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Marijuana Legalization Will Most Likely Happen in 2033

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cannabis legalization in 2033?

Have you come across the latest eye-opening Forbes article that estimates it would take another 10 years to legalize cannabis at the federal level? It’s disheartening but not entirely surprising, considering the current political landscape. Let me give you a glimpse of what the article reveals about the state of cannabis legalization:

 

Neither President Joe Biden nor any other major declared candidate, including former President Donald Trump, has shown strong support for cannabis. In fact, Trump’s first attorney general, Jeff Sessions, reversed Obama-era protections for the industry, and Trump himself once advocated for executing drug dealers. Even former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who opposed cannabis legalization and referred to tax revenue from marijuana sales as “blood money,” has softened his stance but still opposes full legalization. And Robert F. Kennedy Jr., although advocating for decriminalization, stops short of supporting complete legalization.

 

Considering this scenario, if Biden were to win the 2024 presidential election, we might not see significant reform until 2029, at the earliest. But let’s be honest, Biden’s track record during his first four years in office doesn’t inspire confidence. He fired staffers and made hollow gestures, such as pardoning individuals for “possession only” crimes that rarely result in federal prison sentences. Despite overwhelming support for cannabis reform, there was no substantial progress from his so-called “majority held democratic government.” It’s truly disappointing.

 

Then there’s Trump, who seems to have a penchant for adopting the extreme measures of countries like the Philippines, advocating for executing drug dealers. DeSantis, on the other hand, outright rejects cannabis legalization. And the rest of the politicians? Well, they hardly seem to matter. The truth is, all these candidates have their flaws and skeletons in the closet.

 

But we must not forget that these politicians are merely puppets, carefully chosen and groomed by mega corporations like BlackRock, Lockheed, Pfizer, and others. It’s essentially a beauty pageant orchestrated by the corporate giants. And here’s the crux of the matter: it’s not in the interest of these mega corporations to support cannabis legalization.

 

Wait…Mega Corps don’t want cannabis legal?

 

Why would these corporate behemoths be against something as seemingly harmless as cannabis?

 

The answer lies in the fact that mind-expanding substances disrupt the programming of authoritarian regimes. Such substances challenge the status quo and encourage critical thinking, which in turn undermines the control they seek to maintain.

 

Remember the infamous MK Ultra experiments conducted by the CIA? They claimed that cannabis had the potential to disrupt their mind control techniques.

 

You see, these mega corporations thrive on a population of good, obedient citizens who adhere to the narrative of “You will own nothing and be happy.”

They profit from wars, environmental pollution, materialism, and the pursuit of external goals that keep people trapped in a cycle of consumption.

 

Psychedelics and drugs like cannabis shift the focus away from these objectives and redirect it toward more meaningful experiences: connecting with others, engaging with nature, and exploring the depths of one’s consciousness.

 

In essence, cannabis challenges the very foundations on which these corporate giants have built their empires. It empowers individuals to question authority, to seek alternative paths, and to challenge the status quo. And that is precisely why they fear its legalization.

 

Now of course, this isn’t as black and white as I’m laying out here and there is no “official stance”. I think this is where most people who deal with “conspiracies” get it wrong.

 

What everyone gets wrong about conspiracies…

 

The fact of the matter is that it’s not a singular organization of likeminded elites that are plotting the destruction and enslavement of humankind. Rather, it’s a group of cartels, all competing for their own interests and at times, they make alliances when it serves their best interests.

 

If I were to break down the “influential” groups of the world, I would say they are divided as follows:

 

  1. Military Industrial Complex – Companies that make profit when people are murdering each other with their weapons.

  2. Pharma Industry – Industries that make money when you are sick, meaning they are incentivized that you remain sick.

  3. Banking Cartels – They spend your money and then get bailed out when they “lose it”, they will also give you “free money” as a means of trapping you into the hell of perpetual debt.

  4. Tech Companies – They farm your data, create algorithms to influence your choices, and are largely servants to the other industries. However, they too have their own agendas.

  5. Food Industry – They will literally feed you poison and call it food.

 

Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg and it isn’t that any of these industries are inherently “evil”, except maybe the Pharma Industry, which even is mentioned in the book of Revelations in the Bible:

 

“all nations were deceived by your sorcery,” where the Greek word for “sorcery” here is pharmakia.

