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Society and Their Substances – What Do You Really Know About Drugs and the People Who Use Them?

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1 year ago

June 27, 2023

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society and drug use

Society and their Substances: Dispelling the Common myths of Drugs and Drug Users

Have you ever wondered “why” are drugs illegal? Some might look to places like Portland Oregon and say, “Just look at Portland, junkies wandering the streets, doing heroin out in the open!” and they wouldn’t be wrong.

Portland decided to decriminalize all drugs, and made it no more criminal than a speeding ticket. But there was a catch, if the drug user wanted a medical health check, the $100 fine would be waved with the idea of getting the user in touch with medical professionals.

While humane, it’s obvious that these policies aren’t crafted by professional drug users. It’s often the case that “non-drug users” dictate the policies of “drug users” in the name of public health, yet have no understanding of the psychology of an addict.

Even the best addiction expert would never be able to understand the fundamentals of an addict’s mind until he or she becomes addicted to something. The logic, the reasoning, the internal dialogue all change to support the addiction, or to use it as a crutch to blame them for all their problems.

Yet, what news outlets like Fox ignore with the city of Portland is that there is a large homeless population. And when there is misery mixed with cheap and accessible drugs with little criminal penalties or education programs in place – you’ve got a cocktail for disaster.

Now, do we blame “drugs” for this…or is this a problem of the policies surrounding drugs?

Of course, one cannot discard that some drugs are just inherently more damaging to the human body and mind than others. For example, it’s not the same smoking a strong joint than it is injecting yourself with heroin. Therefore the word “drugs” cannot begin to fully encompass the whole problem with “drugs”.

It’s a blanket statement that ignores all the nuance of drugs, their users, and the interaction between substance and society.

Is there a way to fix Portland? Well, yes – but criminalizing drugs is not the way. In fact, criminalizing drugs is counter productive as it makes the environment surrounding drug use, sales, and distribution more lucrative and more dangerous. Other than, “drugs are done in the shadows”, there is no inherent benefit of drug prohibition.

I’ll get a bit into how one could possibly address this problem later on, however – to begin to understand the complexity of “Drugs”, let’s begin by addressing the myths.

Myth 1: There’s a clear definition for Drugs!

“He was doing the drugs!” a worried mom confesses to her neighbor while finishing her third glass of wine. Her nerves finally settled and the social lubricant unhinged her jaw so her soul could sing her anxieties to the world, unbothered by the consequences.

Not to get all Matt Walsh on you folk but… “What is a drug?”

The truth is a “drug” by definition is any substance that changes you physiologically and has an impact on your psychologically”.

Or if you want to get technical, the American Heritage dictionary defines drug as, “A chemical substance, such as a narcotic or hallucinogen, that affects the central nervous system, causing changes in behavior and often addiction.”

Here’s the thing…everything is a “chemical substance”. If you’re putting sugar in your coffee, you’re putting “chemical substances in other chemical substances”·

Secondly, it needs only to affect the central nervous system, causing changes in behavior and often addiction?

Well, under that classification sugar is one hell of a drug – and we give it to children!!!

WHY WON’T ANYONE EVER THINK ABOUT THOSE CHILDREN!!!

Karen 2:19, The Big Book of Karens

Yet when you say, “He did drugs” you’re not thinking about the guy who snarfed down 18 Twinkies. You’re thinking, “Portland Oregon” aren’t you?

Well, that’s because Uncle Sam’s mind control and propaganda machine did its job and installed a bias towards certain drugs. With the help of Pharma, they have been shaping the way we view the definition of drugs since the 1970s.

This is because in the 1971 Controlled Substance Act, Pharma was granted basically “ownership” of all drug development and research in the US, and basically a handful of government sanctioned companies would become our “pharma overlords”.

Along with the FDA [funded by them] and the DEA [Funded by you], Pharma could create the biggest, most insidious monopoly in the world – and then involved the Military Industrial Complex for fun.

[1970s] Pharma: “Hey man, so Colombia – they be making some mad cocaine and its undercutting our profits!”

DEA: Sure, we’ll go create violent altercations between local law enforcement and drug dealers and coerce the government to adopt our strict “anti-drug rhetoric” drafted up by the Prison Industrial Complex!”

Pharma: “Nixon would be proud!”

Yes, and while this might sound highly conspiratorial to some of you – it’s very well documented and all it takes it to walk down the history of drug prohibition to spot the shitfuckery a mile away!

