Cannabis
Czech Republic Gives Minimal Info For Upcoming Regulated Market
The news that Germany backtracked on all its plans for a regulated cannabis market in light of not getting EU approval, was a bit of a blow. However, another EU country has its own plans. The Czech Republic is talking about a regulated market, and might now be the first country in the EU to make it happen.
Czech Republic announced plans for regulated weed market in 2022
Last fall, following in the footsteps of Germany and Switzerland, the Czech Republic made its own announcement about legalizing recreational cannabis and opening a regulated market. At the time it seemed the Czech government wanted to make its plans in tandem with its next-door-neighbor Germany.
Last fall, the reports were minimal, with no specific information given about anything. It wasn’t even clear which government agency the announcement came through. The only information given, was the sheer idea to do it. However, it was said that the coalition government was in the midst of drafting legislation, with an expected release date of March 2023. The hope at the time, was to have the market up and running by early 2024.
One of the few pieces of information let out, was that bill draft-writing was under the direction of drug commissioner Jindřich Vobořil, and that according to Vobořil, the idea was to do this in conjunction with Germany. At the time he stated, “We are in contact with our German colleagues, and we have repeatedly confirmed that we want to coordinate by consulting each other on our proposals.”
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However, in terms of doing this with Germany, earlier in April it was reported that Germany would not follow through with its stated idea for a market anytime soon. The EU didn’t approve of the country’s plan. So, what does that now mean for the Czech Republic, and its own ambitions for a regulated market? Perhaps Germany’s move actually brings them closer together.
Czech Republic introduces its plans for a regulated market, sort of…
On April 6th, 2023, it was reported that the Czech Republic announced its own plans for a regulated weed market in the wake of Germany’s failure to have its plans approved by the EU. The Czech cabinet passed a drug strategy plan; although the exact rules of the plan are still to be set. According to Prime Minister Petr Fiala, an ‘expert group’ will be in charge of doing this.
The thing is, this announcement does little more to shed light on what’s going on, than the original announcement last fall. Something was passed, but no details are shared, except for a few vague ones. Like that this new drug strategy is set to run until the end of 2025, and includes as part of it, a regulated recreational cannabis market.
Fiala, in all his vagueness, said this new plan provides a balanced approach, and takes into consideration the needs of a drug policy, along with an eye on the international landscape. He stated that the plan takes into consideration children, and mitigating risks in terms of their access to drugs.
The new plan is not just about cannabis, but is an Addiction Policy Action Plan, that sets regulation for the prevention, use, sale and advertising of many different addictive substances; including alcohol, cigarettes and cannabis; as well as gambling. According to Vobořil, there are five priorities attached to this plan: 1) cannabis policy, 2) taxation, 3) prevention, 4) treatment, and 5) dealing with the EU and any possible repercussions.
Why number 2 and 5 are interesting
The second and fifth points are interesting. In the second, the plan touches on something that every country with legalization policies tends to get excited for: taxes! According to Vobořil, there will be new taxes for addictive substances, with the thought this could generate up to CZK 15 billion ($702.2 million) yearly for the country. The cannabis market is estimated to bring in an additional four billion extra on its own.
One must wonder when looking at such statements, if the government is actually paying attention to what’s currently happening with legal markets now. Depending on how inflated that number is, the country might be very let down by this prediction in the end; especially considering its high rate of usage now, which is entirely dependent on a thriving black market.
The last point is also interesting, and likely a reason for the lack of hard information provided. Unless we find out this is really just a club setup, we know the Czech Republic will have to deal with the EU in the same way Germany did. Perhaps the quietness is simply so as not to make statements it might have to go back on. We don’t know yet if the Czech Republic plans to bend to EU laws, or go off on its own.
The plan only passed the cabinet thus far. Another probable reason we aren’t told much, is likely because the plan must clear both sides of the county’s parliament, and obtain a sign-off from the president, which might lead to major changes in the process. Essentially, these are early stages, and given the issues that Germany had in making big announcements, and not living up to them; perhaps it bodes well for the Czech Republic to keep the details on the down low for now.