 

Now, some of the scholars would argue that pharmakia actually means sorcery, and that sorcery is defined as; the use of power gained from the assistance or control of evil spirits especially for divining

 

But here’s a summary of the pharmacological definition of “spirits”:

 

Spirits are alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solutions of volatile substances. They can contain a greater concentration of aromatic or volatile substances than corresponding aromatic waters. Some spirits are used as flavoring agents to impart the flavor of their solute to other pharmaceutical preparations. For medicinal purposes, spirits may be taken orally, applied externally, or used by inhalation, depending on the particular preparation. Reduction of the high alcoholic content of spirits by admixture with aqueous preparations often causes turbidity. The spirits of the British Pharmacopoeia are solutions of various substances obtained either by distilling these with, or dissolving them in, the rectified spirit of the Pharmacopoeia, which latter is pure alcohol with 16% by weight of water.4 Rectified spirit, also known as neutral spirits, rectified alcohol or ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin, is highly concentrated ethanol that has been purified by means of repeated distillation in a process called rectification.

 

In other words, “spirits = booze” and what is more evil than “The Devil’s Juice”.

 

Okay – yes, this is a stretch…but it’s fun. Nonetheless, Big Pharma, as they are often referred to might not be the Biblical incarnation of evil on this planet – however, one cannot deny that they are fundamentally evil.

 

Not only has Pfizer the largest settlement for corporate corruption on the planet, they have a rich history of putting profits over people. They themselves don’t actually create much, they simply buy out smaller pharma businesses and push drugs. They also sponsor all major media outlets and pay billions of dollars to “lobbying”.

 

These are people that have zero interest in legalizing drugs because – they are drug dealers and have a sweet deal.

 

They get to use the full force of the United States justice department to snuff out competitors, while they have the sole rights to produce and mass distribute drugs…all over the world. They lose about $10 billion dollars in every market that legalizes cannabis, and if psychedelics become a human right – and people can start taking mushrooms to treat their depression…they will surely crumble.

 

Cannabis legalization for them, is the first step in the inevitable decline of their hold on humanity. They may claim that they want weed as a medicine…but since everyone with dirt, water, and sun could grow it – they wouldn’t be able to milk humanity for everything it has because everyone would be able to grow their own medicine instead.

 

Why take years of Pharma Drugs for treating your PTSD, when 2 mushroom sessions could fix you and get you back on your feet? This is how Pharma thinks…and they own your politicians.

 

What about War?

 

Part of the reason why cannabis is illegal is because of Anti-War Protests.

 

The fact of the matter is that pot smokers don’t want war…they want peace. They want to enjoy life, they want to get along with their people. They are more tolerant of others, they don’t necessarily push their beliefs on others.

 

War and cannabis are two concepts that simply don’t mix.

 

These two realms of human existence exist on opposite ends of the spectrum, with war representing conflict, destruction, and aggression, while cannabis symbolizes peace, harmony, and introspection. The stark contrast between the two makes it abundantly clear why they are incompatible.

 

War is driven by a mentality of dominance, fueled by aggression and a thirst for power. It breeds violence, suffering, and the loss of innocent lives. The very nature of war revolves around the destruction of individuals, families, communities, and entire nations. It is a force that tears apart societies and leaves a trail of devastation in its wake.

 

On the other hand, cannabis promotes a sense of tranquility, empathy, and interconnectedness. Its effects are often described as soothing, relaxing, and capable of fostering a sense of unity among individuals. Cannabis has been used for centuries in various cultures as a means to facilitate introspection, promote creativity, and encourage a peaceful outlook on life.

 

The use of cannabis during war would be a contradiction in itself. It would be inconceivable for soldiers, armed with weapons and operating in high-stress environments, to consume a substance that induces relaxation and introspection. The heightened state of alertness and aggression required in combat situations is incompatible with the effects of cannabis, which tend to promote calmness and introspection.

 

Furthermore, war is fueled by ideologies that thrive on division and dehumanization, while cannabis encourages empathy, understanding, and a sense of connection with others. The use of cannabis has often been associated with a desire for peace, unity, and the dissolution of boundaries.