The 1971 Controlled Substance Act gave power to Pharma, and Pharma used this opportunity to “re-educate the populace” by calling what they produce “medicine” and what anyone other than them produce “drugs”.

Yet often times, it’s the “medicine” that comes with 50-side effects including rectal bleeding – but smoking weed is as bad as heroin!

Oh yea, according to the hallowed document that ensured the government authority over your body, cannabis is classified as having “no medical value and a high potential for abuse”. Anyone who has taken any drugs would understand that this is absolute nonsense.

What’s more, tobacco nor alcohol is on the Controlled Substance Act – those drugs aren’t the same as the “other-other drugs” produced by those brown people in the hills laced with demon juice and murder!

The definition you subscribe to about drugs is sadly not yours – it’s a plant. And invasive parasite created by an entity that sees you as the “product”. You are the stock. That’s why you’re not allowed to consume certain “drugs” – it might make you think too much outside of the box.

Myth 2: People who use drugs are suffering from substance use disorder

Most people who use drugs are not particularly addicted. Well, perhaps as addicted as you are to coffee. It’s something that you depend on daily (in the case you’re a coffee drinker), however, it’s not the end of the world when you miss it a day or two.

You might have some low-key physical withdrawal…and in fact, detoxing from coffee is one hell of a detox! Don’t believe me? Go 90-days without coffee and see how addicted you truly are!

Yet some people even wear this addiction as a badge! “I’m totally addicted to java bro!” “Me too!”

There are some drugs that are socially accepted, and even “addictive behavior” is celebrated because the drug itself is seen as benign. People literally go binge drink to get “totally wasted” and laugh about it, even though more people die from alcohol poisoning each year than all of the psychedelic drugs combined.

Yet getting “smashed” is celebrated. “Hangover 1,2,3” is an homage to the whole “getting shitfaced” ideals of the American Badass.

But even then, the vast majority of people who drink alcohol do so in moderation – and this goes for virtually every other drug except maybe for meth, crack, and some lower quality substances. These tend to create devastating physiological responses to the substances, and hyper-addicts tend to kill themselves with it.

Nonetheless, for the vast majority of drugs…people take them responsibly. Just think about it, you do your taxes, you invest your money, you plan vacations, you’ve got a job with a lot of responsibility. If you ever decide to take a psychedelic – wouldn’t you apply the same level of care and attention to the experience?

Of course you would! You’d learn that you don’t need to take a lot of it, you’ll understand set and setting – take it, experience it…assess whether you need more or whether you’re finished…and go about your way.

This is virtually the experience of the common drug user. I for example, am a psychonaut and have been practicing for 20-years. The last time I took a psychedelic was 2 years ago and haven’t had the opportunity nor the “calling” to dive back into a deep weekend of psychedelia.

Typically, however, I use psychedelics once or twice a year. I might microdose for periods of creation and project management, but beyond this – I keep my use of psychedelics in check and for specific purposes.

With proper education, most people would learn the ins and outs of certain drugs, how they behave, what frequency they can use them safely, etc.

The DSM-V, the diagnostic tool [created by pharma], has a particular definition of what it means to have Substance Use Disorder, and they have definitions based on different drugs. However, their classifications are done purely from a pharmacological perspective with no understanding of psychological interplay between a particular person and a substance.

Why is it that the homeless in Portland are doing hard drugs constantly, but Dr. Keven Hart understands how to use heroin for recreational purposes?

Personally, I’m not all that interested in heroin, but if a person can take it responsibly in their own home – then they should be able to do it. And under the DSM-V any kind of heroin use would be considered “substance abuse disorder”.

And this goes back to the classification of “drugs” we covered earlier. The “bad drugs” vs the “good drugs” get different treatment and tolerance thresholds. They decide when you’re addicted, and being addicted is bad – except if it’s tobacco, sugar, alcohol, fast foods, etc.

Myth 3: Drug Users are dirty, immoral, and dangerous losers…

A heroin user, coke user, and a cannabis user walked into a bar – and nobody could judge which one used which….and probably, some of them had high paying jobs…

To think “drug users” are dirty is to think “soda drinkers are fat” or “fast food eaters” are poor. Who is a fast food eater? What does a “soda drinker” look like?

You can’t define them because “everyone” uses it as “everyone” uses drugs. If we’re talking about the “naughty drug list” – the principle remains consistent. If you see me in real life, you would have no idea that I have huddled on the edge of cosmic portals, deeply entrenched in a hallucination after consuming LSD.