While some publications are proclaiming in headlines that the revised policy allows for things like buying up to five grams a day; that information was not released. As tends to be the case with headlines meant to grab attention, these articles are just speculating based on past statements.
What’s the current state of cannabis in Czech Republic
Considering it doesn’t have recreational cannabis, the Czech Republic is still one of the more easygoing countries in terms of cannabis regulation. The country passed a decriminalization policy in 2010, which allows the possession of up to 10 grams, and the cultivation of up to five plants. If a person has more than these amounts, but just for personal use, they can incur a civil fine up to CZK 15,000, but usually not this much. Jail time of up to one year is also possible for some offenses.
The above information is for minor infractions. For things like sales or trafficking, a person can be imprisoned for 2-10 years, though the minimum of two years is actually a requirement. The maximum sentence goes up to 18 years for the most extreme crimes, and cannot go above that limit. If traffickers aren’t making a significant income, they might get out of heavier punishments with a suspended sentence, or something in that realm.
Since 2013, the Czech Republic has allowed medical cannabis, with sales through pharmacies if the person has a doctor’s prescription. Medical patients are legally entitled to up to 180 grams of dry flower per month. This program pushed the Czech Republic into growing its own weed, as in the beginning the industry ran off of imports only.
The Czech Republic has something in common with Switzerland which sets it apart from the rest of the EU: it allows 1% THC in industrial cannabis products, rather than the .2% (now .3%) allowable by the EU. Perhaps this little difference says a lot about the country and what we can expect. If the Czech Republic was willing to go up against the EU for this, it might also be willing to go up against the EU in terms of opening a recreational market.
However, it should be remembered that back when announcements were first made last year, that Vobořil indicated a different less divisive direction via Facebook post. In terms of working with Germany he said, “My colleagues in Germany are talking about permitted quantities, and they don’t have the cannabis clubs that we foresee. I certainly want to hold the cannabis clubs until my last breath. This model seems very useful to me, at least for the first few years.” This might be the best indication for what we should expect moving forward.
Conclusion
When it really comes to news, this story is hardly worth covering, because practically no new news is offered. What we can see is that the Czech Republic is charging ahead with its own plans for a recreational market, whatever they are. And though it sounds like the country is aware of needing to deal with the EU, its also quite likely that the plans its working to establish, might not attempt to break with EU mandate. Stay tuned to life to find out.
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Sunday is Mother’s Day – the day mom are celebrated for all the extra effort they do to make kids life special. First celebrated in 1907, it became official in the US in 1914 and Canada in 1915. Between the two countries, spending is expected to reach an all-time high of $35.7 billion this year. Some of it will be enjoyed, some may not. Here are the 5 best Mom’s love language gifts (and one might be weed!).
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This love language is all about verbal acknowledgments of affection, compliments, words of appreciation and encouragement.
Words of Affirmation
Try a special way to tell her you love her. Make a book (easy to do online) of special pictures of the two of you. Write her a letter about what she means to you. You can get her favorite podcast host or even reality TV star to send her a special Mother’s Day shoutout (check out Cameo and all the celebrities they have available). Or consider compiling a video from all the kids and family answer the question ‘why we love you.’
Receiving Gifts
These people enjoy receiving gifts and symbols of love. Monetary value is usually not important but more so the thought and reflection behind the gift.
You can spoil her with luxury and a gift she would never buy herself. While gifts don’t need to be expensive, treat her to something luxurious that you know she wouldn’t want to spend the money on for herself. Think of what she loves and work around it. Gift cards for books, music, travel, etc can show you want her to enjoy life.
Another thing, what about giving a gift which could help their sleep, mental health or manage pain. A gummy or edible would be a perfect gift. Maybe a CBD cream which could help with muscle soreness?
