New Jersey Cannabis Regulators Propose New Permits to Facilitate Research Partnerships with Dispensaries

New Jersey Cannabis Regulators Propose New Permits to Facilitate Research Partnerships with Dispensaries

New Jersey’s cannabis regulatory authorities are currently open to public feedback regarding an innovative proposal aimed at introducing a novel permit. This permit would enable “clinically focused” dispensaries to collaborate with research institutions, facilitating comprehensive studies on cannabis using the products they cultivate and sell to patients.

The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) is actively seeking to amend the state’s existing marijuana legislation to establish what they are terming “clinical registrant permits.” These permits are designed to encourage more targeted research into the medical benefits of cannabis, particularly in therapeutic or palliative contexts. Importantly, this research would not rely on externally sourced cannabis products.

Under the proposed system, clinical registrants would possess the same privileges as traditional dispensary license holders. However, they would also have the unique capability to form “written contractual relationships with academic medical centers in their respective regions.” These partnerships would empower them to engage in clinical research centered around the use of medical cannabis.

In essence, this groundbreaking initiative would permit researchers to conduct clinical trials involving patients within the state, utilizing the very cannabis products that patients purchase from dispensaries.

The proposed rules state, “A clinical registrant may dispense usable medical cannabis and medical cannabis products, in any form authorized by an institutional review board (IRB), directly to an academic medical center as part of a research study.” Additionally, academic medical centers engaging in such research would be required to handle cannabis items with the same high standards applied to other patient medications.

It’s important to note that clinical registrants would be prohibited from simultaneously holding non-clinical medical cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, or dispensary permits, or a personal-use cannabis business license. Furthermore, academic research institutions partnering with clinical registrants would be restricted from accepting “anything of value” from these clinically focused dispensaries, except for reasonable compensation stipulated in the research contract.

The public is invited to provide comments on this proposal until October 6, with the CRC emphasizing that these new rules could substantially benefit society by achieving the statutory objective of ensuring safe access to medical cannabis for patients in need through the introduction of this additional permit type.

This novel permit type could play a pivotal role in addressing research gaps caused by federal cannabis prohibition. Researchers have been burdened by stringent registration procedures with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to access cannabis for studies. Additionally, they have had to rely on government-grown cannabis products that are often of inferior quality and potency compared to those available in state-legal cannabis markets.

This issue was a point of discussion during a recent meeting among representatives from several federal agencies. Nora Volkow, the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), has herself expressed support for allowing researchers to study cannabis from state-licensed retailers.

While a bill signed by President Joe Biden last year aimed to streamline the cannabis research process, it lacked provisions found in a House version that would have granted scientists access to cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

Many of the research roadblocks surrounding cannabis could potentially be resolved if the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommendation to reclassify the substance from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) is accepted. However, it remains uncertain whether the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will endorse this recommendation.

Source: Marijuana Moment

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The Art and Science of Cannabis Cultivation: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Strains

Cannabis cultivation is a captivating journey that blends artistry and scientific expertise. It is a process where cultivators meticulously select and nurture cannabis strains to produce the desired qualities, such as potency, flavor, and aroma. This article explores the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, unveiling the vast array of strains available in the market and shedding light on the craft behind their creation. It delves into both the art and science behind cannabis cultivation, highlighting the cultivation techniques used within the industry to achieve the desired outcomes.

Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation Initiates Recall of 62,000 Cannabis Products: An In-Depth Look at the Delta Extraction Case and Industry Lessons

The Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation (DCR) has recently taken a significant step in the cannabis industry by issuing a recall of more than 62,000 cannabis products manufactured by Delta Extraction, LLC. The reason behind this recall lies in the fact that these products were not being compliantly tracked in the statewide track and trace system known as METRC. This failure to adhere to tracking protocols created a situation where the DCR could not verify the origins of these products – whether they were sourced from marijuana cultivated within Missouri and had undergone the necessary testing procedures.

Los Angeles Launches Job Board for Local Cannabis Licenses, Boosting Social Equity Benefits

The city of Los Angeles has taken a significant step towards fostering a healthier and more equitable licensed cannabis market with the launch of a dedicated job board. This innovative initiative aims to connect individuals seeking employment opportunities in the cannabis industry with licensed businesses in the local Los Angeles area.

