Mississippi Supreme Court Upholds Life Sentence for Cannabis Possession

6/20/2022

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The Mississippi Supreme Court last week upheld the conviction of a man sentenced to life in prison for cannabis possession, WLBT reports. The court found that Allen Russell’s life sentence – handed down in 2019 for possession of 43.71 grams, or less than two ounces – did not violate the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution which bars excessive bail, fines, and cruel or unusual punishment, and was in line with state law.

The conviction would typically carry a sentence of up to three years in prison but Russell was given the enhanced sentence under the state’s habitual offender law. Russell had been previously charged with house burglary twice and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

The Mississippi Court of Appeals had previously deadlocked on Russell’s case 5-5 last year, the report says. In a split decision, six of the nine Supreme Court justices affirmed the trial court’s ruling, finding that Russell received “the only sentence available.” The court added that Russell had a history of being a violent offender.

In the majority opinion, Associate Justice Robert Chamberlin, wrote that “It is pertinent to note that the arrest came while law enforcement was attempting to serve another drug-related warrant on Russell as well as execute a search warrant on his premises.

“Chemical gas had to be deployed to obtain Russell’s surrender. … Clearly, the trial judge was aware of Russell’s history as contained in the record and, therefore, considered ‘all matters relevant to’ the sentence which was placed before him.” — Chamberlin, in the opinion, via WLBT

In the dissent, Associate Justice Josiah Coleman said that burglary was not a “per se crime of violence until Mississippi Code… made it so as a matter of law on July 1, 2014.”

“Prior to July 1, 2014, burglary was only considered a crime of violence if actual violence took place during the burglary,” Coleman wrote in the minority opinion. “We do not know whether Russell’s burglaries involved actual violence, but the fact that he was allowed the opportunity by the sentencing court to participate in the Regimented Inmate Discipline Program tends to indicate they did not.”

The dissent also noted that Mississippi has recently legalized medical cannabis and that state lawmakers should take changing cannabis laws into account when writing sentencing laws.

“The majority undertakes the task of offering procedural guidance to courts faced with defendants in the same position as that in which Russell finds himself, yet it denies Russell himself the benefit of its guidance,” Coleman wrote. “In so doing, the majority leaves Russell in prison for the rest of his life.”

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California Bill Would Require More Warning Labels on Cannabis Products

6/20/2022

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A bill proposed in California would require cannabis products to carry labels that warn of the risks associated with cannabis consumption, including DUI, teen use and brain development, mental health risks including schizophrenia, and suicidal thoughts and actions, KCRA3 reports.   

The proposed warnings would read:

  • “WARNING: Do not buy illegally sold cannabis as it is more likely to contain unsafe additives or harmful contaminants such as mold or pesticides.”
  • “WARNING: Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Exposure to cannabis during pregnancy may harm your baby’s health, including causing low birth weight.”
  • “WARNING: Cannabis use may contribute to mental health problems, including psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Risk is greatest for frequent users and when using products with high THC levels.”
  • “WARNING: Cannabis use may contribute to mental health problems, including increased thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts. Risk is greatest for frequent users.”

Lawmakers are also seeking to force retailers to distribute informational brochures to first-time customers outlining the risks of cannabis consumption.

California already requires warning labels and marketing to children is banned. Lindsay Robinson, executive director of the California Cannabis Industry Association, told OPB that the bill “is really duplicative and puts unnecessary burdens on the legal cannabis industry.”

The measure passed the Senate 23-3 on May 25 and referred to the Assembly Committee on Business and Professions on June 2. If approved, the changes would be required to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025.

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American Teaching In Russia Sentenced to 14 Years for ‘Large-Scale’ Cannabis Smuggling

6/20/2022

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A former U.S. diplomat was sentenced last week to 14 years in prison by a Russian court for “large-scale” cannabis smuggling, CBS News reports. Marc Fogel, a teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow, was arrested by customs officers in Moscow in August 2021 after they found cannabis in his luggage.

Fogel maintains that he has a recommendation to use cannabis medically in the U.S.; however, Russia has not legalized cannabis for any purpose. Alexander Khurudzhi, a member of a Moscow human rights committee who visited Fogel in December, said Fogel “claims he was unaware of Russia’s ban” on medical cannabis.

Russia’s Interior Ministry has not specified the amount of cannabis Fogel was caught with but he told attorneys that he brought about 17 grams which would be considered a “significant” amount under Russian law, which defines a significant amount as anything between 6-100 grams; a large amount is anything over 100 grams, the report says.

Last week Russian authorities extended the detention of WNBA star Brittney Griner until at least July 2 after she was allegedly caught with cannabis vape cartridges while going through customs. Griner’s detention in Russia has been extended three times and she faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted. She is considered “wrongfully detained” by U.S. officials.

Russia and U.S. relations have been strained by the former’s recent invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, several Americans are detained in Russian prisons, and vice versa.

The U.S. Embassy has not commented on Fogel’s diplomatic status which might have held as a member of the staff at the Anglo-American school, which was previously run by the embassy.

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Study: 39% of Millennial Cannabis Users Consume Multiple Times Per Day

6/17/2022

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In a recent study covering the unique attitudes and behavior toward cannabis exhibited by millennials, New Frontier Data found that about 39% of millennials who consume cannabis do so typically multiple times per day, the company announced in a press release. Millennials are the generation born between 1981 and 1996 and NFD noted that rapid changes in cannabis policy have occurred during this generation’s lifetime.

“Millennials came of age when cannabis-related social attitudes and policies were changing rapidly. As young adults, they watched the normalization of cannabis use mitigate negative stereotypes, and they have played a leading role in the emergence of the legal cannabis economy, both as participants in the market and as champions for change.” — Gary Allen, New Frontier Data CEO, in a statement

Other key findings from the study:

  • 49% of millennials shopping in the legal market spend between $50 and $200 per transaction at cannabis retailers.
  • 39% of millennials who use cannabis do so more than once per day but there is a greater disparity here between the consumption rates of men and women than compared to other groups.
  • 77% of millennials substitute cannabis for sleep medications.
  • More millennials recognize other sleep-related cannabinoids like CBN (15%) and THCP (22%) than members of other generations.
  • 66% of millennials, which currently comprise the nation’s largest generation, believe that “strain” is important when purchasing cannabis.

The study also found that, as new parents, consuming cannabis away from their home is more important to millennials than other generations.

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AMA Calls for States to Expunge Cannabis Criminal Records

6/17/2022

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The American Medical Association (AMA) has adopted a policy calling on states to expunge criminal records for individuals that were incarcerated for cannabis offenses that have since been legalized or decriminalized. The policy was adopted at the AMA’s House of Delegates meeting despite the organization’s opposition to broad cannabis legalization.  

AMA Trustee Scott Ferguson, M.D. said criminal records associated with cannabis affect “young people aspiring to careers in medicine as well as many others who are denied housing, education, loans, and job opportunities.”

