Cannabis News
The Marijuana Prohibition Narrative Has Fallen on Deaf Ears with Younger Americans
The Way of the Narrative – The Deceptions of Prohibition
You might remember a time when the airwaves were filled with outrageous claims like, “If you smoke one joint, a cop dies in Colombia.” This narrative, pushed some two decades ago, was part of a larger prohibitionist agenda that sought to demonize drug use by linking it directly to violence in drug-producing countries.
It’s true that Colombia has long grappled with drug-related violence, a problem that persists to this day. However, the assertion that your personal consumption was tantamount to murdering a police officer was prohibition’s clever way of shifting blame from a failed policy onto you, the consumer.
The reality is far different. If drugs were legal and regulated, criminal cartels would lose their most profitable cash crops, effectively stripping them of the power and wealth that fuels their operations. It’s not your joint that’s killing cops; it’s the very prohibition that claims to protect us.
As we’ve seen with cannabis legalization in various states, these prohibitionist narratives have been exposed for what they are: lies. Today, we’re going to delve into how these narratives shape public discourse and how the process of legalization has not only debunked these claims but also revealed them as, in my opinion, deliberately constructed deceptions.
The way of the narrative is powerful, but as we’ll explore, it’s not impervious to truth. Let’s unravel the deceptions of prohibition and see how reality stacks up against the fear-mongering of the past.
While the claim “smoking a joint kills a cop” is clearly outlandish, it’s a calculated tactic used by prohibitionists to outsource the consequences of their failed policies and shift blame onto you, the consumer. If we dig deeper, we can discern their underlying message: “The money you spend on illegal drugs goes directly to cartels, and these cartels are violent, often killing police officers.”
Sure, that’s one perspective. But let’s flip the script: If drugs were legal, all that money would flow into public coffers via taxes. This simple shift in thinking exposes a fundamental flaw in prohibitionist logic. They not only push blame onto consumers but fail to recognize how their very system created the financial incentives for cartels in the first place.
It wasn’t until 1971 that we began seeing a significant rise in international drug cartels. Why? Because prohibition creates an artificial scarcity, motivating those who operate outside the law to deal in these high-demand products. As a result, they rake in billions, untaxed and unregulated.
This is the crux of the prohibitionist paradox: they seem to forget that it’s their system that created the opportunity for criminals to capitalize on a product that people clearly want. By criminalizing substances, they’ve handed over a massive, lucrative market to those willing to break the law.
But the costs of prohibition extend far beyond empowering criminal enterprises. It robs individuals of bodily autonomy, criminalizing personal choices about what to put in one’s own body. Moreover, it makes drugs more dangerous due to a lack of regulation. Without quality control or safety standards, consumers are at greater risk of contaminated or adulterated products.
This is the true face of prohibition: it not only gives power to criminals but also strips law-abiding citizens of their rights. It creates a system where personal freedom is sacrificed on the altar of a misguided moral crusade, all while failing to achieve its stated goals of reducing drug use or related harms.
In essence, prohibition doesn’t just lose the war on drugs; it actively creates the conditions for that war to exist in the first place. It’s a self-perpetuating cycle of failure, where the proposed solution exacerbates the very problems it claims to solve. As we continue to unravel the deceptions of prohibition, it becomes increasingly clear that what we lose isn’t just tax revenue or personal freedom – we lose the opportunity for a more rational, humane, and effective approach to drug policy.
Cannabis prohibition stands as a prime example of how false narratives can shape policy and public opinion. The foundation of this prohibition, the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), places cannabis in Schedule I, a category reserved for substances with “no medical value and a high potential for abuse.” Yet, this classification flies in the face of objective reality.
Numerous studies and countless patient testimonials attest to cannabis’s medical benefits, ranging from pain management to epilepsy treatment. As for its potential for abuse? It’s remarkably low. Less than 9% of users develop any form of dependency, a far cry from the danger implied by its Schedule I status. To put this in perspective, cannabis shares this category with heroin, a substance with dramatically different risk profiles and addiction rates.
The glaring inconsistency between cannabis’s actual properties and its legal classification exposes the fragility of prohibition’s logical framework. If we can clearly see that Schedule I status for cannabis is based on suppositions rather than facts, it calls into question the validity of the entire system. This realization opens the door to a critical examination of other substances’ classifications, leading us to wonder: how many other drugs are misclassified due to special interests that don’t want them publicly available?