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Blue Dream’s Two Decades of Influence: Unraveling the Origins and Impact

Blue Dream’s Two Decades of Influence: Unraveling the Origins and Impact

From Haze to Skunk, OG to Cookies, the cannabis market has been shaped by remarkable strains that encapsulate their respective eras. Among them, Blue Dream emerged as a defining cultivar around 2003, reigning until approximately 2011 when shifting market preferences opened the door for a new strain to take the spotlight. As we commemorate two decades of Blue Dream’s legacy, it’s intriguing to note that despite its celebrated status as the “most popular strain on the planet” at one point, there remains a surprising shroud of uncertainty surrounding its true origins and characteristics.

Unveiling Blue Dream’s Genetic Ancestry

The enigmatic origins of Blue Dream continue to mystify experts and enthusiasts alike. While the identity of its original breeder remains a mystery, a prevailing consensus exists about its genetic lineage. Renowned cannabis breeder Ed Rosenthal, as reported by Ellen Holland in her seminal piece on Blue Dream’s history for High Times, revealed that this strain is a hybrid of “Haze and DJ Short’s Blueberry.” This assertion is corroborated by various online sources. Yet, a mild debate persists regarding the specific Blueberry cultivar and the type of Haze involved. Jason Matthys, founder of Equilibrium Genetics, has disclosed that the Haze used might have been from Corralitos, hinting at the Santa Cruz Haze rather than Super Silver Haze. The subtle distinctions in these genetics cast intriguing shadows on Blue Dream’s true lineage.

Unraveling the Mystery of a “Second” Blue Dream

Whispers of not one, but two variants of Blue Dream have circulated within cannabis circles. While some argue that one version leans more toward sativa while the other veers indica, clarity eludes this speculation. Eva Erikson of Haze Valley Nursery shared insights into the rumor, suggesting that the “imposter Blue Dream” could be an offshoot bred from the original. This discrepancy might arise from the choice between DJ Short’s Blueberry and Super Silver Haze in the breeding process, or it could even reflect variations influenced by environmental factors rather than genetic differences.

Architects of Blue Dream’s Success

Unveiling the mastermind behind Blue Dream’s meteoric rise proves equally elusive. Various leads have been pursued, yet the original breeder remains concealed. Speculations abound, with some tracing its lineage to the patient group WAMM, while others highlight the hills above Bonny Doon as a probable birthplace. The cannabis community’s efforts to pinpoint the true creator have been met with intriguing dead-ends, leaving a sense of enduring mystery.

A Symphony of Flavors and Terpenes

Blue Dream’s flavor profile is a harmonious blend of its parent strains, with the Blueberry influence taking precedence over Haze. Descriptions range from simple blueberry notes to intricate comparisons with blueberry muffins, occasionally punctuated by hints of sandalwood or musk from the Haze side. Terpene analyses often reveal dominant compounds like beta myrcene, alpha pinene, and beta caryophyllene, imparting sweet, spicy, and woody aromas. Interestingly, blueberries themselves contain cineole and linalool, shedding light on the diverse bouquet within Blue Dream’s fragrance.

The Rise, Fall, and Resurgence

Blue Dream’s narrative reflects the tumultuous Green Rush era, where its popularity skyrocketed due to its ease of cultivation, high THC content, and enticing aroma. However, overproduction during this phase led to diluted quality as novice cultivators rushed the growing process. Despite encountering a decline due to this influx of subpar offerings, Blue Dream is experiencing a revival. Craig and Melanie Johnson, growers at Alpenglow Farms, concur that quality suffered due to rapid harvesting, preventing the strain from reaching its full potential. The market’s evolution since the Green Rush is breathing new life into Blue Dream, as enthusiasts seek the authentic experience of this classic cultivar.

Blue Dream’s Legacy

The story of Blue Dream, spanning two decades, is one of enduring allure and transformation. While questions linger about its genetic lineage and originator, this strain’s impact on the cannabis landscape remains undeniable. A harmonious fusion of flavors, terpenes, and effects contributed to its initial success, only to be challenged by quality concerns during the Green Rush. Now, as the cannabis industry matures, Blue Dream is poised for a triumphant resurgence, a reminder of its enduring legacy amid an ever-evolving market.

