Cannabis

If Marijuana Is Banned Will The Public Turn To Hemp

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1 hour ago

March 15, 2025

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

It is unknown what direction the federal government is going do about cannabis, but if marijuana is banned will the public turn to hemp? Some cabinet secretaries and definitely House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) are against it, but the direction is still murky. As the cannabis landscape evolves under potential policy changes, hemp emerges as a promising alternative that could revolutionize multiple industries. The potential of hemp offers a lifeline for cannabis enthusiasts and medical marijuana consumers alike.

Hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC, has already seen significant growth since its legalization under the Senator Mitch McConnell backed 2018 Farm Bill. This opened doors for a crop prohibited for over 80 years, creating a massive market and new opportunities for farmers and businesses. Kentucky became a grow center and cannabis business leaders saw an opportunity.

green cannabis leaves and black glass drops bottle — Photo by Kimzy Nanney via Unsplash

Hemp’s versatility is unmatched. From textiles to construction materials, this wonder crop offers sustainable alternatives to traditional products. Hemp fibers can be used to create strong forms of concrete, while its stalks provide raw material for textiles1. This adaptability positions hemp as a key player in the green economy, aligning with growing environmental concerns.

One of hemp’s most significant contributions is CBD. Unlike marijuana-derived CBD, hemp-derived CBD is widely available and legal in most states13. The wellness industry has embraced CBD for its potential benefits, ranging from stress relief to sleep improvement. As research continues, the CBD market is poised for further expansion, offering a legal alternative to those seeking cannabis-related health benefits.

The hemp industry’s economic impact cannot be overstated. With the potential for federal rescheduling of cannabis and continued support for hemp cultivation, the sector is ripe for investment and innovation4. From small-scale farmers to large corporations, hemp offers diverse economic opportunities that could help revitalize rural economies and create new jobs.

The cannabis industry already seems to be hedging their bets. Wana Brands, a leader in edibles and other products, premier a hemp line. While marijuana’s legal status remains complex, hemp enjoys clearer regulatory standing and a larger market. The current administration’s support for hemp through the Farm Bill and subsequent USDA regulations has provided a stable foundation for the industry. This regulatory clarity could make hemp an attractive option for businesses seeking to enter the cannabis space without legal ambiguity.

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Cannabis

How Cannabis Can Help You Through Grief

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17 minutes ago

March 15, 2025

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Whether family, a friend, or a beloved pet, the sadness can be overwhelming. Cannabis can help.

It comes to everyone at some point. In a population-based study of adults aged 40 and older, approximately one third reported they experience severe grief after the loss of a loved one. It can be a family member, a friend or a beloved pet. Grief was associated with physical and mental health problems and increased use of health services. Additionally, about 7–10% of bereaved adults experience prolonged grief disorder, a persistent and impairing form of grief. It takes time to work through the emotions, but here is how cannabis can help you through grief.

Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience that can leave us feeling overwhelmed, lost, and struggling to cope with daily life. While there’s no magic solution to ease the pain of loss, many individuals have found solace and support in an unexpected ally: cannabis. This plant, with its unique properties and compounds, may offer a gentle path to healing for those grappling with grief.

brown rock formation on sea during daytime

One of the most challenging aspects of grief is the intense emotional rollercoaster it often brings. Cannabis, particularly strains rich in CBD, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and easing panic attacks that can accompany grief. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, cannabis can help regulate mood and promote a sense of calm, allowing individuals to process their emotions more effectively.

Insomnia is a common companion to grief, leaving many exhausted and unable to face each day. Cannabinoids like CBN have sedative-like effects, potentially helping those in mourning achieve the restorative sleep they desperately need. By improving sleep quality, cannabis may contribute to overall emotional resilience and physical well-being during the grieving process.

Grief doesn’t just affect our emotions; it can manifest physically as well. Cannabis has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate physical pain, which can be exacerbated during times of emotional distress1. This dual action on both mind and body can provide comprehensive relief for those struggling with the holistic impact of loss.

Unlike some substances that may numb emotions, cannabis has the potential to help individuals stay present with their grief2. It can create a mental space where reflection becomes more tolerable, allowing for personal growth and healing. Many users report that cannabis helps them gain new perspectives on their loss and find meaning in their experiences.

Loss of appetite is a common symptom of grief that can lead to further health complications. Cannabis is well-known for its ability to stimulate appetite, which can be crucial for maintaining physical health during emotionally challenging times

Everyone’s experience with grief and cannabis is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. Starting with low doses and working closely with a healthcare provider or cannabis clinician can help individuals find the right approach for their specific needs.

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Will Marijuana Help States During Economic Uncertainty

Published

2 hours ago

March 15, 2025

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Since the last downturn, more states have legal marijuana – with its strong revenue stream

It seems economic uncertainly has arrived. Wall Street has taken a major tumble as unemployment seems to rise. Consumer confidence has been shaken as prices on staples, including eggs, remain high. Tariffs with neighboring countries are threatening jobs and household budgets. While the federal government is less concerned, state budgets could take bigger hits. But will legal cannabis, will marijuana help states during economic uncertainty?