I’ve previously argued that the CSA serves as Big Pharma’s shield against open-source medicine, while simultaneously empowering the state to criminalize non-violent behavior. But the false narratives underpinning drug prohibition predate even the CSA. We need only look at the origins of cannabis prohibition to see how racist ideologies and sensationalist media played crucial roles.
Harry J. Anslinger, a known racist and career bureaucrat, along with media mogul Randolph Hearst, pushed fear-mongering narratives that appealed to a puritanical majority. Their campaign of misinformation laid the groundwork for decades of misguided policy.
Today, as legalization efforts gain momentum, these false narratives are crumbling. Take Maryland, for example. In just one year since legalizing recreational cannabis, the state generated over $1 billion in sales. This revenue now serves the public instead of fueling drug cartels, showcasing the tangible benefits of evidence-based policy over prohibition.
Can you see how these false narratives inform policy and ultimately steal from citizens? They rob us of personal freedom, medical options, and economic opportunities. They divert billions into criminal enterprises instead of public coffers. They justify the incarceration of non-violent offenders, tearing apart families and communities.
The unraveling of cannabis prohibition serves as a stark reminder of the power of false narratives and the importance of critically examining the foundations of our laws. As we continue to expose these deceptions, we pave the way for more rational, just, and beneficial policies. The question now is: how many other areas of our lives are governed by similarly shaky narratives, and what might we gain by challenging them?
As we’ve explored throughout this article, false narratives have a profound and often devastating impact on public policy. These fabricated stories, spun by politicians, bureaucrats, and special interest groups, don’t just shape laws – they actively harm average citizens, make drugs more dangerous, and funnel public money into the pockets of criminals.
The prohibition narrative, with its roots in racism, fear-mongering, and corporate greed, has led to policies that strip away personal freedoms, criminalize non-violent behavior, and create artificial scarcities that empower cartels. It’s a self-perpetuating cycle of harm, where the proposed solution exacerbates the very problems it claims to address.
Understanding this mechanism is crucial if we hope to undo the damage inflicted by these narratives. We must recognize that many of our drug policies aren’t based on scientific evidence or public welfare, but on the agendas of those who care little for the average citizen and focus solely on their bottom line.
The unraveling of cannabis prohibition offers a glimpse of what’s possible when we challenge these false narratives. We see increased tax revenues, reduced criminal activity, safer products, and expanded medical options. But cannabis is just the beginning. How many other areas of our lives are governed by similarly deceptive narratives?
It’s time to start asking hard questions and demanding evidence-based policies. We need to scrutinize the motivations behind our laws and regulations, particularly when they restrict personal freedoms or funnel resources away from public benefit.
Let’s commit to unraveling these cancerous narratives from our society. It won’t be easy – these stories are deeply ingrained and fiercely defended by those who profit from them. But with persistence, critical thinking, and a commitment to truth, we can expose these deceptions for what they are.
By doing so, we give ourselves a chance to usher in a brighter future – one where policy is shaped by facts rather than fear, where personal freedom is respected, and where public resources serve the many rather than enriching the few. The sticky bottom line is this: our future depends on our ability to see through these false narratives and demand better. Are you ready to join the fight for truth?
THE “MORE RESEARCH” NARRATIVE, READ ON…
Whether you bought your cannabis or dried it yourself, there’s a good chance it got wet accidently. This might have happened by mistake or because the cannabis was washed purposely to eliminate contaminants and enhance its flavor. Regardless, it’s disheartening to devote time, money, or effort just to wind up with a useless product. But do not worry—there are solutions.
There is a narrow line between slightly moist buds and perfect stickiness, which some people prefer.
If your cannabis squishes when lightly squeezed, it’s likely overly damp. Buds should feel somewhat sticky because to the resin (which contains the cannabinoids), but they should bounce back slightly when squeezed rather than crush.
Wet cannabis may seem sticky, but it will not adhere to your fingertips. You’re seeking for buds with a honey-coated texture, comparable to baklava. If they feel wet or spongy, you have a problem.
Common Issues With Wet Cannabis
Difficult to Light
It’s no surprise that wet cannabis is hard to ignite. If you can’t light it, you can’t smoke it.
