Cannabis

The Cannabis Industry Needs Luck With The DEA

Published

1 month ago

March 17, 2025

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It will take more than Irish luck to help the cannabis industry win over the DEA.

Million of consumers are fans of cannabis, not only to chill out but for medical reasons. In fact, it has become a replacement for alcohol and spanned a movement call California sober. Aside from the thousands of mom and pop small business owners, cannabis employees over 440,000 people. Even the staid AARP has agreed it has health benefits. Over 80% of the country believe it should be legal in some form, but the cannabis industry needs luck with the DEA to move forward. Rescheduling cannabis means changing its classification under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), moving it from a more restrictive schedule (like Schedule I) to a less restrictive one (like Schedule III), acknowledging its potential medical uses while still maintaining regulatory controls.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had scheduled hearings on the proposed rescheduling of cannabis to begin on January 21, 2025. However, these hearings were abruptly canceled by DEA Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney following legal challenges from pro-reform witnesses. This cancellation has pushed back the rescheduling process by at least three months, with no clear timeline for when it might resume.

DEA Interim Final Rule: What Is 'Synthetically Derived THC'? — Photo by Xvision/Getty Images

The delay stems from allegations of improper communications between DEA officials and anti-rescheduling witnesses. While Judge Mulrooney rejected some key arguments from rescheduling proponents, he granted a request for leave to file an interlocutory appeal, effectively putting the entire process on hold.

The transition to the current administration has further complicated matters. On February 11, 2025, Terrance C. Cole was nominated for DEA administrator, an individual known for his opposition to cannabis reform. This nomination signals a potential shift in the DEA’s approach to marijuana policy, which could further impede rescheduling efforts.

Even if rescheduling were to move forward, it would face significant regulatory challenges. Critics argue that as a Schedule III drug, marijuana would remain under DEA regulation, requiring the approximately 15,000 cannabis dispensaries in the U.S. to register with the DEA and fulfill strict reporting requirements.

The cannabis industry eagerly awaits rescheduling, as it would bring significant benefits, including the ability to claim federal tax deductions and credits currently prohibited under 26 U.S.C. § 280E. However, the ongoing delays and potential policy shifts under the new administration have created uncertainty in the market.

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420 Across Cannabis Comes To Crosswords

Published

1 day ago

April 19, 2025

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Another step in the mainstreaming of cannabis, the plant has its own set of crossword puzzles!

Looking for a last minute Easter or 420 gift for the marijuana aficanado? You can stop into Barnes and Nobles or another independent bookstore and pick up unique treat. 420 across cannabis comes to crosswords and can be found at mainstream retailers. The world of crossword puzzles is experiencing a fresh and exciting twist with the rise of cannabis-themed crosswords, delighting both word enthusiasts and cannabis aficionados alike. This new wave reflects not only the growing acceptance of cannabis culture but also the enduring popularity and adaptability of the crossword puzzle itself.

Crossword puzzles have a rich and storied history. The earliest forms date back to the 19th century, with simple word squares appearing in children’s books and magazines. The modern crossword, however, was born on December 21, 1913, when Arthur Wynne, a journalist for the New York World, published his “word-cross” puzzle—diamond-shaped and clue-driven, it set the template for the pastime we know today. The name soon flipped to “cross-word,” and by the 1920s, newspapers across America and Britain were featuring crosswords daily, each developing their own distinctive styles and rules. The crossword’s popularity soared, offering comfort and distraction during turbulent times such as World War I and II. Over the decades, the puzzle evolved, spawning cryptic crosswords in Britain and themed puzzles that reflect every imaginable interest.

Enter cannabis crosswords—a playful, educational, and timely evolution. As cannabis has become more mainstream, so too has its presence in popular culture and media. Cannabis-themed crosswords now appear in magazines, online platforms, and even published books, such as “Cannabis CrossWords & More” by Gail Marie Beckman, a seasoned cruciverbalist who crafts custom puzzles for all occasions. These puzzles blend cannabis terminology, history, and science with the classic challenge of wordplay, making them a hit at cannabis events, dispensaries, and among enthusiasts seeking a fun way to test their knowledge.

The appeal is multifaceted: cannabis crosswords offer a lighthearted way to learn about the plant, its uses, and its legal landscape, while also providing the cognitive benefits and relaxation that crosswords are famous for. They foster community, spark conversation, and celebrate the intersection of two vibrant cultures—wordplay and cannabis.

As both crossword puzzles and cannabis culture continue to thrive, their union in cannabis-themed crosswords is a testament to the enduring power of play, curiosity, and connection.Whether you’re a seasoned solver or a curious newcomer, these puzzles invite everyone to “hash out” their knowledge and enjoy the high-minded fun.

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Cannabis

A Positive Move By The Administration On Medical Marijuana

Published

3 days ago

April 17, 2025

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After mixed messages, the current administration make a nomination which the cannabis industry sees as positive.

The new government has left the cannabis industry and million of patients worried about the future. Veterans, seniors, Gen Z and more are using medical marijuana for chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and more, especially since it is a better alternative than some traditional medicine. At last, there is a positive move by the administration on medical marijuana. The administration’s nomination of Sara Carter as the first female director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) has been met with widespread optimism, particularly given her nuanced and positive stance on medical marijuana.

