In a recent survey, half of Americans indicated that they have experimented with marijuana, sparking concerns about the implications of the rapid legalization of cannabis across the country. The findings highlight a potential increase in usage, particularly among young adults.

Conducted by the polling firm Gallup, the survey revealed that 50 percent of respondents reported recreational marijuana use, representing a two-percentage-point rise from a similar survey conducted at the beginning of 2022. Additionally, the proportion of regular users has climbed to 17%, more than doubling the figures recorded in 2013.

Gallup noted, “As marijuana has become more available to Americans and legal in an increasing number of states, their reports of use and experimentation have increased too. Now, half of the country has tried it, while the other half say they never have.”

The survey’s results underscore concerns that the expansion of cannabis legalization across 23 states and Washington DC might be contributing to heightened consumption, especially among adolescents and young adults who are particularly vulnerable to its potential negative impacts. Proponents of marijuana emphasize its health and social benefits, while critics caution that widespread usage could lead to elevated rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, and impaired driving accidents.

Child and adolescent psychiatrist Bobby Smyth voiced his apprehensions on social media, highlighting that the rise in drug dependence and emergency room visits among both young and older individuals might be linked to legalization. Smyth also pointed out that prominent medical bodies like the American Medical Association oppose cannabis legalization.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have stated that marijuana use can disproportionately affect young people, contributing to adverse effects on brain development and mental health. According to Gallup researchers, cannabis consumption is most prevalent among adults aged 18 to 34, with nearly one-third of this demographic using it regularly, in contrast to just 9 percent of those aged 55 and older.

The survey also revealed a political disparity, with 57 percent of Democrats, 52 percent of independents, and 39 percent of Republicans reporting having tried marijuana.

Notably, the legalization trend continues to expand, with Minnesota becoming the 23rd state to legalize recreational marijuana earlier this year. However, as legalization gains traction, scientists are increasingly sounding alarms about the potential risks associated with cannabis use.

In February, experts from Stanford University unveiled research suggesting that cannabis users face up to a third higher risk of experiencing heart attacks compared to non-users. Additionally, researchers backed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse cautioned in May that marijuana might be contributing to a 30 percent surge in schizophrenia cases among young men.

In the same month, DailyMail.com featured accounts from relatives of individuals who suffered adverse effects from cannabis abuse. One such account was that of Sonia Jimenez, whose son, Josh, passed away in December 2021 due to what she believes was chronic cannabis use-induced suicide.

Josh’s sister, Alex, shared details of his deteriorating condition following his initiation of cannabis consumption in 9th grade. His academic performance declined, and he exhibited symptoms of paranoia, including vivid hallucinations. He also survived a severe car crash caused by cannabis-induced impairment and was involved in a fire incident due to his altered state.

Tragically, Josh eventually succumbed to his struggles, highlighting concerns about the potency of the strains he consumed. Research indicates that high doses of THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, could contribute to various psychiatric disorders, including depression, schizophrenia, and psychosis.

The survey results and subsequent discussions emphasize the growing complexities surrounding marijuana usage, including both the acceptance and concerns associated with its increasing prevalence. As legalization progresses, striking a balance between individual freedoms and safeguarding public health remains a significant challenge for policymakers, medical professionals, and society as a whole.

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

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The trajectory of medical cannabis sales in Arkansas continues to set new records, with transactions in the state soaring to $23.2 million in July. This robust performance propels the total sales of medical marijuana in Arkansas for the initial seven months of 2023 to an impressive $164.6 million. Remarkably, this figure surpasses the corresponding period’s sales from the previous year by a substantial margin of $7.3 million, as reported by Fayetteville TV station KNWA.

One notable factor contributing to this surge in sales is the marked increase in the number of medical marijuana cardholders within the state. Since the advent of August 2022, the count of patients has surged from 88,893 to 94,059, in accordance with data provided by the Arkansas health department. This expanding patient base is undoubtedly bolstering the state’s medical cannabis market.

Scott Hardin, the official spokesperson for Arkansas’ Department of Finance and Administration, has expressed optimism regarding the foreseeable sales trajectory. He stated that if the current sales patterns persist over the coming months, the total sales for the entirety of 2023 could potentially exceed an impressive $280 million.

In the realm of specific sales figures, medical marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas have effectively marketed and distributed 29,057 pounds of medical cannabis during the initial six months of 2023. This noteworthy achievement reflects a remarkable 23% increase when juxtaposed with the analogous period in the previous year.

The state’s proactive approach to medical cannabis regulation and the growing acceptance of its therapeutic benefits are likely contributors to the surging sales figures. With an expanding patient base and a positive trajectory in sales, Arkansas is solidifying its position as a significant player in the medical cannabis industry.

Arkansas’ medical cannabis market continues to make substantial strides, as evidenced by the record-breaking sales figures in July and the overall upward trend in transactions throughout 2023. The expanding number of medical marijuana cardholders and the persistent efforts of dispensaries are collectively driving this exceptional performance. The state’s potential to achieve sales exceeding $280 million for the year underscores the robust growth of the medical cannabis sector in Arkansas.