 

Source: High Times

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Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission Grants Licenses to 21 Companies

In a significant step toward the implementation of Alabama’s medical cannabis program, the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission has awarded licenses to 21 companies. This groundbreaking development marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to provide access to medical cannabis for eligible patients. The diverse array of licensed companies is expected to contribute to the availability and variety of medical cannabis products throughout Alabama.

New Jersey’s Cannabis Tax Revenue Alleviates Violence with $5 Million for Prevention Efforts

In a remarkable step towards promoting community safety and well-being, New Jersey’s state program, initiated in 2021, continues to make strides by allocating $15 million to bolster Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) programs. Governor Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin unveiled this groundbreaking initiative, which earmarks a portion of its funding from the cannabis tax revenue, aimed at supporting community-led organizations committed to violence prevention.

Market Research Reveals High Brand Potential for Hooga Gummies

Market research is an essential tool for gauging the potential of a brand in any new marketplace. Few brands in the cannabis industry have the wherewithal to conduct market research on emerging products, some due to experience, some due to the availability / access to reach consumers, others may not see its utility in their launch plan.

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Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation Initiates Recall of 62,000 Cannabis Products: An In-Depth Look at the Delta Extraction Case and Industry Lessons

Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation Initiates Recall of 62,000 Cannabis Products: An In-Depth Look at the Delta Extraction Case and Industry Lessons

The Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation (DCR) has recently taken a significant step in the cannabis industry by issuing a recall of more than 62,000 cannabis products manufactured by Delta Extraction, LLC. The reason behind this recall lies in the fact that these products were not being compliantly tracked in the statewide track and trace system known as METRC. This failure to adhere to tracking protocols created a situation where the DCR could not verify the origins of these products – whether they were sourced from marijuana cultivated within Missouri and had undergone the necessary testing procedures.

The scope of this recall encompasses a wide range of cannabis-infused products, including tinctures, vape cartridges, gel capsules, tablets, and other similar items. To ensure public safety, the DCR has strongly recommended that consumers who have purchased any of these affected products take appropriate action. They can either discard these items or return them to the dispensary where they were originally purchased. Importantly, the DCR has reassured consumers that these returns will not impact their established monthly purchase limits, providing a degree of comfort to those affected.

The DCR has been proactive in promoting awareness among consumers regarding the risks associated with marijuana products that have not been appropriately tracked in the METRC system. By urging consumers to follow the prescribed disposal or return procedures, the DCR is attempting to safeguard the well-being of the public.

Additionally, the DCR has emphasized the significance of reporting any adverse reactions related to the use of these products. They have provided channels for reporting such reactions, including email and an online complaint form, underlining their commitment to ensuring consumer safety.

The context leading up to this recall involves a lengthy hearing at the Administrative Hearing Commission. During this hearing, Delta Extraction challenged the immediate suspension of its license by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The suspension followed the discovery that Delta Extraction had incorporated out-of-state hemp-derived THCa into its marijuana products. THCa is the non-psychoactive compound in marijuana that converts into THC when heated, producing the characteristic “high.”

Delta Extraction’s representative, Jack Maritz, asserted that the distillation process allowed for the utilization of out-of-state hemp-derived THCa. The company’s position was based on previous state regulations that seemed to permit this practice. However, the state counterargued that recent regulations had clarified the prohibition of such practices. The outcome of the hearing remains pending, as the Administrative Hearing Commission has yet to decide on the reinstatement of Delta Extraction’s license.

Rachael Herndon, Delta’s chief operational officer, highlighted the adverse effects of the license suspension on the company’s reputation and financial standing. She stated, “Our reputation was damaged, and we had over $10 million in product on our site immediately locked up.”

This recall serves as a poignant reminder to both cannabis producers and consumers about the ever-evolving landscape of rules and regulations in the cannabis industry. The rapid shifts in policies underline the necessity for all stakeholders – including manufacturers, dispensaries, patients, and consumers – to remain diligently informed about the most current guidelines and procedures. By staying up-to-date, the industry can collectively work towards maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.

