Cannabis News

Cannabis May Be Moved to a Schedule 3 Drug

Published

1 year ago

September 13, 2023

admin

wiinners and losers from schedule 3

Cannabis to Schedule 3? Who are the Winners, the Whiners, and the Losers?

It has been over a week so how do you feel about the possible move coming for marijuana to go from a Schedule 1 drug to a Schedule 3 drug on the CSA?

The industry has been volleying opinions back and forth so I won’t bore you with the “it’s great, it’s not great” debate, you can read that stuf pretty much all over, including a nice piece by Cannabis Tech as they talked to 19 cannabis leaders about the HHS recommendation here. Cannabis.net also had a legacy stoner write up his opinion on the change and what it means in a piece called, “Lipstick on a Pig”.

In case you aren’t an avid follower of the weed industry or have been off the grid for a few weeks, let me update you on the big cannabis news. The Department of Health and Human Services has formally recommended that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reduce federal restrictions on marijuana despite its continued federal illegality. However, 40 states permit its use to varying degrees.

This action comes after President Joe Biden’s order to the leading health organization to carry out a thorough assessment of marijuana, which was given 11 months ago. The HHS recommends moving cannabis from being classified as a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act.

According to the DEA, cannabis is classified alongside other Schedule I substances, such as heroin and LSD. This classification implies a perceived high potential for abuse and a lack of recognized medical utility.

If this recommendation became law, it would mark a huge and fundamental divergence from cannabis’s existing classification as a Schedule I drug. This categorization would change how people view marijuana by separating it from high-risk substances like heroin and recognizing its possible medical uses.

The HHS Recommendation to Reschedule

An HHS spokesperson conveyed that they promptly responded to the directive by submitting their recommendation to the DEA on August 29th.

Assistant Secretary for Health Rachel Levine stated that her recommendation was grounded in a thorough review by the Food and Drug Administration regarding the classification of marijuana. This review had been pledged following President Biden’s October pardon of federal offenses related to simple possession. At that time, President Biden tasked the HHS secretary and the U.S. Attorney General with assessing the federal scheduling of marijuana.

Cannabis would significantly change if the DEA reclassified it as a Schedule III substance, including the elimination of an IRS provision that forbade drug traffickers from deducting their business expenditures from their taxes (280E as it is so affectionately known as in the cannabis industry). The marijuana sector might be able to save hundreds of millions of dollars annually because of this change. According to NBC News, small business owners have stated that their inability to deduct what are normally thought of as regular business expenses is their biggest financial difficulty.

Now that HHS has made its recommendation, all attention is on the DEA, which holds the ultimate authority over substance scheduling. The DEA, not a historical fan of cannabis, could take years to review and make a decision.

According to five sources familiar with the planning, the Biden administration had aimed to announce the drug’s rescheduling in the Fall to coincide with the election cycle in 2024, approximately a year after the president’s request for the review. The duration of the DEA’s public review process remains uncertain at this point.

In response to inquiries, a DEA spokesperson confirmed, “We can confirm DEA received a letter from the Department of Health and Human Services providing its findings and recommendation on marijuana scheduling, pursuant to President Biden’s request for a review.” The spokesperson also stated, “DEA will now initiate its review.”

When questioned about the recommendation during a news briefing on Wednesday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasized that the review is an independent process led by HHS and the Department of Justice. She declined to comment on President Biden’s current stance on the federal decriminalization of marijuana.

Response/Reactions to The Recommendation

The response to the HHS recommendation has garnered strong support within the corridors of Capitol Hill. In a statement, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer commended HHS for taking a decisive step in the right direction. He urged the DEA to swiftly follow suit, emphasizing the importance of this move in significantly reducing the harm caused by stringent marijuana laws. Senator Schumer, a Democrat from New York, stressed that there remains a considerable legislative agenda to dismantle the federal cannabis prohibition and roll back the War on Drugs.

Advocates of marijuana legalization perceive this initial action as a momentous milestone. It signifies the federal government’s formal recognition of cannabis’s medical contributions for the very first time.

The Cannabis Industry Association emphasized the necessity of further harmonizing federal law with states where marijuana is legal while acknowledging the historical significance of the suggested reclassification. According to CEO Aaron Smith, delisting cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act and regulating it similarly to alcohol will ultimately address the complex issues arising from the federal-state conflict.

