Cannabis News

We Have No More Room for All This Weed!

Published

4 days ago

June 29, 2024

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no more room for confiscated cannabis

New York City deputy sheriffs have confiscated so much illegal marijuana that they are struggling to find storage space, according to the Daily News. New York legalized recreational cannabis in 2021, and since then a plethora of illegal, unlicensed shops have been opened across the state.

“We were seizing more than we could store, so we began using different offices,” Ingrid Simonovic, president of the New York City Deputy Sheriff’s Association, told the outlet.

In May, Mayor Eric Adams launched “Operation Padlock to Protect,” a sustained multi-agency effort to shut down illegal smoke and cannabis shops across the city’s five boroughs. In the first week alone, dozens of illicit smoke stores were closed.

What is it All About

When it started, the Sheriff’s Office kept the cannabis in six 20-foot shipping containers with little ventilation at an indoor parking garage at their Long Island City offices. However, they quickly ran out of space.

“We’re seizing marijuana, but we have no idea where it’s coming from,” a former deputy sheriff who used to process cannabis and other evidence told the outlet. “To be frank, there’s something wrong with this marijuana. This isn’t the marijuana from the old days. It smells different. It’s very strong.”

Officers responsible for handling the evidence from cannabis seizures complained of being overwhelmed by the smell and even feeling ill, according to union officials.

“It got to the point that my clothes smelled like marijuana,” the former employee said. “It smelled like I smoked weed all the time. My sweat started to smell like marijuana.”

In December 2022, complaints about the improper storage of the seized cannabis were raised, criticising New York City Sheriff Anthony Miranda. Concerns about poor ventilation and health issues were brought to the Public Employee Safety and Health Bureau, which conducted an inspection, as per court documents reported by the Daily News. The results of the inspection were not disclosed.

Union officials documented health issues among deputies, including “really strong headaches,” in labor complaints.

Some of the seized marijuana, vapes, and liquid nicotine were then stored in a warehouse in Brooklyn, where workers also complained about the smell due to poor ventilation.

According to the former deputy sheriff, they ended up placing seized cannabis in random offices and later in unlocked marked and unmarked vehicles. “It was just being put everywhere.”

Next Steps

She added that under Sheriff Miranda’s leadership, the Task Force shut down more than 400 illegal pot stores in just over a month. “The Sheriff’s Office will continue to follow best practices in all its operations as it works to protect working-class New Yorkers.”

Meanwhile, “Operation Padlock to Protect” is facing legal challenges from 27 closed cannabis shops. Affected business owners are claiming the crackdown is unconstitutional and have filed a class action lawsuit.

Storage Solutions and Facility Improvements

As the storage issue worsened, some of the seized marijuana, vapes, and liquid nicotine were relocated to a warehouse in Brooklyn. However, workers there also complained about the pervasive smell due to poor ventilation. This prompted further action to address the storage challenges.

A City Hall spokesperson stated that the Sheriff’s Office and Task Force have “worked to standardize the process of vouchering and storing evidence, and have made significant improvements, including numerous security upgrades, installation of a new air ventilation system, and other facility enhancements.” These upgrades were aimed at ensuring the proper handling and storage of seized cannabis to mitigate health risks and improve working conditions for officers.

Despite these efforts, the volume of confiscated marijuana continued to outpace available storage. The former deputy sheriff revealed that, in desperation, seized cannabis was placed in random offices and later in unlocked marked and unmarked vehicles. “It was just being put everywhere,” he said, highlighting the ongoing struggle to manage the influx of illegal substances.

Under Sheriff Miranda’s leadership, the Task Force has been proactive in shutting down illegal pot stores, closing more than 400 in just over a month. However, the challenge of managing the seized cannabis remains a pressing issue, necessitating continuous improvements in storage solutions and facility management.

