Cannabis News
The US is Waging a Silent War on Cannabis Moms
The US’ silent war on Cannabis Mothers
The War on Drugs, that grand American experiment in prohibition and punishment, has left a trail of destruction in its wake that’s hard to fathom. For over half a century, this misguided crusade has torn families apart, filled prisons to bursting, and shattered countless lives. The numbers are staggering – millions incarcerated, families left in financial ruin, and communities decimated. And for what? A war that has failed to stem the tide of drug use or addiction, instead criminalizing health issues and personal choices.
But the casualties of this war aren’t spread evenly across society. Oh no, that would be too fair. Instead, it’s minority communities and the poor who’ve borne the brunt of this assault on personal freedom. The scales of justice, it seems, are tipped heavily against those with the wrong skin color or too little cash in their pockets.
Yet amidst all this well-documented carnage, there’s a silent battle being waged that few are talking about. It’s a war on mothers, fought through the insidious weaponization of Child Protective Services. Even in states where cannabis has been legalized, moms are finding themselves in the crosshairs, their children torn from their arms over a joint or an edible.
It’s a twisted irony – in a country where wine mom culture is celebrated and kids are medicated for ADHD at the drop of a hat, a mom who uses cannabis to unwind or manage chronic pain can lose everything. The same system that’s supposed to protect children is being used to traumatize them, all in the name of a plant that’s less harmful than alcohol.
In this article, we’re going to peel back the curtain on this hidden front of the War on Drugs. We’ll explore how overzealous policies and outdated stigmas are destroying families and harming the very children they claim to protect. It’s time to shine a light on this cruel and unnecessary aspect of cannabis prohibition – a reminder that even as legalization spreads, the tentacles of the War on Drugs continue to squeeze the life out of American families.
I recently dove into a deeply disturbing Rolling Stone article that shed light on a hidden front of the War on Drugs – the targeting of cannabis-using mothers. It’s a long, gut-wrenching piece, but I’ll try to distill some of the key points here. Fair warning, folks – this isn’t a feel-good story.
Let’s start with Doshia Givens, a single mom in Cleveland. After a horrific car accident left her in crippling pain, she opted for cannabis instead of addictive opioids to manage her suffering. Sounds reasonable, right? Well, Child Protective Services didn’t think so. When her daughter Selah tested positive for THC after a routine hospital visit, Doshia was deemed an “imminent risk” to her child. Within 24 hours, they were torn apart. All because a mother chose a safer pain management option in a state drowning in opioid deaths.
Then there’s Raneisha Hubbert in Los Angeles. Her crime? Testing positive for marijuana after her mischievous toddler kept escaping their new apartment. Despite no evidence of neglect or harm to her children, both kids were taken away. The system labeled her a “substance abuser” unfit to care for her own flesh and blood.
But surely this doesn’t happen in states where weed is legal, right? Wrong. Take Lindsay Ridgell from Arizona, where medical marijuana has been legal since 2010. She used cannabis during pregnancy to combat severe morning sickness, with her doctor’s blessing. Yet when her son was born, he was drug tested without her consent, and she found herself under investigation for neglect. This, despite Arizona’s laws specifically protecting medical marijuana users from such discrimination.
These aren’t isolated incidents. The article reveals that tens of thousands of mothers across the country are coming under scrutiny for cannabis use. Many lose custody entirely, labeled as dangers to their own children. They’re forced into drug treatment programs and subjected to humiliating surveillance, all for using a substance that’s legal in many states and less harmful than alcohol.
Which begs the question – how is this good for the children? Where’s the harm in a parent using cannabis responsibly, especially compared to the known dangers of separation trauma? We don’t see this kind of heavy-handed intervention when parents drink alcohol, or feed their kids a steady diet of processed junk food and sugar. Hell, we celebrate “wine mom” culture while demonizing cannabis-using mothers.
The hypocrisy is staggering. These policies aren’t protecting kids; they’re traumatizing them. Ripping a child from a loving home over a parent’s cannabis use isn’t child protection – it’s state-sanctioned child abuse. And it’s happening right under our noses, even as we pat ourselves on the back for progressing beyond the worst excesses of the War on Drugs.
It’s high time we faced this ugly truth: our child welfare system is being weaponized to continue the War on Drugs by other means. And it’s our kids who are paying the price.
Let’s cut through the bullshit and call this what it is: state-sanctioned child abuse masquerading as protection. The system labels cannabis-using mothers as “substance abusers” and “dangers” to their children. Their solution? Rip kids from their homes and toss them into a foster care system that’s about as nurturing as a cactus in winter.