As both political parties look to use this issue as a political wedge in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, relaxing federal marijuana laws also has political relevance. The majority of Americans support legalization, according to polls taken year over year since 2016.

Reps. Matt Gaetz, Greg Steube, and Brian Mast, all Republicans from Florida, have openly advocated for the drug to be rescheduled and urged the Biden administration to prioritize the endeavor. Although Florida voters legalized medicinal marijuana usage last year, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has stepped up his opposition to decriminalizing and legalizing marijuana on the presidential campaign trail this week. The Florida Supreme Court is debating whether a ballot measure legalizing marijuana will appear in 2024.

Additionally, there is a bipartisan initiative underway in Congress aimed at simplifying the provision of banking services to legitimate cannabis businesses.

Senator Schumer has emphasized that passing the SAFE Banking Act, as it’s known, will be of utmost importance when the Senate reconvenes in September. However, the potential for a government shutdown could pose challenges to this object bill’s proponents of the bill to resolve a deadlock that emerged concerning the August recess.

One of the primary reasons why cannabis enterprises continue to struggle with limited access to financial services, obstacles in conducting medical research, and restrictions on the interstate transportation of products approved for medical use in numerous U.S. states is the current Schedule I classification of marijuana. Despite the widespread acceptance of medical marijuana, only the FDA possesses the legal authority to approve medications for medical use throughout the United States.

Bottom Line – Who are the Winners, the Whiners, and the Losers?

Winners – The cannabis industry in general, the black market, and MSOs. One, regardless of what you think schedule 3 will ultimately mean, pharma taking over the whole industry or not, it is better than a schedule 1 drug, period. If you are a conspiracy theorist and believe this is Big Pharma’s move to control prescriptions and the industry, so be it, time will tell, but getting cannabis off the “spend the rest of your life in prison” drug list, is the #1 win of the whole thing, let the chips fall where they may in the future. This writer does not feel this is the trojan horse some have made it out to be and Big Pharma will rule cannabis forever going forward. 3 < 1, win!

The second biggest winners, and a groan will go out from all the legacy cannabis people, the MSOs, or multistate operators will be BIG financial winners in this one. Basically, the bigger your expenses and operation, the more damage 280E and the inability to write off any of those expenses, did to your bottom line. If you reverse that same equation and take 280E off those financial statements, all those expenses now become tax write-offs, saving the MSO hundreds of millions of dollars in tax credit or refunds. We caught wind of this strategy at the Benzinga Cannabis Conference where it was mentioned that none of the MSOs were actually paying the taxes, they were kicking the can down the road hoping for a descheduling or rescheduling of the drug. Once that happened, they could go to court and say they should have never paid those taxes in the first place as cannabis is no longer a schedule 1 drug, and at this point, that bat bleep crazy strategy actually worked! MJ BIZ picked up on this same theme recently in their article on the cash windfall coming to companies for the 280E tax classification change.

Third place winner, the black or illicit cannabis market. While already booming in the US and around the world, any instance of lessening of the punishment for getting caught selling or shipping cannabis will only encourage more aggressive business behavior. For example, if you get caught shipping 20lbs of a schedule 1 drug from California to New York, you were looking at life in jail. If that changes to a fine or something much less severe, you remove a disincentive, in economic terms, to not take an action. Hence, the opposite is true, you created more of an incentive to take chances, push the limits to get more profit because the punishment for getting caught will be much less severe. (Schedule 3 illegal drug shipment compared to a Schedule 1). The illicit market should sleep well at night if this change is made because the possible punishment for growing weed without a license and selling it out of your van or shipping it over the internet will not be much less than any time since 1952. There is now economic inventive for the illicit market to push the limits on growing, sending, and pricing, as getting caught “won’t be so bad” in historical perspective.

Fourth Place Winner – International Markets – UN drug treaties be damned as Canada and Colombia have already shown the world, as they have been shipping cannabis internationally for months if not years now, but any change to the “severity of US listings of the drug”, will only increase risk from companies in other countries to push the boundaries of international and US law. Anything that dissipates the sting of that law will only encourage more business aggression in shipping and growing cannabis. Similar to the black-market argument above, if the fines and repercussions are lessened by the US and the UN, you are inviting more risk and aggressive behavior to try and make a profit.