Public and Legal Response

The difficulty the New York City Sheriff’s Office is having keeping seized marijuana in storage has provoked a variety of public responses and legal challenges. While some citizens applaud the vigorous enforcement efforts under “Operation Padlock to Protect,” which aims to shut down illegal cannabis operations throughout the city, others are worried about the real-world ramifications and unintended consequences of these actions. The sheer volume of seized marijuana has forced the office to resort to improvised storage, including stuffing substances into various cars and offices, raising concerns about deputies and the general public’s health and safety.

In affected neighborhoods, where illegal smoke and cannabis shops have been targeted, opinions are divided. Some residents applaud the crackdown as a step towards improving community safety and reducing illicit drug activities. They see the closure of these establishments as a positive measure to reclaim public spaces and reduce criminal activity associated with illegal marijuana sales. However, others criticize the handling of seized substances, citing issues such as inadequate storage facilities leading to pervasive odors and potential health risks.

Legally, “Operation Padlock to Protect” faces significant challenges. Owners of the closed cannabis shops have filed a class action lawsuit, arguing that the enforcement actions infringe upon their constitutional rights. Their legal challenge questions the legality and proportionality of the crackdown, potentially setting precedents for future law enforcement strategies and cannabis regulations in New York City. The outcome of these legal proceedings will likely influence how similar operations are conducted in the future, balancing law enforcement objectives with civil liberties and community concerns.

Bottom Line

The challenges faced by the New York City Sheriff’s Office in storing seized marijuana highlight the complexities of enforcing cannabis laws in a densely populated urban environment. While efforts under “Operation Padlock to Protect” aim to enhance public safety by cracking down on illegal cannabis sales, logistical issues with storage and handling have raised significant health concerns among deputies and community members. The ongoing legal battles underscore the contentious nature of these enforcement actions, with implications for both law enforcement practices and civil liberties in the city. As efforts continue to improve storage facilities and address community feedback, the outcome of these challenges will shape future approaches to cannabis regulation and enforcement across New York City.

NEW YORK GOES GREEN, READ ON…

AYE OH, NEW YORK LEGALIZES RECREATIONAL CANNABIS!

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Cannabis News

How Long Does Weed Stay in Your Saliva?

Published

5 hours ago

July 3, 2024

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cannabis in saliva drug test

Introduction

Understanding how long marijuana stays in saliva i s crucial for various reasons, including legal concerns, workplace policies, and personal health decisions. Marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, contains the psychoactive compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can be detected in various bodily fluids, including saliva. This article provides a comprehensive look at the factors influencing the presence of marijuana in saliva, the detection methods, and the implications for users.

Factors Influencing Detection Time

The duration marijuana stays detectable in saliva can vary widely based on several factors:

Frequency and amount of use: Heavy and frequent marijuana users will have higher concentrations of THC in their saliva, leading to longer detection times.

Method of consumption Smoking marijuana results in faster absorption and shorter detection times compared to edibles or oils, which are absorbed more slowly.

Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolisms may break down THC more quickly, reducing detection times.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out THC and its metabolites from the body, reducing detection times..

Detection Window

The detection window for THC in saliva is generally shorter compared to other testing methods like urine or hair tests:

Occasional Users: THC can be detected in saliva for 1 to 3 days.

Frequent Users: Regular users may have detectable levels of THC in their saliva for up to 29 days.

Chronic Users: In heavy, long-term users, THC may remain detectable for even longer, sometimes up to a month.

Methods of Testing for Marijuana in Saliva

A plethora of scientific techniques are employed to detect the presence of marijuana in saliva, each with its own unique characteristics, advantages, and levels of sensitivity. These methodologies are instrumental in uncovering evidence of marijuana use, and their applications vary depending on the specific context and purpose of the testing. They include:

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA): This widely utilized method is a cornerstone in drug testing, leveraging the principles of immunology to identify and quantify THC and its metabolites in saliva. ELISA tests are often employed as a preliminary screening tool due to their relatively low cost, rapid results, and ease of use.

They provide a sensitive and specific detection of marijuana use, making them an invaluable tool in various settings.

