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Join us for a post-election breakdown: “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if you’ve got ’em”

As the dust settles (hopefully) from the 2024 U.S. elections, the cannabis industry stands at the threshold of potentially transformative changes. Join us on November 7th at 12 PM Pacific for an engaging discussion on the ramifications of the legal landscape of cannabis, post-election. We will cover everything from the Presidential and Congressional races, to the handful of pending state ballot measure results in Florida, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Oregon.

Post-election Q&A webinar details:

Vince Sliwoski will guide the discussion with seasoned industry veterans Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort. Collectively, these experts bring a wealth of industry knowledge and experience, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of what lies ahead for the cannabis industry.

Whether you are a cannabis entrepreneur, investor, or simply keen on the future of cannabis legislation, this discussion is designed for you.

Prepare your best questions and join us for deep insights into:

• How the election outcomes are expected to reshape federal and state cannabis policies, including with pending Schedule III proposal.
• The potential for new market openings and business opportunities in onboarding states.
• Strategic advice on navigating the evolving regulatory environment.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert post-election insights that could redefine your strategy and operations in the coming months and years.

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All addictive behaviors are complex health issues to treat, especially when it’s already in severe stages.

Alcoholism is already defined as a medical disorder characterized by the patients’ inability to control their consumption of alcohol, no matter how much damage it’s causing their health and their lives. However, the symptoms of alcoholism occur in a spectrum since its characteristics vary greatly from one person to another. That said, they all have one thing in common: a major dependence on alcohol, whether psychological or physical.

Also known as alcohol use disorder, this condition is challenging to treat. The physical and psychological dependence, social influences, environment, and risk of relapse all play an important role. That’s why treating alcoholism usually takes a long period of time, anywhere from a few weeks to months at a time. In addition, alcohol withdrawals can be so dangerous that some patients may be required to check into a treatment center, rehab, or hospital just so that they can be safely monitored in the process.

How Small Doses Of Magic Mushrooms Help

However, psilocybin or magic mushrooms have been promising for the treatment of alcohol use disorder. Recent studies have shed light on the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin for alcoholism, specifically its efficacy and quick-acting mechanisms.

A recent study conducted by investigators at the University of Copenhagen together with the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism revealed that just one dose of psilocybin taken from magic mushrooms was successful in treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study involved 10 adults, who were already seeking treatment for their condition; they were all diagnosed with severe alcohol use disorder.

They were asked to complete a treatment protocol including two sessions for preparation, a 25mg dose of psilocybin, then two integration sessions. The researchers had the primary goal of analyzing whether just one dose of psilocybin already had any impact on alcohol consumption. They found that there was a significant reduction among the patients’ alcohol consumption following psilocybin therapy; this was observed in the quantity of heavy drinking days and average number of alcoholic drinks consumed, which dropped by 37.5 percentage points and 3.4 units respectively.

In addition, the participants also observed sustained decreases in alcohol cravings.

Meanwhile, there was another study from 2022 conducted by investigators at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine that assessed 93 participants with alcohol dependence. For the trials, they were randomly given either 2 doses of psilocybin or a placebo containing antihistamine. The participants, as well as the researchers, weren’t aware of which was given to whom.

It was interesting to find that just 8 months after the treatment, the participants who were given psilocybin were found to reduce heavy drinking by as much as 83%. On the other hand, the participants given placebo cut down drinking by 51%. Other notable findings include the fact that 48% of participants, who were given psilocybin, were found to have quit alcohol completely – also 8 months after treatment.

“Our findings strongly suggest that psilocybin therapy is a promising means of treating alcohol use disorder, a complex disease that has proven notoriously difficult to manage,” explains Michael P. Bogenschutz MD, the study’s senior author as well as a psychiatrist. Bogenschutz also functions as a director of the NYU Langone Center for Psychedelic Medicine.