Honorable Mention Winner – The rumor and speculation mill. Ever since the announcement by the HHS, the rumor mill about what could happen, secret plans, what it really means, wake up people, don’t get fooled, happiest day of my life, stuff is going off the rails. One rumor is that it will only apply to medical marijuana and recreational will still be a schedule 1 drug. Hard to do since THC is the actual cannabinoid on the Schedule 1 list, so lowering it to schedule 3 would affect both recreational and medical. The biggest rumor is the cannabis industry will be place in the hands of the FDA and Big Pharma like we all feared from day #1 and all the local growers and providers will be shut out of the industry. Fat chance. They have been trying to shut down illegal cannabis since 1952, no luck, now legal in over 40 states in some form or another. Don’t count of the FDA and DEA hiring thousands of agents to try and snuff out state-legal cannabis operations and public companies.

Losers – It is hard to find a loser when you go from a schedule 1 to a schedule 3 drug without going into fear mongering about the FDA and Big Pharma. In general, MSOs are going to have way more cash and profits, so that won’t bode well for smaller companies trying to compete with the big boys. Those that want cannabis descheduled will hoot and holler, but that was never really a viable option. You aren’t going from “schedule 1 like cocaine and heroin” to “unscheduled like peanut butter” overnight. Cannabis does pass through the blood-brain barrier and get you high, it does impair your senses and alter your thoughts and concept of reality for a bit while using it, so descheduling, while sounding nice, was never really on the table unfortunately.

Interstate commerce is the next massive shoe to drop, so not sure how Schedule 3 will affect those companies that had to “silo” their whole operation in each state, having to go from seed to sale and production in each state they enter. If interstate commerce is opened up, then the industry will finally start to reach a state of economic equilibrium as you will know the price of a Snoop Leaf or Chong’s Choice blunt in California and Massachusetts. You will also know the fair price of a pound of Emerald Triangle legal weed vs a pound of Emerald Triangle illegal weed.

Whiners – The cannabis industry proletariat that are screaming “rescheduling is not enough, we need descheduling!”. These are the same people that say, “cannabis isn’t a drug, it’s a plant”. First off, almost all drugs come from plants or did in their infancy. Nicotine, caffeine, heroin, cocaine, and opium all “come from plants” and they are clearly drugs, so yes, cannabis is a plant and a drug. Its cannabinoids pass through the blood-brain barrier and get you high, it is a drug and plant, move on.

The words “don’t settle for rescheduling” have been part of many op-ed pieces about the HHS news, and for some reason, these people think the US government and the cannabis industry are some sort of equal parties or in negotiations about this subject. As Binder says in the Breakfast Club movie, “Not even close, bud!”. The word “settle” implies some sort of negotiations or bartering of the details, which is just not the case in the US government vs the marijuana industry. There are no negotiations or evidence the US government gives one iota what the marijuana industry wants, so to say “don’t settle” is a bit rich. It is like being at your sentencing in front of judge where you get 2 years in jail and saying, “I won’t settle for that, I want less!”. Umm, yeah, it doesn’t work that way, the US government is the judge, and they decide the status of cannabis based on voters and future election results that the present party in office is worried about, not what the marijuana industry wants to see.

What if we all decide “not to settle for Schedule 3”? Now what? Oh yeah, nothing we can do since as a group we have very limited power and influence in politics. The industry is an outlier, we have cut lobbying money down to the bare bones in DC, no one of influence cares what we want or think, they are looking out for votes and power-broker money, think about what Big Tobacco and Big Pharma want, that is what is on their minds as they write the big checks in DC.

It isn’t up to us to settle; we sound like bratty little kids who just got their first dinner in months and are complaining it didn’t come with a dinner roll and desert. Take the Schedule 3 W when and if it comes and live to fight another day. Win the battle and keep fighting the war.

MORE ON A POSSIBLE SCHEDULE 3 MOVE, READ ON…

CANNABIS AS A SCHEDULE 3 DRUG, LIPSTICK ON A PIG?