“It simply isn’t fair to ruin a life based on actions that result in convictions but are subsequently legalized or decriminalized. … Expungement is no panacea. It can be a lengthy and expensive process. Automatic expungement would relieve people of having to figure out and pay for the bureaucratic steps necessary for sealing a criminal record,” — Ferguson in a statement 

The policy also calls for ending probation, parole, or other court-related supervision because of cannabis-related offenses. The AMA notes that Black people are 3.6 times more likely to be arrested for cannabis than White people despite similar rates of use.  

The AMA indicated that it will discuss expungement with the Association of American Medical Colleges, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Federation of State Medical Boards, and other relevant medical education and licensing authorities to determine the impact of disclosure of a cannabis-related offense on a medical school, residency or licensing application. 

The organization said the policy “aims to introduce equity and fairness into the fast-changing effort to legalize cannabis.” 

End

Cannabis Sommelier Featured on ‘Today Show’

6/17/2022

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The “Today Show” on NBC last week featured cannabis sommelier Derek Gilman as part of its On the Job series. Gilman is the managing director of Ganjier and the segment also featured former National Football League running back Ricky Williams, who now goes by Eric Myron and is working with Gilman

“The main thing I’m learning is the perception of flavor, taste, aroma, smell and being able to decipher and appreciate these things.” — Myron, via the “Today Show”

Myron has his own cannabis brand called Highsman.

Gilman explained that there are three steps to becoming a cannabis sommelier: online courses, in-person training, and passing three exams. Ganjier certifies those who pass the course.

“It’s thorough, it’s rigorous,” Gilman said in an interview with “Today.” The program was put together by a panel of experts and includes the history of cannabis, botany, cultivation, and business.

“We have students and now certified ganjiers in all parts of the cannabis industry,” Gilman said in the interview. “We have people who are looking to enter the industry and are looking for a valid credential, you know, to help them in that process to CEOs of companies to directors of sales for some of the largest cannabis companies on the planet.”

Gilman added that ganjiers are a “legacy” for the industry and he hopes that they can bring “professionalism” to cannabis and bring the industry “out of the shadows.”

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Pennsylvania Judge Rules Cannabis Companies Can Resume Selling Vapes with Added Terpenes

6/17/2022

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A Pennsylvania court on Wednesday decided that medical cannabis companies in the state can resume selling vapes that were taken off the shelves as part of a recall in February, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Judith D. Cassel, an attorney for the cannabis companies that sued state regulators in February, alleging that the recall was unfounded, said the plaintiffs “are thrilled about the decision.” 

“The vapes can go immediately back on the shelves, and the grower processors can continue or commence producing these vapes.” — Cassel to the Inquirer 

The recall included 670 types of cannabis concentrates for vaping – about 330,000 units, the report says. Regulators had said the companies had “added ingredients that have not been approved for inhalation” by the federal Food and Drug Administration. The additives at the heart of the case are added terpenes. 

Commonwealth Court Judge Michael J. Wojcik granted a preliminary injunction overturning the recall on June 2, ruling that the companies were likely to win a permanent injunction and that the group would suffer immediate and irreparable harm without the court order. The state Department of Health appealed the decision to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, which automatically stayed the initial ban but Wojcik’s ruling ended the stay. 

In the opinion, Wojcik said regulators “failed to present any evidence to the court of potential harm to medical marijuana patients due to the recalled products, or more specifically due to the addition of terpenes to these products.” 

The companies involved in the lawsuit said they were facing more than $17 million in collective losses from the recall and that some products have already expired. 

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Cannabis Drinks Expo San Francisco and Chicago Are Back; Get Your Tickets

6/16/2022

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Discover fast-growing cannabis drinks brands at the 3rd Annual Cannabis Drinks Expo on July 28 in San Francisco and on August 2 in Chicago.

Cannabis Drinks Expo, a super hit b2b trade show returns in July, providing the cannabis and drinks industry a unique platform to do business, learn about the category and source amazing brands.

The theme for the 2022 show will be ‘Growing The Category’. The 2022 show will focus on helping anyone looking to get into the category learn and develop new products, it will help existing brands expand into other states by meeting other state manufacturers. It will help retailers and distributors develop their store own brands, it will find new ways cannabis beverages can be marketed and sold. It will find new ways cannabis beverages can be developed to grow end consumer market share.

The 2022 show will focus on increasing the overall category by showcasing exhibitors who can help do that and by creating networking opportunities and focusing on multi-state bottlenecks that are in place. The show will have an international and national focus instead of a state-based focus. This is where multistate operators will come to find synergies and do business with each other and help the category grow.

Hosted by the Beverage Trade Network, this expo will shine a spotlight on the skyrocketing legal cannabis market and provide insight into its future brimming with opportunity.

Dates and Location:
San Francisco: July 28, 2022 – South San Francisco Conference Center, 255 South Airport Boulevard South San Francisco, CA 94080, United States
Chicago: August 2, 2022 – Midwest Conference Centre, 401 W Lake St Northlake, Chicago IL 60164, United States

The cannabis entrepreneur who attends will be offered precious information on everything from the planning stages of crafting a cannabis-infused drink brand to formulation, regulations and compliance, branding, marketing, and the distribution of a cannabis drink product. We have outstanding experts in their field to clarify and explain the whole process. No stone will be left unturned. Cannabis-infused drinks are not just the ‘newest cannabis craze’. Studies show that in the US, consumers are steadily moving away from alcoholic choices.

Browse the extensive expo floor, and connect with companies that are on the cutting-edge of the cannabis industry. Connections and partnerships are key in this endeavor. The panel of experts will be presenting intriguing and vital information that will demystify the whole procedure of cannabis-infused beverages. There will be a full day of presentations that comprises some of the top names in the cannabis industry.

The population is becoming more health-conscious and looking for alternative beverage options. This is what attracts a whole new emerging segment of buyers to cannabis-infused beverages. The Cannabis Drinks Expo will attract people from all over the United States. Coming to inform themselves about this thrilling element of the cannabis industry. They will see firsthand what it takes to create a cannabis-infused beverage brand. Networking possibilities are endless.

Visitor Registration is now open, and you can get your passes now to save on tickets.

Here are the links to register yourself as a trade show visitor:
San Francisco Tickets | Chicago Tickets

If you would like more information, please contact Sid Patel at info@cannabisdrinksexpo.com or call +1 855 481 1112.

Website: https://cannabisdrinksexpo.com/en/

 

End

Brazil Court Rules Patients Can Grow Their Own Cannabis for Medical Purposes

6/16/2022

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Brazil’s Superior Court of Justice on Tuesday ruled that three patients can grow their own cannabis for medical purposes, the Associated Press reports. The decision is likely to be applied nationwide in similar cases. 