Marijuana legalization has emerged as a powerful economic tool for states, offering a lifeline during uncertain economic times. By fostering job creation, generating significant tax revenue, and stimulating local economies, the cannabis industry has proven to be a transformative force. Already, three states make over $500 million in annual tax revenue from the plant.

The cannabis industry is one of the faster-growing sectors in the U.S., with job opportunities spanning agriculture, retail, manufacturing, and ancillary services such as compliance and marketing. Over the past decade, legal cannabis jobs have surged, with projections indicating continued growth should the federal government allow. For instance, states like Massachusetts already report more cannabis-related jobs than traditional professions like cosmetology. This job creation not only reduces unemployment but also injects income into local economies through consumer spending on essentials like housing and transportation.

Legal marijuana markets generate billions in tax revenue annually. States have embraced legalization use these funds to bolster budgets and invest in critical public services. For example, Colorado allocated $7.3 million from cannabis tax revenue to homeless services and housing initiatives1. Nationwide legalization could further amplify this impact, with estimates suggesting $8.5 billion in annual tax revenue for all states combined. These funds are often reinvested in education, infrastructure, public health programs, and community development projects.

Cannabis legalization revitalizes local economies by attracting businesses and increasing demand for commercial real estate. Most cannabis business tend to be mom and pop business including retailers, farmers and local regional producers of products. From cultivation facilities to retail dispensaries, the industry drives investments in equipment and infrastructure that benefit both urban and rural areas. Moreover, every dollar spent on cannabis generates an additional $2 in economic activity through a multiplier effect. States like Alaska, Colorado, and Massachusetts demonstrate how per-capita economic benefits can significantly enhance local prosperity

“Cannabis drives economic growth, creates jobs, and generates tax revenue while offering a safer alternative to alcohol. It’s a less harmful recreational substance and a valuable medicine to millions of Americans” shares industry expert Jesse Redmond, Head of Investor Relations & Business Development of LEEF.

Legalization also reduces the financial burden of enforcing marijuana prohibition. The U.S. spends approximately $7.7 billion annually on drug enforcement. By redirecting these funds toward education, regulation, and community support programs, states can achieve both economic savings and social equity.

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Cannabis

Government Shut Down Another Gut Punch To Cannabis Industry

Published

3 hours ago

March 15, 2025

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While consumer use soars, mom and pop businesses are struggling, a shutdown will be be another blow to the marijuana industry

A vast majority of the public and most leading medical institutions support better access to legal cannabis, but a few in DC are against the plant and the thousands of mom and pop businesses in the industry. Now, at the potential government shut down another gut punch to cannabis industry. Rescheduling would not only provide a path for increase research and patient care from medical marijuana, but would allow the mom and pop businesses which make up the bulk of the industry to have the same tax benefits as nail salons, car repair shops, and local restaurants. It would also allow a great ease of doing business which would help business owners and consumers alike.

RELATED: Mike Johnson And Marijuana

The potential government shutdown could significantly impact the ongoing process of marijuana rescheduling, which has been a major focus of the Biden administration since 2022. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is currently considering rescheduling marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, a move that could have far-reaching implications for the cannabis industry and medical research.

The rescheduling process, which began with President Biden’s instruction in October 2022, has already experienced delays. A preliminary hearing in December 2024 resulted in plans for evidentiary and testimonial proceedings between January and March 20252. A shutdown could further postpone these critical hearings. The Republican-led House Appropriations Committee attempted to block the Department of Justice from using federal funds to reschedule cannabis in July 2024. A government shutdown could exacerbate funding concerns and potentially halt progress on the rescheduling efforts. The rescheduling proposal is currently under review by the White House Office of Management and Budget and is subject to public comment. A shutdown could interrupt this review process and delay the collection and analysis of public input.

Despite state legalizations, the cannabis industry, which has been operating in a federal legal gray area due to the conflict between state and federal laws. And despite being a cash cow for regional government economies, it could face increased uncertainty during a government shutdown:

State-licensed marijuana operators, already existing in a legal limbo, may face additional uncertainty regarding their status and future operations. Questions about the retroactive effect of rescheduling on existing tax liabilities for marijuana operators would remain unresolved during a shutdown.

Rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III would potentially ease restrictions on medical research and help millions of patients. From military veterans and chronic pain suffers to cancer patients, medical marijuana has become mainstream and a mainstay. A shutdown could delay more progress, impacting ongoing and planned studies and patients.

While a government shutdown would likely be temporary, its effects on the marijuana rescheduling process could have lasting consequences:

The expected timeline for a final rescheduling rule, initially anticipated for September or October 2024, would likely be pushed back significantly3.

The momentum gained in the rescheduling process, including the public comment period that garnered a record 43,000 comments, could be disrupted2.

Any delays or interruptions in the process could potentially strengthen arguments in ongoing legal challenges, such as the lawsuit brought by Doctors for Drug Policy Reform questioning the DEA’s witness selection process

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