Source link

Cannabis News

AARP Dipsensary Discounts? – Cannabis Use by Older Americans Has Doubled in Just the Last 36 Months Alone

Published

13 mins ago

September 21, 2024

admin

aarp on cannabis

Marijuana usage among older persons in the United States has nearly quadrupled over the past three years, according to a new research supported by AARP. Numerous users claim benefiting from cannabis use in pain management, sleep enhancement, mental health enhancement, and other areas.

More than one in five Americans 50 years of age and older reported using marijuana at least once in the previous year, according to a University of Michigan poll. Over one-tenth said they used it on a monthly basis. According to research, the number of older persons using cannabis will continue to rise as more states legalize it.

Of those who had used marijuana in the previous year, 81% stated they did so to relax, 68% to assist sleep, and 64% because they loved the experience. Furthermore, 63% utilized cannabis for pain treatment, with 53% using it to improve their mental wellness.

According to the AARP, 21% of Americans over the age of 50 currently use marijuana, nearly double the 12% reported in the previous 2021 poll.

According to the most recent data, 12% reported using cannabis at least monthly, 9% weekly, and 5% daily.

The poll also discovered that those aged 50 to 64, those in poorer health, and those from lower-income families were more likely to consume cannabis on a regular basis. In Michigan, where adult cannabis usage became legal in December 2019, consumption rates were even higher: 27% reported using it in the previous year, 14% weekly, and 9% daily or almost daily.

The Michigan Poll on Healthy Aging, which surveyed 1,079 Michigan residents and 3,012 people from other states, focused specifically on THC-containing products. The report’s authors emphasize the importance of further cannabis education.

Motivations Behind Cannabis Use Among Older Adults: A Growing Trend

According to the survey, adults aged 50 and older are turning to cannabis for various reasons, including:

– Relaxation (81%)

– Help with sleep (68%)

– Enjoying the effects/feeling good (64%)

– Pain relief (63%)

– Mental health or mood support (53%)

– Treating a medical condition (40%)

– Enhancing social gatherings/connecting with others (31%)

– Celebrating (26%)

– Experimenting (18%)

“As cannabis becomes legal, more people are using it, but we don’t yet have enough information to address crucial issues like, are there safe methods to consume it? Are there any suggested guidelines?” Bonar is a psychiatry professor at Michigan Medicine. “So, seeing these numbers rise without solid scientific data to guide people’s decisions is a bit concerning.”

The AARP-funded study concentrated on cannabis products containing THC, the psychoactive component that produces the “high.” This varies from CBD products, which are popular among older folks but contain just minimal quantities of THC.

Among regular cannabis users—those consuming at least monthly—56% said they had discussed their cannabis use with a healthcare provider, and nearly 79% believed that today’s marijuana is stronger than in previous decades.

However, Bonar pointed out that this means 21% of older adults might not realize THC levels have increased since the 1990s. She also noted that while 72% of people believe cannabis can be addictive, over a quarter remain skeptical.

The poll’s lead researcher, Jeffrey Kullgren, an internal medicine professor at the University of Michigan and a doctor at the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, emphasized the significance of addressing cannabis usage with healthcare practitioners. He noted that these discussions can aid in detecting potential medication interactions or symptoms of problematic use.

Cannabis as a Rising Alternative to Alcohol: Impact on Consumer Choices

According to a Bloomberg report earlier this month, the continued legalization of cannabis poses a “significant threat” to the alcohol industry as more people choose to use it instead of alcohol. The report predicted that this could “indefinitely” prolong the decline in wine and spirits sales.

In a research published late last year, a global investment bank mirrored these views, claiming that marijuana had developed into a “formidable competitor” with alcohol. Over the following five years, they predicted that the number of regular cannabis users will increase by roughly 20 million, while the number of alcohol users may decline by a few million. According to the research, as additional states legalize marijuana, sales of the drug might reach $37 billion in the United States by 2027.

Another research from Canada, where marijuana is allowed on a federal level, indicated a correlation between legalization and a decline in beer sales, suggesting that cannabis and alcohol are substituting for one another.