The five-judge panel unanimously determined that all three plaintiffs could cultivate their own cannabis and extract the oil for use in pain relief. In Brazil, medical cannabis products can only be imported and home cultivation is not permitted. Judge Rogério Schietti said the court had to act because the government refused to take a scientific stance on the issue.  

“The discourse against this possibility is moralistic. It often has a religious nature, based on dogmas, on false truths, stigmas. Let us stop this prejudice, this moralism that delays the development of this issue at the legislative, and many times clouds the minds of Brazilian judges.” — Schietti, in the opinion, via the AP

Judge Antonio Saldanha described the government’s delay on the issue as “a deliberately backward action toward obscurantism.” 

Home cultivation of cannabis for any purpose is opposed by President Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro, a far-right politician, is currently behind in opinion polls against former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who led Brazil from 2003-2010, the report says. An advisor to Lula da Silva told CNN Brazil that, if Lula da Silva is elected, a government plan on broad cannabis legalization would be prepared with input from citizens and allied political parties. 

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Stone Road: Embracing Authenticity In Cannabis, From Cultivation to Marketing

6/16/2022

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Many cannabis farms are struggling to make ends meet, especially in California where there is a wholesale flower glut. Despite these challenges, the multi-state cannabis brand Stone Road has seen significant expansion in the last two years. Stone Road’s flagship farm is in Nevada City, California and its products are also available in Oklahoma and Massachusetts.

Founder Lex Corwin spoke with Ganjapreneur about his vision for the brand, the setbacks and triumphs along the way, and how they’ve achieved regular growth in the historically fickle cannabis market. The thread tying the brand together from its natural farming practices to its unconventionally beautiful marketing assets is authenticity: everything aligns with Corwin’s core values and taste. “We’re trying to go weird because I am weird and a lot of my friends are weird and we like weird and beautiful and interesting things. And so that’s honestly the pillar of how we approach branding,” he said.

The young entrepreneur first learned about cannabis farming from hippy elders in Northern Oregon and took that knowledge home to Southern California. Those first teachers are why the brand uses living soil and seeks out natural pesticides like ladybugs and predator mites rather than spraying OMRI-certified pesticides.

Stone Road purchased its Nevada City property out of foreclosure in 2016. Over the next year, they removed almost 10 tons of garbage and rehabilitated the remote 57-acre lot. As they rehabbed the land, they installed an artesian well, bringing the farm completely off-grid. Stone Road hires employees who are local to the area and teach them farming skills in the same way that Corwin got his start growing cannabis.

Currently, Stone Road cultivates greenhouse-grown cannabis on one acre and leaves the majority of their land natural and untamed. This is ideal for the local flora and fauna but can bring more pests. The team is realistic about growing in the woods and always seeks out the natural answer to their problems rather than disrupting their local wildlife. Corwin brought in a veteran farmer to consult on their pest issue in the first few runs and their advice was to look to nature for any potential pest’s natural predators. They use beneficial insects, fungi, amoebas, and more in the soil to keep natural predators at bay. They also spray plants down with water in the morning and at dusk to reduce native colonies of aphids or local mites.

The farm focuses on ultra-small batches, constantly providing new flavors rather than sticking to the same thing. Corwin travels to small farms to seek out specialty strains grown with Stone Road’s principles, which is one way that they procure strains with unique and notable aromatic profiles. They currently have 8 SKUs and within those, they may have 3-12 flavors at any time. Corwin explained, “Cannabis is an agricultural crop, a crop that hasn’t had a great deal of standardization, and people are always going to want something new. So for us, it made the most sense that we constantly push out new batches. We don’t have one product that is just our product that we keep making, it is constantly rotating.”

Stone Road’s flavors continue to change but the quality is always consistent. Corwin is passionate about only offering products that he would want to use himself. While in the early days, supply chain complications with partnering manufacturers forced Stone Road to push through product that wasn’t fully up to their standards in order to stay afloat, Corwin now only partners with like-minded people to sell Stone Road products outside of California. These partners include Solar Cannabis Co. in Massachusetts and other living soil, natural farmers in Oklahoma. The brand plans to expand soon into New York and other new states in the coming year. When Corwin is looking for like-minded partners, he’s not just seeking out natural farmers who grow clean cannabis, he’s also calling in fellow weirdos.

Stone Road’s branding centers around empowerment, being yourself, and celebrating every facet of beauty. “To us, we don’t do the sleazy thing of selling sex to sell, it’s more that we use a lot of sex-positive people that believe that the human body is beautiful in all its forms and iterations and we’re there to complement that. We want to show cool, beautiful — sometimes unconventionally beautiful — people consuming our products and enjoying them. Ultimately, that was born out of trying to show the cannabis industry as it actually is, because it is unbelievably diverse,” Corwin said. “We have a small contingent of very, very, very loyal followers. And I don’t know if it’s that they see themselves in the branding or, you know, as a proudly gay person having other gay and queer people supporting the brand because obviously, we gotta stick together!”

Stone Road doesn’t spend money on advertising but instead provides a platform for people who consume their products. A lot of models featured in their marketing reached out organically or the team noticed them and dug their look. Weird, interesting, and beautiful is Corwin’s preferred aesthetic and this is presented through the artistic, thought-provoking imagery that represents the brand. He is excited about their entry into the New York marketplace, where new team members are introducing a new wave of creativity for the brand.

Every step Corwin takes alongside Stone Road is sure-footed in authenticity and this may be the secret sauce that led to 700% growth in 2020, further growth in 2021, and record-breaking sales months in 2022. He doesn’t bother himself with comparing their products to other brands or bending their marketing to the trends; instead, the team creates products and a message that they would want to receive. “The thesis is working and we just need to create better and better products, and more consistently,” said Corwin, who also doesn’t pay himself a salary, choosing instead to put profits into paying fair wages and crafting great products.

In the coming year, they plan to eliminate petroleum-based plastic from their supply chain, which will be accomplished once they fully change their joint 5-packs packaging to air-tight, child-proof tins. They are also launching a gummy product in partnership with Sundae School made with all-natural fruit juices and sugars. The edible will be Sundae Schools’ first gummy made with solventless hash. Eventually, Corwin hopes to have a product in every form factor, and looks forward to further expanding across the US.

To learn more about Stone road visit https://stoneroad.org/.

End

Montana Restricting Tribes to Smallest Tier of Cannabis Licenses

6/16/2022

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The director of the Montana Department of Revenue (DOR) wrote in a letter that Montana tribes are restricted to the lowest cultivation tier structure under the state’s adult-use cannabis law, the Montana Free Press reports.

In a letter to the Economic Affairs Interim Committee (EAIC) dated June 2, DOR Director Brendan Beatty contradicted the committee’s interpretation of the legalization law. Interpreting the law last year after its passage, the committee said tribes could start at the tier 1 level but expand their tier structure like any other licensee, according to the report. But the law included other restrictions, such as requiring facilities to be located off of tribal land and for cultivation and retail to be limited to the same building.

