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Dominican Republic Banned Cannabis Themed Music & Media

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While story after story comes in about the relaxing of regulation against cannabis, this isn’t true to all places, or at least, not in the same time frame. In some places it’s actually gotten worse. Read on to learn more about how the Dominican Republic views cannabis, and a recent move that actually banned music and media related to the plant.

The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is an island nation in the Atlantic Ocean, east of the continent of South America and Mexico, and south of the United States. It shares its land mass with Haiti, which takes the west side, while the Dominican Republic is on the east side. To its direct east is the island nation of Puerto Rico, and to its west in the Atlantic, are the islands of Jamaica, Cuba (north of Jamaica), and the Bahamas (north of Cuba. Together, these islands, along with other smaller ones, make up the Caribbean Islands.

As of 2022, the country was home to approximately 10.7 million people, with Spanish as the national language. This is because the Spanish took over the island from the native Taíno people in the late 1400s when Christopher Columbus first landed in that area, making the Colony of Santo Domingo the first colony established by Spain in the new world area. Spanish rule finally came to an end in 1821 when the Dominican people declared their own independence. The island wasn’t split into halves until 1697, when the French claimed the west side, which became Haiti.

In the Caribbean region and Central America, the Dominican Republic has the largest economy according to the US government and World Bank, and is the most visited country in the island region. It’s the 7th biggest economy of Latin America in general. It actually holds the fastest growing economy in the Western Hemisphere in the last 25 years, growing at an average rate of 5.3% between the years of 1992 – 2018. Main industries include construction, manufacturing, mining, and tourism. Its beautiful beaches and industry of resorts, makes it a well-known destination.


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Dominican Republic cannabis laws

To put it bluntly (all pun intended), the Dominican Republic is not about weed. The plant is 100% illegal in the small island nation. The law Drugs and Controlled Substances came into effect in 1988 with the creation of The Advisory Council on Drug Abuse, and the passage of Law 50-88, which deals with the regulation of narcotic drugs. In 1997, the National Unit for the Prevention of Drug Abuse was established to oversee the implementation of drug law. The unit operates under the Ministry of Health.

The law illegalized the possession of all amounts of the drug; though when it comes to cannabis, different amounts are regulated differently. In the Dominican Republic, possession of cannabis is split into three categories based on amount. The penalties for each category are fixed and go as follows:

1-20 grams: Category 1 – This comes with a minimum prison sentence of six months, along with $1,500 Dominican pesos in fines. The maximum sentence for this amount category is two years in prison, and $2,500 Dominican pesos in fines. This is considered recreational use.

20 grams – 1 pound: Category 2 – It’s generally assumed that offenders caught with this amount are dealers or distributors. For this category, the minimum sentence is three years in prison, along with $10,000 Dominican pesos in fines. The maximum sentence is 10 years in prison, and $50,000 Dominican pesos in fines.

One pound plus: Category 3 – The final category is for the largest amounts, and is the harshest. Once more than a pound is reached, its automatically considered drug trafficking, and comes with a minimum sentence of five years in prison, with $50,000 Dominican pesos in fines. The maximum sentence is 20 years jail time. The maximum fine is established by the value of the contraband, or the trafficking operation itself. It is no less than this value, with $50,000 Dominican pesos as the minimum amount.

For hash, the numbers are different. Category 1 is up to five grams, Category 2 is between five grams and ¼ pound. And Category 3 is for anything over ¼ pounds. The same association of recreational, distributor, and trafficker, apply at the three levels.

Drug laws Dominican Republic
Drug laws Dominican Republic

But then it kind of throws away everything above by saying that a law was added in 1995 that states that once its considered that the person in question is intending to sell what they possess (whatever the amount), that it can’t be considered recreational, and must be considered trafficking. Which can invalidate the first two categories for any case, and bring on massive consequences for small amounts.

Is this still the case?

Finding the current drug laws for the Dominican Republic is not that easy, as the Organization of American States (OAS), the source used by most other articles on the topic, no longer displays the page with the above information. Nor does any other site that I could find, aside from the digitallibrary version I connected. In fact, under the ‘Policy on Drugs’ section under the Dominican Republic for the OAS, there is nothing.

This is where others linked to before, and implies that the aforementioned policy is possibly not applicable anymore. Although without a formal replacement policy, its hard to know what punishments there are. So while some aspects might have changed, I can’t verify this, and the above punishments technically stand.

In 2019, the OAS, via the Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission (CICAD), put out the Evaluation Report on Drug Policies for the Dominican Republic. Though the report doesn’t go over legal repercussions for cannabis use, it does talk about other drug policy. The Dominican Republic instituted the National Strategic Drug Plan 2016-2020 several years ago. According to the report, this drug plan “adopts a human rights perspective, gender approach and social inclusion.”

It goes on to explain that “Local governments have been transferred responsibilities for implementing drug programs or interventions through formal agreements and coordinated work with local governments in the provinces,” and that these repercussions are related to how individual locations choose to handle them. This indicates that punishments for some crimes might be assigned only by local jurisdiction, and not by federal policy; but this is not completely clear.