These results are consistent with recent polls regarding Americans’ perceptions of marijuana in relation to alcohol. According to a Gallup poll conducted last month, people believe cannabis to be less dangerous than nicotine-containing vape pens, alcohol, and tobacco. In addition, adult cannabis users have surpassed cigarette users in number.

According to a different survey conducted in June of last year by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and Morning Consult, Americans view marijuana as much less harmful than alcohol, cigarettes, and opioids, and they also think it’s less addictive than technology.

A different survey conducted in July found that more Americans use marijuana daily than consume alcohol. Additionally, compared to cannabis users, alcohol users are more likely to think that cutting back on their usage would be beneficial.

Comparably, a May research that appeared in the journal *Addiction* discovered that more American adults now use marijuana on a regular basis than do people who use alcohol.

Bottom Line

According to a new AARP research, marijuana usage among older Americans has nearly quadrupled in the last three years, with more than 21% of persons aged 50 and over currently smoking cannabis. Key benefits include pain reduction, sleep help, relaxation, and mental health support. As additional states legalize marijuana, this tendency is projected to continue, particularly among individuals aged 50 to 64. Furthermore, cannabis is widely perceived as an alternative to alcohol, with many users preferring it to drinking, potentially impacting alcohol sales. With marijuana becoming more socially acceptable, healthcare practitioners and regulators must address the absence of clear rules for safe usage, especially as cannabis products become stronger and more readily available.

MARIJUANA PUSHES OFF RETIREMENT? READ ON…

MARIJUANA IS KEEPING SENIORS IN THE WORKFORCE LONGER?

Source link

Cannabis News

Turns Out the ‘Barstool of Weed’ Isn’t Cannabis.Net After All, But It’s Actually Barstool Sports Itself!

Published

22 hours ago

September 20, 2024

admin

barstool marijuana cannabis industry

Barstool Sports Expands Into Cannabis Industry, Partners With Green Thumb Industries

Cannabis.net, often referred to as the “Barstool of Weed” since 2016, will happily relinquish that crown as Barstool Sports itself has jumped into the cannabis game with GTI!

In a groundbreaking move that highlights the growing intersection between sports media and the cannabis industry, Barstool Sports has announced a strategic partnership with Green Thumb Industries (GTI), one of the leading multi-state cannabis operators in the United States. This collaboration aims to elevate GTI’s cannabis brands, particularly RHYTHM and Dogwalkers Prerolls, through innovative content and marketing strategies that resonate with Barstool’s extensive audience. As cannabis continues to gain acceptance and legalization spreads across various states, this partnership marks a significant step for both companies in navigating the evolving landscape of cannabis culture.

“Being a fellow Masshole, I couldn’t be happier for Dave and his crew.” said Curt Dalton, managing director of Cannabis.net. “He has been at the cutting edge of partnerships in the legalization of online gambling, as well as now cannabis.” added Dalton.

The Rise of Barstool Sports

Founded in 2003 by Dave Portnoy, Barstool Sports has transformed from a small sports blog into a media powerhouse with a diverse portfolio of content spanning podcasts, video series, and social media platforms. With over 66 million monthly unique viewers, Barstool has established itself as a leading voice in sports entertainment, particularly among younger demographics. The brand is known for its irreverent humor, candid commentary, and engaging personalities, which have cultivated a loyal fanbase.

Barstool’s expansion into new markets has been a hallmark of its growth strategy. The company has successfully ventured into various sectors, including gambling and merchandise sales. By entering the cannabis industry, Barstool aims to capitalize on the burgeoning market while further solidifying its position as a cultural influencer.

Understanding Green Thumb Industries

Green Thumb Industries is a publicly traded company based in Chicago that operates across several states in the U.S., focusing on cultivating, manufacturing, and distributing cannabis products. GTI is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in the cannabis space, offering a wide range of products that cater to different consumer preferences. Their brands include RHYTHM, which focuses on high-quality flower and concentrates, and Dogwalkers Prerolls, designed for convenience and portability.

GTI’s approach to cannabis is rooted in social responsibility and community engagement. The company prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices throughout its operations while advocating for responsible consumption. This alignment of values makes GTI an ideal partner for Barstool Sports as both companies seek to normalize cannabis use and promote responsible consumption among their audiences.