Lawmakers say these restrictions will hamper tribes’ success in the industry and disincentivize them from entering the market.

“During the last legislative session, a lot of the tribes and the legislators saw this as an opportunity, finally, for the tribes to get in on equal footing on the ground floor of the marijuana industry, and start bringing in additional revenue for themselves,” state Sen. Jason Small, a member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, said in the report.

Small advocated for the combined tribal licenses. He said the DOR has been “trying to hamstring our (tribal) efforts.” So far, no tribes have applied for a tier 1 license and Small feels the restrictions have contributed to their absence:

“I’ve had conversations with a couple of different tribes that say, ‘Why even bother if they’re handicapping us here?’” – Small, via the Montana Free Press

Beatty cites language from the legalization law that says “a combined-use marijuana license consists of one tier-one canopy license and one dispensary license allowing for the operation of a dispensary.”

“Regardless of this committee’s stated desire to allow combined use licensees to increase beyond a tier one, the statute is clear and unambiguous and limits a combined use licensee to a single tier one canopy license,” the director wrote in the letter.

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Majority of Mainers Obtaining Cannabis Legally

6/16/2022

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The majority of Mainers are obtaining cannabis from legal sources according to a state Office of Cannabis Policy (OCP) survey which found that 64% of past-month cannabis consumers have made purchases at licensed retailers, with 36% using unregulated sources.

The survey also found that 6% of respondents who consume cannabis on a monthly basis exclusively use state-approved retailers compared to just 1% that will only use unregulated sources.

The agency also found the state has an oversupply of medical cannabis a year after adult-use sales commenced in the state, where there is about $1 in demand for every $6 of supply; comparatively, there is $1 in demand for every $2 of supply of adult-use cannabis.

The oversupply in Maine’s medical cannabis market is despite the fact that 54% of cannabis consumers who purchase from home-based caregivers don’t have a medical cannabis card and that 33% of consumers who make purchases at medical dispensaries or caregivers with adult-use options also don’t have a medical card.

Among past month’s cannabis users surveyed, 28% said they had “no idea” the typical THC potency of the products they were buying, with 9% of respondents saying their products contained more than 50% THC, 4% said between 35-50%, 11% believing the products contained between 25-35% THC, 20% between 10-15%, 8% between 10-15%, and 4% said their products had less than 10% THC.

Flower was by far the preferred product type among past-month consumers surveyed, with 82% making a flower purchase, followed by edibles (58%), concentrates (41%), drinks (22%), topicals and creams, balms, or sprays (21%), tinctures (17%), lozenges (7%), and other (11%).

OCP Director Erik Gundersen told Mainebiz that the report’s findings “point to policies and practices that promote and preserve public health and safety while allowing legal businesses to compete.”

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North Carolina Gov. Signs Bill Legalizing Pharmaceuticals Containing THC if FDA Approves

6/16/2022

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North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D) on Tuesday signed a measure removing federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved pharmaceutical medications containing THC from the state’s list of Schedule VI drugs, WGHP reports. The measure does not include medical cannabis – which was approved by the state Senate earlier this month but will not be heard in the House – the lower chamber’s leader, Rep. Tim Moore (R), said.  

The law signed by Cooper will automatically legalize any drug containing THC so long as it is approved by the FDA, the Drug Enforcement Administration makes the change to the federal controlled substances schedules, and the North Carolina Commission for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Abuse does not object to excluding the drug from the state’s Schedule VI.

Cooper does support broad medical cannabis legalization in the state along with most of his Democratic cohorts in the Legislature; however, both chambers are controlled by Republicans. In the Senate, two Democrats voted against the reforms – which passed 35-10 – along with eight Republicans. 

An April poll conducted by SurveyUSA on behalf of WRAL found that 72% of North Carolina voters support medical cannabis legalization, with 18% opposed. The poll also found a majority (57%) of voters back adult-use legalization. 

However, House Speaker Tim Moore said the chamber would not take up the legislation this session, likely killing the bill this year. He also declined to say whether the House would hear the bill next session.  

“I want to see where our folks are on it. I really do,” he said in an interview with WRAL. “That one has just kind of been thrown down, and I don’t see an appetite to take that up in the shorter session. As far as the long session, I won’t say one way or the other.” 

Cooper is still considering a measure to allow the state’s hemp farmers to produce CBD products. That bill was passed on June 2. 

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Klean Scissors Completes Phase II Trials for ‘Deresinator’ Scissor-Cleaning Product

6/15/2022

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CALIFORNIA (6/15/2022) — Klean Scissors Inc is pleased to announce the successful completion of its Phase II trials for the corporation’s flagship product, the revolutionary Deresinator.

The Phase II trials involved over one hundred hours of successful scissor cleaning in several processing facilities in Northern California. After Phase I trials, the company made slight modifications to the brush assembly and machine aperture so that the Deresinator is now compatible with all brands of trim scissors, including curved blades.

The Deresinator is the world’s first automatic cannabis trim scissor cleaning machine. It eliminates the current messy and time-consuming process of soaking the scissors in open containers of solvent for five to ten minutes and then wiping them off. It cleans resin-coated scissor blades in seconds.

The Deresinator will save growers and processers both time and money as well as offer a safe, enclosed space for potentially hazardous solvents in the workplace.

“We now have three working prototypes and patents in both the USA and Canada on a groundbreaking tool that will save an enormous amount of time when processing cannabis, an industry that is only going to grow,” said Dave Timoney, President and CEO. “We are seeking capital to begin manufacturing this break-through technology. We will also consider selling the patents and invention for the right price.”

For more information (and video): https://cleantrimming.com/

Contact
Dave Timoney (530) 277-0411
Davet19@gmail.com

 

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Cannabis Farmers Unable to Access USDA Disaster Aid

6/15/2022

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State-approved cannabis farmers will be unable to access federal U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Emergency Relief Program funds due to cannabis’ Schedule I status under the Controlled Substances Act, Leafly reports. In an email to Leafly, a USDA spokesperson did indicate that hemp farmers would be eligible to receive aid from the program.  

“Marijuana is a controlled substance, and therefore is not eligible for federal farm programs.” — a USDA spokesperson to Leafly 

The program, announced by the USDA last month, includes $6 billion “for commodity and specialty crop producers impacted by natural disaster events in 2020 and 2021.” Cannabis farms were severely impacted by wildfires in the West during that period but will not be eligible for relief. THC-rich cannabis farmers are also prohibited from receiving aid from the federal Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, which helps farmers whose uninsured crops are damaged or lost due to natural disasters. Hemp farmers, however, are eligible for relief under the program.

According to the Center for Insurance Policy and Research, private insurers are also discouraged from assisting cannabis businesses due to “conflicting state and federal laws” and “rapidly evolving regulations,” Leafly says. The organization said that cannabis growers face similar general liabilities and risks as other farmers, such as “workplace accidents, damage to property and crop failure” but are “especially prone to fires from both wild and internal sources,” the report says.  