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS): As a more advanced and sensitive technique, GC-MS is capable of detecting THC and its metabolites at significantly lower concentrations than ELISA. This method separates, identifies, and quantifies the components of a saliva sample, providing a more detailed understanding of its chemical composition. GC-MS is often employed in confirmatory testing, legal proceedings, and research studies, where a higher level of accuracy and precision is required.

Oral fluid testing devices: These portable devices utilize a swab to collect a saliva sample, which is then analyzed for the presence of THC and its metabolites. Oral fluid testing devices are often used in law enforcement, workplace settings, and clinical environments due to their ease of use, rapid results, and non-invasive nature. They provide a convenient and efficient method for detecting marijuana use, making them an invaluable tool in various applications.

Each of these methods plays a vital role in detecting marijuana use, and their applications vary depending on the specific context and purpose of the testing. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each technique, professionals can select the most appropriate method for their needs, ensuring accurate and reliable results.

Legal and Workplace Implications

Saliva testing for marijuana has significant implications in legal and workplace contexts:

Employment Screening: Many employers use saliva tests as part of their drug screening process, especially in safety-sensitive industries.

Legal Cases: Saliva tests are often used in roadside checks and legal cases to determine recent marijuana use.

Regulations and Policies: Different jurisdictions have varying laws regarding marijuana use and testing, affecting how saliva tests are implemented and interpreted.

Reducing Detection Time

While there is no guaranteed way to rapidly eliminate THC from saliva, some strategies may help reduce detection time:

Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out THC.

Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash can reduce THC levels in the mouth.

Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet and avoiding fatty foods can support faster metabolism of THC.

Exercise: Physical activity can help increase metabolic rate, aiding in the elimination of THC.

Implications for Users

For marijuana users, understanding the detection time in saliva can have several practical implications:

Avoiding Legal Issues: Knowing how long THC stays in saliva can help users make informed decisions about driving or operating machinery.

Managing Workplace Policies: Employees can better navigate workplace drug policies by understanding the detection window.

Personal Health Decisions: Users can make more informed choices about their consumption habits and potential health impacts.

Medical Use of Marijuana

For medical marijuana patients, the presence of THC in saliva may have different considerations:

Doctor’s Advice: Medical users should follow their doctor’s advice regarding usage and potential interactions with other medications.

Legal Protections: In some jurisdictions, medical marijuana use is protected by law, affecting how saliva tests are administered and interpreted.

Research and Developments

Ongoing research continues to improve our understanding of THC detection in saliva:

Advances in Testing Technology: New testing methods are becoming more accurate and less invasive.

Understanding Metabolism: Research into how different factors affect THC metabolism can lead to more personalized and precise testing protocols.

Policy Changes: As laws regarding marijuana use evolve, so too do the regulations and standards for testing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the duration that marijuana stays in saliva is influenced by several factors including frequency of use, amount consumed, metabolism, hydration levels, and method of consumption. Saliva testing remains a preferred method for detecting recent marijuana use due to its ease of collection, sensitivity, and rapid results. For users, understanding these factors and the implications of saliva testing can help in making informed decisions regarding legal and workplace policies. As research and technology advance, our understanding of THC detection in saliva will continue to evolve, potentially leading to more accurate and personalized testing protocols.

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Science Discovers Cannabis Tolerance Levels

Published

7 hours ago

July 3, 2024

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cannabis tolerance is real

Science Discovers Tolerance in a Groundbreaking Study

Sometimes, it fascinates me how research and discovery works. Picture this: you ask a cannabis user how they drive under the influence of cannabis, and they casually reply, “Fine.” To a non-cannabis user, this response is akin to admitting you juggle chainsaws while unicycling across a tightrope – blindfolded. “Impaired!” they cry, clutching their pearls and fainting dramatically onto the nearest fainting couch.

