Cannabis News
The Government Wants to Kill the US Weed Industry
Published
6 months agoon
By
admin
Why Does the U.S. Government Hate Freedom?
This is the question I find myself asking as I witness representatives in Congress raging about “closing the loophole” when it comes to legal hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC, THCa, and others. It seems that our elected officials are more interested in restricting personal liberties than embracing the potential benefits of a thriving industry.
For the past six years, the United States has experienced a form of national cannabis legalization, though most people were unaware of it.
Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids have allowed virtually every state to have some sort of legal cannabis products available in stores. This has been a game-changer for consumers and entrepreneurs alike.
However, now Congress aims to kill this $28 billion per year industry, rather than acknowledging that cannabis legalization, despite limited regulation, did not bring about the end of the world. In fact, it has created jobs, generated tax revenue, and provided countless individuals with access to alternative wellness options.
In this article, we will explore why the U.S. government seems to hate freedom and innovation, and why it’s crucial that you begin to vote out these dinosaurs who are holding us back.
The majority of Americans want legal access to cannabis, but the government remains woefully out of touch with the will of the people.
When most people think of the “unregulated cannabis market,” they often picture the illicit, black market trade. However, they would be mistaken. In reality, the hemp-derived cannabis marketplace has been the one operating largely unregulated for the past six years, much to the chagrin of the FDA and the U.S. government.
This unregulated market has flourished, growing into a staggering $28 billion per year industry. Hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids, such as Delta-8 THC and THCa, have become widely available, with products frequently found in head shops across the United States and even in neighboring countries like Mexico.
Essentially, this unregulated cannabis market has thrived without significant government intervention. Entrepreneurs have seized the opportunity created by the 2018 Farm Bill to innovate and meet consumer demand, all while operating in a legal gray area.
However, this booming industry is now seen as a threat by both legal cannabis companies operating within state-regulated systems and the government itself. Legal cannabis businesses argue that the unregulated hemp-derived market is cutting into their profit margins, as consumers opt for more readily available and often cheaper alternatives.
Meanwhile, government officials, likely influenced by lobbyists from the regulated cannabis industry, are seeking to put an end to this unregulated market. They claim concerns over safety and the lack of oversight, but it’s hard to ignore the financial motivations at play.
This brings us to the current situation, where a bill is floating through Congress that could severely restrict these hemp-derived cannabinoids and essentially wipe out an entire industry overnight. If passed, this legislation would redefine the legal status of these compounds, making them illegal under federal law.
The potential ramifications of this bill are immense. It would not only destroy a multibillion-dollar industry and eliminate countless jobs but also deprive consumers of access to products they have come to rely on. It’s a stark reminder of how quickly the government can intervene and disrupt entire markets, especially when powerful interests are at stake.
As we continue to examine this issue, it’s essential to consider the broader implications of the government’s actions. Is this really about public safety, or is it a blatant attempt to protect the profits of a select few at the expense of consumer choice and free-market innovation? The answer to that question may determine the future of the hemp-derived cannabinoid industry and the wider fight for cannabis legalization in the United States.
How to make hemp derived psychoactive THC
How to Make Psychoactive Hemp THC
To understand the current controversy surrounding hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids, it’s essential to grasp the differences between typical cannabis and hemp-derived THC products.
Traditional cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, contains a high concentration of delta-9-THC, the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use. Hemp, on the other hand, is legally defined as cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% delta-9-THC by dry weight.
However, hemp plants still contain other cannabinoids, such as CBD, delta-8-THC, and THCa, which can be extracted and processed to create psychoactive products. The process of obtaining these compounds isn’t always naturally derived; it often requires additional steps and specific chemical processes.
For example, delta-8-THC is typically synthesized from CBD through a chemical reaction involving solvents and acids. This process alters the molecular structure of CBD, converting it into delta-8-THC, an isomer of delta-9-THC with similar psychoactive properties.
Despite the differences in production methods, the chemical structures of hemp-derived THC compounds are nearly identical to those found in traditional cannabis.
This means that the effects experienced by users are quite similar, although some cannabis enthusiasts argue that delta-8-THC produces a milder, more clear-headed high compared to delta-9-THC.