Source: Beardbrospharms

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Maryland Cannabis Legalization Takes Effect This Weekend, With Sales Set To Launch As Governor Reaffirms Equity Goals

Maryland is gearing up for the official implementation of its marijuana legalization law, set to take effect this weekend. The new law will legalize the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use, marking a significant milestone for the state. As the majority of existing medical cannabis dispensaries prepare to open their doors to adult consumers, Governor Wes Moore is reaffirming his commitment to fostering an equitable and inclusive cannabis industry.

Cannabis Milestone: Vermont’s Thriving Marketplace Surpasses $100 Million in Sales

Vermont’s cannabis marketplace is celebrating its first year of operation, and the results are nothing short of impressive. With projections indicating retail sales for the current fiscal year reaching over $100 million, the state has reaped more than $20 million in additional revenue. This milestone underscores the success of Vermont’s foray into regulated cannabis sales.

Michigan’s Wholesale Cannabis Flower Prices Show Signs of Stabilization and Upward Movement

Wholesale marijuana flower prices in Michigan have experienced a recent stabilization and slight increase, providing some hope for producers who faced significant price declines in recent years.

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Revolutionary Shift: US Health Department Proposes Reclassifying Marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III

Revolutionary Shift: US Health Department Proposes Reclassifying Marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III

In a groundbreaking move that has the potential to reshape the landscape of cannabis regulations, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has taken a bold step by formally recommending the reclassification of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law. This historic decision signifies a seismic shift in perspective, indicating that the nation’s premier health agency no longer views cannabis as a substance with high abuse potential and zero medical value.

Following an intensive scientific investigation into cannabis, which was conducted as a response to a directive from President Joe Biden, the HHS has conveyed its verdict to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): cannabis should be repositioned from the confines of Schedule I to the more accommodating Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Although this suggestion isn’t binding, the amalgamation of thorough scientific analysis and a growing swell of political support for cannabis reform may wield substantial influence over the DEA’s final decision

By classifying cannabis as a Schedule III drug, the plant would still remain prohibited at the federal level. However, this recalibration would have far-reaching consequences, particularly for researchers who have long decried the burdensome barriers erected by the Schedule I categorization, which impedes access for critical studies

An HHS spokesperson elaborated on this significant development: “Grounded in data and scientific exploration, the HHS promptly heeded President Biden’s directive to Secretary Becerra, furnishing its recommendation for rescheduling cannabis to the DEA on August 29, 2023.” The spokesperson emphasized the efficiency of this administrative procedure, which was accomplished in less than 11 months, underscoring the department’s collaborative spirit and commitment to expeditiously complete a comprehensive scientific evaluation for wider dissemination.

This shift to Schedule III would also have the power to unlock tax incentives within the burgeoning marijuana industry that are currently off-limits.

Confirming this milestone, a DEA spokesperson conveyed, “DEA has received a communiqué from the Department of Health and Human Services, sharing its conclusions and suggestions regarding marijuana scheduling, in line with President Biden’s request for a review.” As part of this process, the HHS diligently carried out a comprehensive scientific and medical assessment, a foundational aspect of the DEA’s ultimate authority to reclassify or retain the classification of a drug within the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA is now poised to embark on its evaluation process.

The vital scientific review that paved the way for the Schedule III recommendation was spearheaded by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the HHS’s guidance.

According to initial reports from Bloomberg, the HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, Rachel Levine, who ardently advocated for medical cannabis during her tenure as Pennsylvania’s health secretary prior to joining the Biden administration, dispatched a letter to the DEA that explicitly referenced the FDA’s meticulous review.

This momentous stride comes after a mere two months since HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra revealed to Marijuana Moment that the agency aimed to conclude the review by year’s end.

A spokesperson from the White House emphasized the independent nature of the administrative process: “The administrative process is independently managed by HHS and DOJ, driven by evidence. Thus, the President’s team will not offer commentary on the agency’s recommendation at this juncture.”

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre reiterated this point during a recent briefing, highlighting the president’s stance on the issue. She affirmed that President Biden sought an independent administrative review conducted by the HHS and DOJ, underscoring that the forthcoming decisions would be rooted in evidence and the best interests of public health.