Aid programs in other legal states also bar cannabis companies from accessing agricultural funds. But despite lacking federal recognition, Leafly notes that cannabis is still the fifth most valuable crop in the U.S.

End

Russian Court Extends Detention of Brittney Griner

6/15/2022

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A Russian court has extended the detention of WNBA star Brittney Griner until at least July 2, according to a report by Russian state-run news agency TASS outlined by CNN. Griner has been detained since March by Russia which accuses her of drug smuggling after allegedly finding vape cartridges containing cannabis in her luggage at customs.

Griner is considered “wrongfully detained” by U.S. officials.

In the U.S., Griner plays for the Phoenix Mercury but has played in Russia for the last seven years during the winter offseason, earning $1 million per season, which is more than four times her WNBA salary.

In Russia, Griner faces up to 10 years in prison for the drug smuggling charge. Her detention has been extended three times since her arrest

State Department spokesperson Ned Price on Tuesday said the agency’s “position for some time on this has been very clear: Brittney Griner should not be detained.” He added that the U.S. had lost consular access to Griner last month.

“She should not be detained for a single day longer.” — Price, in a statement, via CNN

Russia and U.S. relations have been strained by the former’s invasion of Ukraine and many fear that Griner will be used as a political pawn. Her case is being handled by the office of the US Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs which leads diplomatic efforts to release Americans wrongfully detained abroad. The office helped free U.S. citizen Trevor Reed in April as part of a prisoner swap with Russia.

In a statement on Twitter, Griner’s agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, said the “extension is just further reinforcement” that Griner “is being used as a political pawn.”

“Her detention is inhumane and unacceptable,” Kagawa Colas wrote. “She has not had a single phone call in her 117 days of wrongful detention.”

Following Griner’s arrest, the Russian Federal Customs Service issued a statement indicating that it had opened a criminal investigation into the large-scale transportation of drugs but did not name Griner.

End

Malta Company Sends Country’s First Medical Cannabis Export to Germany

6/15/2022

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Materia Malta has shipped medical cannabis products to Germany, the first such batch shipped outside of the country, Worldakkam reports. Materia is a leading medical cannabis distributor in Europe; Materia GmbH, a subsidiary of the company, facilitated the shipment and is already selling the cannabis to German pharmacies, according to the report.

“We are proud to be a company that establishes a new frontier for the Maltese and European cannabis industry,” said Nick Paterasu, managing director of Materia in Europe.

Malta passed medical cannabis legalization in 2018 and many Maltese companies have entered the space since.

With more licenses expected in the coming months, more companies will begin exporting medical cannabis from Malta. Licenses to sell outside of Europe are only granted to companies following a rigorous process, Worldakkam reports.

Additionally, Malta Enterprises — the country’s economic development agency which provides financial packages to help medical cannabis companies build their business, purchase equipment, transfer machinery, human resources, research and development, and more — is set to launch the research and development of cannabinoid-based therapeutics and industrial processes for cannabis extraction and cultivation under the highly regulated system.

“We have been working tirelessly to achieve this result,” said Malta Enterprise CEO Kurt Farrugia. “At that moment, we will be pushed to other frontiers in the medical cannabis field.”

Malta legalized adult-use cannabis last year, becoming the first European Union country to do so. The law allows citizens aged 18 or older to possess up to seven grams of cannabis, grow four plants at home, and keep up to 50 grams at home from their harvest.

End

New Mexico Cannabis Firm Files Lawsuit Asking Health Insurers to Cover Medical Cannabis for Behavioral Health Conditions

6/15/2022

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New Mexico’s largest licensed cannabis producer has filed a lawsuit seeking to force health insurers to cover the cost of medical cannabis for patients enrolled in the state program for behavioral health conditions, the Santa Fe New Mexican reports. The lawsuit claims that a law passed last year, which prohibits insurers from requiring patients to share the cost of medications for mental or behavioral health, should apply to patients using cannabis for their conditions.

The class-action lawsuit on behalf of six named patients by Ultra Health also seeks damages since the patients have been forced to pay the total cost for their own medical cannabis used to treat their mental health and behavioral conditions.

The complaint, which was filed last week in state District Court in Bernalillo County, also seeks “disgorgement of the millions of dollars in excess profits and revenues retained” by the insurance companies via an award of an unspecified amount of punitive damages to be determined by a jury.

One of the named plaintiffs is state Sen. Jacob Candelaria (D) who uses cannabis to treat symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Ultra Health President Duke Rodriguez estimated that about 55% of the state’s medical cannabis patients – about 74,000 people – are enrolled in the program, at least partly, for PTSD-related symptoms.

“The idea of health insurance plans paying for medical cannabis may seem like an impossible dream, but all the foundational elements have already fallen into place. Revolutionizing behavioral healthcare in New Mexico will take only a few small steps, rather than a giant leap.” — Rodriguez in a statement, via the New Mexican

The insurance companies named as defendants include Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico; Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company; True Health New Mexico; Molina Healthcare of New Mexico; Presbyterian Health Plan; Presbyterian Insurance Company; and Western Sky Community Care, the report says.  

Ultra Health and Rodriguez have previously sued the state over plant counts, purchase limits, and the number of dispensaries allowed by licensees. In February, in a lawsuit brought by Ultra Health, the state Supreme Court ruled that medical cannabis purchases in the state are not subject to its gross receipts tax.  

Medical cannabis producers in the state had requested tax refunds in 2014 and in 2018 but the state Taxation and Revenue Department had denied those claims. In 2020, New Mexico Court of Appeals Judge M. Monica Zamora ruled that medical cannabis should be treated like other prescriptions, which are not taxed. Ultra Health had not been charging patients taxes, opting instead to absorb such taxes. The company said that it would receive a $7.4 million refund plus interest following the Supreme Court ruling.

End

These Are the Claims CBD Companies Can Legally Make About Their Products

6/14/2022

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The CBD market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the health and wellness space. CBD sales in the U.S. reached $4.6 billion in 2020 and are expected to hit $20 billion by 2024.

The purported therapeutic effects of CBD have created a buzz and prompted many people to explore how the cannabinoid can improve health and well-being. As such, there is an increasing demand for CBD supplements, and companies are seizing the opportunity to cash in on the trend.

However, the CBD industry is not without its challenges, especially surrounding the evolving legal landscape. The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp federally legal, but marijuana is not, and CBD can be derived from both cannabis plants – creating a great deal of confusion.

Another issue is that CBD is not FDA-approved, so it cannot be marketed as a dietary supplement. Below, we explore the CBD claims companies can and cannot make about their products.

Do Not Make Medical Claims About Your CBD Product

The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized industrial hemp and, by extension, its derivatives like CBD. As a result, CBD was removed from the federal Controlled Substances Act and is no longer overseen by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Instead, the hemp industry and CBD governance is now controlled by the FDA.