Mold Risk
Excess moisture, as explained in *How to Dry and Cure Cannabis*, complicates pot storage and can lead to mold. Smoking moldy cannabis is risky because it contains germs and fungus that can harm your respiratory system and increase your risk of pneumonia.
Bad Taste
If you somehow manage to smoke damp weed, it won’t taste great. It’s like smoking uncured cannabis—definitely not pleasant.
The Risks Of Wet Weed
While smoking wet pot is not always harmful to your health, the length of time the bud remains wet can make a significant effect. A damp atmosphere is ideal for mould, fungus, and bacteria. So, if you keep your cannabis wet for too long, you may get more than you bargained for. Smoking mouldy cannabis can cause headaches, lung issues, and even pneumonia. As a result, if your weed became wet, it is safer to dry it straight away.
Regardless of whatsoever drying method you use, it is critical to examine your marijuana for mold before and after drying. If it has a nasty odor—like leftovers from last week—or if you notice something clearly growing on it, it’s better to toss it away. Now let’s look at what you can do if your marijuana becomes moist.
How to Dry Out Wet Cannabis
To save your damp weed, dry it out with moisture-absorbing ways. Whether you’re a grower who didn’t properly cure it, it got caught in the rain, you inadvertently spilled something on it, or it’s just unusually humid outdoors, there are several reasons why your cannabis may be storing too much moisture. Fortunately, there are several solutions to the problem.
Rice Drying Method
If you’ve ever spilled a drink on your phone, you’re probably familiar with this trick. It turns out uncooked rice isn’t just for saving electronics—it can help with wet weed, too. Place your wet buds in a bowl or bag, then cover them completely with dry rice.
The rice will draw out the excess moisture, helping your buds return to their ideal state. Depending on how wet your weed is, leave it in the rice for at least 24 hours. If it’s still damp when you check, give it another day. Just make sure to seal the container, and let the rice do the work!
Put a Paper Over the Problem
If your marijuana became wet, don’t worry—you can easily repair it with a paper bag. Simply place your moist buds in a closed paper bag and store them somewhere cool and dry. If you have a dehumidifier, now is an excellent time to utilize it. The paper bag circulates air while protecting your blooms from trichome-damaging light.
To increase moisture absorption, wrap your cannabis with paper towels before placing it in the bag. The paper towels will help absorb the extra wetness. Replace the towels and rotate your weed every several hours, checking for mold. This also helps to remove any trapped dampness from the bag.
Revive Your Damp Weed
If you’re a grower, you’re no stranger to the challenges of battling moisture and mold. After a successful harvest, properly curing your buds is essential. The same curing tools can also help remove moisture from buds that have become too damp. If your weed is fully soaked, start with the rice method. But if it’s just a bit moist, try placing a humidipak in your airtight container.
Avoid Cutting Corners
It’s tempting to use heat to hasten the drying process of damp weed. Ultimately, you most likely want to smoke it as soon as possible. It’s important to avoid shortcuts that utilize heat or light, though.
Your weed’s quality can be diminished by using a blow dryer, an oven, or leaving it outside in the sun. Terpenes and cannabinoids are broken down by light and heat, which lessens their taste and efficacy. You might lose strength in the process of gaining time. Furthermore, you run the danger of over-drying your buds, which makes for a harsher, less pleasurable smoke.
Moisture Prevention: Proper Weed Storage
Wet weed can be unpleasant at best, and downright destructive at worst (hello, mold!). While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to prevent excess moisture from ruining your stash. The key is to keep it in the Goldilocks zone—not too wet, not too dry. Freshness starts with proper storage. Keep your cannabis in an airtight container, stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Simple, right?
Mason jars are a solid option, but for optimal care, consider investing in a specialized container like the CVault. It’s airtight, blocks light, and comes with a humidipak to keep your weed fresh longer. Just avoid plastic baggies—you’re a cannabis enthusiast, and dime bags are a thing of the past.
Bottom Line
If your cannabis gets wet, it’s crucial to act quickly to dry it out to avoid mold and maintain quality. Use methods like the rice drying technique or paper bag with paper towels to absorb moisture. Avoid using heat sources as they can degrade the weed’s quality. Proper storage in airtight containers and maintaining a cool, dry environment will help prevent future moisture issues. Always check for mold and other contaminants before consuming. By following these steps, you can preserve your cannabis’s flavor and potency.