This move to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III holds significant practical and political ramifications, contingent on the DEA’s alignment with the HHS recommendation.

For researchers, this change would signal the end of the cumbersome DEA registration process, a requirement for accessing cannabis for studies as a Schedule I drug. Notably, Director Nora Volkow of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has expressed concerns about these barriers, and it is reported that NIDA has endorsed the HHS’s recommendation for rescheduling marijuana.

From a business standpoint, this reclassification would empower cannabis enterprises to claim federal tax deductions—an option currently out of reach for businesses engaged in the sale of Schedule I or II drugs. The higher effective tax rate imposed on the cannabis industry could potentially diminish with this shift, a change that various state governments have already taken the initiative to address through state-level tax relief measures.

On the political front, such a reclassification could serve as a crowning achievement for the president, who would be credited with overseeing a monumental reform. This administrative evaluation, which could lead to rescheduling over five decades after cannabis was initially categorized as a Schedule I drug during the “war on drugs,” could also lend momentum to congressional endeavors aimed at further reforming federal cannabis laws. As lawmakers return from the August recess, they could point to the HHS’s recommendation as tangible evidence of the urgency to normalize and regulate the cannabis industry.

The HHS spokesperson emphasized the final stages of this process: “While HHS’s scientific and medical evaluation is binding on DEA, the scheduling recommendation is not.” The DEA, equipped with the ultimate authority to schedule, reschedule, or remove a drug from scheduling within the CSA, will undergo a meticulous rulemaking process, complete with a period for public input, before finalizing any scheduling decisions.

Despite the aspirations of advocates for a complete descheduling of cannabis, the HHS review’s outcome is a reclassification from Schedule I to Schedule III. This, however, has raised concerns about whether the FDA could take a more hands-on role in the regulation of cannabis. A former top FDA official, Howard Sklamberg, who previously chaired the agency’s Marijuana Working Group and foresaw the Schedule III recommendation, dismissed such fears, asserting that the FDA and DOJ have adopted a largely non-interventionist stance with the burgeoning legalization movement even while cannabis remains a Schedule I substance. Sklamberg contended that it defied reason to presume the agencies would abruptly intensify enforcement actions if cannabis were shifted to a less restrictive category.

In a separate development, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) has pressed DEA Administrator Anne Milgram for clarity regarding the president’s directive on the marijuana scheduling review. Gaetz seeks a copy of the letter allegedly sent by President Biden to the attorney general and HHS secretary, along with an update on any communication between Milgram and HHS regarding the evaluation timeline.

The journey toward reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is replete with implications that extend across multiple dimensions—practical, political, and scientific. This momentous decision marks a significant stride towards cannabis normalization and underscores the dynamic interplay between scientific inquiry, political will, and regulatory evolution.

Source: Marijuana Moment

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Green Wave Rising: Navigating the Global Cannabis Legalization Landscape

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Maryland’s First Week of Adult-Use Cannabis Sales Exceeds $20 Million, Fueling Optimism for the Industry’s Growth

In the inaugural week of adult-use sales in Maryland, the combined sales of medical and recreational cannabis products by marijuana retailers reached nearly $21 million. This landmark moment in Maryland’s cannabis industry is the result of a significant historical development—the legalization of recreational cannabis in the state.

Exploring Cannabis Consumer Archetypes in America: Trends and Insights for 2023

New Frontier Data presents the 2023 archetypes of cannabis consumers in America. The report highlights nine consumer archetypes based on the latest consumer survey data. The first archetype is Savvy Connoisseurs, comprising 13% of consumers. They are heavy cannabis users who consume it multiple times a day for various medical and recreational purposes. They obtain cannabis from both legal sources like dispensaries and informal channels such as friends or illicit dealers. Savvy Connoisseurs are the highest spenders and often purchase cannabis weekly.

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Challenges in California’s Legal Marijuana Industry: High Costs and Compliance Hurdles

Challenges in California’s Legal Marijuana Industry: High Costs and Compliance Hurdles

California’s legal marijuana industry is facing significant challenges, with high taxes and regulatory obstacles driving entrepreneurs towards the illicit market, according to the state’s Attorney General Rob Bonta. In a recent event held in Fresno, Bonta highlighted the excessive barriers to entry and operational costs as major roadblocks for businesses operating within the legal framework. He suggested that temporary tax reductions could be beneficial to ease the burden on legitimate operators.