The Partnership: What It Means for Both Brands

The partnership between Barstool Sports and Green Thumb Industries is set to create a unique synergy that leverages Barstool’s extensive reach within the sports community while providing GTI with innovative marketing opportunities. Here are some key aspects of what this collaboration entails:

1. Content Creation

One of the primary focuses of this partnership will be on content creation that seamlessly integrates GTI’s products into Barstool’s existing media channels. This could include sponsored segments on popular podcasts like “Pardon My Take,” video content featuring Barstool personalities using or discussing GTI products, and social media campaigns designed to engage followers.

The goal is to present cannabis in a relatable and entertaining manner while educating consumers about responsible use. By utilizing Barstool’s humor-driven approach, the partnership aims to destigmatize cannabis consumption and encourage open discussions about its benefits.

2. Brand Visibility

With millions of followers across various platforms, Barstool Sports provides an unparalleled opportunity for GTI to enhance its brand visibility. The partnership will allow GTI to reach new audiences who may not be familiar with their products or the cannabis industry as a whole.

Through targeted marketing campaigns and engaging content, GTI can effectively communicate its brand message while showcasing the quality and variety of its offerings. This increased visibility can lead to higher consumer interest and ultimately drive sales.

3. Navigating Regulatory Challenges

The cannabis industry faces numerous regulatory challenges when it comes to advertising and marketing. Many traditional advertising platforms impose strict limitations on how cannabis brands can promote their products. However, by partnering with Barstool Sports, a platform known for its innovative approach to content—GTI can navigate these challenges more effectively.

Barstool’s established reputation allows it to create engaging content that adheres to legal guidelines while still resonating with audiences. This partnership could serve as a model for other brands looking to enter the cannabis space without running afoul of advertising regulations.

4. Normalizing Cannabis Culture

As societal attitudes toward cannabis continue to evolve, there is an increasing need to normalize cannabis culture within mainstream media. Both Barstool Sports and GTI share a vision of promoting responsible cannabis consumption while breaking down stereotypes associated with its use.

Through entertaining content that highlights the benefits of cannabis whether for relaxation or social enjoyment, the partnership aims to foster acceptance among audiences who may have previously held reservations about cannabis use. By integrating these messages into popular sports culture, both companies hope to reshape perceptions around cannabis consumption.

Cannabis Legalization in America

The partnership between Barstool Sports and Green Thumb Industries comes at a time when the landscape of cannabis legalization in the United States is rapidly changing. Over the past decade, numerous states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use, leading to an explosion of growth within the industry.

According to recent reports from industry analysts, the legal cannabis market in the U.S. is projected to exceed $41 billion by 2025. As more states consider legalization measures and public opinion shifts toward acceptance, businesses within this sector are poised for significant growth opportunities.

The economic impact of legalized cannabis extends beyond just sales revenue; it also creates jobs and generates tax revenue for state governments. States that have embraced legalization have seen substantial increases in tax collections from cannabis sales—funds that can be allocated toward education, healthcare, infrastructure projects, and more.

As major players like Barstool Sports enter this space through partnerships with established companies like GTI, they contribute not only to their own growth but also help shape an industry that has far-reaching implications for local economies across the country.

The cultural shift surrounding cannabis cannot be understated either; it reflects broader changes in societal attitudes toward substance use overall. As more people advocate for legalization based on health benefits or personal freedom arguments rather than stigma or fear-based narratives—companies like Barstool Sports are well-positioned to influence these conversations positively.

By engaging audiences through humor-infused storytelling around cannabis culture—whether discussing strains suited for game day or highlighting responsible consumption practices. Barstool can play an essential role in shaping how future generations view this plant-based product.

Future Opportunities

As this partnership unfolds over time there are numerous opportunities available not only within marketing but also product development itself! Some potential avenues include:

1. Co-Branded Products

Given both brands’ strong identities there may be potential for co-branded products tailored specifically toward Barstool fans. Imagine limited edition pre-rolls branded with iconic catchphrases from popular podcasts or even themed merchandise that combines sports memorabilia with cannabis culture.