 

As your stoner buddies what they think about the War in Ukraine, and you’ll quickly realize that none of them are banging the war drums. It’s another reason why the military doesn’t want their soldiers to take part of drugs in any manner…free thinking people are incompatible with a regime that requires absolute obedience.

 

But the banks want it legal…

 

And this is where I’m pointing out that it’s not a singular organization running things. The banking cartels have been accepting money from drug cartels for decades. They don’t care, as long as people pump money in their direction, they will do business.

 

he history of banks engaging in illicit financial activities with drug cartels and terrorist organizations reveals a dark underbelly of the global financial system. Institutions like HSBC and others have been embroiled in scandals, exposing their complicit role in facilitating money laundering and providing financial services to criminal entities. These cases shed light on the inherent moral ambiguity of banks, which prioritize profit over ethical considerations.

 

One notable example is the case of HSBC, one of the world’s largest banking institutions.

 

In 2012, HSBC reached a settlement with the U.S. government, agreeing to pay a record-breaking $1.9 billion fine for its involvement in money laundering schemes. The bank had knowingly allowed drug cartels and other criminal organizations to launder billions of dollars through its system. This revelation not only tarnished the reputation of HSBC but also exposed the systemic flaws that allowed such illicit activities to persist within the banking industry.

 

It is important to recognize that banks, as profit-driven entities, are primarily concerned with their bottom line. Their primary objective is to maximize financial gains and attract lucrative clients. In the pursuit of profits, some banks have turned a blind eye to the origins of the funds they handle, enabling drug cartels and terrorist organizations to move money across borders and finance their illicit activities.

 

This is also evidence that there isn’t “one illuminati” but rather, many “illuminati-like organizations” that come together and plot for their own personal gain. We know that the elites of these industries come together annually to discuss our fates – but let me tell you that legalizing cannabis isn’t part of it!

 

The Sticky Bottom Line

 

Why is it going to take 10 years to legalize? Because the government doesn’t serve you!

 

Renowned comedian George Carlin once delivered a thought-provoking monologue that dissected the notion of a “club” existing among the elite. In his biting commentary, Carlin exposed the disconnect between those in power and the general population, highlighting how the government often fails to serve the interests of the people. This sentiment resonates strongly when we consider the sluggish progress toward cannabis legalization in the United States, despite overwhelming public support.

 

Carlin’s monologue cleverly highlighted the existence of a privileged club, a group of individuals who hold significant influence and power.

 

He emphasized that this club, comprised of politicians, corporate leaders, and other elites, operates with its own set of rules and privileges. Carlin’s poignant words shed light on the reality that everyday citizens, the majority, are not part of this exclusive club and, therefore, lack the benefits and considerations bestowed upon its members.

 

Now, let’s consider the case of cannabis legalization. Numerous surveys and polls consistently show that a significant majority, close to 80%, of the general population in the United States supports the legalization of cannabis in some form.

 

Yet, despite this overwhelming public sentiment, progress toward federal legalization remains frustratingly slow. The disparity between public opinion and legislative action highlights a fundamental flaw in the system—a government that claims to serve the people but often falls short of doing so.

 

The continued resistance to cannabis legalization, despite its widespread support, suggests that the government is more concerned with preserving the status quo and serving the interests of powerful entities than truly representing the will of the people. It becomes evident that in this scenario, the people themselves are not the ones being served but rather treated as commodities, products to be sold and manipulated for the benefit of a select few.

 

The only question now is – are you still going to play a game rigged against you?

 

WHEN WILL WEED BE LEGAL, READ ON…

CANNABIS LEGALIZATION WILL BE IN ...

THIS IS WHEN WEED WILL BE LEGALIZED, SAVE THIS DATE!



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Wet Marijuana – How Do You Dry Out Your Wet Stash?

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marijuana gets wet what can you do

Whether you bought your cannabis or dried it yourself, there’s a good chance it got wet accidently. This might have happened by mistake or because the cannabis was washed purposely to eliminate contaminants and enhance its flavor. Regardless, it’s disheartening to devote time, money, or effort just to wind up with a useless product. But do not worry—there are solutions.