Bonta emphasized the need to reduce the regulatory burden for compliant businesses while focusing efforts on combating the illicit market that undermines them. He unveiled a new initiative aimed at assisting local jurisdictions in addressing illegal marijuana activities through administrative enforcement and nuisance abatement. He expressed concern over the persistence of fly-by-night operators evading legal requirements and taxes, undermining the regulated industry’s integrity.

The newly introduced program, known as the Cannabis Administrative Prosecutor Program (CAPP), is designed to support cities and counties in their efforts to combat illegal cannabis activities. Fresno became the first city to participate in CAPP, receiving legal support from the California Department of Justice (CADOJ) to pursue administrative actions against illicit operators. The initiative aims to encourage voluntary shutdowns of illegal operations and, if necessary, enforce cessation through legal means, while recovering enforcement costs.

Attorneys provided by CAPP will collaborate with local authorities to implement administrative sanctions and expedited enforcement procedures. The program aims to be self-funded, with costs recovered through fines, administrative orders, settlements, and abatement liens. Bonta highlighted that any surplus funding generated through the program will be retained by the participating city.

Bonta also explained that administrative actions are more favorable than criminal penalties for low-level offenders. By utilizing the administrative process, officials can effectively address non-compliance without treating minor offenders as criminals, ultimately supporting the licensed cannabis industry.

The attorney general’s support for legislative measures such as AB 1684, aimed at empowering local governments to impose fines on unlicensed cannabis activities, further demonstrates his commitment to addressing the issue.

The challenges facing California’s legal marijuana industry are multifaceted. High startup and operational costs contribute to the presence of illegal grow sites. Additionally, many jurisdictions within the state prohibit legal cannabis businesses, creating demand for illicit products due to limited access to regulated options. To counter this, California regulators have initiated grants to expand retail access to underserved areas, thereby reducing the demand for illegal products.

Addressing health and safety concerns associated with unlicensed products, Bonta highlighted the environmental risks posed by illegal cannabis operations. Such operations often disregard environmental laws and utilize prohibited pesticides, contributing to ecological degradation. This issue gained attention when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service linked illegal pesticide use in California’s marijuana cultivation to the endangerment of spotted owl species.

In an attempt to curb the illicit market, California eliminated its cannabis cultivation tax. However, the state is also exploring avenues for expanding its legal cannabis market beyond its borders. Regulators have sought legal guidance to determine whether interstate cannabis commerce would expose the state to federal enforcement actions. This move aligns with Governor Gavin Newsom’s aspiration to federally legalize marijuana, enabling California to supply legal cannabis products nationwide.

California’s legal marijuana industry is grappling with significant challenges, including high taxes and regulatory hurdles. Attorney General Rob Bonta’s initiatives, such as the Cannabis Administrative Prosecutor Program, demonstrate the state’s commitment to addressing these issues and supporting compliant businesses. The complex interplay between legal and illicit markets, coupled with environmental concerns, calls for a comprehensive and balanced approach to ensure the success and integrity of California’s legal cannabis industry.

 

Source: Marijuana Moment

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Rethinking Cannabis Potency

According to recent survey data by New Frontier Data, there is a wide range of effective doses for cannabis across different populations. This means that some people can feel the effects of just 1mg of THC, while others may not notice any effects until they consume 20 or 30mg of THC. Interestingly, this variation is more significant than the variation in tolerance levels for commonly used substances like coffee and alcohol. In fact, a 30x difference in the effective dose of wine or coffee is unimaginable.

U.S. Cannabis Sales Could Total $71B in 2030 Without Federal Legalization

The recently released 2023 U.S. Cannabis Report by New Frontier Data has shed light on the remarkable growth potential of the cannabis industry in the United States. With state-level legalization gaining momentum and the absence of federal policy reform, the report predicts a substantial increase in annual cannabis sales over the next seven years.

