In recent years, the landscape of cannabis use has undergone a surprising transformation, defying long-held predictions and challenging conventional wisdom. For decades, opponents of marijuana legalization have wielded a powerful argument: legalizing cannabis would send the wrong message to youth, inevitably leading to increased consumption among teenagers and young adults. This fear has been a cornerstone of anti-legalization campaigns, painting a grim picture of a future where young minds are clouded by widespread drug use.

However, as more states and countries have embraced cannabis legalization, an unexpected trend has emerged. Contrary to dire predictions, youth cannabis use has not skyrocketed. In fact, in many places, it has remained stable or even declined. Meanwhile, it’s the older generations who are increasingly turning to cannabis, with one of the fastest-growing demographics of users being adults over 50.

This shift isn’t limited to cannabis alone. Across the board, today’s youth are showing less interest in various substances, including alcohol and tobacco. It’s a trend that has left researchers and social commentators puzzled. Are we witnessing the rise of a more health-conscious, drug-averse generation? Or, as some might cheekily suggest, are young people today simply less inclined towards experimentation and risk-taking than their predecessors?

The implications of this trend are far-reaching, challenging not only our assumptions about drug policy but also our understanding of generational behaviors and values. On one hand, we could interpret this as a positive development – a sign that education and awareness campaigns are working, producing a generation more informed about the risks of substance use. On the other hand, it raises questions about changing social dynamics and what drives young people’s choices in today’s world.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors behind this intriguing phenomenon. Why are fewer young people turning to cannabis and other substances, even as legal barriers fall? And what’s driving older adults, particularly those over 50, to embrace cannabis in growing numbers?

By examining these trends, we hope to gain insight into the complex interplay of social, legal, and cultural factors shaping attitudes towards substance use in our society.

As we delve into the statistics, a clear trend emerges: fewer young people are indulging in substances across the board. Whether it’s alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis, today’s youth are increasingly abstaining. This shift has left many scratching their heads, wondering what’s behind this sudden display of temperance among the younger generation.

At first glance, one might be tempted to chalk it up to the success of drug education programs. After all, today’s youth are bombarded with information about the risks and consequences of substance use from an early age. Gone are the days of simplistic “Just Say No” campaigns and exaggerated scare tactics. Modern drug education tends to be more nuanced, focusing on harm reduction and evidence-based information.

However, as someone who went through the gauntlet of ’90s drug education myself, I can attest that knowledge doesn’t always translate to abstinence. My generation was subjected to a barrage of anti-drug messaging, yet many of us still experimented with various substances in our youth. So while improved education may play a role, it’s unlikely to be the sole factor driving this trend.

Perhaps we need to look at what today’s youth are doing instead. Enter the elephant in the room: social media. In many ways, social platforms have become the drug of choice for the younger generation. The constant dopamine hits from likes, shares, and notifications create a neurological response eerily similar to that of traditional stimulants. As kids spend more time glued to their screens, they may be less inclined to seek out other forms of stimulation.

Moreover, the ubiquity of social media has changed the nature of rebellion. When I was young, smoking a joint or sneaking a beer felt like acts of defiance against adult authority. But in a world where parents and grandparents are posting selfies and sharing memes, how does one rebel? For some youth, abstaining from substances their parents use might be the ultimate act of generational differentiation.

The normalization and legalization of cannabis in many areas have also played a role. As weed becomes more mainstream and socially accepted, it loses its countercultural edge. The image of cannabis has shifted from a symbol of rebellion to something your cool aunt does to relax after work. This transformation may have inadvertently made it less appealing to youth seeking to establish their own identity.

Lastly, we can’t ignore the practical aspects. As more adults turn to legal dispensaries for their cannabis, the street market that traditionally supplied curious teens has faced stiff competition. Legal establishments with strict ID checks have made it harder for underage users to access cannabis, potentially contributing to the decline in youth use.