Source: Mjbizdaily

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The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission convened on Thursday for a renewed effort to allocate licenses to companies vying for participation in the state’s burgeoning medical cannabis industry.

The proceedings commenced at 10 a.m. in a fully occupied room. Approximately 20 minutes later, the commission opted to enter an executive session – a closed-door gathering. The open meeting is scheduled to recommence around 1:30 p.m.

Legal counsel for the AMCC, William Webster, clarified that the closed session would involve commissioners receiving details about the license applicants. Subsequently, individual lists of nominees for each license category would be compiled.

Webster emphasized that nominees’ lists would remain undisclosed during the closed session. Deliberations and voting on nominees are slated to take place once the meeting reopens to the public at 1:30 p.m.

Webster outlined the process, stating, “Deliberations will not occur during the executive session. The focus will be on sharing information related to the applicants. Each commissioner will confidentially generate a list of nominations for each category. These nominations will not be revealed during the closed session, and there will be no voting during that time.”

One criticism stemming from the initial round of license awards was the lack of public deliberation; decisions were unveiled following the executive session, which led to concerns about transparency.

Webster indicated that the forthcoming open meeting would solely address applicants who had received nominations.

The executive session was also designated to address three other topics permitted under Alabama’s open meetings law. These topics encompass discussions related to individuals’ general reputation, character, professional competence, and ongoing or potential lawsuits involving the commission.

On June 12, the AMCC awarded licenses to 21 companies from a pool of 90 applicants.

However, only four days later, the AMCC suspended these awards, citing potential inconsistencies in the tabulation of scores that aided in ranking the applicants. Consequently, the licenses were not granted.

In response, seven companies that had been unsuccessful in securing licenses on June 12 filed a lawsuit challenging the commission’s procedures. One licensed company also became a defendant in the case.

The licenses cover a spectrum of roles, including cultivation, processing, transportation, testing, and operating dispensaries. Integrated companies that combine several of these functions are also included.

Prior to the executive session on Thursday morning, Rex Vaughn, a Huntsville farmer, was elected as the chairman, succeeding Dr. Steven Stokes. Vaughn, previously the vice chairman, is affiliated with the Alabama Farmers Federation. Stokes, a radiation oncologist from Dothan, resigned from the chairmanship, as he is a trustee at the University of South Alabama, which contravened the commission’s operating rules.

Vaughn commended Stokes’ contributions and leadership, acknowledging their lasting impact. The AMCC also appointed Sam Blakemore, a pharmacist, as the new vice chair. Blakemore praised Stokes’ character and dignified leadership.

Before the licensing suspension, the AMCC anticipated product availability by late this year or early next year. The range of products encompasses gummies, tablets, capsules, tinctures, patches, oils, and other forms allowed by the legislation.

Qualifying patients with medical cannabis cards will be permitted to purchase these products from authorized dispensaries. The medical applications of these products extend to various conditions, including chronic pain, cancer-induced weight loss and nausea, depression, panic disorder, epilepsy, muscle spasms caused by diseases or spinal cord injuries, and PTSD, among others.

Alabama joins 37 other states that have sanctioned medical marijuana, as indicated by the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Source: AL.com

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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.

Since its inception, the Murphy administration has channeled over $40 million into CBVI programs, exemplifying a strong commitment to reducing violence across the state. This year, a significant portion of $5 million has been allocated to the initiative from the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Fund.

In a statement, Governor Murphy highlighted the program’s dedication to eradicating violence-ridden pockets within the state. He expressed gratitude for the unwavering commitment of Attorney General Platkin and his team in creating safer communities through initiatives like CBVI programs.

The CBVI programs concentrate on implementing “interventions and protective activities” in regions where violence is most rampant. Utilizing a public health approach to disrupt cycles of violence, particularly gun violence, these initiatives encompass diverse strategies such as mentoring programs, street outreach, trauma support services, de-escalation training for high-risk individuals, targeted afterschool activities, and vocational training.

Emphasizing the paramount importance of public safety, Attorney General Platkin underscored the administration’s holistic approach, directing support towards community-led violence intervention efforts that operate at the grassroots level. He credited Governor Murphy’s leadership for perpetuating the state’s historic investment in this critical endeavor, ensuring that resources flow to grassroots organizations in alignment with the state’s public safety mission.

Eligible applicants seeking a share of the available funds (up to $750,000) must demonstrate a track record of success in violence intervention work. Applications can be submitted to the Department of Law and Public Safety until September 26, falling within two categories: “Tertiary Prevention” encompasses services like de-escalation, mediation, mentorship, and street outreach teams, while “Primary or Secondary Prevention” targets violence-prone areas with a history of high violence rates.

This marks the third consecutive year of the CBVI funds’ allocation, with the program’s scope expanding to include 31 community organizations statewide. In 2022, the program allocated a portion of $20 million to bolster violence intervention efforts, following the initial offering of $10 million in 2021.

