Cannabis News
24 Illegal Weed Shops for Every 1 Legal Dispensary
In 2024, after three years of ups and downs, New York’s recreational cannabis market began to gain momentum, notably marked by the opening of approximately 50 licensed dispensaries so far this year.
However, these licensed retailers, totaling about 85, find themselves vastly outnumbered by over 2,000 unauthorized head shops. These establishments have drawn complaints for diverting customers, selling to minors, and attracting criminal activity.
This swift and audacious incursion has left many frustrated with the government’s slower and more stringent approach to expanding the legal market. It has emerged as the primary challenge confronting the rollout, as authorities grapple with fulfilling the state’s pledge to provide a $5 billion market to a range of small businesses and individuals adversely affected by past anti-marijuana policies.
“There needs to be swift action on this,” remarked James Stephenson, co-founder and CEO of oHHo, a wellness brand reliant on dispensaries for distributing its cannabis-infused chocolates, gummies, and seltzers. “There can’t be one group adhering to the rules while others operate outside of them.”
Sure, here are some suggested titles for the subheading sections:
Challenges in Dispensary Rollout
As illicit shops proliferated, the opening of legal dispensaries hit a snag, with months-long delays due to lawsuits, the intricate rule-making process, and the state’s failure to fulfil its commitment to fund the leasing and refurbishing of the initial 150 licensed dispensaries. Currently, only 10 stores are operational with state assistance, while another 375 dispensaries, licensed for nine months or longer, remain closed.
Governor Kathy Hochul, expressing growing dissatisfaction, recently initiated a review of the Office of Cannabis Management, the entity overseeing the rollout. Additionally, she proposed legislation to empower local authorities to crack down on unlicensed shops and landlords complicit in their operations. Furthermore, she introduced a bill to reduce taxes that inflate the prices of legal cannabis products, a move widely supported in the State Legislature.
The review commenced shortly after Damian Fagon, the cannabis agency’s chief social equity officer, was placed on administrative leave pending a misconduct investigation. This action followed allegations by Jenny Argie, the founder of a licensed cannabis business, accusing Fagon of retaliation after she recorded a conversation with him, subsequently cited in an article criticizing the agency.
Argie subsequently filed a lawsuit against the state, joining a slew of legal challenges against the agency. These include allegations that the state’s social equity policies unfairly favor women and minorities over white men, and efforts to halt the use of lotteries in determining the order of new application consideration. Other lawsuits contest decisions regarding dispensary locations and oppose the use of taxpayer funds to support them.
Chris Alexander, the executive director of the state cannabis agency, has stood by his agency’s deliberate and systematic approach to licensing businesses owned by a diverse array of individuals, which regulators believe can thrive in a notoriously challenging industry. He highlights the shortcomings experienced by states that rushed their processes. Additionally, officials express frustration that the criticisms of the rollout have overshadowed the accomplishments made in the two years since the agency’s inception.
Licensed Dispensaries vs. Illicit Market
New York currently boasts more licensed recreational dispensaries than any other state on the East Coast, second only to Massachusetts. These establishments are owned by individuals with diverse backgrounds, including those with criminal records, veterans, women, nonprofits, and individuals of Black, Latino, and Asian descent. These dispensaries have significantly contributed to job creation in a retail sector grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic, alleviated the state’s surplus of unsold cannabis, and generated substantial tax revenue, amounting to millions of dollars. Many of these businesses are profitable and expanding, with numerous newcomers on the brink of breaking even.
Despite these achievements, licensed dispensaries face challenges in attracting consumers away from illicit shops, as many consumers are unaware or indifferent to the distinction between licensed and unlicensed establishments. In the first full year of legal sales, state-licensed dispensaries in New York generated approximately $150 million, considerably less than the $673 million generated by dispensaries in New Jersey, where recreational sales commenced eight months prior.
Unlike New Jersey and Massachusetts, which permitted medical dispensaries to transition into recreational sales, New York initially prioritized retail licenses for individuals with criminal records and only recently allowed medical dispensaries to serve the public. Critics, including some supporters, argue that this decision exposed the program to legal challenges, leading to delays in the rollout while the illicit market flourished.
With limited avenues to sell their products, cannabis farmers in New York are facing financial hardships amidst an expanding market.
During a recent Cannabis Control Board meeting in Brooklyn, the first since the governor ordered a review, several applicants and licensees expressed their frustrations. Some defended the regulators, acknowledging the daunting task of developing the industry with insufficient resources.
Reform Efforts and Support Initiatives
The board passed a resolution that exempts new licensing fees for those wishing to continue cultivation for the state or establish craft businesses.
Damien Cornwell, president of the Cannabis Association of New York, which advocated for the exemption, argued that the fees, reaching as high as $40,000, pose a significant barrier for farmers. Many have depleted their funds on taxes while awaiting payment from retailers for product orders.
“They’re cash-strapped,” remarked Mr. Cornwell, who also operates a dispensary named Just Breathe in Binghamton. “Their liquidity is insufficient for this endeavor.”
Despite numerous raids by local and state authorities on illicit stores, hefty fines and pressure on landlords to evict unlicensed businesses, these retailers persist undeterred. They often reopen shortly after raids and contest fines through lengthy administrative hearings.
In addition to Governor Hochul’s proposals for enforcement and tax reform, state legislators are considering measures to provide financial aid to struggling farmers and safeguard a special licensing program for individuals with prior marijuana-related convictions from legal challenges. New York City prosecutors are also seeking expanded authority to evict shops involved in the marketing and sale of cannabis.
“I want an effective system,” stated Jeremy Cooney, a state senator from Rochester and chairman of the cannabis subcommittee.
Pilar DeJesus, a housing activist and advocate for cannabis legalization, emphasized that the state should offer more assistance to individuals adversely affected by anti-cannabis policies in establishing legal businesses.
The demand for such support has surged. Last autumn, the Office of Cannabis Management received 7,000 license applications, with approximately 4,800 applicants qualifying for mandated loans and grants. These funds are designed to aid businesses owned by low-income individuals with previous arrests, as well as by women, minorities, veterans, and struggling farmers.
While the Office of Cannabis Management offers some reimbursement to organizations aiding applicants, Ms DeJesus argued for increased funding directed towards grassroots organizations already assisting in developing the necessary skills for operating businesses in the cannabis industry.
“We’re talking about a range of skill sets that the community lacks due to barriers created by the war on drugs,” she emphasized.
Bottom Line
New York’s cannabis industry faces significant hurdles as it navigates the challenges of legalization. Despite progress in licensing dispensaries, the proliferation of illicit shops remains a pressing concern, highlighting the need for swift regulatory action. Governor Kathy Hochul’s proposed reforms and support initiatives signal a commitment to addressing these issues, but substantial work lies ahead to ensure the industry’s equitable and sustainable growth. Collaboration between regulators, legislators, advocates, and industry stakeholders will be crucial in overcoming obstacles and realizing the full potential of New York’s cannabis market.
NEW YORK TRIES TO SHUT DOWN ILLEGAL WEED SHOPS, READ ON…
NY TRIES TO SHUT DOWN ILLEGAL CANNABIS SHOPS, GOOD LUCK SAYS CA!
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
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