You’d say, “look at that responsible, and respectable tax payer!” Because, I have long learned to shift my external appearance to become invisible to the police. The youth dress provocatively, the wise dress practically.

Furthermore, if substance use had anything to do with “morality” or “hygiene”, then I wonder what moral outcome eating hot dogs produce? If you consume a lettuce, do you become a morally ‘better’ person?

After all, if drug use can dictate morals, then food must also play a role. If you drink a beer, do you become “neutral?”

Who dictates the morality scale in correlation to the substance used?

As you can see my friends, when you begin to poke at these myths – they begin to come apart. This is because this particular myth comes from early prohibition – Reefer Madness! Even though reefer madness wasn’t the first mechanism of stereotyping a group of people, it is the most known.

Drug prohibition has long utilized this tactic of “demoralization of a group” in order to justify their atrocities. It’s a more subtle Hitlarian “blame the Jews” tactic of creating a public boogie-man that allows people to pass laws they would commonly not pass.

For example, with the Chinese immigrants who used opium, they were demonized as a group when settler sons and husbands were caught get high and dirty with their Asian brethren.

Then laws were drafted up based on early Christian morality – which was based in puritanism for the most part – which is basically to deny yourself of all pleasures for the sake of getting a mansion in heaven or something of the sort.

The point is, morality is a subjective slippery slope. In the 1960s, any church endorsing gay marriage would have been excommunicated by their peers – now they are opening their doors all over the place.

Morals shift, and the argument that “all drug users are dirty and immoral” is a weak one that could easily be flipped on virtually every substance – simply because morals are fluid.

Myth 4: People take drugs because they have problems

While some people do take drugs to mask their problems, the vast majority take drugs for its effects. When I’m eating a psychedelic mushroom out in the wilderness, I’m not thinking, “If I take this, all my troubles will melt away!”

Rather I say, “Oh shit…relax, and let go…what comes up will come down…” and then I relax, breathe, spark up a joint and ride the magick into the cosmos.

Why do I do this?

Well, for starters, when you enter into a state of psychedelia – your brain begins to connect in ways it commonly does not. It enters into a state of “hyper-plasticity” meaning that you become less “rigid” in your thinking.

You can then, in this state, confront situations in your life from a completely new perspective. At times, it makes you realize that the way you have been looking at an idea or concept or challenge in your life, can be resolved by simply shifting your behavior or the way you feel about it.

Sometimes you can accept the loss of a loved one, or figure out a way to deal with that constant anxiety you’ve been feeling, peaking into the darkness and allowing the unconscious to manifest.

This is how I use psychedelics. Other people use it in different ways. But for no way am I using it to “get rid of my problems” or to “escape them”.

The heroin junkies in Portland aren’t escaping their problems – they are numbing their pain. They are abandoned, they live on the streets, they have no one that loves them, they are alone.

Why the hell wouldn’t you want to just numb yourself for as long as you can if you can see no escape from the hell you are living?

However, for the rest of us who take drugs responsibly – no one is trying to mask their problems with drugs. I smoke weed because I like to get high, I like how it interplays with my creative process and counterbalance it with caffeine.

Myth 5: Regular Drug use leads to addiction

Well, I’ve been smoking cannabis for about twenty years and if there’s anyone who should be addicted to it by now, it should be me.

Except, I frequently take breaks for months at a time and utilize different states of mind to achieve certain tasks. There are moments when absolute sobriety helps me, and then there’s moments when I smoke weed at the end of the day. There are days I smoke in the morning.

However, to claim I’m addicted to weed would be wrong, even though according to the DSM-V I’d probably be classified as such.

Once again, addiction isn’t necessarily bad. We all have our little addictions, yet we’re socially functional. We’re available to our children, we do our work, we don’t slack.

Why is it okay to play video games for 4 hours after work every day, yet you can’t smoke a bong rip? Why is one “relaxing” and the other one “addiction”.

Bias – that’s why!

Myth 6: Taking Drugs Damages People

The number one killer in the United States is heart disease. The #1 cause for heart disease is poor diet.

Considering that people eat so much fast food in the US – shouldn’t the fact that they are damaging themselves be reason enough to ban fast food? Perhaps not ban fast food, perhaps – we could weigh people at the front door which would give them a suitable menu based on their likeliness of developing a chronic disease.