Nonetheless, the emergence of hemp-derived psychoactive products has provided a glimpse into what true cannabis legalization could look like. These products have been widely available, offering consumers a legal alternative to marijuana in states where recreational use remains prohibited.
The success of the hemp-derived THC market demonstrates that people are ready for a more open and accessible approach to cannabis. It has shown that legalization doesn’t necessarily lead to the doomsday scenarios often portrayed by opponents, such as increased crime rates or widespread addiction.
Instead, the unregulated hemp-derived THC industry has highlighted the potential benefits of a free and open cannabis market, including job creation, economic growth, and the availability of alternative wellness options for consumers.
As the government seeks to clamp down on this industry, it’s crucial to recognize that the genie is already out of the bottle. Consumers have experienced the benefits of legal access to psychoactive cannabinoids, and they are unlikely to accept a return to the days of strict prohibition.
Rather than attempting to suppress this market, policymakers should focus on creating sensible regulations that prioritize consumer safety, product quality, and responsible use. This approach would not only protect public health but also foster innovation and economic opportunity within the cannabis sector.
The rise of hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoids has provided a tantalizing preview of what true cannabis legalization could achieve.
As the debate over the future of this industry continues, it’s essential to keep sight of the bigger picture: the need for a rational, evidence-based approach to cannabis policy that respects individual freedom and promotes the well-being of society as a whole.
The rise of the hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoid industry has provided us with a unique opportunity to witness the effects of cannabis legalization in action. Over the past six years, this unregulated market has thrived, offering consumers access to legal, psychoactive cannabis products and demonstrating the potential benefits of a more open approach to cannabis policy.
Despite the lack of strict regulations, the sky hasn’t fallen. Society hasn’t crumbled under the weight of widespread cannabis use. Instead, we’ve seen the emergence of a vibrant, multibillion-dollar industry that has created jobs, generated tax revenue, and provided people with alternative options for relaxation and wellness.
This experience should serve as a wake-up call to policymakers and the public alike. It’s time to acknowledge that the current system of cannabis prohibition is broken and that a new approach is needed. The solution is clear: we must completely deschedule cannabis at the federal level and allow states to establish their own regulatory frameworks.
By removing cannabis from the list of controlled substances, we can finally begin to treat it like any other commodity. This will open the door to a new era of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth, as businesses and investors flock to the cannabis sector.
Moreover, descheduling cannabis will enable us to embrace new market norms and adapt to the changing preferences of consumers. As the hemp-derived THC market has shown, Americans are ready and willing to incorporate cannabis into their daily lives, just as they do with alcohol or tobacco.
In fact, recent studies have indicated that Americans now consume cannabis on a daily basis more frequently than they drink alcohol. This shift in behavior reflects a growing acceptance of cannabis as a normal part of adult life, and it’s time for our laws and policies to catch up with this reality.
The bottom line is that cannabis is here to stay, and it’s up to us to decide how we want to approach it as a society.
We can either continue down the path of prohibition, wasting resources on enforcement and criminalization, or we can embrace the opportunities presented by legalization.
By choosing the latter, we can create a safer, more equitable, and more prosperous future for all. We can establish a well-regulated cannabis market that prioritizes public health, social justice, and economic growth, while also respecting the individual rights and freedoms of consumers.
The hemp-derived psychoactive cannabinoid industry has given us a glimpse of what this future could look like. Now, it’s up to us to make it a reality. It’s time to deschedule cannabis, embrace new market norms, and welcome the cannabis revolution with open arms.
THE END OF HEMP IN AMERICA, READ ON…
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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
Published
7 hours agoon
November 14, 2024By
admin
In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
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Cannabis News
Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
Published
1 day agoon
November 13, 2024By
admin
On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!
Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:
- Panelists:
- Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
- Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
- Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
- Election Results Overview:
- Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
- Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
- Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
- Federal and State-Level Developments:
- Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
- Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
- Federal Policy Implications:
- Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
- Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
- International and Domestic Trade:
- Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
- Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
- Economic and Industry Impact:
- Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
- Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
- Future Outlook:
- The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
- State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.
“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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