Cannabis News
Republicans LOL’ed the Idea of the SAFE Banking Act for Cannabis Businesses Passing Anytime Soon
First reported by Marijuana Moment, a Republican senator has voiced skepticism regarding Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s ambitious plan to address marijuana banking and other legislative priorities during the summer session. Senator John Cornyn believes that Schumer’s proposed timeline is unrealistic, deeming it wishful thinking to expect the successful completion of all the necessary items within the limited timeframe. As the debate over cannabis banking reform intensifies, the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act passage remains uncertain.
Speaking on the Senate floor, Senator Cornyn expressed his reservations about Schumer’s Dear Colleague letter, which outlined various legislative priorities to be addressed before the August recess. Cornyn questioned the feasibility of achieving Schumer’s goals within the ten working days available, stating that the majority leader’s wish list was unlikely to produce legislation. He further raised concerns about whether Schumer had properly consulted with the Republican-controlled House or sought confirmation from the White House regarding potential presidential support for the proposed bills.
The prospects of passing the SAFE Banking Act, which aims to provide banking protections for state-legal cannabis businesses, hang in the balance. While the bill has garnered enough support to pass the full chamber, potential amendments, including provisions for expunging prior cannabis convictions, could hinder bipartisan agreement. The Senate Banking Committee continues to discuss and debate various aspects of the bill, further adding to the legislation’s uncertainties.
Cornyn Challenges Schumer’s Legislative Agenda
Senator Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, took to the Senate floor to express his doubts about Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s legislative agenda outlined in the Dear Colleague letter. Cornyn characterised Schumer’s plan as a wish list rather than a realistic set of goals that can be accomplished within the given timeframe.
Cornyn questioned whether Schumer had engaged in meaningful discussions with Republicans in the House of Representatives or sought input from the White House regarding potential legislation. He emphasised the importance of collaboration and pre-vetting bills to ensure broad support and the likelihood of presidential approval.
According to Cornyn, legislating is not about performance art or show business but about effectively addressing the people’s business. He criticised the Democratic-controlled Senate for what he perceived as a lack of productivity in the previous months, stating that Schumer’s wish list is unlikely to spark a miraculous turnaround in the Senate’s legislative output.
As the debate over marijuana banking reform continues, Cornyn’s scepticism raises concerns about the feasibility of Schumer’s ambitious agenda. It highlights the potential challenges of achieving bipartisan consensus on cannabis-related legislation.
Limited Time and Priorities
Senator Cornyn emphasised the need for the Senate to prioritise its limited time on pressing matters such as defence, agriculture, and appropriations. He expressed concern that Schumer’s extensive legislative agenda leaves little room for effectively addressing these crucial issues within the next ten working days.
Cornyn pointed out that the Democratic-controlled Senate has been relatively inactive in the past six months, heightening his scepticism about the sudden push to tackle a multitude of legislative priorities. He underscored that legislating is a complex process that requires thorough consideration and collaboration rather than rushing to check off items on a wish list.
While Schumer acknowledged the challenges in his letter, identifying appropriations and defence legislation as top priorities, Cornyn’s remarks highlight the necessity of setting realistic expectations and focusing on key areas of concern. The senator’s concerns reflect the broader debate over the Senate’s capacity to address critical issues amidst a packed legislative agenda efficiently.
As the discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Schumer’s agenda will prompt a significant shift in the Senate’s productivity and whether essential matters like defence, agriculture, and appropriations will receive the attention they deserve.
Prospects for Marijuana Banking Reform
The fate of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, which aims to provide banking protections for state-legal cannabis businesses, hangs in the balance as discussions continue within the Senate. While the bill received a hearing in the Senate Banking Committee in May, its progress and chances of passage during the summer session remain uncertain.
Schumer’s inclusion of marijuana banking reform in his legislative priorities indicates his belief that progress can be made within a limited timeframe. However, potential obstacles and differing viewpoints within the Senate pose challenges to achieving bipartisan support for the bill.
One point of contention revolves around potential amendments to the SAFE Banking Act. Schumer has expressed his intention to attach an amendment on the floor to facilitate expungements for individuals with prior cannabis convictions. While the GOP sponsor of the banking measure has indicated openness to this revision, the majority leader did not mention it in his letter, leaving room for negotiation and potential compromises.
Additionally, members of the Senate Banking Committee are still deliberating Section 10 of the marijuana bill, which some Democrats have expressed concerns about, arguing that it could undermine banking regulations beyond the cannabis industry.
Despite these ongoing disputes, there are signs that the SAFE Banking Act is being supported. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have indicated their willingness to support the bill as long as there are no major roadblocks. However, the bill’s final passage and the potential inclusion of further clauses to enhance cannabis sector access to financial services remain questionable.
As stakeholders continue to fight for cannabis banking reform, it is unclear whether the bill will make it past the Senate Banking Committee, receive a committee markup, and ultimately make it to the Senate floor for a vote. The ability to identify common ground and address concerns while advancing towards bipartisan consensus on this critical facet of cannabis legislation will determine the outcome.
Bottom Line
The doubts raised by Senator John Cornyn regarding Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s ambitious legislative agenda, notably on marijuana banking reform, highlight the challenges and uncertainties surrounding these initiatives. The limited time frame and competing priorities in the Senate cast doubt on the feasibility of achieving Schumer’s goals within the given timeframe. The fate of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act remains uncertain as discussions continue, potential amendments are considered, and concerns are addressed. Finding bipartisan consensus and navigating the legislative process will be crucial in determining the outcome of cannabis banking reform. Balancing the need to address cannabis-related issues with other pressing matters will be essential for successful and meaningful progress in this area.
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“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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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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