Now, I’m not advocating for parents to blaze up 24/7 while neglecting their rugrats. But let’s get real about the trauma we’re inflicting on these kids in the name of “protecting” them. Being separated from your parents, especially during those crucial formative years, isn’t just a bummer – it’s potentially life-altering in the worst way possible.
The stats on kids who grow up without their parents or in foster care are downright depressing. Higher rates of mental health issues, substance abuse problems, and incarceration. Lower educational attainment and income levels. Increased risk of homelessness and early pregnancy. It’s a laundry list of societal ills that we’re essentially programming into these kids’ futures.
So, what’s worse? A mom who unwinds with a joint after the kids are in bed, or subjecting a child to a system that dramatically increases their chances of ending up depressed, addicted, or in prison?
Let’s flip the script for a second. Is a cannabis mom really such a horror show? We’re talking about people who love, nurture, and care for their kids. They clean scraped knees, cook meals, help with homework, and provide the emotional security that’s crucial for healthy development. Does the fact that they use cannabis suddenly negate all of that? Does it make them unfit for motherhood?
Hell no. In fact, recent research suggests that cannabis-using parents might actually be more engaged with their kids. They’re more likely to get down on the floor and play, to immerse themselves in their children’s worlds. That kind of interaction is gold for a developing brain.
But the law, in its infinite, scientifically illiterate wisdom, doesn’t see any of this nuance. It sees “drug user” and immediately equates that with “unfit parent.” Never mind the trauma inflicted on the child. Never mind the loving home destroyed. The War on Drugs demands its pound of flesh, and it’s our kids who are paying the price.
Is this really the society we want to live in? One where the state can snatch your children because you chose to consume a plant that’s less harmful than alcohol? Where families are torn apart not because of abuse or neglect, but because of outdated, hysterical drug policies?
We need to ask ourselves: Is the cost of this aspect of the War on Drugs higher than any perceived harm from cannabis use? Are we okay with traumatizing children to punish parents for a victimless crime? Because make no mistake, that’s exactly what we’re doing.
It’s time to wake up and smell the cannabis, folks. This isn’t about protecting kids. It’s about perpetuating a failed war that’s destroying lives and families. We need to demand better. We need policies based on science and compassion, not fear and stigma. Because right now, we’re not protecting children – we’re sacrificing them on the altar of prohibition. And that’s a cost that’s far too high to bear.
Alright, folks, it’s time to cut through the haze and face some hard truths. The War on Drugs has been ravaging our society for over half a century now. Isn’t it about damn time we admit this experiment in prohibition has failed spectacularly? We’re supposed to be living in an age of big data and evidence-based policy, yet here we are, still clinging to these draconian, uninformed drug laws like they’re some kind of security blanket.
Let’s talk hypocrisy for a second. We’ve got politicians and policymakers waxing poetic about protecting the children, using them as rhetorical shields in their crusade against drugs. But when it comes down to it, they’re more than happy to rip kids away from loving homes over a parent’s cannabis use. Tell me, how exactly is traumatizing a child by separating them from their family protecting them? It’s like trying to fireproof a house by burning it to the ground.
I don’t know about you, but I think it’s high time (pun fully intended) that we renegotiate our relationship with drugs from a policy perspective. We’re not the same society we were back in 1971 when Nixon kicked off this ill-fated war. We’ve evolved, we’ve learned, and we’ve seen firsthand the catastrophic consequences of treating a public health issue like a criminal one.
Using the full force of the law, including the child welfare system, to crack down on cannabis use is like using a sledgehammer to hang a picture frame. It’s excessive, it’s destructive, and it completely misses the point. We need policies that actually help families, not tear them apart. Policies based on science and compassion, not outdated moral panics and political posturing.
So here’s the sticky bottom line: It’s time to end this senseless war. It’s time to stop punishing parents for using a substance that’s legal in many states and less harmful than alcohol. It’s time to prioritize the real well-being of children over some misguided notion of drug-free purity.
Because let’s face it, the real danger to these kids isn’t a parent who uses cannabis responsibly. It’s a system that’s willing to traumatize them in the name of a failed ideology. And that’s a habit we need to kick, once and for all.
SOCCER MOMS AND WEED, READ ON…
Cannabis has so many compounds, and two that have been making the rounds lately are HHC and Delta 9 THC. They’re not the same thing, even though they’re both cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Some people want a mild, steady experience, while others might be looking for something more intense. Understanding these two can help you figure out what’s right for you.
What Is HHC?
HHC, short for hexahydrocannabinol, is a hydrogenated version of THC. It’s not something you’d find naturally in large amounts in cannabis plants. Instead, it’s made through a process that adds hydrogen molecules to THC. The result? A more stable compound that’s less prone to breaking down when exposed to heat or UV light.