In essence, today’s youth aren’t necessarily more virtuous or health-conscious than previous generations. They’re simply products of their environment – an environment that offers myriad digital distractions, blurs the lines of generational rebellion, and increasingly restricts access to substances. As we continue to navigate this shifting landscape, it’s crucial to remember that while reduced substance use among youth is generally positive, it doesn’t tell the whole story of their well-being. The challenges and pressures faced by today’s young people are unique, and our understanding and support should evolve accordingly.

As we turn our attention to the other end of the age spectrum, an intriguing trend emerges. While youth cannabis use is on the decline, adults over 50 are blazing up in record numbers. This demographic has become one of the fastest-growing segments of cannabis consumers, leaving many to wonder: why are the “olds” suddenly embracing their inner stoner?

To understand this phenomenon, we need to dive into the fascinating world of the endocannabinoid system. This complex network of receptors in our bodies doesn’t fully mature until around age 25. As we age, our natural endocannabinoid production tends to decline, leading to what some researchers call “endocannabinoid deficiency.” This can manifest in various ways, from mood disturbances to physical discomfort.

Enter cannabis. When older adults consume marijuana, they’re essentially giving their endocannabinoid system a much-needed boost. It’s like adding oil to a squeaky machine – suddenly, things start running more smoothly. Many report improvements in sleep, mood, and general well-being. It’s not just about getting high; for many, it’s about feeling balanced and functional.

Moreover, as we age, our bodies become less resilient to the effects of alcohol. A night of heavy drinking in your 20s might result in a manageable hangover, but the same indulgence in your 50s or 60s can knock you out for days. Cannabis, on the other hand, offers a gentler experience. You can enjoy an evening toke and still be ready to face the day come morning. For many older adults juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, this is a significant advantage.

Accessibility is another crucial factor. As more states legalize cannabis, it’s becoming increasingly easy for adults to walk into a dispensary and purchase high-quality, regulated products. Gone are the days of relying on sketchy dealers or questionable sources. This ease of access, combined with the normalization of cannabis use, has made it a more appealing option for older adults who might have been hesitant in the past.

Let’s not forget the economic aspect. In many cases, cannabis can be a more cost-effective option than alcohol, especially when consumed in moderation. A single joint can provide an evening’s worth of relaxation, often at a lower cost than a night out drinking. For retirees or those on fixed incomes, this economic advantage can be particularly appealing.

The health benefits of cannabis, especially when compared to alcohol, can’t be overstated. While excessive use of any substance can be harmful, moderate cannabis consumption doesn’t carry the same risks of liver damage, addiction, or long-term health consequences associated with alcohol abuse. For older adults looking to unwind without compromising their health, cannabis presents an attractive alternative.

In essence, the rising popularity of cannabis among older adults is a perfect storm of biological, practical, and social factors. It offers a way to potentially improve health and well-being, provides a gentler recreational experience, and aligns with changing social norms. As more research emerges on the potential benefits of cannabis for age-related issues, we may see this trend continue to grow.

Of course, it’s important to note that cannabis use, like any substance, should be approached responsibly and with an understanding of potential risks and interactions with medications. But for many in the over-50 crowd, it seems that cannabis is proving to be a welcome addition to their golden years.

Who would have thought that the “reefer madness” generation would end up being the ones to fully embrace the green revolution?

CANNABIS USE DROPS AMONG YOUTH, READ MORE..

WHY CANNABIS USE DROPS 9% IN TEENS AFTER LEGALIZATION!

Introduction

As Benzinga suggested first, new research suggests that cannabis prices in the United States could significantly decrease if the substance were legalized nationwide. Legalizing cannabis is expected to increase supply, reduce black market activity, and enable taxation, all of which would contribute to lower consumer prices.