The report continues that “For this purpose, the CND has an office focused on promoting, coordinating, training and providing technical support on drug-related issues to local governments and stakeholders through the Demand Reduction Directorate and the Planning and Development Department.”

Cannabis laws in Dominican Republic
Cannabis laws in Dominican Republic

What other important point does the report make in regards to how crimes are punished? “The law of the Dominican Republic does not provide for alternatives to incarceration for low-level drug offenses. In such cases, the current legislation is applied.” This also implies that the above mentioned punishments for anything over recreational use, might not stand.

It goes on, “The country does not have special courts and tribunals for low-level drug offenses. However, a court-supervised drug treatment (TSJ) pilot project, based on conditional suspension of the proceeding, has been under way in the National District since 2015.”

The reality is, its hard to know if the report is indicating that higher level possession cases are not bound to the given law. It might simply be pointing out that recreational use should be more flexible. But it also implies that individual locations have some amount of authority. For this country, as it is with many others, its hard to know exactly what’s going on. For that reason, though there is question, its best to assume the stated law is still in play.

Did the Dominican Republic really ban cannabis music and media?

Indeed it did at the end of 2022, which indicates that even if it looks like there was progress, there kind of wasn’t. On December 2nd, 2022 it was reported that the country actually updated Law 50-88 to “extend the prohibition on inciting the consumption of drugs and controlled substances through songs, clothing, and other means of dissemination”. This includes music, clothing, or anything else that in any way positively promotes cannabis consumption.

And it wants to go further. A few days after that amendment passed, another one entered the debate. This second bill, if it passes, would, according to the article in Dominican Today, prohibit “all types of music, publication, publicity, propaganda, or programs distributed through traditional media, social networks, or any other means that contain auditory, printed, or audiovisual subliminal stimuli and messages that encourage the consumption and illegal trafficking of drugs and controlled substances.”

You read that right, it includes social media, meaning even the personal communications of a person in their social world, could be subject to punishment via this article, which would amend Article 36 of Law 50-88. Currently, though Article 36 prohibits drug promotion, its less specific, and doesn’t account for sanctions. These new articles (which are nearly the same) involve anything so much as alluding to drugs, which realistically can get messy, as it seems to outlaw (and want to increase the outlaw) on things that might not actually be directly related.

Dominican Republic banned anything related to drugs
Dominican Republic banned anything related to drugs

It also indicates that any of this media and clothing that speaks of cannabis reform, is also banned. Which means there are now infringements in the political world of drugs, and on free speech in general, which goes against instituted measures to protect this right. Anything from a statement online, to a shirt promoting legalization, to a personal social media post, could land a person in hot water. Talk about the antithesis to progress!

Conclusion

Right now we’re in a ‘one step forward, two steps back’ scenario in terms of the Dominican Republic and cannabis. While the country made minor updates to drug policy that kind of look like a loosening of regulation, or a further consideration of the people; these latest legal pushes tell a different story. And its not a great one, either. Let’s hope there’s a plot twist coming.

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Food Asphyxiation Is Way More Dangerous Than Cannabis

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Food asphyxiation is in the news today – and is WAY more dangerous than marijuana.

Food asphyxiation is in the news again. In the US alone, approximately 5,000 – 5,500 people die from choking on food or other objects annually. Factors like living alone, having dentures, difficulty swallowing, and certain foods (like bananas, marshmallows, or gelatinous candies) can increase the risk of choking. These numbers highlight the persistent danger of food asphyxiation and the need for increased awareness and prevention measures. And yet, it is really mention in the media or Congressional reviews. But food asphyxiation is way more dangerous than cannabis.

RELATED: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

Food asphyxiation, commonly known as choking, claims a significant number of lives each year. The elderly population is most at risk, with 90% of food-related choking deaths in 2022 occurring in individuals over 50 years old. This statistic underscores the importance of proper care and attention for older adults during meal times. These numbers highlight the persistent danger of food asphyxiation and the need for increased awareness and prevention measures.

yellow bananas

In contrast, deaths directly attributed to marijuana overdose are extremely rare and there is no documented case of fatal overdose from natural marijuana alone. This stark difference in mortality rates between food asphyxiation and marijuana use is noteworthy.

The disparity between food asphyxiation and marijuana overdose deaths is striking. While hundreds die each year from choking on food, marijuana overdose fatalities are virtually non-existent when considering natural marijuana use.

These findings suggest public health efforts might be disproportionately focused on substances with lower mortality rates while overlooking more common dangers like food asphyxiation. Increased education on proper eating habits, especially for at-risk populations like the elderly, could potentially save more lives than efforts to prevent marijuana overdoses.

To prevent choking, listen to your mom’s advice – eat slowly and throughly, cut food into bite size pieces, and don’t talk with your mouth full. And be mindful of food which may have small pieces or tiny bones.