How HHC Is Made
Think of it like a science experiment. HHC is usually created in a lab by taking Delta 9 or Delta 8 THC and using hydrogenation—basically, combining it with hydrogen under pressure and in the presence of a catalyst. This process changes its structure while keeping its effects somewhat similar to THC.
Common Uses and Effects of HHC
People who use HHC say it’s somewhere between Delta 8 and Delta 9 in terms of effects. It’s often described as relaxing but without being overly sedative. You might feel a light buzz, reduced stress, or mild euphoria. Some even claim it helps with discomfort or improving sleep, but solid research is still catching up. Since it’s less potent than Delta 9, it’s often favored by those who want a manageable experience without the strong psychoactive punch.
If you’re interested in trying HHC and Delta 9 for yourself, check out their wide range of products at trycandycloud.com. They’ve got everything from gummies to disposable vapes, all crafted for a smooth experience.
What Is Delta 9 THC?
Delta 9 THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s the reason you feel “high” when you use weed. Chemically speaking, Delta 9 has a double bond in its ninth carbon chain, which plays a big role in how it interacts with your brain.
Natural Occurrence in Cannabis
This one is straightforward: Delta 9 is found in high concentrations in marijuana plants. It’s what most people think of when they hear “THC.” Unlike HHC, there’s no need for a lab process—it’s already there. Hemp plants, however, contain much lower levels of Delta 9 THC, which is why it’s primarily extracted from marijuana.
Common Uses and Effects of Delta 9 THC
The effects of Delta 9 are well-documented. Depending on the dose, you might feel euphoria, increased appetite, or deep relaxation. For medical users, it’s often used to manage chronic pain, nausea, and other conditions. It’s also been studied for its potential benefits in anxiety relief, though higher doses might have the opposite effect, causing paranoia. Delta 9 THC is versatile, but it’s not without its risks, particularly for new users or those sensitive to its psychoactive effects.
Key Differences Between HHC and Delta 9 THC
Chemical Structure and Composition
The main difference is in their structure. Delta 9 THC has that iconic double bond, while HHC’s hydrogenation makes it more stable. This difference might not mean much to the average person, but it’s why HHC is less likely to degrade over time.
Potency Levels
Delta 9 THC is generally more potent. HHC might require a higher dose to get a comparable effect, but some people prefer its lighter touch. Potency differences can also depend on the method of consumption, with edibles typically providing a stronger, longer-lasting effect compared to vaping or smoking.
Duration of Effects
Both last a few hours, but some users report that HHC’s effects fade more gradually. Delta 9, on the other hand, can have a sharper comedown. HHC’s gradual fade makes it appealing for those who want a smooth end to their experience.
Benefits and Drawbacks of HHC and Delta 9 THC
HHC: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More stable, so it lasts longer on the shelf.
- Effects are milder, making it less overwhelming for beginners.
- Can be a functional option for daytime use.
Cons:
- Limited research, so we don’t know its full impact yet.
- Availability can be hit or miss depending on where you live.
- Legal gray area in many regions.
Delta 9 THC: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Well-studied with established medical uses.
- Widely available in areas where cannabis is legal.
- Stronger effects make it ideal for experienced users or those with high tolerance.
Cons:
- Higher chance of side effects like anxiety.
- More likely to show up on drug tests.
- Shorter shelf life compared to HHC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Is HHC safer than Delta 9 THC?
Not enough research exists to say definitively, but HHC’s milder effects might make it feel safer to some users.
Q. Will HHC or Delta 9 THC show up on a drug test?
Yes, both can potentially show up on a drug test, so use with caution if that’s a concern.
Q. Which one is better for recreational use?
That depends on your preferences. HHC is great for a mellow time, while Delta 9 is better if you’re looking for something more intense.
HHC vs. Delta 9: Choosing the Right One for You
The choice comes down to what you’re after. If you want a milder, more laid-back experience, HHC might be a good option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something stronger or need it for medical reasons, Delta 9 is the way to go. It also depends on what’s legal and available where you are. And always consider your tolerance levels and experience before diving in. If you’re unsure, consult with a knowledgeable dispensary staff.
Resources:
Cannabis News
What Federally Illegal Drug Has Created Almost $10 Billion in Sales Tax Revenue for States in the Last 40 Months?
In a significant development for the burgeoning cannabis industry, the U.S. Census Bureau has reported that states across the nation have collectively amassed over **$9.7 billion** in tax revenue from marijuana sales since mid-2021. This figure underscores the economic impact of legalized cannabis and highlights the growing acceptance of marijuana as both a recreational and medicinal substance in various states. As more states move toward legalization, the financial implications both positive and negative are becoming increasingly evident.
The Landscape of Cannabis Legalization
The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been long and complex. Initially criminalized in the early 20th century, cannabis began to regain acceptance in the late 20th century, particularly for medical use. The first state to legalize medical marijuana was California in 1996, setting a precedent that many states would follow.