 

There is a narrow line between slightly moist buds and perfect stickiness, which some people prefer.

 

If your cannabis squishes when lightly squeezed, it’s likely overly damp. Buds should feel somewhat sticky because to the resin (which contains the cannabinoids), but they should bounce back slightly when squeezed rather than crush.

 

Wet cannabis may seem sticky, but it will not adhere to your fingertips. You’re seeking for buds with a honey-coated texture, comparable to baklava. If they feel wet or spongy, you have a problem.

 

Common Issues With Wet Cannabis

 

Difficult to Light 

It’s no surprise that wet cannabis is hard to ignite. If you can’t light it, you can’t smoke it.

 

Mold Risk 

Excess moisture, as explained in *How to Dry and Cure Cannabis*, complicates pot storage and can lead to mold. Smoking moldy cannabis is risky because it contains germs and fungus that can harm your respiratory system and increase your risk of pneumonia.

 

Bad Taste

If you somehow manage to smoke damp weed, it won’t taste great. It’s like smoking uncured cannabis—definitely not pleasant.

 

The Risks Of  Wet Weed

 

While smoking wet pot is not always harmful to your health, the length of time the bud remains wet can make a significant effect. A damp atmosphere is ideal for mould, fungus, and bacteria. So, if you keep your cannabis wet for too long, you may get more than you bargained for. Smoking mouldy cannabis can cause headaches, lung issues, and even pneumonia. As a result, if your weed became wet, it is safer to dry it straight away.

 

Regardless of whatsoever drying method you use, it is critical to examine your marijuana for mold before and after drying. If it has a nasty odor—like leftovers from last week—or if you notice something clearly growing on it, it’s better to toss it away. Now let’s look at what you can do if your marijuana becomes moist.

 

How to Dry Out Wet Cannabis

 

To save your damp weed, dry it out with moisture-absorbing ways. Whether you’re a grower who didn’t properly cure it, it got caught in the rain, you inadvertently spilled something on it, or it’s just unusually humid outdoors, there are several reasons why your cannabis may be storing too much moisture. Fortunately, there are several solutions to the problem.

 

Rice Drying Method

If you’ve ever spilled a drink on your phone, you’re probably familiar with this trick. It turns out uncooked rice isn’t just for saving electronics—it can help with wet weed, too. Place your wet buds in a bowl or bag, then cover them completely with dry rice.

 

The rice will draw out the excess moisture, helping your buds return to their ideal state. Depending on how wet your weed is, leave it in the rice for at least 24 hours. If it’s still damp when you check, give it another day. Just make sure to seal the container, and let the rice do the work!

 

Put a Paper Over the Problem

If your marijuana became wet, don’t worry—you can easily repair it with a paper bag. Simply place your moist buds in a closed paper bag and store them somewhere cool and dry. If you have a dehumidifier, now is an excellent time to utilize it. The paper bag circulates air while protecting your blooms from trichome-damaging light.

 

To increase moisture absorption, wrap your cannabis with paper towels before placing it in the bag. The paper towels will help absorb the extra wetness. Replace the towels and rotate your weed every several hours, checking for mold. This also helps to remove any trapped dampness from the bag.

 

Revive Your Damp Weed

If you’re a grower, you’re no stranger to the challenges of battling moisture and mold. After a successful harvest, properly curing your buds is essential. The same curing tools can also help remove moisture from buds that have become too damp. If your weed is fully soaked, start with the rice method. But if it’s just a bit moist, try placing a humidipak in your airtight container.

 

Avoid Cutting Corners

It’s tempting to use heat to hasten the drying process of damp weed. Ultimately, you most likely want to smoke it as soon as possible. It’s important to avoid shortcuts that utilize heat or light, though.

 

Your weed’s quality can be diminished by using a blow dryer, an oven, or leaving it outside in the sun. Terpenes and cannabinoids are broken down by light and heat, which lessens their taste and efficacy. You might lose strength in the process of gaining time. Furthermore, you run the danger of over-drying your buds, which makes for a harsher, less pleasurable smoke.

 

Moisture Prevention: Proper Weed Storage

 

Wet weed can be unpleasant at best, and downright destructive at worst (hello, mold!). While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to prevent excess moisture from ruining your stash. The key is to keep it in the Goldilocks zone—not too wet, not too dry. Freshness starts with proper storage. Keep your cannabis in an airtight container, stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Simple, right?