The FDA is currently still investigating the compound’s safety for human use and devising regulations, leaving the CBD industry in a legal gray area.

Any product intended for medicinal use or used to affect the function or structure of the body must be reviewed and approved by the FDA. Since CBD is not yet FDA-approved, any health claims may be considered misleading.

Over the last couple of years, the FDA has made it clear that it will not tolerate companies making unproven health claims about CBD products. The organization has sent warning letters to various companies that are making “egregious and unfounded” claims about CBD’s health benefits.

Avoid Stating or Implying Disease Claims

A common theme among the companies that received warning letters from the FDA is that CBD products were marketed as a treatment or cure for serious diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.

You cannot explicitly state or infer that a CBD product can cure, treat, or prevent any illness or mitigate the symptoms of an illness. In general, steer clear of mentioning specific diseases like cancer or fibromyalgia.

Avoid Making Structure-Function Health Claims

The FDA describes structure-function claims as those relating to well-being and nutrient deficiencies. In most cases, these claims describe how an ingredient (like CBD) affects the normal function and structure of the body.

Such claims aren’t pre-approved for supplements, but companies can notify the FDA of the claim within 30 days of marketing the product. However, since CBD isn’t FDA-approved, it’s best to avoid these claims altogether. Examples include “fights symptoms like flu and cold,” “improves brain health,” and “eliminates wrinkles.”

Don’t Recommend CBD as a Substitution for Another Drug

You cannot legally advise customers about using CBD to treat a specific medical condition, disease, or ailment. Only doctors can do this. Similarly, you cannot market your CBD products to substitute other pharmaceutical drugs. For instance, you cannot market CBD as an alternative to PTSD or epilepsy medication.

Claims You Can Legally Make About CBD Products

Any claims about the purported health effects of CBD products must be backed up by reliable scientific evidence. It’s often best to avoid making health claims altogether to ensure you’re playing by the FDA’s rules. Reputable companies like PureKana are great examples of how to market CBD products.

Here are some guidelines relating to the claims companies can make about CBD products.

Claims Pertaining to Temporary States or Emotions

As long as there is no implication that CBD can treat or prevent disease, claims related to temporary emotions are usually permissible. For instance, you can say things like “eases stress,” supports mental clarity,” and “targets occasional pain.”

The idea is to not overpromise or mislead customers. It must be clear that CBD is not intended to treat a specific medical condition. Qualifiers like “mild” or “occasional” help differentiate between temporary conditions and symptoms of diseases.

Claims Pertaining to CBD’s Effects on General Health

Although CBD cannot be marketed for specific health conditions, companies can make claims about how its therapeutic effects may benefit general health and wellness. Use words like “wellness,” “supports,” and “maintains.” For instance, you could say that CBD enhances wellness, supports healthy sleep cycles, or helps maintain a sense of wellbeing.

Refer to General Body Parts Including Systems

It’s also okay to make claims relating to CBD’s effects on general body parts and systems. For instance, you can claim that CBD supports a healthy immune system or that it can be used for joint and muscle aches. Another example is instead of saying that CBD can treat chronic fatigue, you could say that it improves daytime mental alertness.

However, if you make any structure-function claims, you must use an FDA disclaimer asserting that “these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.”

Utilize Cosmetic Claims

It is perfectly fine to make claims about how CBD can improve one’s outer appearance without affecting the structure or function of the body. However, companies must still be careful not to mislead customers and ensure products are safe for use.

Examples of cosmetic claims include “balances uneven skin tone,” “helps tighten and firms,” and “smooths and hydrates.”

Final Thoughts: Claims Companies Can Make About CBD Products

CBD retailers who make unsubstantiated health claims about products could face legal action. In general, companies should avoid making health claims for specific diseases, steering clear of words like “cure,” “treat,” and “prevent.” Any claims relating to the health effects of CBD products should be backed up by sound science.

In general, be careful not to make any definitive claims about CBD’s health benefits. There is a fine line between making health claims and simply relaying how CBD may support health and wellness. Until CBD is FDA-approved, companies need to be very careful when marketing CBD products.

End

Judy Yee: Expanding Cannabis Access With Infused Beverages

6/14/2022

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Beverages are one of the fastest-growing categories in adult-use states: consumers who are looking for an alternative to drinking alcohol at social gatherings are turning to low-dose products they can sip while engaging with their friends. But perfecting a cannabis beverage product takes an understanding of the market, the right infusion method, and a delicate hand when flavoring.

We recently caught up with Judy Yee, CEO and co-founder of K-Zen, to learn about the process of starting and scaling a cannabis beverage business in California. In this interview, we cover Judy’s background in healthy food and beverage, the process of catering product education and packaging to your target market, the thoughtful cannabis drinks offered by K-Zen, and more!

Continue scrolling to find the full interview.

Ganjapreneur: What is the founding mission and inspiration behind K-Zen?

Judy Yee: The name “K-Zen” draws on the Japanese term, “Kaizen,” which means continuous improvement in all aspects of life. This ethos is what drives us to bring the highest quality, best tasting and most consistent products to market for different types of consumers.

We are committed to normalizing cannabis and inspiring new ways for consumers to enjoy its benefits. Our founding mission is to create a portfolio of cannabis beverage brands that people love and trust by delivering consistent formulas, great-tasting flavors and rapid, predictable effects.

How did you meet co-founder Soon Yu and when did you decide to start K-Zen together?

I first met Soon Yu in 1998 where we were both working for Clorox. We stayed in touch throughout our careers, sharing similar interests for disruptive trends that impacted the CPG space. In 2018, Soon was returning to the Bay Area from his last venture with VF Corp (working with iconic retail brands like Vans and North Face). We got together, as we often do, to discuss emerging trends and I shared my thoughts on cannabis as that next “big thing” to happen in the food and beverage space.

I was also seeing consumers lean towards “healthier” options and alternatives (e.g., bottled water sales exceeded soda sales in 2016, and millennials were consuming less alcohol). At the same time, I was discovering cannabis as a less conventional method for my own personal health and well-being. This was the tipping point that launched K-Zen.

What should an entrepreneur look for in a co-founder relationship? Can you share any red flags that aspiring entrepreneurs should avoid when bringing someone in on a business idea?

I hope I’m not stating the obvious when I say pick someone you trust. Soon Yu was, and is, a boon to K-Zen and to me personally. When you’re starting a new business, whether it be in an industry that’s well established or one that’s budding like ours (excuse the pun), it’s so important that you have someone at the outset. Our backgrounds and skills are pretty complimentary. We’re able to work well together while also balancing each others’ strengths and weaknesses. I suppose that’s another thing I’ll say — in business, you need to know that your partner is going to tell you the truth instead of protecting your feelings. That’s something that I have found to be really valuable as a CEO.

