Cannabis News
Predatory Contracts and the Illusion of Social Equity
Published
2 months agoon
By
admin
As your friendly neighborhood cannabis connoisseur, I’ve been singing the praises of legalization for years. The end of prohibition, the dawn of a new green era – it’s been a beautiful thing to watch unfold. But folks, I’ve got to tell you, not everything in this budding industry is coming up roses. Today, we’re going to peek behind the emerald curtain and take a hard look at a troubling trend that’s casting a shadow over our cannabis utopia.
Remember all those promises about social equity? How legalization was supposed to right the wrongs of the War on Drugs and give opportunities to those most affected by prohibition? Well, it turns out that some slick operators have found a way to game the system, using predatory contracts to exploit the very people these programs were meant to help.
I recently came across a story out of Missouri that made my blood boil faster than a dabbed-out teenager’s parents. It seems that some big-money players are using qualified applicants – we’re talking disabled veterans, people with past marijuana offenses, folks who’ve been historically disadvantaged – as fronts to win lucrative cannabis licenses. These vultures swoop in with promises of funding and support, only to bury the fine print that essentially strips away any real ownership or control from the supposed beneficiaries.
Now, I’m all for partnerships and mentorship in this industry. Lord knows, getting a cannabis business off the ground is no easy feat. But what we’re seeing here isn’t partnership – it’s parasitism. It’s the corporate equivalent of bogarting a joint, and it’s threatening to turn the dream of an equitable cannabis industry into nothing more than a pipe dream.
So buckle up, dear readers. We’re about to take a trip to the dark side of legalization, where the only thing getting higher than the customers are the profits of those exploiting the system. It’s time to shine a light on these shady practices and figure out how we can get this industry back on track to being the force for positive change we all know it can be.
Picture this: Destiny Brown, a Black disabled veteran, thinks she’s hit the jackpot. She’s been recruited to own and operate a small-scale Missouri cannabis dispensary, with the promise of a cool $200,000 just for being the face of the operation. Sounds like a dream come true, right? Well, as your pal Reginald always says, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Our girl Destiny didn’t read the fine print of that 40-page contract she signed with cannabis investor Michael Halow. And boy, was that fine print finer than the trichomes on top-shelf bud. While Halow was singing sweet nothings about $2 million in startup funds, the contract’s sneaky language aimed to give him full ownership of the business. Destiny? She’d just be the legal front, a puppet on a string for a dude with a felony record that might disqualify him from holding a license himself. Talk about a bait-and-switch!
But here’s the kicker, folks – this isn’t just one bad apple in the barrel. This is happening all over, with massive corporations using “social equity” as a smokescreen to corner the market. These corporate fat cats are gobbling up licenses meant for those most affected by the War on Drugs faster than I devour a bag of chips during a serious case of the munchies.
Here’s how it works: They find someone who checks all the right boxes – maybe they’re a person of color, maybe they’ve got a past marijuana offense, maybe they’re from a low-income area. They promise them the moon and the stars, dazzling them with visions of cannabis entrepreneurship. But in reality, these folks are nothing more than employees – sometimes very well-paid employees, but employees nonetheless – of some mutual fund firm or big cannabis conglomerate.
So when you hear about a “Black-owned dispensary” in your neighborhood, dig a little deeper. Chances are, it’s about as Black-owned as a sunset is owned by the sun. It’s just a clever bit of marketing, a way for these big corporations to justify their presence in a market that was supposed to prioritize the little guy.
Now, I’m not saying every social equity program is a sham. There are genuine efforts out there to level the playing field. But too often, these programs are being exploited by those with deep pockets and teams of lawyers, leaving the very people they were meant to help out in the cold.
It’s a far cry from the vision of legalization many of us had. We thought we were building an industry that would right the wrongs of the past, create opportunities for communities devastated by prohibition, and maybe spread a little love and understanding along the way. Instead, we’re watching as the same old story of corporate greed plays out in a new arena.
But don’t lose hope, my cannabis friends! Reginald hasn’t given up on the dream of a truly equitable cannabis industry. In fact, I’ve got some ideas on how we can turn this ship around. But before we get to that, let’s take a moment to really let this sink in. The cannabis industry, born from counterculture and social justice movements, is at risk of becoming just another playground for the rich and powerful. It’s enough to harsh anyone’s mellow. But fear not – in our next segment, we’ll light up some ideas for a brighter, more equitable future in cannabis.
If we want to level the playing field in the cannabis industry, we need to lower the bar of entry. It’s as simple as that. We can’t expect folks who’ve been disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs to suddenly have fat stacks of cash to invest in a dispensary. That’s like expecting a sapling to weather a hurricane – it ain’t gonna happen.
So, how do we give these good people a real shot? We make licensing and operations as easy as rolling a joint (well, maybe a bit harder, but you get my drift). That’s why I’ve been pushing for a Two Tier System that could revolutionize the way we approach cannabis business.
Picture this: Tier One, the “Average Joe” tier. For a cool grand a year, anyone could get licensed to grow and sell their own cannabis to willing customers. Think of it like a Farmer’s Market for weed. No need for the same rigorous testing as the big boys – we’re talking small-scale, community-focused operations. Imagine a world where Destiny Brown could set up shop at a local market, selling her homegrown strains directly to the people. And if dispensaries need to restock? They could buy from these small growers too, breaking free from the stranglehold of single suppliers.
Now, here’s the kicker – this tier would have a profit cap of $1 million. Hit that mark, and it’s time to graduate to the big leagues.
Speaking of big leagues, let’s talk Tier Two – the corporate tier. This is where your hedge funds and massive cannabis conglomerates would play. Higher initial costs, stricter regulations, but also more privileges like selling in major retailers and developing new products. It’s a fair trade-off – you want to play with the big boys? You gotta pay to play.
Under this system, we’re not just paying lip service to equity – we’re creating real opportunities. Someone like Destiny Brown wouldn’t need to sign her life away to some shifty investor. She could start her own gig with minimal upfront costs, and let the free market decide if she’s got the goods.
And let me tell you, friends, this is what made America great in the first place. Free markets, open competition, the chance for anyone with a dream and a strong work ethic to make it big. It’s time we brought that spirit back to the cannabis industry.
If we truly want social equity, we need to tear down these ridiculous barriers to entry. Let people be free, independent, and build their businesses from the ground up. No more of this corporate puppeteering nonsense.
Think about it – with a system like this, we could see a renaissance of craft cannabis. Small growers could experiment with unique strains, creating a diverse marketplace that caters to every preference. We’d be fostering innovation, supporting local economies, and giving people real ownership over their businesses.
This isn’t just about making money, folks. It’s about creating a just and equitable industry that lives up to the ideals of the legalization movement. It’s about righting the wrongs of the past and creating opportunities for those who’ve been left behind.
So, my cannabis comrades, it’s time to stand up and demand real change. No more settling for false promises and predatory contracts. Let’s push for a system that truly empowers individuals, fosters competition, and creates a diverse, vibrant cannabis industry. That’s what real equity looks like, and that’s the future I’m fighting for.
Who’s is with me?
SOCIAL EQUITY CANNABIS BRANDS, READ ON…
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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
Published
10 hours agoon
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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