But here’s the kicker – that seasoned cannabis connoisseur might actually be correct in their nonchalant “fine” assessment. You see, they’ve developed this magical thing called “tolerance.” It’s a concept so revolutionary, so mind-blowing, that it took a team of intrepid scientists armed with clipboards and an abundance of government funding to finally uncover this elusive phenomenon.

Today, we’re diving deep into a recent study that has sent shockwaves through the scientific community. Brace yourselves for this earth-shattering revelation: people who use cannabis regularly might actually build up a tolerance to its effects! I know, I know – try to contain your gasps of astonishment.

This groundbreaking research has uncovered what every college student, musician, and that one cousin everyone has known for millennia. But fear not, for now we have the stamp of scientific approval to validate what cannabis users have been shouting from the rooftops (or more likely, mumbling from their couches) for ages.

So, dear readers, I invite you to join me on this journey of discovery. Sit back, relax, and if you’re so inclined, pack a bowl. Together, we’ll explore the latest findings that prove what we’ve all known all along – tolerance is not just a virtue, it’s a scientifically verified phenomenon! T-Breaks, breaks from THC, are a well known exercise in the stoner community.

As we delve into the details of this study, prepare to have your mind blown by the sheer audacity of researchers spending time and resources to confirm that, yes, doing something repeatedly might make you better at it. Who would have thought?

Alright, let’s dive into this groundbreaking study with all the seriousness it deserves – which is to say, none at all.

Our intrepid researchers, clearly in need of a hobby, recruited 86 adults and divided them into three groups: daily users, occasional users, and non-users. One can only imagine the rigorous selection process: “Do you smoke weed? How often? Can you count to potato?”

The participants were then subjected to a series of tests that would make a kindergartener roll their eyes. Reaction time? Check. Decision-making? You bet. Working memory? Absolutely. It’s as if the researchers raided a bag of “My First Science Experiment” kits and called it a day.

Lo and behold, the results were shocking – to absolutely no one who has ever attended a Phish concert. Daily users showed little to no impairment in reaction time after smoking. Cue the collective gasp from the scientific community and the collective “duh” from every long-term stoner.

But wait, there’s more! The occasional users, bless their hearts, did show slower reaction times and poorer memory performance. It’s almost as if… now bear with me here… using something regularly makes you better at functioning while using it. Revolutionary!

The study also found that daily users took longer to complete a task post-cannabis use but improved their accuracy. This phenomenon, known to cannabis users as “dude, I’m like, really focused right now,” was labeled by researchers as “compensatory cautiousness.” I’m sure the daily users appreciated having their snail-like pace dignified with such a fancy term.

Perhaps the most earth-shattering finding was that daily users didn’t exhibit significant changes in their working memory performance after smoking. Who would have thought that doing something every day might lead to adaptation? Certainly not the millions of coffee drinkers who can function only after their third cup.

The implications of this study are far-reaching. For one, it suggests that maybe, just maybe, we shouldn’t judge someone’s impairment based solely on whether they’ve consumed cannabis. It’s almost as if… individual tolerance levels might vary? Mind. Blown.

But fear not, concerned citizens! The researchers assure us they’re working tirelessly to develop “objective tools” to detect cannabis impairment. Because clearly, what the world needs now is another way to hassle responsible adults about their personal choices.

In conclusion, this study has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt what every seasoned stoner has known since time immemorial: practice makes perfect, even when it comes to cannabis consumption.

So the next time someone questions your ability to function after a toke, just tell them you’re not high – you’re engaging in “compensatory cautiousness” and “tolerance development.” It’s science!

Alright, fellow cannabis enthusiasts, it’s time for a moment of real talk. While we’ve been chuckling about scientists “discovering” tolerance, let’s not forget the importance of responsible consumption. Yes, our tolerance increases with long-term use, but let’s not kid ourselves – we’re not suddenly immune to the effects of cannabis.

This isn’t a challenge, folks. I’m not suggesting you go out and devour a plate of edibles before operating a crane or performing brain surgery. That’s just asking for trouble, and probably a viral video you’d rather not star in.