“As research into psychedelic treatment grows, we find more possible applications for mental health conditions,” adds Dr. Bogenschutz. “Beyond alcohol use disorder, this approach may prove useful in treating other addictions such as cigarette smoking and abuse of cocaine and opioids,” he said.  

Why Is This Important?

Over the last few years, thanks to the legalization of marijuana, more people are shifting to the so-called ‘California sober’ lifestyle. Giving up alcohol, as opposed to drinking it, is perceived (rightly so) as the healthier option while getting drunk is no longer seen as cool.

We’re on the right track, but there’s still so much work to be done. No matter how you put it, alcohol is still a deadly and highly poisonous substance that is dangerously so accessible because it’s legal. In fact, alcohol is literally a legal drug that can easily kill you. That said, there is still a whopping 28.9 million people aged 12 and up who struggle with alcohol use disorder, according to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

Simultaneously, there’s more research than ever discussing the harms of alcohol. It does so much more to the human body than harm your liver: the body receives it as poison from the very first sip, and it affects all organs more than you know. The facts are there, and they are horrifying, so it’s in your best interest to stop drinking altogether.

Conclusion

 

Psilocybin-assisted therapy is already on the rise in North America – though there are also several notable psychedelic healing centers in Mexico and The Americas. That, and the development of psilocybin-focused medical centers in the most renowned medical schools and hospitals in the country are proof of just how popular – and promising – psilocybin is becoming.

So if you are interested in using psychedelics to treat alcoholism, perhaps for yourself or someone in your life, you can now explore these options. Alcoholism is not one that you can or should self-medicate with, due to the extreme dangers imposed by withdrawals. Seek out professional medical supervision for the best, safest results using psilocybin to treat alcoholism!

PSYCHEDELICS FOR ALCOHOLISM, WHAT WE KNOW, READ ON…

WHAT PSYCHEDELICS CAN DO FOR ALCOHOLICS, WE NOW KNOW..

The conversation around cannabis legalization is heating up in Kansas. Recently, Debbi Beavers, a top state official, suggested that it might be “easier” for lawmakers to legalize recreational marijuana rather than starting with a medical cannabis program. This statement has ignited discussions about the implications of such a shift in policy. In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits and challenges of legalizing recreational marijuana in Kansas and the broader context of cannabis legislation in the state.

Current Landscape of Cannabis Legislation in Kansas

Kansas has long maintained strict laws against marijuana use. While many states have embraced legalization either for medical or recreational purposes Kansas remains one of the few states without any form of legal cannabis. This resistance is rooted in cultural attitudes, political opposition, and concerns over public health and safety.

Despite its conservative stance, there’s a growing movement advocating for cannabis legalization in Kansas. Polls show that public support for legalizing marijuana is on the rise, with many residents recognizing the potential economic benefits and social justice implications. However, legislative efforts have often stalled, particularly concerning medical marijuana.

 Why Legalize Recreational Marijuana?

1. Simplifying Regulations

One of Beavers’ key points is that legalizing recreational marijuana could create a more straightforward regulatory framework than starting with a medical program. Establishing a medical system involves complex regulations regarding patient eligibility and product safety. In contrast, recreational legalization could streamline these processes by creating universal regulations for all adult users.

1. Economic Benefits

Legalizing recreational marijuana could significantly boost Kansas’s economy. States that have legalized cannabis have reported substantial increases in tax revenue. For instance, Colorado generated over $1 billion in tax revenue from cannabis sales since legalization in 2014. Kansas could benefit similarly, directing funds toward education, infrastructure, and public health initiatives.

1. Job Creation

The cannabis industry is also a burgeoning source of employment opportunities. Legalizing recreational marijuana would create jobs in agriculture, retail, and distribution, stimulating local economies and providing much-needed employment in areas with high unemployment rates.

1. Social Justice Considerations

Legalization also raises important social justice issues. The War on Drugs has disproportionately affected marginalized communities, leading to high incarceration rates for non-violent drug offenses. Legalizing recreational marijuana could help address these disparities by reducing arrests and convictions related to cannabis use.

