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Report: Truckers Support Marijuana Testing Reform

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The trucking industry is an industry with both a labor shortage problem, and an issue with marijuana tests. A new report backs up that truckers are very much for marijuana reform, especially in trucker testing policies. What did the report say? And how prevalent is it to test positive for cannabis in the trucking industry?

Report on truckers and marijuana

The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) released a report called Impacts of Marijuana Legalization on the Trucking Industry, on June 5th. The report evaluates how a marijuana legalization can impact truckers as a whole. It covers different topics related to both marijuana and the trucking industry: latest demographics of legalization; an evaluation of data regarding marijuana use, and highway safety; what implications a legalization could have on hiring practices for truckers; and an evaluation of CDL data for driver drug tests.

The report was a high priority for the organization’s Research Advisory Committee (RAC) in 2022. It includes a number of driver surveys to gain insight into how these workers feel about marijuana reform, and the current laws attached to drug tests. Overall, drivers showed they were unhappy with current drug test laws, particularly because there is no actual impairment test.

The report subsequently goes into how the federal government could potentially update policy as a part of overall marijuana reform. The report speaks of two different options in front of the federal government, that have two very different outcomes for the future of the trucking industry.

The first is to do nothing, and maintain the same policy of prohibition. This pathway results in what’s already happening today. Drivers constantly being removed (despite the shortage) due only to a positive test; which potentially highlights use from well before the time of testing. The other option is for legalization, for which the agency reminds that the following would be necessary to help employers: national standards for marijuana testing and impairment; and laws that protect carriers, and allow for continued screening of some kind.

Truckers subjected most often to marijuana urine tests
Truckers subjected most often to marijuana urine tests

The report reminds us that “The central goal of industry drug testing efforts is highway safety. The current approach supports safety efforts, but also results in inefficiencies when drivers that do not present a safety issue are removed from the industry.” It continues, “To ensure that the trucking industry remains safe and unimpaired, there are several actions that must be taken before any federal efforts to legalize marijuana commence.”

Currently there are approximately 3.49 million truck drivers in the US alone, according to data via CDLjobs.com. The referenced Economics and Industry Data report gathered information from 2021. Though this sounds like a huge number, its actually representative of an industry shortage. According to CDLjobs, the industry needs approximately 50,000-60,000 more drivers. Issues behind this situation include a lot of baby-boom-born drivers retiring, and a high turnover rate among workers. Due to the latter, much has already been done to improve conditions, to make driving a more appealing job.

Some specifics of the report on trucking and marijuana

In the report, the RAC points out, that “More than half of all positive trucking industry drug tests are for marijuana metabolite,” and that federal prohibition “has been highlighted as a potential disincentive for drivers to stay in the industry, and it has even been argued that loosening the restrictions on marijuana use would make the industry more attractive and widen the potential labor pool.”

The term ‘marijuana metabolites’ refers to the compounds that are produced when main compounds break down. Some can stay in body tissue for quite a while after use; like days, weeks, or months. This implies that some of these drivers might show positive drug results, when they haven’t used the drug recently. The amount of time for full clearance, depends on the individual person.

At the moment, federal law states that commercial drivers cannot use cannabis at all – zero-tolerance. A host of tests are applied; both before employment, and randomized tests for hired staff. Under current federal law, any use is restricted, whether its use while working, or while off the clock. The drivers are not tested for impairment, however. Which means they can be penalized for a positive test, even with excellent performance.

In terms of what drivers think of all this, the report’s included survey data pointed to 72.4% of (licensed) drivers who want marijuana reform in general, and in this particular industry. 66.5% were for a full federal legalization. 65.4%, regardless of anything else, wanted a fair testing system that looks for active impairment, instead of punishing drivers for what they might be doing off-hours, or which isn’t affecting their performance abilities. They said the urine-based screening currently used, should be replaced for a testing regiment that focuses mainly on impairment.

ATRI explained this issue further, saying “current marijuana testing is likely effective at removing drivers who may work while impaired, it also likely removes drivers who previously used the drug but would not operate a truck while impaired.”