I know some people may scoff at this idea, but it’s essentially what we’re doing with all drugs. We’re saying, “because this substance may cause physical harm…it should be illegal!” yet we don’t hold the same standards to other drugs or foods in society.

Why is it conveniently untaxable, non-pharma drugs that “damages people”, and should be illegal – but legal drugs produced by pharma has a threshold on deaths before it gets recalled?

If harm is the metric for illegality, then we should begin to restrict people’s diets because it is costing the taxpayer billions, people are taking up hospital beds that could be for healthy people that don’t eat themselves into heart disease….

Ya, sounds a bit “Nazi?” That’s because it is!

And the justification of keeping drugs illegal because of possible harm then should be applied to all substances, otherwise it undermines the very justification for keeping it illegal.

The Sticky Bottom Line

You’re not going to save the Portland problem by criminalizing drugs. You can do it by

Addressing the homeless problem

Creating Drug Centers, where they get free drugs like in Switzerland. There is no need to get into rehab, although it’s available. You can have as much drugs as long as it’s not a lethal dose.

Educate people – we don’t need to teach people which drugs are bad…we need to teach them how to use drugs if they choose.

You can have amazing results from certain drugs. Modern research is showing us that psychedelics has the ability to do what common psychiatric medicine is failing. It can help us dissolve PTSD, make people break addiction in a single session, and completely transform their lives.

But if we keep on playing the prohibition game – we’re only going to continue to keep the solutions in the dark, under the thumb of Pharma – who certainly won’t ever put profits over people.

SOCIETY AND LEGALIZATION, READ ON…

THE GREAT CANNABIS PARADIGM SHIFT IN SOCIETY GOING ON!

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The Grinch Stole SAFE Banking from the Cannabis Industry This Christmas, Yet Again!

Published

1 hour ago

December 22, 2024

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no safe banking in 2024

The landscape of cannabis legislation in the United States has been a complex and evolving issue, particularly concerning banking regulations. As of December 2024, it has become official: the current Congress will not provide any protections for banks that serve state-legal marijuana businesses. This decision has significant implications for the cannabis industry, which continues to grow rapidly despite the lack of federal support. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this decision, the implications for cannabis businesses, and the broader context of cannabis legalization in America.

The State of Cannabis Legalization

A Growing Industry

The cannabis industry has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. As of late 2024, 23 states and Washington D.C. have legalized recreational marijuana use, while 38 states allow medical marijuana. According to recent estimates, the legal cannabis market in the U.S. is projected to reach over $40 billion by 2025. This growth has been fueled by changing public perceptions of marijuana, increased advocacy for legalization, and significant tax revenues generated by state-legal cannabis sales.

The Banking Dilemma

Despite this rapid expansion, cannabis businesses face unique challenges, primarily due to their inability to access traditional banking services. Federal law classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification creates a significant barrier for banks and financial institutions that wish to work with cannabis businesses, as they risk federal penalties for facilitating transactions related to an illegal substance.

As a result, many cannabis companies operate on a cash-only basis. This situation not only poses safety risks—such as increased theft and violence—but also limits these businesses’ ability to manage finances effectively, pay taxes electronically, and build credit histories.

Legislative Attempts at Reform

One of the most prominent legislative efforts aimed at addressing these banking issues is the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act. First introduced in 2019, the SAFE Banking Act sought to provide protections for banks that serve legal cannabis businesses by preventing federal regulators from penalizing them for doing so.

The act garnered significant bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. In previous sessions of Congress, it passed multiple times in the House but faced hurdles in the Senate due to opposition from certain lawmakers who were concerned about broader implications of marijuana legalization.

In light of ongoing discussions about federal spending and budgetary priorities, advocates had hoped that some version of the SAFE Banking Act would be included in recent spending bills. However, during negotiations leading up to December 2024, a House committee led by Republicans removed any provisions related to marijuana banking protections from key spending legislation.

This decision reflects a broader trend within Congress where discussions around cannabis reform have become increasingly contentious. While there is still bipartisan support for certain aspects of cannabis legislation—particularly when it comes to medical use—more comprehensive reforms like banking protections have struggled to gain traction.

Implications for Cannabis Businesses

Continued Cash-Only Operations

The removal of banking protections means that many cannabis businesses will continue to operate primarily on a cash basis. This situation presents several challenges:

Safety Risks: Cash-only operations make cannabis dispensaries and cultivation facilities prime targets for theft and robber Employees often have to handle large amounts of cash daily, increasing their risk of violence.