Interstate commerece would be a huge benefits for consumers, think Amazon and overnight shipping, but while a boom for cannabis retailers bottom top line, their bottom line could take a beating as price competition and consumer access increases dramatically online and on smartphones. Full legalization, meaning not a criminal substance or requiring limited or no licensing, would allow new suppliers to come into the market from all over the world. Countries and states with low electricity, water, and labor costs could create a “rush to the bottom”; on pricing as they try and flood the market with products. For example, Colombia reports $0.06 a gram pricing on cannabis and is already exporting marijuana aroudn the world.

Currently in America, cannabis prices vary widely across states, influenced by local regulations and market dynamics. For instance, states with established legal markets, like Colorado and Washington, have seen prices decrease over time as competition increases and supply chains become more efficient. In contrast, illegal markets often drive prices up due to risks associated with law enforcement and limited supply.

The study highlights that legalization could also lead to economic benefits, such as increased tax revenue and job creation within the cannabis industry. As of 2024, 37 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized cannabis in some form, yet federal legalization remains a contentious issue. Advocates argue that legalizing cannabis would not only lower prices but also diminish the societal costs associated with prohibition, including law enforcement expenditures estimated at $3.6 billion annually.

Economic Benefits of Cannabis Legalization

• Tax Revenue: If cannabis were federally legal, it’s estimated the industry would amass $131.8 billion in federal tax revenue between 2017 and 2025[2]. This money could go toward programs that benefit communities, especially those disproportionately affected by the war on drugs.

• Job Creation: The cannabis industry is the fastest growing industry, doubling in size over the past four years and creating 121,000 full-time jobs[2]. It’s expected that legal cannabis jobs will grow by 250% over the next 10 years, more than any other industry.

• Savings from Prohibition Enforcement: The American Civil Liberties Union estimates that $7.7 billion is spent per year to enforce the war on drugs[2]. If taxed the same as tobacco and alcohol, cannabis could bring in as much as $6 billion per year.

State-Level Economic Impacts

A study examining state-level outcomes found that states that legalized recreational marijuana experienced statistically significant increases in their overall employment growth rate and average housing rents. The economic effects increased over time, with both employment growth rate and median rent growth becoming more statistically significant as more years passed after recreational legalization.

However, another study found that while there were moderate economic gains, these were accompanied by some social costs. Post-legalization, average state income grew by 3%, house prices by 6%, and population by 2%. But substance use disorders, chronic homelessness, and arrests increased by 17%, 35%, and 13%, respectively.

County-Level Analysis

The second analysis examined county-level data, investigating the economic impacts of legalizing recreational marijuana by exploiting the county/local options for whether recreational marijuana dispensaries are allowed. The study aimed to examine how the benefits are distributed between counties with and without recreational dispensaries and the types of local areas that especially benefit.

Colorado was used as a case study, as it was one of the earliest adopters of legalized recreational cannabis along with Washington[5]. The study looked at whether counties that allowed dispensaries had different outcomes than those who did not, such as the potential loss of young adults in communities that did not allow recreational sales.

Potential Negative Consequences

While the economic benefits of cannabis legalization are significant, there are also potential negative consequences to consider:

• Increased Substance Use: The legalization of cannabis has raised concerns about its potential impact on substance use, especially among young adults. Research indicates that legalization may lead to increased consumption in this demographic due to greater accessibility, enhanced social acceptance, and lower prices. As cannabis becomes more available, young adults may be more likely to experiment with it, which could result in higher rates of use and an increased risk of developing cannabis use disorders. Additionally, the introduction of potent products, such as edibles and concentrates, may further contribute to these trends. While legalization offers economic and social benefits, it is essential to consider its potential negative effects on substance use patterns among vulnerable populations like young adults.

