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Thailand Considers Relisting Cannabis as a Narcotic

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The Thai government is contemplating the relisting of cannabis as a narcotic due to concerns over its recreational use and potential societal harms. This reconsideration comes after cannabis was decriminalized in June 2022, which led to a surge in its availability and use.

Cannabis Conundrum: Thailand Reconsiders Legal Status Amidst Rising Concerns

The recent decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand has ignited a complex debate over its legal status and societal impact. While the policy aimed to boost the medical marijuana industry and provide economic opportunities, the unintended rise in recreational use has sparked discussions about a potential reclassification.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a key advocate for the decriminalization, emphasized that the policy was intended to promote medical use, not recreational. However, the current legal framework lacks clear regulations governing recreational use, leading to widespread availability and potential misuse.

The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin, initially pushed for the delisting of cannabis to benefit the medical industry and provide economic opportunities for Thai citizens. However, the subsequent surge in recreational use, particularly among youths, has raised concerns about potential health and social consequences.

Opposition parties have criticized the government for inadequate regulations and are advocating for cannabis to be relisted as a narcotic under the Narcotics Act. They argue that the current situation exposes young people to potential harm and lacks sufficient safeguards.

A recent poll revealed that a majority of Thais support stricter regulations on cannabis use. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on public health, particularly regarding mental health issues and addiction, especially among youths. Additionally, there are worries about the potential for increased crime and social disorder.

The government now faces the challenge of balancing the economic benefits of a burgeoning cannabis industry with the need to protect public health and safety. Finding a solution that addresses the concerns of both advocates and critics will be crucial in determining the future of cannabis in Thailand

Why It Matters

Thailand’s shift in cannabis policy has garnered international attention, serving as a case study for the complexities of drug policy reform. The potential reclassification of cannabis underscores the challenges of balancing economic opportunities with public health and safety considerations. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for Thailand’s legal landscape, public health policies, and the future of its cannabis industry.

Potential Implications of Relisting Cannabis as a Narcotic

If cannabis is relisted as a narcotic, it could lead to stricter regulations on its cultivation, distribution, and use. This may impact the growth of the medical marijuana industry and limit access for patients who rely on cannabis for therapeutic purposes. Additionally, it could result in increased criminal penalties for possession and use, potentially leading to a rise in incarceration rates.

Alternatively, if the government opts to maintain the decriminalized status, it will need to implement robust regulations and public health campaigns to mitigate the risks associated with recreational use. This includes age restrictions, educational initiatives, and support systems for individuals struggling with cannabis dependence.

The Bigger Picture

The debate surrounding cannabis legalization and regulation is a global phenomenon, with countries around the world grappling with similar challenges. The Thai government’s decision regarding cannabis will likely be influenced by international trends and best practices in drug policy reform. It is crucial to consider the experiences of other nations that have legalized or decriminalized cannabis, examining both the successes and challenges they have encountered.

Source: Thai PBS World



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Green Dragon dispensaries, grow facility to remain open after cash infusion

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In an unexpected turn, Green Dragon, one of the largest dispensary chains in Colorado, will keep its stores and grow facility open.

The retailer’s parent company, California-based Eaze, got an infusion of $10 million from its owner, Jim Clark, to remain operating, it announced Tuesday. Clark, the billionaire founder of the defunct tech firm Netscape, foreclosed on the company’s assets in August for $54 million.

“We’ve just been working with the new ownership group to assess what we’re doing in the future,” said Cory Azzalino, Eaze’s CEO. “It’s nothing world-shaking, but I’m excited to keep going.”

Read the rest of this story on DenverPost.com.



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Green Dragon founders fired up to “get back to where we were” with new joint

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The first dispensary chain founded by Alex Levine, Andy Levine and Lisa Leder is preparing to cease operations in Colorado, three years after they sold it.

But they have high expectations for take two — their new chain, Fired Cannabis.

“Our plan is to get back to where we were,” said Alex Levine. “It’s just a long detour.”

Read the rest of this story on DenverPost.com.



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384 flights canceled at DIA as heavy snow pelts metro Denver

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At least 384 flights were canceled and 467 delayed at Denver International Airport on Friday as heavy snow pelted metro Denver and Colorado’s eastern plains.

The Federal Aviation Administration activated a traffic management program for flights bound for DIA “due to weather/snow-ice.” The average delay for flights under this plane was one hour and 50 minutes, FAA officials said, adding that departing flight schedules also may be affected by the weather.

There were 851 total delayed and canceled flights at DIA as of 11:45 a.m., according to Flight Aware. SkyWest reported the most cancellations with 183, followed by Southwest with 124, and Frontier with 30.

Read the rest of this story on TheKnow.DenverPost.com.



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