Quality Time
People who enjoy this love language want someone to spend uninterrupted time with them, make plans and be fully present in their conversations during these times. Give a gift of an all-inclusive day. Give a Saturday which could include brunch, a walk, and more.
Gift a unique experience. Anyone can plan brunch or a wine tasting but what about surprising mom with something special. Some ideas include a picnic or colorful charcuterie board with all her favorite foods, a self-portrait session or a local food tour.
Acts of Service
This love language includes doing favors or taking the burden off the person you are showing love to. Will cook a special meal, take them a car trip, doing garden together, anything which your Mom would love to do.
Touch
These people feel loved when they receive physical signs of affection, including kissing, holding hands, and cuddling, to name a few.
Spoil her with a gift that will make her senses go crazy. While a spa day may seem obvious here and certainly fits the bill, you can also try something unique such as dance classes or something to make her feel extra cozy such as a weighted blanket, robe or new luxury sheets.
There are many new and fun ways to spoil mom this year. Take it to the next level this time around by considering what will make them feel most loved.
The Northern Lights are a visual treat for your eyes and mind – can marijuana make it a bit better?
It isn’t common for them to have a widespread show for millions in Canada and the US. The mesmerizing visuals are captivating…but can cannabis enhance the Northern Lights? NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center shared during the last solar activity of this magnitude, you can could see the lights as far south as Alabama and northern California. Viewers have a chance on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.
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Northern lights, or the aurora borealis, are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth’s upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph). Earth’s magnetic field protects us but gives us a show. Our magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles (yes, there are Southern Lights). The process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike.
Marijuana has a rich history of enhancing music, movies and other visual and audio activities. So it would make watching the rare occasion even better. But dosage and timing are key – and maybe add some music to lose yourself in the experience.
The central nervous system is activated when we are stimulated with music and visuals. Cannabinoid receptors are a prominent receptors. With cannabis, CB1 receptors become hyperactive, affecting sensation. It also improves current attention, preventing memory seeking with concentrates your brain on the art, making it appear more fresh and intriguing. It is no wonder there is a strain named after the Northern lights.
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Considering how rare you have the chance to see the Northern Lights? Why not go all out. And sciences seems to indicate found people seemed to process sensations more effectively when high. It could make for a stronger memory of the experience.
The term Bridezilla started in the mid 90s and, by now, many people have seen the unfortunate cross between a bride and Godzilla in person. TicTok, Redditt and other social media are full of horror stories. And the newer phrase in the Mozilla who wants to recreate the event in her image. And this isn’t to mention other drama which can wrap around the event. According to a bride’s study, 71% believe planning a wedding is more stressful than finding a new job. Maybe marijuana gummies can make weddings easier?
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Most brides and some grooms have a a concept of their ideal day, and the want the whole event to be perfect. Unfortunately, rarely is anything perfect and you have to roll with mishaps and be in the moment. It also involves, for most people who don’t handle complex events or tasks, a large amount of decisions, energy, and money. It can be overwhelming and not everyone can rise above with a gracious outlook. Low dosages of marijuana can help reduce the “heat” of the process.
A key reason marijuana gummies can help is it can reduce the anxiety. With gummies you can have a low dosage and slow roll so you can be productive, focused and calm while dealing with details, decisions, the wedding party and potential in-laws. THC bring a soothing calm by reducing the activity of the sympathetic nervous system. The nervous system induces a “fight-or-flight” response during stressful situations. Somewhere around 2.5-5 mg during the process can make months or weeks of planning bearable, even if others are not.
Additionally, it is far better for your body (and maintaining a wedding photo body, than alcohol). If unfamiliar with cannabis, it is much less addictive than alcohol, And alcohol use can result in significant and potentially fatal physical withdrawal, whereas marijuana has not been found to produce any symptoms of physical withdrawal.
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There are thousands of stories about weddings which went wrong due to over stressed wedding party members. A little gummy can keep make the planning stage easier and the day of the event much more calm and way more fun.
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