The real value of this study lies in educating non-users. It’s a wake-up call to those who imagine every cannabis user as a giggling, red-eyed caricature incapable of stringing two thoughts together. Surprise! Chronic users aren’t necessarily as impaired as the “Reefer Madness” crowd might believe.

Let’s draw a parallel with our old friend alcohol. If you’re like me and rarely drink, three beers might have you dancing on tables and declaring your undying love for everyone in the room. Meanwhile, your buddy who drinks more regularly might down a six-pack and only feel a slight buzz. It’s the same principle with cannabis.

Here’s where it gets interesting, though. Cannabis impairment is generally less severe than alcohol when it comes to motor functions. So even if a regular cannabis user consumes more than the average person, their impairment doesn’t skyrocket in the same way it would with alcohol. It’s not a free pass, but it’s food for thought.

Now, let’s be clear: regardless of tolerance, it’s always best to be sober when doing anything that could endanger others. Yes, we might be able to drive while stoned, but that doesn’t mean we should. It’s not just about our own safety, but the safety of everyone else on the road.

However – and this is a big however – this study should inform our traffic laws. The mere presence of THC in someone’s system doesn’t necessarily indicate impairment, especially for regular users. It’s high time (pun intended) that our laws reflect this reality instead of treating cannabis like it’s the devil’s lettuce.

So, let’s hope this study helps shape more sensible laws. Laws that recognize the nuances of cannabis use and don’t unfairly penalize responsible, long-term users who aren’t actually impaired.

In the end, it’s about balance.

We can celebrate our hard-earned tolerance while still acknowledging that cannabis does have effects. We can push for more reasonable laws while still advocating for responsible use. And most importantly, we can continue enjoying our herb while using our cannabis-enhanced creativity to come up with even more ridiculous names for it. Jazz cabbage, anyone?

CANNABIS TOLERANCE LEVELS, READ ON…

GETTING READY TO TAKE A THC TOLERANCE BREAK? READ THIS!

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The 10 Best Twitter (X) Cannabis Handles to Follow for Marijuana News and Updates

Published

8 hours ago

July 3, 2024

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cannabis twitter accounts

Being a cannabis lover, coming across an article regarding the best X accounts for cannabis users is interesting as it provides the reader with the latest information and events that transpire in the marijuana industry. While there are so many people sharing their opinions on a particular subject, it is always helpful to identify those who give more meaningful information.

In this article, we shall look at the top 10 Twitter handles that offer exclusive information to cannabis enthusiasts such as yourself. We will also identify three primary key opinion leaders who set trends in the weed culture alongside the responsible use of social media like Twitter. Elon Musk buying Twitter and making it “X” has been a boom for cannabis culture on the social media platform.

Thus, leaning on these resources, you will expand your knowledge base and understand how following top Twitter accounts for cannabis users can benefit your experience within this ever-growing sphere. Please keep your eyes open as we will present the list of recommendations and explain the usefulness of all the accounts for you.

Twitter for Cannabis Lovers

Twitter, or X, is an effective platform to receive information, share something with like-minded people, and follow the news if you are interested in legal cannabis. Thus, active enthusiasts need to use hashtags, participate in discussions, and be aware of the changes in such a rapidly growing market as cannabis. By subscribing to relevant feeds that cover the interests of all the enthusiasts of cannabis, you can indeed gain much and share your passion with others.

For any cannabis consumer who wants to keep up-to-date with what is trending and to be connected in any way, it is essential to follow the best Twitter accounts for cannabis users. Below, we have compiled a list of the most active ten profiles that may provide helpful information about weed culture, news, and updates.

@Leafly: A popular website where people can get the latest cannabis news, the type of cannabis available, and where to buy the same. Leafly provides detailed information and current information about what is going on in the world of cannabis.