 

Mason jars are a solid option, but for optimal care, consider investing in a specialized container like the CVault. It’s airtight, blocks light, and comes with a humidipak to keep your weed fresh longer. Just avoid plastic baggies—you’re a cannabis enthusiast, and dime bags are a thing of the past.

 

Bottom Line

 

If your cannabis gets wet, it’s crucial to act quickly to dry it out to avoid mold and maintain quality. Use methods like the rice drying technique or paper bag with paper towels to absorb moisture. Avoid using heat sources as they can degrade the weed’s quality. Proper storage in airtight containers and maintaining a cool, dry environment will help prevent future moisture issues. Always check for mold and other contaminants before consuming. By following these steps, you can preserve your cannabis’s flavor and potency.

 

GOT SOME WEED WEED, READ ON…

WET CANNABIS IDEAS

TIPS TO GET YOUR MARIJUANA STASH DRY, WHAT TO DO FIRST!



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What Product Created $8,700,000,000 in Tax Revenue for States in Just 36 Months?

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marijuana taxes in 36 months

The legalization of cannabis has transformed the economic landscape of many states across the United States. New federal data reveals that since 2021, states have collectively collected over $8.7 billion in marijuana taxes. This figure not only highlights the financial potential of legalized cannabis but also reflects changing public attitudes toward marijuana use and its regulation. As more states embrace legalization, understanding the implications of this revenue generation becomes crucial for policymakers, businesses, and communities alike.

 

The Landscape of Cannabis Legalization in the U.S.

The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been long and complex. Cannabis was criminalized in the early 20th century, with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively prohibiting its use and distribution. However, attitudes began to shift in the late 20th century, with California becoming the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996.

 

The momentum continued to build, culminating in Colorado and Washington becoming the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012. Since then, a wave of legalization has swept across the nation, with 21 states and the District of Columbia now allowing recreational use.

 

Current Legal Status of cannabis legalization in the  U.S

 

As of September 2024, a total of 21 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while a dozen more permit medical use. The regulatory frameworks vary significantly from state to state, influencing tax structures, sales practices, and usage regulations. Some states have opted for high taxes on cannabis sales as a means to generate revenue, while others have focused on creating a more accessible market for consumers.

 

Tax Revenue Breakdown

 

 Overview of Revenue Generation

 

According to recent federal data, states have amassed over $8.7 billion in marijuana tax revenue since 2021. This revenue comes from various sources, including excise taxes, sales taxes, and licensing fees imposed on cannabis businesses. The breakdown of this revenue is essential for understanding how different states are capitalizing on legalization.

 

  • Excise Taxes: These are taxes imposed directly on the sale of cannabis products. States like California and Colorado have implemented excise taxes that can range from 15% to 30%, depending on local regulations.

 

 

  • Licensing Fees: States also collect significant revenue through licensing fees charged to cannabis growers, manufacturers, and retailers. These fees can be substantial and contribute to the overall financial picture.

 

State Contributions

 

California: The Leader

 

California remains at the forefront of marijuana tax revenue generation. Since legalizing recreational cannabis in January 2018, the state has collected over $3 billion in taxes alone. The state’s complex tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on retail sales and additional local taxes that can vary widely by municipality.

 

The revenue generated has been earmarked for various public services:

 

 

 

Colorado: A Model for Success

 

Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana and has since become a model for other states looking to implement similar legislation. Since legalization, Colorado has generated over $2 billion in tax revenue from cannabis sales.

 

The state’s tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on wholesale transactions and a 2.9% state sales tax that applies to all retail sales. Local jurisdictions can impose additional taxes as well.

 

Colorado has utilized its cannabis tax revenue for various purposes:

 

 

 

Illinois: Rapid Growth

 

Illinois is another state that has seen rapid growth in marijuana tax revenue since legalizing recreational use in January 2020. In just over three years, Illinois has collected more than $1 billion in cannabis taxes.

 

The state imposes a tiered excise tax based on THC content:

 

 

 

Illinois has directed its cannabis revenue toward social equity programs aimed at addressing historical injustices related to drug enforcement policies.