Operational Inefficiencies: Without access to banking services, businesses cannot easily manage payroll or pay bills electronically. This inefficiency can lead to operational delays and increased costs.

Impact on Public Safety

Advocates argue that providing banking access would enhance public safety by reducing the amount of cash circulating within the community. By allowing cannabis businesses to deposit their earnings into banks, it would minimize the risks associated with cash transactions, making both employees and customers safer.

Moreover, having a transparent financial system would help law enforcement track illicit activities more effectively. Currently, without proper banking oversight, there are concerns that some cash-only operations may be involved in money laundering or other illegal activities.

Politics and Public Opinion

Changing Attitudes Toward Cannabis

Public opinion on marijuana legalization has shifted dramatically over recent years. According to various polls, a significant majority of Americans now support legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use. This shift has put pressure on lawmakers to address outdated federal policies regarding cannabis.

Despite this growing acceptance among the public, political divisions remain strong within Congress regarding how best to approach cannabis reform. Some lawmakers advocate for full legalization at the federal level, while others prefer a more cautious approach that prioritizes regulation over outright legalization.

The Role of Advocacy Groups

Advocacy groups play a crucial role in pushing for legislative change regarding cannabis banking protections. Organizations such as the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) and Americans for Safe Access (ASA) have been vocal proponents of reforming banking laws to support state-legal cannabis businesses.

These groups have mobilized public support through campaigns highlighting the safety risks associated with cash-only operations and advocating for policies that promote financial inclusion for cannabis entrepreneurs.

Future Prospects for Cannabis Banking Reform

While current congressional efforts have stalled regarding marijuana banking protections, there are still potential avenues for reform:

Incremental Reforms: Rather than pursuing comprehensive federal legislation like the SAFE Banking Act all at once, lawmakers may consider incremental reforms that address specific issues related to banking access without fully legalizing marijuana at the federal level.

The Role of Public Awareness

As public awareness about the challenges faced by cannabis businesses grows, there may be increased pressure on lawmakers to act decisively on this issue. Continued advocacy efforts can help ensure that banking reform remains a priority on Congress’s agenda.

Conclusion

The decision by Congress not to include marijuana banking protections in its current spending bill underscores ongoing tensions surrounding cannabis legislation in America. While public opinion increasingly favors legalization and reform, political divisions continue to hinder progress on critical issues such as banking access for state-legal marijuana businesses.

As the industry continues to grow despite these challenges, stakeholders must remain vigilant in advocating for change while exploring alternative solutions at both state and federal levels. The future of cannabis banking reform remains uncertain; however, with continued advocacy and public support, there is hope that meaningful progress can be made in addressing these pressing issues facing one of America’s fastest-growing industries.

SAFE BANKING SINCE 2018, WHAT A FAILURE, READ ON…

SAFER BANKING ACT FAILS AGAINS, SAME OF BANANA IN THE TAILPIPE!

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HHC vs. Delta 9: Differences & Similarities

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

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Cannabis has so many compounds, and two that have been making the rounds lately are HHC and Delta 9 THC. They’re not the same thing, even though they’re both cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Some people want a mild, steady experience, while others might be looking for something more intense. Understanding these two can help you figure out what’s right for you.

What Is HHC?

HHC, short for hexahydrocannabinol, is a hydrogenated version of THC. It’s not something you’d find naturally in large amounts in cannabis plants. Instead, it’s made through a process that adds hydrogen molecules to THC. The result? A more stable compound that’s less prone to breaking down when exposed to heat or UV light.

How HHC Is Made

Think of it like a science experiment. HHC is usually created in a lab by taking Delta 9 or Delta 8 THC and using hydrogenation—basically, combining it with hydrogen under pressure and in the presence of a catalyst. This process changes its structure while keeping its effects somewhat similar to THC.

Common Uses and Effects of HHC

People who use HHC say it’s somewhere between Delta 8 and Delta 9 in terms of effects. It’s often described as relaxing but without being overly sedative. You might feel a light buzz, reduced stress, or mild euphoria. Some even claim it helps with discomfort or improving sleep, but solid research is still catching up. Since it’s less potent than Delta 9, it’s often favored by those who want a manageable experience without the strong psychoactive punch.