• Healthcare Utilization: The legalization of cannabis has been linked to an increase in cannabis-related healthcare visits, raising important public health concerns. Studies from states like Colorado, the first to legalize recreational cannabis, have reported a significant rise in emergency department visits associated with cannabis use, with hospitalizations for cannabis abuse increasing by 27% compared to pre-legalization rates. This uptick includes not only cases of abuse but also acute effects such as psychosis and overdose. The increase in healthcare utilization may result from greater accessibility to cannabis, leading to higher consumption and more adverse health outcomes. While some research indicates that overall healthcare utilization may remain stable, the specific rise in cannabis-related visits underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and further research to understand the long-term health implications of legalization.

• Impaired Driving: The legalization of cannabis has raised concerns about its potential impact on public safety, particularly in relation to impaired driving. Several studies have found evidence of increased rates of driving under the influence of cannabis following legalization. For instance, research conducted in Colorado and Washington, two of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, has shown a rise in the number of drivers involved in fatal crashes who tested positive for THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. This trend is particularly worrying given the well-established link between cannabis use and impaired cognitive and motor functions, which can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the legalization of cannabis may lead to a normalization of its use, potentially leading to more individuals driving while impaired. While the development of reliable roadside tests for cannabis impairment remains a challenge, the increase in impaired driving following legalization highlights the need for robust public education campaigns and the implementation of effective policies to address this critical issue.

• Mixed Findings on Attitudes: The literature on cannabis legalization reveals mixed findings regarding changes in public attitudes toward cannabis use. While some studies indicate increased acceptance and normalization, particularly among younger demographics, other research shows attitudes may not have shifted significantly or have become more polarized. Surveys in legalized states often report growing acceptance, viewing cannabis as a legitimate recreational option. However, certain segments, including older adults and those with prior negative experiences, may express more concern about potential societal impacts, such as youth use. The complexity of attitudes is influenced by personal experiences, cultural background, and ongoing media narratives. This mixed evidence underscores the need for continued research to understand how legalization affects perceptions and inform public policy and education efforts.

Conclusion

The potential legalization of cannabis nationwide in the United States presents an opportunity for significant reductions in cannabis prices, driven by increased supply, diminished black market activity, and the ability to impose taxation. While the economic benefits, such as enhanced tax revenue and job creation, are compelling, it is crucial to consider the associated negative consequences. These include increased substance use among young adults, a rise in cannabis-related healthcare visits, heightened instances of impaired driving, and mixed findings regarding public attitudes toward cannabis. Although the literature indicates various negative outcomes, the findings are often mixed and do not suggest large magnitude short-term impacts. Therefore, further research is essential to comprehensively understand the broader economic and social implications of cannabis legalization.

SHIPPING CANNABIS IN THE MAIL AND FED EX, WATCH BELOW…

SHIPPING CANNABIS IN THE MAIL IS PROBABLY LEGAL ALREADY!

In a groundbreaking decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has ruled that Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) derived from legal hemp sources is not classified as a controlled substance under federal law, directly contradicting the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) position that all synthetically derived tetrahydrocannabinols, including Delta-8 THC, fall under Schedule I controlled substances. This landmark ruling emerged from a case brought forward by several key players in the hemp industry who challenged the DEA’s interpretation of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives. The court’s decision not only rejects the DEA’s restrictive stance but also provides much-needed clarity regarding the legal status of Delta-8 THC, allowing for its continued production and sale from legally sourced hemp. This ruling is significant as it has the potential to reshape the regulatory landscape for cannabinoids, encouraging further exploration and commercialization of hemp-derived products while also highlighting the ongoing tensions between federal regulations and the rapidly evolving hemp industry.

 Delta-8 THC: A Naturally Occurring Cannabinoid

Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-8 THC) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in trace amounts in hemp and cannabis plants that shares a similar molecular structure to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, but is known to produce significantly milder intoxicating effects; the 2018 Farm Bill’s legalization of hemp and its derivatives containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis created a legal gray area for Delta-8 THC, which has proliferated in the form of various products derived from legal hemp sources and sold in a largely unregulated market, as they are not explicitly classified as controlled substances by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) despite the agency’s stance that all synthetically derived tetrahydrocannabinols should be treated as Schedule I drugs regardless of their origin or potency, a position that has been challenged by hemp industry players arguing that Delta-8 THC from legal hemp should be exempt from the same restrictions as Delta-9 THC.