 

Economic Impact Beyond Tax Revenue

 

 

Legalizing marijuana has led to substantial job growth across various sectors. As of early 2024, nearly 15,000 cannabis dispensaries operate in the U.S., employing an estimated 93,000 workers. This includes roles in cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail. Additionally, the industry stimulates job creation in ancillary sectors like software development, accounting, and construction. The cannabis sector is projected to grow further, potentially increasing legal cannabis jobs by 250% over the next decade.

 

 

The burgeoning cannabis industry presents numerous business opportunities for entrepreneurs. The market has attracted significant investment, leading to the establishment of various businesses ranging from cultivation facilities to dispensaries and ancillary services. In 2022, consumers spent approximately $30 billion on legal marijuana products, surpassing expenditures on chocolate and craft beer. This consumer spending not only benefits cannabis businesses but also generates substantial tax revenue for states.

 

 

Cannabis tax revenue often supports local communities by funding essential services. For instance, Colorado has allocated millions from cannabis taxes toward education and homelessness services. This redistribution of wealth enhances community welfare and infrastructure.

 

 

Legalization also reduces the costs associated with enforcing drug laws. States can reallocate funds previously used for law enforcement to other community programs, further amplifying the positive economic impacts.

 

 Long-term Economic Growth

 

As the cannabis industry matures, it is expected to contribute significantly to overall economic growth. Projections indicate that the total economic impact of the cannabis industry could reach nearly $150 billion by 2026, underscoring its potential as a major economic driver in the U.S.

 

Community Benefits

 

Beyond economic metrics, communities are experiencing benefits from legalized marijuana:

 

 

 

 

Challenges Ahead

 

Despite the positive economic impacts associated with marijuana legalization, several challenges remain:

 

  1. Federal Regulations

One significant hurdle is the ongoing federal prohibition of marijuana. While many states have legalized its use, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This creates complications for banking and taxation:

 

 

  1. Social Equity Concerns

 

As states continue to generate substantial revenues from legalized marijuana, there is growing concern about social equity:

 

 

 

 

  1. Market Saturation

 

As more states legalize marijuana and existing markets expand, there is potential for market saturation:

 

 

 

Prospective Developments

As more states legalize recreational marijuana, tax revenues are expected to continue rising. With 37 states and Washington, D.C., having legalized some form of cannabis by 2024, the potential for increased tax revenue is significant. Experts estimate that nationwide legalization could generate up to $8.5 billion annually for all states. This growth will likely be driven by expanding markets and consumer acceptance, as well as the introduction of new products and services within the cannabis industry.

 

States are experimenting with various tax structures to optimize revenue while ensuring competitiveness against the illicit market. The adoption of potency-based taxation—taxing products based on THC content—has emerged as a trend in states like New York, Illinois, and Connecticut. This approach aims to create a more equitable tax system that can adapt to market changes and consumer preferences. However, states must remain cautious about overtaxing, which can drive consumers back to illegal markets.

 

 

The allocation of marijuana tax revenue will continue to be a critical issue. Many states have earmarked funds for essential services such as education, public health initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. For instance, Colorado has directed substantial portions of its cannabis tax revenue toward school construction and behavioral health programs. As revenues grow, states may face pressure to diversify spending or address social equity issues related to past drug enforcement practices.

As the cannabis market matures, prices may stabilize or decline due to increased competition and efficiency in production. This maturation could result in fluctuating tax revenues as consumer behavior adjusts. States that have seen significant price drops—like Colorado, where prices fell by 60% from 2014 to 2023—may experience challenges in maintaining consistent revenue streams. Policymakers will need to adapt their strategies accordingly.

The ongoing conversation about federal legalization could dramatically impact state revenues. If cannabis were legalized at the federal level, it would open up interstate commerce opportunities and allow cannabis businesses access to traditional banking services. This change could lead to an influx of investment and further stimulate job creation within the industry.

 

As states continue to collect substantial tax revenues from marijuana sales, there is growing recognition of the need for social equity initiatives. Many advocates argue that a portion of tax revenue should be directed toward communities disproportionately affected by past drug policies. Future developments may include programs aimed at providing grants for minority-owned businesses within the cannabis sector or funding for substance abuse treatment programs.

