Cannabis News
State Starts Undercover Sting Operation to Bust Medical Marijuana Dispensaries?
Oklahoma has enacted a recent law granting regulatory authority to oversee a covert evaluation initiative for medical marijuana dispensaries. Officially known as House Bill 3971 (HB 3971), this legislation, endorsed by state legislators and enacted in 2022, empowers the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) to conduct undercover assessments of at least 50 licensed medical marijuana retailers annually to identify any breaches of state regulations.
Effective this week, HB 3971 is part of a series of legislative measures aimed at tightening control over Oklahoma’s expanding medical cannabis sector. The legalization of medical marijuana in 2018 through a statewide ballot measure led to a proliferation of licensed cannabis establishments in an industry with relatively lax oversight. Subsequently, lawmakers have been actively working to regulate these businesses, passing multiple bills in 2022, particularly following the failure of a recreational marijuana legalization initiative at the polls.
State Representative Josh West, one of the sponsors of HB 3971, emphasised that the new law is crafted to safeguard Oklahomans who use cannabis products. In a recent interview with local media, West stated that constituents, industry stakeholders, and the general public sought the implementation of checks and balances in response to evolving concerns.
Oklahoma has upwards of 2,600 medical marijuana dispensaries and is pushing to get recreational cannabis legalized at the state level.
Oklahoma’s Pioneering Weed Secret Shopper Program
The legislation grants OMMA the authority to deploy undercover evaluators, acting as secret shoppers, to conduct inspections within the state’s medical marijuana dispensaries. As part of this initiative, these secret shoppers will make purchases of medical marijuana products, facilitating subsequent lab testing by the regulatory agency.
Mandated by the law, OMMA is obligated to investigate a minimum of 50 medical marijuana dispensaries annually through the secret shopper program. State Representative Josh West underscored the aim of providing OMMA with equivalent authority to the Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement Commission (ABLE), the state’s regulator for alcoholic beverages.
West emphasized the paramount importance of consumer safety, stating, “And we want to ensure that we are keeping the bad actors out. And so it’s no different than what ABLE does when ABLE goes into a liquor store and ensures that they’re following the law.”
The enactment of HB 3971 occurred in May 2022, receiving approval from the state legislature and subsequent signing by Republican Governor Kevin Stitt. However, the law’s implementation was deferred until 2024 to afford OMMA the necessary time to formulate regulations and processes for effective enforcement.
West acknowledged the challenges faced by legitimate medical marijuana businesses over 9,000 licenses issued in Oklahoma and counting, competing with those diverting cannabis to the unregulated market. He highlighted the law’s equalizing effect, ensuring that all businesses adhere to the same standards.
Expressing optimism, West suggested that implementing surprise inspections would have positive outcomes for both the industry and consumers. He stated, “So I think that it will be a positive thing for the industry, and at the end of the day it’s a positive thing for the consumers.”
When questioned about the details of the new medical marijuana secret shopper law, OMMA opted not to disclose specifics, noting in a statement to the press, “We appreciate the public’s interest in our ongoing efforts to implement new state laws. We will provide the latest information on our website, social media channels, and newsletters.”
Oklahoma’s Evolving Landscape of Medical Marijuana Legislation
Several new legislation relating to Oklahoma’s medicinal marijuana industry went into effect this week. Employees of medicinal marijuana-licensed enterprises are required by Senate Bill 1704 (SB 1704) to apply for and get identity cards from OMMA. People run the danger of losing their jobs and their ability to operate in the state’s medicinal cannabis sector if they don’t have the required certifications.
In addition, House Bill 3929 (HB 3929) introduces regulations governing product quality within cannabis testing laboratories. This legislation establishes standards and procedures for process validation that OMMA must adhere to, with provisions for sanctions in case of non-compliance with state requirements.
House Bill 4056 (HB 4056) outlines a structured feedback mechanism for Oklahoma’s medical marijuana program. The law designates specific entities to submit recommendations for industry standards and best practices to OMMA. Furthermore, it mandates the regulatory agency to advocate for industry governance rules and ensures compliance by cannabis testing labs with the established regulations.
State Representative Josh West remarked that the legislative efforts on cannabis regulations could extend for the next 30 years. The Oklahoma lawmakers are scheduled to reconvene at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City in February for the commencement of the state’s 60th legislative session.
Enhancing Oklahoma’s Medical Marijuana Landscape
With the recent enactment of Senate Bill 1704 (SB 1704), an essential component of employee identity in Oklahoma’s medical marijuana sector is introduced. Employees of medical marijuana firms with licenses must now apply for and get identity cards from the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) following this Act. People run the danger of losing their employment and their ability to conduct business in the state’s medicinal cannabis industry if they don’t obtain these certifications. SB 1704 demonstrates a dedication to upholding a responsible and regulated workforce, protecting the integrity of the medicinal marijuana sector.
House Bill 3929 (HB 3929) plays a pivotal role in enhancing product quality control within cannabis testing laboratories. By setting standards and rules for process validation, this legislation aims to ensure that OMMA adheres to rigorous protocols in assessing the quality and safety of medical marijuana products. Additionally, HB 3929 authorizes sanctions for non-compliance with state requirements, reinforcing the importance of maintaining high standards in cannabis testing laboratories to safeguard consumer health.
In a strategic move towards continuous improvement, House Bill 4056 (HB 4056) establishes a systematic feedback mechanism for Oklahoma’s medical marijuana program. This law designates specific entities to submit recommendations for industry standards and best practices directly to OMMA. By encouraging stakeholder input, HB 4056 aims to foster collaboration between regulatory bodies and industry participants, creating a dynamic framework that adapts to the evolving needs of Oklahoma’s medical marijuana landscape. The legislation also mandates OMMA to advocate for industry governance rules. It enforces compliance by cannabis testing labs with the established regulations, underscoring the commitment to transparency, accountability, and the overall well-being of consumers.
Bottom Line
Oklahoma’s recent legislative endeavours, encapsulated by the trailblazing House Bill 3971 and accompanying measures, signify a decisive step toward cultivating a responsibly regulated medical marijuana industry. The introduction of secret shoppers and stringent regulatory frameworks demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety and industry integrity. As the state anticipates the implementation of these groundbreaking laws, the ongoing evolution of Oklahoma’s medical marijuana landscape reflects a proactive approach to addressing challenges, promoting transparency, and ensuring the long-term well-being of both the industry and its consumers. With a vision extending into the future, the state’s legislators continue to navigate the complex terrain of cannabis regulations, laying the groundwork for a dynamic and robust cannabis sector in the years to come.
STING OPERATIONS ON MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES, READ ON…
ABC NEWS TRIES A STING OPERATION ON A WEED DISPENSARY! EPIC FAIL!
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
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