allowed DynaVap to create a device that elegantly combined style, durability, functionality, and affordability, and became a favorite amongst dry herb enthusiasts. The Ti Woody was a staple of the DynaVap product lineup, until the company shifted focus to stainless steel and titanium devices, which it is best known for today.

The use of mixed material has always been a cornerstone of DynaVap’s manufacturing philosophy, and we’re thrilled to leverage everything we’ve mastered in terms of precision machining woods and metals with the introduction of the WoodWynd, a new thermal extraction device that melds our most innovative features with a hint of nostalgia.

Meticulously crafted, the WoodWynd showcases a balanced hourglass-shaped midsection, milled from solid Padauk Hardwood, and adorned with stainless steel crowns for durability. It also features DynaVap’s latest Helix Titanium Tip with a scratch resistant gold-colored chamber, as well as a matching helical titanium Mouthpiece and Condenser.

“I’m really excited to launch the WoodWynd, because it’s a full circle moment for us,” said DynaVap founder George Breiwa. “DynaVap has become most well known for our metal devices, but wood adds such a unique touch that simply can’t be replicated, and the WoodWynd is really an alluring hybrid of both materials. The WoodWynd showcases the beauty of wood, the durability of steel and titanium, and the functionality people have come to expect from DynaVap.”

Like all DynaVap products, the WoodWynd is a battery free vaporizer that uses a torch or an induction heater to bake, not burn your herb. DynaVap’s products are lightweight and discrete yet deliver a highly satisfying experience with a very small amount of herb, which allows users to taste the terpenes in their flower unlike any other consumption experience.

For more information on the WoodWynd, you can find it on our website. You can also see original video content about the WoodWynd, including how it’s made, on YouTube and Instagram. All WoodWynd visual assets can be found here.

About DynaVap

Dynavap is making smoking history. Recognized as a pioneer in the cannabis vaporizer industry, for years DynaVap has set the standard for thermal extraction devices, being an example to follow and demonstrating how design and your experience with cannabis can elegantly go hand in hand.

The company prides itself on offering a distinct consumption experience that takes the worry out of temperature settings and battery life. Instead of using batteries or electricity, DynaVap vaporizers use a manual heating method, where the user applies an external heat source, like a torch or induction heater, to a small heating chamber in the device. When your DynaVap Cap “clicks,” your cannabis is hot enough to vaporize without combusting. This allows for precise temperature control and a more personalized vaporizing experience.

Dynavap’s business philosophy is based on innovation, simplicity, and sustainability. The brand believes in the importance of creating durable, high-quality products that can be used for years to come and is constantly looking for ways to improve its products and offer innovative solutions to cannabis consumers looking for new ways to experience cannabis.

You can learn more about DynaVap and its products at dynavap.com.

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Federal Cannabis Legalization Could Generate $8.5 Billion in Tax Revenue

12/18/2023

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The Tax Foundation, a D.C.-based think tank, has proposed a state and federal marijuana tax model in a recent report, suggesting that nationwide legalization could generate $8.5 billion in annual cannabis tax revenue. First reported on by Marijuana Moment, the foundation’s model aims to keep costs low to counter illicit sales and suggests higher rates for more potent products. The current state-by-state approach, mostly taxing by sales price, is described as chaotic, and the foundation emphasizes the importance of a well-designed excise tax for minimal societal impact.

Three key lessons from state marijuana taxation experiences are outlined:

Cannabis tax rates should be low enough to compete with the illicit market.
The potential for significant revenue from legal marijuana markets exists, but it may be volatile and take time to materialize.
Consistency across jurisdictions is crucial, especially with the prospect of interstate commerce.

The report highlights that legal states earned nearly $3 billion in marijuana tax revenue last year, a figure projected to nearly triple with nationwide legalization. It discusses the challenges of taxing cannabis compared to alcohol and tobacco, due to the lack of standardized products and difficulty in measuring THC content. The foundation recommends taxing marijuana by potency or weight, as these methods better capture externalities and are simpler to apply to new product categories.

While cannabis remains federally illegal, the U.S. Census Bureau is tracking state-level cannabis tax trends. Numerous proposals and bills to legalize cannabis federally have been discussed in the US House of Representatives and Senate, but none currently have enough support to succeed.

However, in August the US Department of Health and Human Services recommended that cannabis be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, and the DEA is now conducting its own review in order to determine what action to take. While this would not directly create a federal framework for taxation (cannabis would still be considered federally illegal at Schedule III), it could help expedite congressional action.

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Study: Delta-8 THC More Popular in States Without Legal Cannabis

12/18/2023

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A new study funded by the AMA shows that people in states where cannabis is illegal are more likely to use cannabinoids like delta-8 THC, suggesting prohibition may inadvertently encourage the use of these less regulated substance.

The University of Michigan, University at Buffalo, and Legacy Research Institute analyzed data from 1,169 adults, finding a 50% increase in CBD use since 2019, with 21% of Americans reporting use. The study found 25% of respondents used emerging cannabinoids in the past year, with higher delta-8 THC use in states without legal cannabis. Specifically, consumers who did not have access to legal cannabis in their state were twice as likely to have used delta-8 THC.

This supports the trend that legal access to regulated marijuana products decreases the use of unregulated cannabis, with researchers noting, “Higher delta-8-THC use in states without medical or adult-use cannabis laws suggests that cannabis prohibition may unintentionally promote delta-8-THC use.”

The study, partly funded by NIDA and NIH, calls for more research into these cannabinoids due to health concerns and lack of industry standards. Activists, operators, and scientists from the regulated cannabis industry have been calling for increased scrutiny and regulation of these products since they appeared in the market. Hemp operators, on the other hand, have vowed to fight to keep their products “legal.”

However, would consumer demand for Delta-8 and other hemp-derived intoxicating cannabinoids evaporate once cannabis is legal? The data seems to reflect that many consumers are interested in these products because they don’t have access to actual cannabis. Additionally, extracting cannabinoids from hemp plants that contain below 0.3% THC is logistically much less efficient than extracting these compounds from highly resinous plants: the only reason it’s more profitable for hemp product manufacturers to do so is because hemp is not subject to the same taxes and regulations as cannabis.

In a recent interview with Project CBD, organic chemist Paul Scialdone pointed out how the current regulatory reality creates problematic incentives for manufacturers to cut corners at the expense of consumer safety.

“These hemp hustlers are in it for the money, making active pharmaceutical ingredients using process chemistry and producing formulated end-products like vape pens, gummies, and sodas in garages, airplane hangars, basements, and warehouses. These products are sold over the internet, at gas stations, and in smoke shops to anyone with a credit card. Of course, the market for Δ8-THC and other recreational synthetics is only made possible by the ridiculousness of cannabis prohibition. End cannabis prohibition, the market for these products will go away and these compounds will be relegated to research labs, where they belong, not the marketplace.”
– Scialdone, via Project CBD

In the meantime, these compounds are widely available to consumers who reside in states without any form of cannabis legalization. With varying state and federal responses, the issue is expected to be addressed in the next Farm Bill, currently scheduled for late 2024.

The DEA has stated that they consider cannabinoids illegal if synthetically produced, as with delta-8 THC, though enforcement has been minimal to date.

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