I would say my biggest red flag in any potential partnership or in regards to any business deal would be if they don’t honor their commitments, or if their core values don’t match with yours. I’m a big believer in doing what you say you will and having integrity while you do it. It is, of course, normal to disagree on certain aspects of the business, but your ideas for your company’s mission and purpose should align.

What inspired you to enter the healthy food and beverages industry, and how does that inspiration drive your trajectory in the cannabis space?

I’ve always been a really active person and cognizant of how fueling your body with the right things can make a huge impact on who you are. I think I was most aware of this when I danced for the Seattle Supersonics — gosh, that was forever ago — and was in the best shape I’ve ever been in!

Later on in my career, I held senior level positions at companies like Earthbound Farm, Chiquita and Crystal Geyser, so I have firsthand experience working with brands that value whole ingredients. I really enjoyed that work, but it wasn’t until later that I felt called to explore a new industry entirely.

Because of my involvement and dedication to these other facets of healthy-living, I found that I had been neglecting another. I actually didn’t try cannabis until I was in my 40s after having my first child. Recovering from pregnancy and giving birth was a lot harder than I thought it would be, and I felt unmotivated to get back into the fitness routine that I’d loved so much — not to mention the fact that remedies I’d used in the past weren’t as effective. Cannabis not only helped me navigate my way back to a routine that is active and painless, but it also has helped me manage my time between being a busy entrepreneur and a hands-on mother. Now, I work day in and day out to make cannabis a part of other people’s wellness journeys, which feels right to me.

Why did you choose to develop cannabis drinks products for your entry into the cannabis space?

Normally when people think about cannabis consumption, they imagine smoking a joint, hitting a cartridge, or maybe eating a “pot brownie.” I have asthma, so smoking is really out of the question for me and I’m also not big on sweets, which means edibles aren’t really a go-to for me either. When I was considering starting my own cannabis business, I was thinking about a way for people to consume cannabis that is familiar, discreet and tasty. A beverage seemed like the most obvious choice!

I also think that consumers are used to trying “super ingredients” or adopting a new routine through drinks. For ex: for many, energy drinks are now a part of one’s daily routine that didn’t exist years ago. Mad Lilly Spritzers, for example, are low calorie (with less than half the calories of a typical alcoholic seltzer), are made from 100% natural ingredients, and help take the edge off after a long day… without leaving you dehydrated and hungover the next day.

How does your extensive experience in Healthy Food & Beverage CPG serve you when facing challenges and setbacks during the R&D process? (Could you describe an experience that you remember?)

I was extremely fortunate I could leverage my food and beverage background and started researching and experimenting with cannabis. It was challenging (in a good way), and eventually, I found and partnered with a team of highly skilled food scientists and cannabis experts. Together, we created great tasting cannabis beverages and that’s how K-Zen was founded.

When we launched our first iteration of S*SHOTS in the summer of 2020, there were some things we got right and some things we didn’t. Rapid prototyping, getting early consumer feedback and optimizing your product proposition from there is a common practice from what I’ve done in CPG. We were then able to relaunch the S*SHOTS brand with much greater success and market traction.

Mad Lilly spritzers recently launched in can form after being previously sold in bottles, what inspired this packaging change? What is the process of making this change to an established product?

We just introduced Mad Lilly Spritzers in 12-ounce cans at Hall of Flowers in Palm Springs last month. While we loved the unique look of Mad Lilly Spritzers in painted glass bottles, cans are much easier to stock and distribute for our partners and retailers. The new can design is sleek and convenient and maintains the delicious taste, quality and freshness customers expect from our Spritzers.

In doing so, we were also able to bring the price point down, which I’m sure our customers greatly appreciated!

Where does K-Zen source its cannabis products? Does the brand do any in-house manufacturing or outsource the extraction process?

Cannabis oil and water need to be blended evenly to deliver consistent and rapid onset. Using cannabis in an emulsified format achieves that. So, we source our cannabis emulsion from Vertosa. We currently do not manufacture anything in-house, however, we have created and implemented best in-class manufacturing practices from our prior experience in food and pharmaceutical manufacturing in all of our co packing SOP’s to ensure quality and effective products.

How and why does K-Zen prioritize education around proper dosing and avoiding overconsumption?

At K-Zen, we know that cannabis tolerance varies from consumer to consumer — it’s only fun and properly works if you take the right dose! That’s why we make it clear on every product how much THC/CBD is included per serving.

For Mad Lilly Spritzers, portion-control and dosing is made easy because of the nature of the can. One can equals one 5 MG dose of THC and one 5 MG dose of CBD, which for most consumers will provide a light and airy high, coupled with the CBD to relax and refresh after a long day, or even as a midday pick-me-up.

Our Mad Lilly Tonic comes in single-dose bottles, too, so it’s easy to know how much you’re taking right before bed. Customers are always welcome and encouraged to ask us questions. If you go to our website, you’ll see under our FAQs that we have a phone number anyone can text at any time of day, so if ever there’s concern, our team can help you handle it straight away.

We also made a concentrated effort with S*SHOTS to ensure that our consumers were making the most of our product without taking the most. When you buy in-store, you’re gifted a complimentary S*SHOTS glass which will hold 10 ml of liquid, or one “shot” of the beverage. We always encourage our new customers to try half a shot (or maybe less, depending on your tolerance level) and see how they feel before coming back for more. But that’s why the dosage is printed in big bold letters on the label. You can’t miss it!

Who is the target consumer for K-Zen products? How does the packaging and marketing signal to that target market?

When I started K-Zen I knew I wanted to create different cannabis-infused beverages for different types of consumers, whether they were a first-timer, canna-curious or a cannabis pro, which is how Mad Lilly and S*SHOTS, respectively, were born.

I’ll talk about Mad Lilly first because we just released our new line of cans and I’m really excited about them! When you look at the packaging, you’ll see that they’re colorful, bright and airy, with floral decals and our tagline, “Wildly Tasteful” right on the side. We wanted to curate an inviting feeling without being too in-your-face. Mad Lilly Spritzers are meant for someone who’s curious about trying cannabis for the first time, or is looking for a way to experience a mellow high without feeling bogged down by a sugary edible or a coughing fit (as someone who lives with asthma, I know how that can go!). We wanted this to be something you’d reach for after a long day at work or with your kids, look at it and feel like good things are coming your way. At its core, Mad Lilly is meant to spark joy, and feel like a treat that you won’t feel guilty about.

Our packaging for our Mad Lilly Tonic is a little different, since the tonic is meant specifically to be taken for a good night’s sleep. The label is a deep purple and we called it “Lemon Dream” — it’s also infused with lavender extract with the hope that our customers can put two and two together easily. It’s a low-dose tonic so we wanted the packaging to feel grounding –– no frills.