If you’re interested in trying HHC and Delta 9 for yourself, check out their wide range of products at trycandycloud.com. They’ve got everything from gummies to disposable vapes, all crafted for a smooth experience.

What Is Delta 9 THC?

Delta 9 THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s the reason you feel “high” when you use weed. Chemically speaking, Delta 9 has a double bond in its ninth carbon chain, which plays a big role in how it interacts with your brain.

Natural Occurrence in Cannabis

This one is straightforward: Delta 9 is found in high concentrations in marijuana plants. It’s what most people think of when they hear “THC.” Unlike HHC, there’s no need for a lab process—it’s already there. Hemp plants, however, contain much lower levels of Delta 9 THC, which is why it’s primarily extracted from marijuana.

Common Uses and Effects of Delta 9 THC

The effects of Delta 9 are well-documented. Depending on the dose, you might feel euphoria, increased appetite, or deep relaxation. For medical users, it’s often used to manage chronic pain, nausea, and other conditions. It’s also been studied for its potential benefits in anxiety relief, though higher doses might have the opposite effect, causing paranoia. Delta 9 THC is versatile, but it’s not without its risks, particularly for new users or those sensitive to its psychoactive effects.

Key Differences Between HHC and Delta 9 THC

Chemical Structure and Composition

The main difference is in their structure. Delta 9 THC has that iconic double bond, while HHC’s hydrogenation makes it more stable. This difference might not mean much to the average person, but it’s why HHC is less likely to degrade over time.

Potency Levels

Delta 9 THC is generally more potent. HHC might require a higher dose to get a comparable effect, but some people prefer its lighter touch. Potency differences can also depend on the method of consumption, with edibles typically providing a stronger, longer-lasting effect compared to vaping or smoking.

Duration of Effects

Both last a few hours, but some users report that HHC’s effects fade more gradually. Delta 9, on the other hand, can have a sharper comedown. HHC’s gradual fade makes it appealing for those who want a smooth end to their experience.

Benefits and Drawbacks of HHC and Delta 9 THC

HHC: Pros and Cons

Pros:

More stable, so it lasts longer on the shelf.
Effects are milder, making it less overwhelming for beginners.
Can be a functional option for daytime use.

Cons:

Limited research, so we don’t know its full impact yet.
Availability can be hit or miss depending on where you live.
Legal gray area in many regions.

Delta 9 THC: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Well-studied with established medical uses.
Widely available in areas where cannabis is legal.
Stronger effects make it ideal for experienced users or those with high tolerance.

Cons:

Higher chance of side effects like anxiety.
More likely to show up on drug tests.
Shorter shelf life compared to HHC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is HHC safer than Delta 9 THC?

Not enough research exists to say definitively, but HHC’s milder effects might make it feel safer to some users.

Q. Will HHC or Delta 9 THC show up on a drug test?

Yes, both can potentially show up on a drug test, so use with caution if that’s a concern.

Q. Which one is better for recreational use?

That depends on your preferences. HHC is great for a mellow time, while Delta 9 is better if you’re looking for something more intense.

HHC vs. Delta 9: Choosing the Right One for You

The choice comes down to what you’re after. If you want a milder, more laid-back experience, HHC might be a good option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something stronger or need it for medical reasons, Delta 9 is the way to go. It also depends on what’s legal and available where you are. And always consider your tolerance levels and experience before diving in. If you’re unsure, consult with a knowledgeable dispensary staff.

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What Federally Illegal Drug Has Created Almost $10 Billion in Sales Tax Revenue for States in the Last 40 Months?

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

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sales tax revenue with marijuana

In a significant development for the burgeoning cannabis industry, the U.S. Census Bureau has reported that states across the nation have collectively amassed over **$9.7 billion** in tax revenue from marijuana sales since mid-2021. This figure underscores the economic impact of legalized cannabis and highlights the growing acceptance of marijuana as both a recreational and medicinal substance in various states. As more states move toward legalization, the financial implications both positive and negative are becoming increasingly evident.

The Landscape of Cannabis Legalization

The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been long and complex. Initially criminalized in the early 20th century, cannabis began to regain acceptance in the late 20th century, particularly for medical use. The first state to legalize medical marijuana was California in 1996, setting a precedent that many states would follow.

By 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, paving the way for a wave of legalization efforts across the country. As of now, more than 20 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while over 30 states allow medical use. This shift reflects changing public attitudes toward cannabis and recognition of its potential benefits.