Sara Carter is an award-winning investigative journalist renowned for her frontline reporting on national security, border issues, and the fight against drug cartels. Her extensive experience covering the opioid and fentanyl crises, as well as her commitment to exposing criminal networks, positions her as a formidable leader in the battle against America’s drug epidemic. As a mother of six, Carter brings a personal understanding of the impact of drug abuse on families and communities, further fueling her dedication to public health and safety.

Study Claims People Who Use Medical Marijuana Are More Likely To Consume Nicotine — Photo by Witthaya Prasongsin via Getty

What truly sets Carter apart from previous ONDCP directors is her open and positive perspective on medical marijuana. Unlike many of her predecessors, Carter has publicly described medical cannabis as a “fantastic” treatment option for people suffering from serious illnesses such as cancer. On her podcast, The Sara Carter Show, she stated:

“I don’t have any problem if it’s legalized and it’s monitored… I do believe that cannabis for medicinal purposes and medical reasons is a fantastic way of handling—especially for people with cancer and other illnesses—the illness and the side effects of the medication and those illnesses. So I’m not saying we’ve gotta make it illegal.”

Carter’s willingness to distinguish between illicit, unregulated drug markets and legally regulated medical cannabis demonstrates her pragmatic approach. She has emphasized that her main concerns are with illegal trafficking and cartel activity, not with regulated medical use. This distinction is critical, as it aligns with growing public consensus—nearly 90% of Americans support access to medical marijuana.

Carter’s nomination signals a potential shift toward a more balanced and evidence-based drug policy at the federal level. Her recognition of the benefits of medical marijuana, coupled with her focus on harm reduction and public safety, offers hope for:

Increased support for medical cannabis research and access for patients in need.
Enhanced efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and organized crime, while respecting state-level decisions on cannabis regulation.
A more compassionate and health-focused national drug strategy, prioritizing prevention, treatment, and recovery over punitive measures.

Her media expertise and public profile are expected to help her effectively communicate these priorities, uniting stakeholders from law enforcement, healthcare, and advocacy communities.

Sara Carter’s nomination as ONDCP director is a forward-thinking move that acknowledges regarding the legitimate medical value of cannabis. Her positive, pragmatic stance on medical marijuana, combined with her commitment to public health and safety, positions her to make a lasting, positive impact on America’s drug policy landscape.

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Cannabis

The 3 Best Cities For a Marijuana Weekend

Published

3 days ago

April 17, 2025

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Looking for a weekend getaway where you can get a little extra elevated? Here are three suggestions.

Spring is in the air and the travel itch is strong, looking for something different? Something elevated, fun, and a bit chill? While 24 states have fully recreational marijuana, some places are better than others. Yes, New York City and Los Angeles have weed, but there are some places just better for a weekend getaway. Here are the 3 best cities for a marijuana weekend. We considered the cost of travel, hotels, making sure there is good food and enough activities to have you engaged even after a vape and then looked the best green options.

Denver, Colorado

Denver remains the undisputed leader for cannabis tourism in the U.S. The city boasts an impressive 48 dispensaries per 100,000 residents—nearly 140% above the national average—ensuring easy access to a wide variety of products. Cannabis-friendly accommodations have surged by 32% since 2022, making it easier than ever to find a welcoming place to stay. Denver also offers more guided cannabis tours than any other city, giving visitors the chance to explore grow operations, sample edibles, and learn about the city’s pioneering cannabis scene. With competitive prices and the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Denver seamlessly blends cannabis culture with outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Sin City has fully embraced cannabis culture, offering a unique blend of entertainment, luxury, and high-quality cannabis experiences. Las Vegas features 24-hour dispensaries, cannabis-friendly hotels, and lounges where visitors can relax and socialize. The city’s famous nightlife is now complemented by cannabis-infused events, guided dispensary tours, and even weed cuisine.

Iconic venues like Planet 13, the largest dispensary in the world, provide immersive experiences that go far beyond a standard dispensary visit. The DAZED! Consumption Lounge in Planet 13 is planning special 4/20 celebration have different promotions throughout the year. Cannabition, a state of the art cannabis immersive experience opening next to Planet 13. With 90% of the country open to some form of legal cannabis, this should turn out to be a key attraction – like Kentucky and their bourbon.

Whether you’re pairing cannabis with world-class shows or exploring the Strip’s dazzling lights, Las Vegas delivers a one-of-a-kind cannabis vacation that’s both indulgent and unforgettable.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is a haven for cannabis travelers seeking affordability and variety. Not only are they home to Powell Books, the city boasts 55 dispensaries per 100,000 residents. This is a 20% increase since 2022—and some of the lowest cannabis prices in the country. Weed-friendly accommodations are plentiful and budget-friendly, averaging just $161 per night. Locals and visitors like relish the culinary scene and pioneering food trucks,. Portland’s progressive vibe is reflected in its eco-conscious cannabis industry and its thriving arts makes it easy to pair your cannabis experience with live music. The city’s laid-back atmosphere and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for a relaxed, memorable cannabis vacation.

These cities each offer a distinct flavor of cannabis culture, combining legal access, innovative experiences, and plenty of local charm. Whether you’re after outdoor adventures, luxury entertainment, or creative urban exploration, Denver, Las Vegas, and Portland are the top picks for a cannabis vacation in 2025.

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