2. Events & Activations

Another exciting possibility lies within live events or activations where fans can engage directly with both brands! Whether through tailgates at sporting events featuring product sampling or hosting exclusive meet-and-greets these experiences could deepen connections between consumers while promoting responsible usage!

3. Educational Initiatives

Lastly education remains crucial when it comes to destigmatizing marijuana use! Collaboratively creating informative content focused on health benefits associated with different strains could empower consumers while reinforcing positive messages around safe consumption practices!

Conclusion

The partnership between Barstool Sports and Green Thumb Industries represents not just an exciting development within two distinct industries but also signals broader changes occurring across American society regarding perceptions around marijuana usage!

By leveraging each other’s strengths Barstool’s vast audience reach combined with GTI’s expertise in quality product offerings, this collaboration sets out not only to entertain but also educate consumers about responsible consumption habits while normalizing discussions surrounding marijuana use!

As we look ahead, it will be fascinating to see how this partnership evolves over time; paving new pathways not only for both brands but potentially reshaping cultural narratives surrounding one of America’s most controversial yet rapidly growing industries!

ODE TO BARSTOOL, READ ON…

THE MORALITY OF WEED COMPARED TO GAY PORN OR WEARING FUR!

Source link

Cannabis News

How Social Media is Driving Change

Published

24 hours ago

September 20, 2024

admin

cyprus marijuana legalization

In recent days, the conversation around cannabis legalization in Cyprus has reached a new level of intensity. About eight days ago, social media platforms like Twitter (now X), Facebook, and Instagram began buzzing with discussions, petitions, and activist campaigns advocating for broader access to medical cannabis and the legalization of personal cultivation. This surge of public interest and online activism comes after years of stagnation in the country’s cannabis policy implementation, despite medical cannabis being legalized as far back as 2017.

The Social Media Movement: A Force to Be Reckoned With

The current social media push began as a coordinated effort from various grassroots organizations and activists who were frustrated with the government’s slow progress in making medical cannabis available to patients who need it most. What began as a few isolated posts has now transformed into a powerful movement that shows no signs of slowing down.

Over the last eight days, platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram have been flooded with posts, hashtags, and even paid advertisements advocating for the swift implementation of the medical cannabis law. The message is clear: Cypriots want immediate access to cannabis for therapeutic purposes and the right to grow their own plants for personal use.

Petitions supporting these changes are circulating widely, and the number of signatures is rapidly growing. Just this past week, one campaign calling for the legalization of medical cannabis and personal cultivation surpassed 1,000 signatures. The petition’s momentum is showing no signs of slowing down, with organizers now setting their sights on reaching 1,500 signatures and beyond. Once the campaign hits 2,000 signatures, organizers plan to submit their petition to the Ministry of Health, urging officials to take concrete steps towards implementation and reform.

The Broader Cannabis Landscape in Cyprus

To understand the current movement, it’s important to take a step back and look at the broader cannabis landscape in Cyprus. In 2017, Cyprus took its first steps towards legalizing medical cannabis, allowing it to be prescribed to patients suffering from serious conditions such as cancer. In 2019, the government expanded the scope of the law, extending access to patients suffering from chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and glaucoma. This legislative change brought hope to thousands of Cypriots suffering from chronic conditions.

However, despite the legal framework being in place, patients are still struggling to access medical cannabis due to bureaucratic and regulatory delays. As of today, there are still no significant efforts to issue the licenses necessary to start cultivation and distribution. This lack of action has left many patients without access to the treatment they desperately need, driving activists to take their message to social media.

Why Now? What’s Driving the Surge?

The recent social media buzz didn’t happen in a vacuum. Several factors have contributed to the sudden increase in online activity around cannabis legalization in Cyprus.

Frustration with Government Delays: Patients who qualify for medical cannabis under the law have found that they cannot access it. While medical cannabis is technically legal, the lack of implementation means that those who need it are often left to seek alternatives in the black market, which is both risky and illegal.

Global Momentum: Across Europe and the world, cannabis legalization is advancing. Countries like Malta, Germany, Luxembourg, and Spain have implemented more progressive cannabis laws, including personal cultivation models, which allow individuals to grow a small number of plants for personal use. Meanwhile, Canada, certain states in the U.S., and even Thailand have made significant strides in cannabis regulation. Cypriots are watching these developments unfold and are pushing their government to follow suit.

