Cannabis News
Is Spain about to Join the MMJ EU?
Published
10 months agoon
By
admin
As Spain emerges from an extended period of political deadlock, its newly formed government takes a significant step to address the persistent medical cannabis deadlock in the country. Despite encountering challenges, the hard-won government appointed a Minister of Health committed to fulfilling the previous administration’s promises. They are pushing to establish a medical cannabis framework.
Carola Pérez, President of the Spanish Observatory of Medicinal Cannabis (OECM), a pivotal figure in advancing medical cannabis in Spain, perceives this commitment as a turning point after a decade-long campaign. Spanish cannabis clubs are famous in cities like Barcelona, but medical marijuana patients do not have an outlet for medical cannabis.
Pérez expresses optimism, saying that the day the document is signed will be celebrated after ten years of effort. Today is already a day of joy because there is now someone genuinely caring about patients, a pain specialist.
Emphasizing the positive development, she adds that there is genuine satisfaction as the government pledges to consult with us, marking the first time such a commitment has been heard from the Spanish government.
What Transpired?
In the previous week, the newly appointed Minister of Health, Mónica García Gómez, committed to reviving the government’s long-promised plans to regulate medical cannabis. Initially scheduled for implementation in January 2023, these plans had been consistently deferred by the prior administration. It had been put on indefinite hold since the snap election in July 2023. Thankfully, Ms. García is now reported to have prioritized this issue.
Local media sources indicate that the health minister has engaged with the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) management team concerning the draft Ministerial Order assigned to them in 2022. This order is intended to establish an initial framework for regulation. Will the new regulations help or hurt the current cannabis clubs in Spain? Time will tell, but many feel the recreational side is safe for now.
The draft has purportedly been forwarded to the Ministry of Health. Reports suggest they are conducting a series of meetings with relevant groups, primarily the OECM, that have been actively involved in addressing this issue.
Ms. Pérez shared with Business of Cannabis that upon assuming her position, she first committed to advance this, as we have been awaiting the document from the AEMPS for a year. Privately, there were doubts about the existence of this document, but after conversing with the General Secretary of the Minister of Health, it was confirmed that the document does exist.
She emphasized the government’s intention to act swiftly, involving consultations with patients and experts. While the previous government made promises, we were skeptical about their commitment. Now, there is a genuine belief that action will be taken. This marks a significant departure from the past.”
She mentioned that Ms. García, affiliated with the left-wing and pro-cannabis Sumar party, has consistently advocated for medical cannabis. In addition to being a qualified anesthesiologist, Ms. García has seamlessly integrated her political role with her healthcare career since 2015. Furthermore, she has maintained a longstanding involvement with the OECM and is the first politician to meet with Ms. Pérez in 2015.
This favorable perception of the new health minister resonates widely within the industry. Don Bellamy, CEO of the Spanish medical cannabis firm Linneo Health, expressed that they are highly encouraged by the communication from Spain’s newly appointed Minister of Health, Mónica García Gómez. It proves the ministry’s commitment to resume the previously halted work by the sub-commission on legislation to regulate medicinal cannabis in Spain.
The news is a significant development and is likely to bring relief to Spanish patients, representing a substantial stride toward providing them access to safe, high-quality medicinal cannabis products for managing their conditions. We eagerly anticipate continuing our participation in discussions with the government to transform this into a reality for these patients.”
Although a specific date for the forthcoming consultations remains unconfirmed, sources on both sides suggest that these discussions will unfold in the coming weeks.
A Year-Long Wait
This process has been underway for more than 18 months but has faced numerous setbacks due to the turbulent political climate in Spain. In June 2022, after a year of research, a subcommittee tasked with examining global medical cannabis frameworks presented its proposals for implementing a similar framework in Spain. These proposals were approved dramatically later that month.
Following this, AEMPS was given only six months to draft a document with recommendations on integrating this framework into the country’s regulations and ensuring legal viability, aiming for implementation in January 2023. However, this deadline passed without explanation from the government.
It wasn’t until March 2023 that the issue was addressed, with the government retracting its commitments, citing ‘insufficient’ information to recommend its use. Despite government assurances in May, it was confirmed in June that plans for implementing a medical cannabis framework would not proceed before the general election in July.
Josep Antòn Sànchez, Director of the Spanish Medcan/Decann clinic, pointed out that the ‘equality of results in the Spanish elections prevented the Socialist Party from taking a clear stance in favor of cannabis, even therapeutic cannabis. He believes that now is the time to make a firm position on an issue that 84% of Spaniards support, including the need for comprehensive regulation.’
After an inconclusive summer election, the conservative Popular Party (PP) secured the top position but lacked sufficient votes to form a government. This situation led its leader, Alberto Nunez Feijoo, to lose a crucial parliamentary vote to become prime minister in September.
In October, the incumbent Socialist Party, led by Pedro Sánchez, announced an unexpected agreement with the far-left Sumar party. Despite initial expectations, they successfully formed a working coalition with additional parties.
Mr. Sànchez concluded that he believes they have never been so close to legalization. There are numerous ongoing political challenges, but it is evident that the common good we strive to protect, health, should transcend political ideologies, especially now that there is ample scientific evidence. While challenges persist, we are engaged in a marathon, not a sprint.
Conclusion
Spain is taking decisive steps to address its longstanding medical cannabis deadlock as its newly formed government, led by a committed Minister of Health, prioritizes the establishment of a medical cannabis framework. Carola Pérez, President of the Spanish Observatory of Medicinal Cannabis (OECM), sees this as a significant turning point after a decade of advocacy.
The recent commitment from Minister Mónica García Gómez to revive plans for cannabis regulation is met with optimism, especially as she demonstrates a genuine concern for patients and engages in consultations with relevant stakeholders.
The positive developments have resonated throughout the industry, with stakeholders like Don Bellamy expressing encouragement and anticipating progress toward providing patients access to medicinal cannabis.
LEGAL CANNABIS IN SPAIN, READ ON…
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November 14, 2024By
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In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
Published
1 day agoon
November 13, 2024By
admin
On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!
Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:
- Panelists:
- Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
- Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
- Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
- Election Results Overview:
- Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
- Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
- Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
- Federal and State-Level Developments:
- Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
- Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
- Federal Policy Implications:
- Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
- Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
- International and Domestic Trade:
- Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
- Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
- Economic and Industry Impact:
- Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
- Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
- Future Outlook:
- The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
- State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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