 

.

 

 Conclusion

 

The collection of over $8.7 billion in marijuana taxes since 2021 demonstrates not only the financial viability of legalized cannabis but also its potential impact on public services and community development. As more states navigate their paths toward legalization and regulation, it will be crucial for policymakers to address challenges related to equity, access, and federal regulations.

 

With continued advocacy for reform at both state and federal levels, along with innovative approaches to taxation and regulation, the future looks promising for both consumers and businesses within this burgeoning industry. As society continues adapting its views on cannabis use, understanding these dynamics will be essential for maximizing benefits while minimizing challenges associated with this rapidly evolving sector.

 

MARIJAUNA TAXES HIT $20 MILLION IN ONE CITY BUDGET, READ ON…

WHAT DO MARIJUANA TAXES PAY FOR

WHAT CITY HIT $20 MILLION IN MARIJUANA TAXES COLLECTED?



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Federal Cannabis Roundup: Nixon, DEA, Tobacco-Hemp . . . and the DOOBIE Act (*sigh*)

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Last week, I wrote a round-up post on Oregon cannabis. This week, I thought I’d drop a line on the federal happenings. Which are quite a few.

The Nixon tapes

This was a fun piece of news, unearthed by Minnesota cannabis lobbyist Kurtis Hanna. Ernesto Londoño then broke the story on September 14th for the New York Times, which you can read here. In short, Nixon conceded that marijuana “is not particularly dangerous,” despite calling the plant “public enemy No. 1” only two years prior. And he opined that punishments ought not be so serious for possession of the plant.

I say this news is “fun” because it’s more interesting than surprising and I doubt it will have much impact. Nixon was a mean old liar, and one with an animus toward certain groups of people. I also don’t think this revelation will persuade the vocal, diminishing minority of prohibitionists to change their minds. I like it anyway, especially as cannabis history nerd. We were right!

DEA embraces two-step review for marijuana rescheduling

This one is important, in my opinion. It relates to the method of analysis DEA must undertake when determining whether a drug, including marijuana (and psilocybin, and any other verboten substance), has a “currently accepted medical use.” In April, the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) put DEA in a box on this one, explaining that the old, five-part test was “impermissibly narrow.” OLC thus endorsed the two-part test. On September 17th, DEA assented to the test for Schedule I review.

The two-part test bodes well for DEA’s rulemaking, now underway, to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the federal Controlled Substances Act. How do we know? Well, the Schedule I stans don’t like it, for starters. This is because, under two-part review, a drug can have currently accepted medical use: a) even if that drug hasn’t been approved by FDA, and b) even if the drug wouldn’t pass DEA’s scrapped five-part test. So, more runway.

DOOBIE Act on the way?

I’m embarrassed even having to type that. But yes, some Congressperson named a federal cannabis bill the “DOOBIE Act,” unfortunately. With a press release and everything.

This proposal would prohibit federal agencies from denying security clearance and employment to people simply because they have used marijuana. In my reading of the actual bill, these agencies could still ding an applicant for past marijuana use, but they couldn’t “base a suitability determination . . . solely on the past use of marijuana by the individual.” The word “solely” needs to go.

Because this bill applies only to “Executive agencies” under 5 U.S. Code § 105, it also wouldn’t have prohibited, say, Joe Biden from doing his “doobie” staffers dirty, which he definitely did.

FDA gets the nod on tobacco-hemp

I like the Congressional Research Service (CRS) and often send people thataway. On September 16th, CRS published a new report titled “Legal Effect of Marijuana Rescheduling on FDA’s Regulation of Cannabis.” Here are my extremely condensed takeaways:

  1. FDA can authorize tobacco products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids (although it hasn’t yet). This is because hemp is not a controlled substance.
  2. Marijuana, even at Schedule III, would still be banned as a tobacco additive (and probably always will be). This is because FDA would need to approve specific cannabis medicines first, and it never does that for botanical drugs.

Here we have one of those cognitively dissonant outcomes often seen with the cannabis plant. As a reading of law it makes sense, but as to policy it’s nonsense. You can thank Richard Nixon and other cannabis heels for that.



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