Cannabis News
Ohio is a Cannabis Hot Mess Right Now, So Why Did an Ohio Republican Just Introduce a Bill to Federally Legalize Marijuana?
Ohio, a hotbed bed of cannabis drama and debate?
Who knew?
While the state of Ohio is grappling with recent voter approval of a full recreational cannabis program, and Republicans in the state government trying to strip out key parts of the measure or stop in completely, a new Ohio cannabis story has emerged on the national level.
Dave Joyce, a Republican in the House, has stepped with a federal marijuana legalization bill that makes sense!
A revised edition of a bill aimed at terminating the federal prohibition of marijuana in legalized states has been introduced by a Republican congressman. Representative Dave Joyce (R-OH) reintroduced the Strengthening the Tenth Amendment Through Entrusting States (STATES) 2.0 Act, which seeks to legalize interstate cannabis commerce, establish IRS policies for the industry, and consider a federal tax-and-regulate framework.
The bipartisan effort includes co-sponsorship from Representatives Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR), Brian Mast (R-FL), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), and Troy Carter (D-LA). Similar to the previous version, the proposed legislation would amend the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to eliminate federal criminalization for those adhering to state cannabis programs, including those operated by Indian tribes. However, STATES 2.0 goes further by endorsing interstate marijuana commerce and proposing an unspecified federal tax on cannabis sales to fund regulations and enforcement.
Rep. Joyce, the co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, emphasised the bill’s intent to respect states’ rights to enact their cannabis laws. He argued that the current federal approach impedes state autonomy, hindering medical research, affecting legitimate businesses, and diverting law enforcement resources. In a press release, Joyce stated, “The STATES Act does what every federal bill should do—help all 50 states succeed.”
The bill articulates that states and tribes should have the authority to establish “time, place, and manner restrictions” to assist small businesses, regulate health and safety, and align with community values. Acknowledging the limitations of states in regulating interstate commerce unilaterally, the legislation highlights the persistence of illicit interstate cannabis trade despite significant state policy changes. It contends that the federal government should regulate and monitor this trade to prevent cannabis from reaching unauthorized destinations.
To achieve this, the bill proposes the establishment of a framework supporting administration, oversight, consumer safety, and enforcement. It suggests a modest federal excise tax on cannabis to fund these measures and advocates oversight by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB).
Taxation and Interstate Commerce Guidelines
The proposed legislation does not mandate a specific tax rate, but its findings section suggests that any tax imposed should be “low enough to not exacerbate the level of taxation set by States, thereby avoiding the pyramid effect of adding Federal taxes on top of high State taxes.” The purpose of the tax is to cover the costs associated with implementing the administrative functions of a Federal regulatory framework for marijuana, including testing, enforcement, policing, youth prevention, and substance abuse prevention and education, as outlined in the bill.
Crucially, the updated bill would prohibit states and tribes from restricting the transportation of cannabis across their borders from one legal jurisdiction to another. However, it allows origin and destination jurisdictions to “impose reasonable restrictions” within their borders on various aspects of marijuana, such as manufacture, production, possession, distribution, dispensation, administration, or delivery.
Furthermore, the STATES Act addresses a significant concern for the industry by ensuring that revenue generated from marijuana sales in regulated state markets “shall not be subject to section 280E” of the IRS code. Currently, section 280E prevents the cannabis industry from claiming federal tax deductions available to other traditional markets.
This particular issue has been a focal point for the industry, which has long advocated for the advancement of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act—a separate bipartisan bill led by Representative Joyce in the current legislative session.
Legal Framework and Regulatory Oversight
The newly proposed STATES Act outlines that the attorney general must, within 180 days of enactment, finalize a rule amending the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) to grant states and tribes an exemption from federal marijuana prohibition.
The legislation also emphasizes the continued role of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in regulating cannabis marketed as a drug, food item, dietary supplement, or cosmetic. It explicitly prohibits the combination of marijuana with “adulterated” products, including alcohol and tobacco. Within 180 days, the Health and Human Services secretary is tasked with issuing a rule on regulating cannabis products, encompassing contaminant testing, manufacturing, and marketing requirements.
Notably, the bill maintains that individuals engaging in activities such as manufacturing, producing, possessing, distributing, dispensing, administering, or delivering marijuana in violation of state or tribal laws, or employing a minor in such activities, remain subject to federal prosecution.
Additionally, the legislation mandates the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study examining the impact of cannabis legalization on traffic safety. The GAO is required to submit a report to Congress within one year of the enactment of the bill, presenting its findings on this matter.
Congressional Recognition of Tribal Autonomy
The bill’s findings section also conveys Congress’s acknowledgement that the FDA should support “tribal self-determination and self-government concerning marijuana regulation.”
Expressing his pride in collaborating with Representative Dave Joyce on multiple versions of the STATES Act, Earl Blumenauer, founding co-chair of the Cannabis Caucus, stated that true bipartisan engagement benefits cannabis reform. Despite his decision not to seek re-election next year, Blumenauer looks forward to working towards improving federal-state partnerships across political lines.
Brian Mast, another co-chair of the caucus, emphasized the constitutional principle that, although the U.S. Constitution doesn’t explicitly mention cannabis, it unequivocally states that powers not granted to the federal government are reserved for the states. Mast argued that cannabis policy should reflect this principle, allowing each of the 50 states to establish policies that best serve their constituents—a goal he believes the STATES Act will achieve.
Lori Chavez-DeRemer highlighted the increasing number of states legalizing cannabis and stressed the importance of creating a secure and professional environment for one of the fastest-growing industries.
Despite doubts about advancing marijuana policy reform in the current Congress, the Senate Banking Committee passed a marijuana banking bill in September. However, it awaits floor action, and there’s uncertainty about House GOP leaders’ willingness to address it. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer noted the challenge of garnering more GOP votes for the bill, as some lawmakers fear backlash from constituents, particularly older ones, despite majority voter support for reform.
Simultaneously, a coalition of 20 congressional Democrats is urging Treasury Department officials to update federal guidance, preventing financial institutions from discriminating against marijuana business owners based on past cannabis-related activity that is now legal at the state level, as lawmakers continue to advocate for the SAFER Banking Act.
Bottom Line
Congressman Dave Joyce’s STATES 2.0 Act represents a comprehensive effort to reshape federal cannabis policies, encompassing interstate commerce, taxation, and regulatory oversight. The bipartisan support underscores the significance of respecting states’ autonomy, recognizing tribal self-determination, and addressing key industry challenges. While doubts persist about the immediate progress of marijuana policy reform in the current Congress, the proposed legislation sets the stage for a nuanced and collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of federal-state partnerships and industry growth in the evolving landscape of cannabis legalization.
OHIO APPROVES RECREATIONAL CANNABIS, READ ON…
OHIO LEGALIZES RECREATIONAL CANNABIS AFTER MEDICAL WORKED OUT!
“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.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
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