Public Health and Economic Arguments: Advocates argue that legalizing personal cannabis cultivation not only provides critical relief for patients but also presents an economic opportunity for Cyprus. Legalizing cannabis cultivation could create new jobs and generate tax revenue, which could be reinvested in healthcare and education. Furthermore, regulation would help cut down on the black market, ensuring that consumers have access to safe, tested products.

The Power of Social Media: Social media platforms have proven to be incredibly effective tools for organizing and rallying support. By using hashtags, paid ads, and viral content, activists are reaching a wide audience quickly and efficiently. In just a matter of days, thousands of Cypriots have joined the conversation, sharing posts and signing petitions to advocate for change.

The Role of Media and Influencers

As the movement continues to grow, traditional media outlets are starting to take notice. Cyprus Mail, and other media platforms have been covering the ongoing discussions about medical cannabis and the delays in implementing the law. These news outlets are amplifying the social media buzz, giving the movement additional visibility and legitimacy.

Moreover, key influencers in the Cypriot cannabis community have stepped up to the plate. Organizations like CY-CA.org (Cyprus Cannabis Association) have been particularly vocal about the need for reform. Recently, Andria Andreou, President of CY-CA, expressed her support for the movement, proposing collaboration between activists and organizations to present a unified front to the government. This growing partnership between grassroots activists and more established organizations like CY-CA is helping the movement gain credibility and momentum.

What Happens Next?

With the petition quickly gaining signatures, the next step for activists is to continue applying pressure on both the Ministry of Health and the media. The goal is to keep the conversation going, ensuring that the issue remains front and center in public discourse.

As the campaign approaches 1,500 signatures, activists plan to strengthen their collaboration with organizations like CY-CA to amplify their message and gain further support. Once the petition reaches 2,000 signatures, the plan is to formally submit the request to the Ministry of Health, calling for the immediate distribution of medical cannabis in pharmacies, as well as the adoption of personal cultivation models similar to those in countries like Malta and Germany.

Additionally, activists are preparing to push for a public consultation on cannabis reform, allowing citizens to voice their opinions and concerns. This would be a major step forward, potentially paving the way for more comprehensive cannabis legislation that covers both medical and recreational use.

Why Personal Cultivation Matters

One of the most pressing demands of the movement is the legalization of personal cannabis cultivation. This model, which allows individuals to grow a small number of cannabis plants for personal use, has been successfully implemented in several European countries. Advocates argue that allowing personal cultivation would give patients more control over their treatment, ensuring that they have access to high-quality cannabis without having to rely on the black market.

Moreover, personal cultivation could help address the supply shortages that are likely to occur if and when the government begins to issue cultivation licenses. By allowing individuals to grow their own plants, the government can help ensure that patients have immediate access to the treatment they need while the industry develops.

The Role of the Health Minister: What Will He Do?

As the pressure mounts, all eyes are now on Health Minister Michalis Damianos, who has publicly stated his commitment to improving healthcare services. Recently, the Minister reiterated that “health is the ultimate good” and that his work focuses on ensuring patients’ rights. Given his statements, the question now is: Will he act on medical cannabis reform?

With over 1,000 signatures supporting cannabis legalization, the Minister faces increasing public pressure. His previous efforts to modernize health services and legislative frameworks suggest that the full implementation of medical cannabis laws could be the next logical step. Will he take the necessary steps to ensure that patients gain safe and legal access to cannabis?

The Final Push: Why Your Voice Matters

As the movement for cannabis reform in Cyprus gains traction, it’s more important than ever for citizens to get involved. Whether it’s signing the petition, sharing posts on social media, or reaching out to local representatives, every action counts. The more support the movement gains, the harder it will be for the government to ignore the growing demand for change.

In the coming weeks, the conversation around cannabis legalization in Cyprus is likely to intensify. With continued pressure from both social media and the media, there’s a real chance that the government will finally take action to implement the laws that have been on the books since 2017.

For now, the activists and advocates behind the movement are calling on all Cypriots to join the conversation and make their voices heard. The future of cannabis legalization in Cyprus is being written right now—and with enough public support, change could be just around the corner.