 The DEA’s Stance and Industry Challenges

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has taken a firm stance that all synthetically derived tetrahydrocannabinols, including Delta-8 THC, are classified as Schedule I controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), regardless of their source or concentration. This position has faced considerable resistance from various stakeholders within the hemp industry, who argue that Delta-8 THC derived from legal hemp should not be subjected to the same stringent restrictions as Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. Proponents contend that the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives, should extend to include Delta-8 THC, allowing it to be treated as a legal product when sourced from hemp that contains less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. They emphasize that while Delta-8 THC may occur naturally in small amounts in hemp, the majority of Delta-8 products on the market are produced through a chemical conversion process from CBD, which the DEA argues renders them synthetic and thus illegal. This conflict has led to ongoing legal challenges, with some courts ruling in favor of the hemp industry, asserting that Delta-8 THC should not be classified as a controlled substance when derived from legal hemp. As the debate continues, the tension between the DEA’s regulatory framework and the evolving hemp market raises critical questions about the future of cannabinoid regulation in the United States.

 The Court’s Ruling and Its Implications

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruled that Delta-8 THC derived from legal hemp sources is not controlled substance.

• The court found the DEA’s interpretation of the law was “arbitrary and capricious” and lacked a reasoned explanation.

• This ruling effectively removes Delta-8 THC from the DEA’s list of controlled substances, provided it is derived from hemp containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.

• The decision provides legal protection for businesses and consumers involved in Delta-8 THC products derived from legal hemp sources.

Opportunities for the Hemp and Cannabis Industries

The recent court ruling represents a significant victory for the hemp and cannabis industries, paving the way for new possibilities in product development and research.

• Therapeutic Potential: Delta-8 THC has been recognized for its potential therapeutic benefits, which could attract more consumers seeking alternative treatments.

• Increased Investment: The legalization of Delta-8 THC may lead to heightened investment and innovation within the sector, encouraging the development of new products and formulations.

• Regulatory Concerns: Despite the positive implications, the ruling also raises important concerns regarding the regulation and quality control of Delta-8 THC products, necessitating careful oversight.

• Need for Standards: As the market for Delta-8 THC expands, there will be a pressing need for clear guidelines and standards to ensure consumer safety and product consistency, helping to build trust in these emerging products.

Broader Implications for Cannabis Legalization

The court’s ruling underscores the ongoing conflict between federal and state laws concerning the regulation of cannabis and its derivatives.

• Increasing State Legalization: As more states advance toward the legalization of both recreational and medical marijuana, the pressure on the federal government to revise its policies and align them with shifting public opinion is likely to intensify.

• Step Forward for Delta-8 THC: The ruling regarding Delta-8 THC may be viewed as a positive development in the broader context of cannabis legalization, yet significant challenges remain.

• Path to Comprehensive Legalization: There is still a considerable distance to cover before achieving comprehensive federal legalization of cannabis, highlighting the complexities of navigating cannabis policy in the United States.

Conclusion

The court’s ruling underscores the ongoing conflict between federal and state laws concerning the regulation of cannabis and its derivatives. As more states advance toward the legalization of both recreational and medical marijuana, the pressure on the federal government to revise its policies and align them with shifting public opinion is likely to intensify. The ruling regarding Delta-8 THC may be viewed as a positive development in the broader context of cannabis legalization; however, significant challenges remain, and there is still a considerable distance to cover before achieving comprehensive federal legalization of cannabis, highlighting the complexities of navigating cannabis policy in the United States.

DELTA-8 THC IS LEGAL, READ MORE…

COURT PANEL RULES DELTA-8 THC IS LEGAL UNDER THE FARM BILL!