According to the report, how many drivers said its common to leave the trucking industry over marijuana rules? 50.2%. And in terms of how these drivers, who are constantly on the road, look at highway safety in terms of marijuana legalization? 55.4% didn’t think such laws had increased danger on roads to any noticeable degree.

How truckers see road safety
How truckers see road safety

As far as research on the topic, the report points to a lack of concrete information on marijuana’s influence on highway safety. Even a report from Congressional Research Services in 2019 via MarijuanaMoment, couldn’t point to definitive information of marijuana increasing danger on roadways. While this doesn’t indicate it can’t, lets remember that we don’t have to debate whether alcohol causes damage on roads. When something so frequently causes damage, it’s pretty clear.

How many truckers are affected by marijuana laws?

According to Transport Topics, nearly 41,000 drivers got a positive marijuana test result in 2022. This number is a 32% increase from the previous year; and this information was compiled through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. It notes there have been over 100,000 positive marijuana tests since the Clearinghouse began in 2020.

When a driver tests positive, they are barred from driving. They don’t necessarily get fired, but are made to go through a ‘return-to-work’ process, complete with a clean test; before they can start driving again. Consider that this means not getting paid for some amount of time, which impairs the driver’s ability to make an income. This likely relates to why drivers are so willing to leave the job because of marijuana laws.

The Clearinghouse tests for 14 different substances, for which marijuana is responsible for the majority of positive results. Following marijuana are cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines. Together, these four drugs total 90% of positive tests, for which there have been 177,376 in the last three years.

According to Clearinghouse, as of May 1st of this year, 12,527 drivers received a positive marijuana test. The day after (on June 2nd), a final rule was established by the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration; working in conjunction. It amends the Department of Transportation’s standard drug testing policy, to now include an oral fluid testing option. This went into effect June 3rd.

Saliva tests have benefits when it comes to marijuana testing. THC is only detectable in saliva for up to around 24 hours; which means this could help stop positive tests for drivers who may have smoked days or weeks prior to testing. It’s a step up, even if it still doesn’t account for the issue of impairment.

How dangerous is it to drive on weed?

The question of whether marijuana impairs driving, is not as conclusive as with other drugs like alcohol. As stated, even a federal congressional investigation couldn’t turn up conclusive results. In fact, some recent research shows not an uptick in impaired driving, but less driving incidences in locations with legalization policies.

I can say for my part that I cannot drive safely on marijuana, so I choose not to do it. For most other people I know, marijuana just makes the drive better, and I haven’t heard of incidences related to impairment. Its possible that unlike with alcohol, those who have an issue with it, probably won’t mix the two. After all, cannabis doesn’t cause the same impairment in thought as drinking does.

Drunk driving causes non-debatable roadway issues
Drunk driving causes non-debatable roadway issues

Plus, no one questions whether alcohol causes damage on roadways. Too much evidence exists to go against it; and it becomes obvious through personal stories, or stories of friends or community members. If you talk to enough people – and it doesn’t have to be that many – you’ll find someone impacted by drunk driving.

What are some statistics? In the US, there are approximately 29 deaths a day on the roadways due to drunk driving, which indicates a death approximately every 50 minutes. In 2016, the total drunk driving death total came to 10,497, and this accounted for 28% of all deaths on the road. That year, 1,233 children died on the road, and 17% were due to drunk drivers.

Regardless that cannabis shows no agreed-upon increase in issues, and a possible decline in them; many states are adopting drugged driving policies in which drivers who test positive for cannabis, receive a DUI. People who are stopped on roadways usually face blood-tests, which measure the THC in nanograms. Different states have different amounts set for what gets a person in trouble. Much like with truck drivers, a positive test doesn’t mean the driver actually showed impairment.

Conclusion

We rely on the trucking industry to get goods from here to there, and we generally complain when it doesn’t happen in the time frame we desire. It suffices to say that a shortage in truck drivers isn’t wanted by anyone. Hopefully, the new saliva tests will replace the urine tests more often; and that a federal legalization might help ease the restrictions related to truckers and marijuana in general.

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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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