The trend of states utilizing cannabis tax funds for community benefits is not unique to New Jersey. California, for instance, has allocated a portion of its $48 million cannabis tax revenue to support local organizations. This funding aids a range of initiatives such as equity-focused organizations, public health agencies, and youth support programs, reflecting a growing trend in utilizing cannabis revenue for societal betterment.

Furthermore, California’s cannabis tax revenue has fueled various grant programs aimed at community development. Initiatives, such as the Local Jurisdiction Retail Access Grant, have distributed millions to local governments, facilitating the creation of cannabis licensing programs in regions that permit cannabis businesses.

Governor Murphy’s commitment to enhancing public safety was evident in February 2021 when he signed the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act into law, officially legalizing adult-use cannabis. The implementation of adult-use cannabis sales in April 2022 marked a significant milestone, resulting in a surge of licensed cannabis businesses from the initial 13 to 24 within a year.

Sales data from Q3 2022 reported an impressive figure of over $100 million in adult-use cannabis sales. Jeff Brown, Executive Director of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, noted that this is merely the beginning of the state’s cannabis potential. With 36 annual licenses awarded, including 15 for dispensaries, Brown anticipates market growth through increased competition and expanded locations, leading to a broader customer base and potentially more accessible prices.

Recent data from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission highlights the sector’s robust performance, with Q1 2023 recording significant figures of $474,407,516 in recreational cannabis gross receipts and $204,731,182 in medical cannabis gross receipts.

New Jersey’s groundbreaking approach to violence prevention through CBVI programs, fueled by cannabis tax revenue, stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to community safety. By investing in grassroots organizations and innovative strategies, the state continues to pave the way for societal betterment, illustrating the potential for positive change that can arise from effectively utilizing cannabis tax funds.

Source: HighTimes

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South Dakota’s foray into medical cannabis has far exceeded its initial projections, with the issuance of medical cannabis cards doubling the expected numbers. Since the program’s launch in 2021, the South Dakota Department of Health has issued approximately 11,500 medical cannabis cards, significantly surpassing the original projection of 6,000 cards to be issued by 2024.

Jennifer Seale, the administrator of South Dakota’s medical cannabis program, conveyed this remarkable progress to state legislators during her testimony before the Medical Marijuana Oversight Committee. Commenting on the accomplishment, Seale stated, “We’ve doubled the amount that we were projecting to see in three years within two years.” Her statements were reported by the local news outlet South Dakota Searchlight.

This unforeseen surge in medical cannabis card issuance has ignited concerns among committee members regarding the ease with which patients are gaining access to these cards. Fred Deutsch, a Republican state House Representative and a member of the committee, has been vocal about his opposition to recreational marijuana legalization. He has also criticized the perceived lack of safeguards within South Dakota’s medical cannabis program.

Deutsch’s concerns are articulated in his worry that doctors might profit significantly by setting up “Doc in a Box Shop” clinics, undermining the program’s integrity. In his view, the focus should be on ensuring that those genuinely in need have access to medical cannabis while preventing its misuse. Deutsch’s skepticism prompted him to personally obtain a medical cannabis card earlier this year, aiming to showcase how accessible the process is.

In a tweet from June, Deutsch explained his stance: “I support easy access to medical marijuana when doctors and patients follow the law. I now have a medical card because my doctor didn’t follow the law.” During the recent hearing, Deutsch recounted his own experience of obtaining the card, highlighting concerns about the privacy of patient information during the process. He stated that there was a lack of privacy during the consultation and raised concerns about the handling of his medical records.

The issue of “pop-up” medical marijuana clinics, where patients can obtain cards with relative ease, prompted lawmakers to consider two bills aimed at imposing restrictions on such clinics during the state’s legislative session earlier this year. These bills sought to enact changes in cannabis law, including limiting advertisements for prescription services and ensuring a genuine doctor-patient relationship before issuance. However, both bills were rejected by the state Senate Health and Human Services Committee.

In January, South Dakota lawmakers made a significant move by expanding the list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis treatment and transferring the authority to set these conditions from the Department of Health to the state legislature. The expansion of the medical cannabis program came after South Dakota voters approved a ballot measure in 2020, legalizing medical cannabis for eligible patients. Though the law officially came into effect in 2021, state-licensed dispensaries started operating the previous year.

Notably, the 2020 ballot also included a proposal for a constitutional amendment to legalize recreational cannabis. Although the majority of voters supported the amendment, the South Dakota Supreme Court later overturned it. This decision pleased Republican Governor Kristi Noem, who had actively led the effort to challenge the amendment’s legality. Governor Noem emphasized that the court’s decision did not impact the medical cannabis program, reaffirming her commitment to the lawful implementation of the program.

South Dakota’s medical cannabis program has far outpaced initial expectations, issuing double the projected number of medical cannabis cards. While this success underscores the program’s popularity, concerns have emerged regarding the accessibility of medical cannabis cards and the potential for abuse. The state’s legislators continue to grapple with finding the right balance between providing easy access to medical cannabis for those in need and safeguarding against misuse and exploitation of the system.

Source: HighTimes

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