1. Expungement Initiatives

Many states that have legalized recreational marijuana have implemented Expungement initiatives to clear the records of individuals previously convicted of cannabis-related offenses. Such measures could provide relief to those negatively impacted by past drug policies and promote equity within communities historically affected by harsh drug laws.

 Challenges to Legalization

1. Political Resistance

Despite the potential benefits of legalizing recreational marijuana, significant political resistance remains. Many lawmakers hold conservative views on drug use and may be hesitant to embrace any form of legalization. Concerns about how legalization might affect public health and safety also persist.

1. Public Health Concerns

Opponents often cite potential public health risks associated with increased access to marijuana. These concerns include impaired driving, youth access to cannabis products, and potential long-term health effects on users. Addressing these issues through public education campaigns and responsible regulatory measures will be crucial if Kansas moves forward with legalization.

1. Regulatory Challenges

While Beavers argues that recreational legalization may simplify regulations, establishing an effective system will still pose challenges. Lawmakers must consider licensing requirements for growers and retailers, product safety standards, taxation rates, and marketing restrictions.

1. Balancing Interests

Finding a balance between promoting a thriving cannabis market and ensuring public safety will require careful planning and collaboration among stakeholders. Engaging law enforcement agencies, public health officials, and community organizations will be essential in crafting effective regulations that address diverse interests.

The Influence of Neighboring States

1. Regional Pressure for Change

Kansas is bordered by several states that have legalized either medical or recreational marijuana. As these neighboring states expand their cannabis markets—such as Colorado’s robust recreational system. Kansas lawmakers face increasing pressure to take action on their own policies.

1. Economic Competition

The economic benefits enjoyed by neighboring states may serve as a catalyst for change in Kansas. If residents travel across state lines to purchase legal cannabis products from states like Colorado or Missouri (which recently legalized medical marijuana), Kansas risks losing out on potential tax revenue and economic growth opportunities.

Shifting Public Opinion

Growing Support for Legalization

Public opinion regarding cannabis legalization has undergone a remarkable and dramatic transformation over the past few years. Recent polling data reveals that nearly 60% of Kansans now express support for the legalization of recreational marijuana, marking a significant increase compared to previous years. This surge in support not only highlights a shift in societal attitudes toward drug use but also reflects a broader recognition of the potential benefits associated with legalization, including economic growth, job creation, and social justice reforms. As more individuals become aware of these advantages, it is clear that the conversation around cannabis is evolving, paving the way for a more progressive approach to drug policy in the state.

Advocacy Efforts

Advocacy groups have played a crucial and transformative role in shifting public opinion regarding cannabis legalization by actively raising awareness about the numerous benefits associated with legalizing marijuana and addressing the various misconceptions that persist around cannabis use. These organizations have undertaken extensive efforts to organize campaigns specifically designed to educate voters about not only the economic advantages that legalization can bring—such as increased tax revenue and job creation—but also the significant social justice implications connected to cannabis reform, including the need to rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies. Through their initiatives, these groups aim to foster a more informed public discourse on the topic, ultimately paving the way for meaningful legislative change.

Conclusion

The proposal to legalize recreational marijuana in Kansas presents a significant opportunity for the state to simplify its regulatory framework, boost its economy, and address social justice issues, all while responding to growing public support. However, navigating the challenges of political resistance and public health concerns will be essential. By fostering open dialogue among lawmakers, advocacy groups, and community stakeholders, Kansas can craft a responsible cannabis policy that not only aligns with changing public sentiment but also sets a precedent for effective governance in an evolving landscape of drug policy reform.

KANSAS GOES GREEN, BUT NOT SO FAST, READ ON…

THE 2 REPUBLICANS BLOCKING MMJ IN KANSAS FOR 300,000 PEOPLE!