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Outdoor Marijuana Grows Are Better All The Way Around

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Despite the massive investment by some in the industry, outdoor grows are the healthier, cleaner option

Like fruits and vegetables, outdoor floors yield the richest flavor and the least expensive products. The same can be said about cannabis, outdoor marijuana grows are better all the way around. When the industry started becoming legal, hundreds of millions were invested in indoor grow with the assumption cost per pound would stay high. Companies like Tilray built massive indoor grows, but over time they have caused expensive upkeep, high consumer prices, and upset neighbors. And do they produce the best cannabis? By leveraging natural resources like sunlight and soil, this method reduces environmental impact, enhances product quality, and fosters community harmony.

RELATED: Music Is A Turn On Like Sex And Marijuana

Outdoor cannabis cultivation drastically lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to indoor growing. Research shows outdoor farming can emit up to 50 times less carbon dioxide than indoor production, which relies heavily on artificial lighting, air conditioning, and dehumidifiers. Additionally, outdoor grows eliminate the need for energy-intensive equipment, reducing electricity consumption and promoting sustainability. Water conservation is another key advantage; outdoor farms often use natural rainwater or precision watering techniques, minimizing waste. Furthermore, the absence of chemical fertilizers in many outdoor setups helps protect local ecosystems from pollution.

sunlight through trees

Outdoor growing is more cost-effective for both producers and consumers. It eliminates expenses associated with indoor cultivation—such as high electricity bills and specialized equipment—making cannabis more affordable. For home growers, cultivating outdoors fosters a connection with nature while empowering individuals to produce their own medicine sustainably.

Sun-grown cannabis benefits from exposure to full-spectrum natural light, enhancing its terpene profiles and cannabinoid production. This results in richer flavors, aromas, and potency that indoor setups struggle to replicate. Outdoor cultivation also allows plants to grow larger and healthier due to unrestricted space and access to diverse soil nutrients. This translates to higher yields and better-quality products for consumers. Additionally, outdoor-grown cannabis often develops unique characteristics influenced by the local terroir, offering a diverse range of experiences akin to wine production.

Outdoor marijuana farms are less disruptive to neighborhoods compared to indoor facilities. Indoor grows often require extensive infrastructure upgrades, leading to increased energy demand and noise pollution from machinery. There has been an uprising by some local governments about the grows.

RELATED: The Science Behind Why Music Sounds So Much Better When You’re High

In contrast, outdoor farms blend harmoniously with their surroundings, relying on natural processes rather than artificial systems. Moreover, outdoor cultivation supports local biodiversity by integrating companion plants that deter pests naturally and enrich the soil.

While outdoor cultivation is environmentally friendly, it poses challenges such as susceptibility to pests and weather fluctuations. However, solutions like greenhouses can provide controlled environments while retaining the benefits of natural sunlight. Choosing resilient strains adapted to local climates further ensures successful harvests.



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Could Medical Marijuana Help Pope Francis

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The administration has spent very mixed signals…will consumers turn to hemp if marijuana is outlawed again?

He is one of the most globally well known figures and now he has health issue. The Pope resides in Vatican City, the world’s smallest country, and given its unique status , there is no healthcare system, medical centers, or hospitals. All patients must access clinics and hospitals in Rome for care. One of the most ancient cities in the world, Rome has a robust healthcare system. It includes the renowned Policlinico Universitario Gemelli, which is considered one of the largest private university hospitals in Europe and the best in Italy. But it isn’t global known like the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, or Toronto General. Thinking outside the box, could medical marijuana help Pope Francis?

As the Pope continues his recovery from pneumonia and mild kidney issues, medical experts are exploring innovative treatments that could potentially aid in his healing process. One such treatment gaining attention is medical marijuana, which has shown promise in addressing various health conditions.

RELATED: Couples Using Cannabis Can Increase Intimacy

Medical marijuana might offer relief for Pope Francis’s respiratory challenges. Certain cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce lung inflammation associated with pneumonia. While smoking cannabis is not recommended for respiratory conditions, alternative delivery methods such as vaporization or edibles could potentially provide therapeutic benefits without irritating the lungs

gold and multicolored cathedral interior

As the Pope recovers, pain management is likely a key concern. Medical marijuana has shown potential as a pain adjuvant, potentially reducing the need for opioids in patients with chronic conditions. This could be particularly beneficial for elderly patients like Pope Francis, who may be more susceptible to the side effects of traditional pain medications.

Recent studies have explored the relationship between cannabis and kidney function. While more research is needed, some evidence suggests that cannabis does not negatively affect kidney function in healthy individuals. For patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), careful monitoring and dosage adjustment may be necessary to ensure safe use.

Medical marijuana has been associated with improvements in various symptoms that could enhance the Pope’s quality of life during recovery. These include better sleep, reduced anxiety, and increased appetite. Such benefits could contribute to a more comfortable and efficient healing process.

RELATED: Marijuana Use And Guy’s Member

While the potential benefits of medical marijuana are intriguing, it’s important to approach any treatment the same caution as any elderly patient. A personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with medical professionals, would be essential to ensure safety and efficacy. As the world watches the Pope’s recovery, the consideration of medical marijuana as a complementary treatment option offers a ray of hope. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects on specific conditions, the potential benefits for pain management, inflammation reduction, and overall well-being make it an intriguing possibility.



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