New York Expands Legal Cannabis Industry and Cracks Down on Illegal Market

New York has initiated a major expansion of its legal cannabis industry by opening applications for hundreds of new marijuana business licenses. This move follows a slow start, with only about two dozen retailers operating since adult-use sales began last December. The application period will run until December 4, and licenses are expected to be awarded early next year.

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Unveiling the Midwest: Exploring Cannabis Legalization and Consumer Behavior

Unveiling the Midwest: Exploring Cannabis Legalization and Consumer Behavior

Can it find acceptance in Peoria? This quintessential American question examines the likelihood of a new trend, behavior, or occurrence gaining widespread approval. The term “Peoria” refers to the city in Illinois and embodies the notion that if a concept gains traction in the Midwest, it attains a mainstream status. When the wave of cannabis legalization emerged in 2012, it primarily took root in predictable locales – the coasts. Early victories for legalization in states like Colorado, Oregon, Washington, and Maine were not unexpected, given their reputation for a blend of progressive and Libertarian-leaning politics. However, the real question lingered: When would this movement extend to the Heartland? The answer arrived in 2018, when Michigan became the first Midwestern state to endorse adult-use legalization. With progressive pockets such as Ann Arbor and the presence of an urban hub like Detroit, Michigan might have been perceived as an outlier. Subsequently, Illinois followed suit in 2020, and to the astonishment of many, Missouri in 2022. The latest addition to this Midwestern lineup is Minnesota, with its recent introduction of an adult-use cannabis initiative. Ohio aims to place a similar measure on the ballot in 2024. As for Iowa, Indiana, and Wisconsin? The prospect appears remote.

This raises an intriguing query: Does the consumption behavior of Midwestern cannabis users diverge from that of the broader adult-use population? If so, might these distinctions be tied to the lingering stigma in these states? In commemoration of Minnesota’s program launch, we delved into usage frequency and favored ingestion methods of Midwestern consumers in adult-use states (MI, IL, and MO) versus the general U.S. adult-use consumer populace.

In comparison to their counterparts across all adult-use markets in the U.S., Midwestern consumers exhibit a slightly higher likelihood of reporting multiple daily cannabis usage instances (34% vs. 31%). Conversely, they are somewhat less inclined to report consuming cannabis once every day or every other day (28% vs. 32%). The extended history of cannabis prohibition and the persisting stigma in this region (excluding Ann Arbor, MI, which decriminalized cannabis possession in 1974, not without contention) could signify that legalization has unlocked opportunities that citizens are eagerly seizing.

Midwest Product Preferences

Midwestern consumers express a marginal inclination towards favoring edibles when contrasted with the general adult-use consumer populace (26% vs. 22%). This variance might arise from the lingering societal apprehension towards cannabis, motivating discreet consumption. Alternatively, given that states like California and New York boasted thriving unregulated markets before legalization, the accessibility of edibles might have been more limited in Midwestern markets, rendering them an appealing novelty for many consumers.

So, can it indeed find approval in Peoria? It is conceivable, albeit with caveats. The clutches of prohibition and the persistent misconceptions surrounding cannabis consumption continue to hold sway in various states across the U.S. The legalization of cannabis in these regions could be attributed to the revenue drain experienced as residents travel to neighboring legal states. Witnessing cannabis legalization in the Wholesome Heartland, however, signifies a paradigm shift, marking a society that has transcended viewing cannabis as the “devil’s lettuce” and is ready to advance beyond the “Just Say No” era.

Source: Newfrontierdata

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Cannabis Delivery Services: Bringing Accessibility to Cannabis Enthusiasts Across the US

Legalizing cannabis in the United States has opened doors to new possibilities for consumers, but accessibility remains a concern for many. For some, reaching a dispensary can be challenging due to transportation limitations, health issues, or the need for childcare. In response to these challenges, cannabis delivery services have emerged as a godsend for those seeking a convenient and hassle-free way to access their favorite products.

A Green Opportunity: Advertising in the Cannabis Industry

The cannabis industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a taboo, underground market to a legitimate, booming industry. As legalization continues to spread across the United States and other parts of the world, businesses within the cannabis sector are faced with a unique challenge: how to effectively advertise their products and services in a heavily regulated and stigmatized environment.

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