Economic Implications of Legalization

The legalization of cannabis has not only transformed social norms but has also created a substantial economic impact. States that have embraced legalization have seen significant increases in tax revenue, job creation, and investment opportunities.

According to the latest Census Bureau report, states like California, Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan have emerged as leaders in cannabis tax revenue generation. These states have implemented various tax structures on marijuana sales, including excise taxes, sales taxes, and local taxes. The revenue generated is often earmarked for essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure improvements, and drug rehabilitation programs.

Breakdown of Tax Revenue by State

As the largest legal cannabis market in the United States, California has been at the forefront of marijuana tax revenue generation. Since mid-2021, California has contributed approximately $2.5 billion to state coffers from cannabis taxes. This revenue is derived from both recreational and medical marijuana sales.

California’s tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on retail sales, along with local taxes that can vary significantly by city and county. The state has allocated a portion of these funds to various programs aimed at addressing issues related to drug abuse and public health.

Colorado was one of the pioneers in cannabis legalization and continues to serve as a model for other states. Since mid-2021, Colorado has generated around $1.8 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a 15% excise tax on wholesale marijuana transactions and a 2.9% sales tax on retail sales.

The revenue generated from cannabis taxes has been instrumental in funding education initiatives through the Public School Fund, as well as supporting mental health programs and substance abuse treatment services.

Illinois has seen remarkable growth in its cannabis market since legalizing recreational use in January 2020. In just two years, Illinois has collected approximately $1 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a tiered excise tax based on the potency of the product, ranging from 10% to 25%.

The funds collected are allocated to various initiatives, including community reinvestment programs aimed at addressing social equity issues related to past drug enforcement practices.

Michigan’s cannabis market has also flourished since legalization. Since mid-2021, Michigan has generated about $700 million in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state’s tax structure includes a 10% excise tax on recreational marijuana and a 6% sales tax.

The revenue is utilized for various purposes, including education funding and support for local governments impacted by legalization.

Broader Economic Impact

The legalization of cannabis has led to significant job creation across various sectors. According to industry reports, the legal cannabis market supports hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide—from cultivation and processing to retail and distribution. As more states legalize marijuana, this trend is expected to continue.

With the growth of the legal cannabis industry comes increased investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs are entering the market at an unprecedented rate, leading to innovations in product development, marketing strategies, and distribution channels. This influx of investment not only benefits individual businesses but also stimulates local economies.

Social Equity Considerations

While the financial benefits of cannabis legalization are clear, it is essential to address social equity issues that arise alongside this new industry. Many states have recognized that communities disproportionately affected by past drug enforcement policies should benefit from legalization efforts.

States like Illinois have implemented community reinvestment programs that allocate a portion of cannabis tax revenues to support communities impacted by previous drug laws. These funds can be used for education initiatives, job training programs, and mental health services—aiming to rectify historical injustices associated with cannabis prohibition.

In addition to financial support for communities affected by past policies, some states are also working to create equitable licensing opportunities for individuals from those communities. By prioritizing applications from minority-owned businesses or those directly impacted by previous drug laws, states can foster a more inclusive cannabis industry.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the significant progress made through legalization efforts, challenges remain on both state and federal levels.

Federal Legalization Uncertainty

One major hurdle is the ongoing conflict between state and federal laws regarding cannabis. While many states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This discrepancy creates complications for businesses operating legally at the state level but facing potential federal prosecution.

Efforts toward federal legalization or decriminalization have gained traction recently; however, progress remains slow due to political divisions and differing opinions on drug policy reform.

Regulatory Hurdles

As more states enter the legal cannabis market, regulatory frameworks must evolve to ensure consumer safety while promoting fair competition among businesses. States face challenges related to product testing standards, labeling requirements, advertising restrictions, and taxation policies that can impact market dynamics.

Conclusion

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that states have collected over $9.7 billion in marijuana tax revenue since mid-2021, highlighting the significant economic impact of cannabis legalization. As public acceptance grows, more states are likely to pursue legalization. Despite ongoing challenges, including federal regulations and social equity issues, legalized cannabis is poised to remain a vital part of state economies. Collaboration among government officials, business leaders, and community advocates will be essential for fostering an equitable and sustainable cannabis industry. This evolving landscape not only presents economic growth opportunities but also addresses historical injustices tied to drug policy enforcement, shaping the future of cannabis legislation in the U.S.