By 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, paving the way for a wave of legalization efforts across the country. As of now, more than 20 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while over 30 states allow medical use. This shift reflects changing public attitudes toward cannabis and recognition of its potential benefits.
Economic Implications of Legalization
The legalization of cannabis has not only transformed social norms but has also created a substantial economic impact. States that have embraced legalization have seen significant increases in tax revenue, job creation, and investment opportunities.
According to the latest Census Bureau report, states like California, Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan have emerged as leaders in cannabis tax revenue generation. These states have implemented various tax structures on marijuana sales, including excise taxes, sales taxes, and local taxes. The revenue generated is often earmarked for essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure improvements, and drug rehabilitation programs.
Breakdown of Tax Revenue by State
As the largest legal cannabis market in the United States, California has been at the forefront of marijuana tax revenue generation. Since mid-2021, California has contributed approximately $2.5 billion to state coffers from cannabis taxes. This revenue is derived from both recreational and medical marijuana sales.
California’s tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on retail sales, along with local taxes that can vary significantly by city and county. The state has allocated a portion of these funds to various programs aimed at addressing issues related to drug abuse and public health.
Colorado was one of the pioneers in cannabis legalization and continues to serve as a model for other states. Since mid-2021, Colorado has generated around $1.8 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a 15% excise tax on wholesale marijuana transactions and a 2.9% sales tax on retail sales.
The revenue generated from cannabis taxes has been instrumental in funding education initiatives through the Public School Fund, as well as supporting mental health programs and substance abuse treatment services.
Illinois has seen remarkable growth in its cannabis market since legalizing recreational use in January 2020. In just two years, Illinois has collected approximately $1 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a tiered excise tax based on the potency of the product, ranging from 10% to 25%.
The funds collected are allocated to various initiatives, including community reinvestment programs aimed at addressing social equity issues related to past drug enforcement practices.
Michigan’s cannabis market has also flourished since legalization. Since mid-2021, Michigan has generated about $700 million in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state’s tax structure includes a 10% excise tax on recreational marijuana and a 6% sales tax.
The revenue is utilized for various purposes, including education funding and support for local governments impacted by legalization.
Broader Economic Impact
The legalization of cannabis has led to significant job creation across various sectors. According to industry reports, the legal cannabis market supports hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide—from cultivation and processing to retail and distribution. As more states legalize marijuana, this trend is expected to continue.
With the growth of the legal cannabis industry comes increased investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs are entering the market at an unprecedented rate, leading to innovations in product development, marketing strategies, and distribution channels. This influx of investment not only benefits individual businesses but also stimulates local economies.
Social Equity Considerations
While the financial benefits of cannabis legalization are clear, it is essential to address social equity issues that arise alongside this new industry. Many states have recognized that communities disproportionately affected by past drug enforcement policies should benefit from legalization efforts.
States like Illinois have implemented community reinvestment programs that allocate a portion of cannabis tax revenues to support communities impacted by previous drug laws. These funds can be used for education initiatives, job training programs, and mental health services—aiming to rectify historical injustices associated with cannabis prohibition.
In addition to financial support for communities affected by past policies, some states are also working to create equitable licensing opportunities for individuals from those communities. By prioritizing applications from minority-owned businesses or those directly impacted by previous drug laws, states can foster a more inclusive cannabis industry.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the significant progress made through legalization efforts, challenges remain on both state and federal levels.
Federal Legalization Uncertainty
One major hurdle is the ongoing conflict between state and federal laws regarding cannabis. While many states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This discrepancy creates complications for businesses operating legally at the state level but facing potential federal prosecution.
Efforts toward federal legalization or decriminalization have gained traction recently; however, progress remains slow due to political divisions and differing opinions on drug policy reform.
Regulatory Hurdles
As more states enter the legal cannabis market, regulatory frameworks must evolve to ensure consumer safety while promoting fair competition among businesses. States face challenges related to product testing standards, labeling requirements, advertising restrictions, and taxation policies that can impact market dynamics.
Conclusion
The U.S. Census Bureau reports that states have collected over $9.7 billion in marijuana tax revenue since mid-2021, highlighting the significant economic impact of cannabis legalization. As public acceptance grows, more states are likely to pursue legalization. Despite ongoing challenges, including federal regulations and social equity issues, legalized cannabis is poised to remain a vital part of state economies. Collaboration among government officials, business leaders, and community advocates will be essential for fostering an equitable and sustainable cannabis industry. This evolving landscape not only presents economic growth opportunities but also addresses historical injustices tied to drug policy enforcement, shaping the future of cannabis legislation in the U.S.
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