As for S*SHOTS, they were created for an entirely different demographic. We wanted to attract experienced cannabis users. For S*SHOTS, we capitalized on, well, capitalization. On an S*SHOTS bottle, the flavor name is capitalized, as is the fact that each bottle contains 100 MG of THC. Admittedly, we were a little inspired by the alcohol industry — the S*SHOTS customer is likely someone who likes to take shots, so we wanted to sell this product as something that’s a viable substitute. The names of each flavor are also meant to elicit some excitement: Berry Blast, Lemon Crush, Tropical Thunder, and Watermelon Punch all promise to deliver that THC high consumers love. Personally, I love the way this packaging turned out. It just gets you excited about what’s in store for you after an S*SHOT (or two)!

Will the brand enter new product sectors? If so, what type of products most interest you?

We will continue to play in the beverage space as we add more flavors or new segments within the category. In fact, we have a new flavor of Mad Lilly Spritzers that will be launching later this summer — so stay tuned for more details!

We’re so grateful that Judy could take the time to answer our questions. Learn more about Judy Yee and K-Zen at kzen.co.

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Germany Begins Hearings for Cannabis Legalization Plan

6/14/2022

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Germany has started expert hearings for its plan to legalize adult-use cannabis, the Associated Press reports. On Monday, the German Health Ministry shared it would begin holding expert hearings with the goal of crafting legislation by later this year. The hearings started on Tuesday and include over 200 representatives from the medical and legal fields and other disciplines.

Government officials and unnamed international experts are expected to join the hearings, five of which will be held throughout the coming month, according to the report.

In a statement, Drug Czar Burkhard Blienert said he has “worked for years toward us in Germany finally ending the criminalization of cannabis consumers” and that his goal is a “modern and health-oriented cannabis policy.”

Germany’s plan to legalize adult-use cannabis is part of a deal between a coalition of three socially liberal parties that make up Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government. In their plan, the coalition says they will ensure quality control and revisit the “social effects” of adult-use cannabis after four years, the AP reports.

Niklas Kouparanis, CEO of Bloomwell Group, a Frankfurt-based medical cannabis holding company, told Ganjapreneur in an email, “The announcement that the hearings will take place is a clear signal to the market, investors, and consumers alike that the government is very serious about legalizing adult-use cannabis in Germany.

“It’s also encouraging that experts are being consulted in preparation of drafting the legislation and that key issues are being addressed, including consumer protection, supply chain, protection of minors, international experience, among other issues. I’m completely convinced that many European countries will follow Germany’s way to legalize the adult-use industry. That said, I would like to emphasize that Germany shouldn’t rush the draft of this legislation. It can only become a role model for other countries if the legal framework is 100% waterproof.” — Kouparanis, in an email

In December 2021, Malta became the first European Union member to legalize cannabis for adults.

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Colorado Town Considering Changing Its Name to ‘Kush’

6/14/2022

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A Colorado town is considering changing its name to “Kush,” after the type of cannabis that originated in the Hindu Kush mountain region, the Washington Post reports. The town, Moffat, has a population of about 120 people and proponents say the name change could revitalize the town’s identity and culture while opponents contend it would be disruptive. 

The proposal was brought by Mike Biggio, co-founder of Area 420 which provides land to commercial cannabis cultivators. Biggio told the Post that he is “trying to create something like what happened with Napa Valley or even Humboldt” for the area’s cannabis industry. 

“I think if we can re-brand this and have that designation, then this could be a world-renowned region for cannabis production.” — Biggio to the Post 

Town Trustee Ken Skoglund, a 40-year resident of Moffat, opposes the change, saying that, while he acknowledges the cannabis industry has led to positive changes in the town, it would create frustrations for residents, who would have to change their licenses, addresses, and other identifying documents. 

“It’s a good industry for Moffat,” he told the Post, “but that doesn’t mean it should come in and change the name of the town and disrupt a whole bunch of other people that don’t even care for marijuana.”

The town is currently named after David H. Moffat, a Colorado businessman and railroad builder.

Skoglund said the residents are open to referring to Moffat as “The Kush Capital of Colorado.” The residents met last week to discuss the name change but no decision was made.

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Thailand Gives 100 Cannabis Plants to Citizens, Plans to Give Away 1M Plants

6/14/2022

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Thailand’s health minister on Friday gave away 100 cannabis plant seedlings, one day after the nation legalized the cultivation and trade of cannabis, the Associated Press reports. The giveaway is part of a plan by officials to give away 1 million cannabis plants to Thai citizens. 

The first plants were distributed in the Buriram province, considered a stronghold of the Bhumjai Thai party of Health Minister Anutin Charnviraku, which draws from the support of low-income farmers in the region. During the event, Anutin said cannabis legalization would bring financial benefits to “individual growers, community farmers (and) entrepreneurs.”      

Government officials insist that the reforms only legalize medical cannabis; however, there are no plans for monitoring small-scale cultivation and sales, the report says. 

In February, Anutin gave final approval to remove cannabis from the nation’s Narcotics List but has indicated that individuals using cannabis in “nonproductive ways,” such as public consumption, could still face penalties, such as three months imprisonment and a fine up to $780. Officials have said they are not trying to create a tourism industry around cannabis.   

According to the Thai Industrial Hemp Trade Association, the market value of cannabis-related businesses is estimated at more than $1 billion and is expected to nearly double by 2024. Cafes and restaurants are permitted to sell cannabis products in Thailand as long as the products don’t exceed 0.2% THC. 

Bhumjai party officials said more than 350,000 households have already registered with the government to cultivate cannabis. 

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North Carolina House Leader: Medical Cannabis Bill Won’t Reach Chamber Floor

6/14/2022

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Following the Senate passage of a medical cannabis bill in North Carolina, House Speaker Tim Moore (R) has indicated the measure is unlikely to reach the chamber floor for a vote, North Carolina Public Radio reports. Without the support of House Republicans, the bill is likely dead for the year.  

Moore, who opposes the reforms, told WRAL News that he won’t consider the measure as the state’s legislative session winds down and did not say whether the chamber would hold a vote on the bill in the future.    

“I want to see where our folks are on it. I really do. That one has just kind of been thrown down, and I don’t see an appetite to take that up in the shorter session. As far as the long session, I won’t say one way or the other.” — Moore to WRAL 

An April poll conducted by SurveyUSA on behalf of WRAL found that 72% of North Carolina voters support medical cannabis legalization, with 18% opposed. The poll also found a majority (57%) of voters back adult-use legalization. 

The poll found that 64% of Republicans approve of medical cannabis legalization along with 75% of Democrats.  

In a statement to WRAL, Jordan Monaghan, a spokesman for Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper, said the governor “supports efforts to make medical marijuana available.” Lawmakers this session passed a bill to legalize medical cannabis were the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to do so first and Cooper is still assessing that measure.  

The FDA-oriented bill requires the agency first approve cannabis as a prescription drug, then the Drug Enforcement Administration must make the proper change to federally controlled substance schedules, and finally, a North Carolina commission would have to not object to the change. 

The broad medical cannabis legalization bill had been approved by the Senate 35-10. 

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