@HighTimesMag: It is the account of one of the world’s most famous marijuana magazines that publishes articles on cultivation tips, product reviews, and legalization. High Times is a reputable magazine that targets a broad audience who consumes and sometimes uses cannabis.

@MERRYJANE: By creating his media, Snoop Dogg creates interesting content concerning culture, politics, and business concerning the use of Marijuana. In general, Mary Jane provides an original combination of entertainment and knowledge.

@cannabis_net: Going on 8 years now, Cannabis.net is a cross between Barstool and the New York Times. They use the best pictures and headlines for their sometime serious and sometimes sarcastic cannabis stories.

@WeedFeed: An amazing site for all the news updates, entertainment, and lifestyle events regarding cannabis. WeedFeed is for those interested in cannabis and looking for creative approaches to the latest happenings.

@GreenMarketRpt: It is a verified account for a community that disseminates information regarding publically traded cannabis companies, its products, and services by posting news, reviews, and educational content. Led by ex-CNBC reporter Deb Borchardt, Green Market Report covers all the financial dealing of this in and around the cannabis industry.

@HighThereApp: It is an application that allows people interested in marijuana to communicate, exchange information, and locate events. The social networking app is ideal if one aims to socialize and get to know people who share similar interests and follow local events.

@NCIAorg: The National Cannabis Industry Association account posts news and events about the legal cannabis business. NCIA information is valuable for anyone who wishes to sink their teeth into the commercial and legal facets of the marijuana industry.

@Leafbuyer: A service that allows a customer to check different coupons and lists of stores that offer cannabis products. Overall, if you are seeking the best prices for cannabis products or offers and promotions, Leafbuyer is the platform for you.

@Weedmaps: Here is a complete directory for locating legal marijuana dispensaries, your state’s delivery service, and certain special offers. To anybody interested in the cannabis market, Weedmaps is still a good follow even if Google has cut their traffic and relevance in the “find a dispensary near me” world.

Through these top 10 accounts, you will be in an excellent position to track the latest developments or events related to cannabis and movements.

Besides these, some more critical persons still have a great impact on today’s cannabis culture. Some of these critical influencers include:

@TommyChong: Tommy Chong is a comedian best known for his work in the Cheech & Chong movies; Chong is currently an influencer for marijuana use and promotion.

@Sethrogen: Seth Rogen, an actor/comedian, is a Legal marijuana fan and Investor for Houseplant, an organic marijuana brand.

@Montel_Williams: TV host Montel Williams has been a strong advocate for medical marijuana, particularly for pain management.

By following these accounts and engaging with their Twitter content, you can stay informed about the latest news, trends, and products in the cannabis industry. The top Twitter accounts will give you a well-rounded view of the cannabis industry, from news and business to culture and lifestyle. Happy tweeting!

Responsible Engagement

In the world of cannabis, it’s essential to engage responsibly on Twitter. As a cannabis enthusiast, you can contribute to the conversation by engaging in meaningful discussions and sharing content that resonates with you. Actively participating in cannabis-related discussions helps you connect with like-minded individuals and stay informed.

Here are some tips for engaging responsibly on Twitter:

Retweet: Share valuable information from your favorite accounts to spread awareness and knowledge. Retweeting helps amplify essential messages and news within the cannabis community.

Like: Show support for posts that align with your interests or provide valuable insights. Liking posts is a simple way to acknowledge content that you find helpful.

Engage: Join conversations about trending topics or ask questions to deepen your understanding of the cannabis industry. Engaging in discussions helps you learn more and connect with others who share your passion.

Be Respectful: Always interact respectfully, especially when discussing sensitive topics like drug use or cultivation. Maintaining a respectful tone encourages healthy and productive conversations.

Stay Informed: Follow reliable sources and stay updated on the latest news and trends in the cannabis industry. Being well-informed helps you contribute more effectively to discussions.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain a positive online presence within the cannabis community. Engaging responsibly ensures you stay informed while promoting a healthy dialogue among enthusiasts. Happy tweeting!