GOT SOME WEED WEED, READ ON…
The legalization of cannabis has transformed the economic landscape of many states across the United States. New federal data reveals that since 2021, states have collectively collected over $8.7 billion in marijuana taxes. This figure not only highlights the financial potential of legalized cannabis but also reflects changing public attitudes toward marijuana use and its regulation. As more states embrace legalization, understanding the implications of this revenue generation becomes crucial for policymakers, businesses, and communities alike.
The Landscape of Cannabis Legalization in the U.S.
The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been long and complex. Cannabis was criminalized in the early 20th century, with the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively prohibiting its use and distribution. However, attitudes began to shift in the late 20th century, with California becoming the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996.
The momentum continued to build, culminating in Colorado and Washington becoming the first states to legalize recreational marijuana in 2012. Since then, a wave of legalization has swept across the nation, with 21 states and the District of Columbia now allowing recreational use.
Current Legal Status of cannabis legalization in the U.S
As of September 2024, a total of 21 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while a dozen more permit medical use. The regulatory frameworks vary significantly from state to state, influencing tax structures, sales practices, and usage regulations. Some states have opted for high taxes on cannabis sales as a means to generate revenue, while others have focused on creating a more accessible market for consumers.
Tax Revenue Breakdown
Overview of Revenue Generation
According to recent federal data, states have amassed over $8.7 billion in marijuana tax revenue since 2021. This revenue comes from various sources, including excise taxes, sales taxes, and licensing fees imposed on cannabis businesses. The breakdown of this revenue is essential for understanding how different states are capitalizing on legalization.
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Excise Taxes: These are taxes imposed directly on the sale of cannabis products. States like California and Colorado have implemented excise taxes that can range from 15% to 30%, depending on local regulations.
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Licensing Fees: States also collect significant revenue through licensing fees charged to cannabis growers, manufacturers, and retailers. These fees can be substantial and contribute to the overall financial picture.
State Contributions
California: The Leader
California remains at the forefront of marijuana tax revenue generation. Since legalizing recreational cannabis in January 2018, the state has collected over $3 billion in taxes alone. The state’s complex tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on retail sales and additional local taxes that can vary widely by municipality.
The revenue generated has been earmarked for various public services:
Colorado: A Model for Success
Colorado was one of the first states to legalize recreational marijuana and has since become a model for other states looking to implement similar legislation. Since legalization, Colorado has generated over $2 billion in tax revenue from cannabis sales.
The state’s tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on wholesale transactions and a 2.9% state sales tax that applies to all retail sales. Local jurisdictions can impose additional taxes as well.
Colorado has utilized its cannabis tax revenue for various purposes:
Illinois: Rapid Growth
Illinois is another state that has seen rapid growth in marijuana tax revenue since legalizing recreational use in January 2020. In just over three years, Illinois has collected more than $1 billion in cannabis taxes.
The state imposes a tiered excise tax based on THC content:
Illinois has directed its cannabis revenue toward social equity programs aimed at addressing historical injustices related to drug enforcement policies.
Economic Impact Beyond Tax Revenue
Legalizing marijuana has led to substantial job growth across various sectors. As of early 2024, nearly 15,000 cannabis dispensaries operate in the U.S., employing an estimated 93,000 workers. This includes roles in cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail. Additionally, the industry stimulates job creation in ancillary sectors like software development, accounting, and construction. The cannabis sector is projected to grow further, potentially increasing legal cannabis jobs by 250% over the next decade.
The burgeoning cannabis industry presents numerous business opportunities for entrepreneurs. The market has attracted significant investment, leading to the establishment of various businesses ranging from cultivation facilities to dispensaries and ancillary services. In 2022, consumers spent approximately $30 billion on legal marijuana products, surpassing expenditures on chocolate and craft beer. This consumer spending not only benefits cannabis businesses but also generates substantial tax revenue for states.
Cannabis tax revenue often supports local communities by funding essential services. For instance, Colorado has allocated millions from cannabis taxes toward education and homelessness services. This redistribution of wealth enhances community welfare and infrastructure.
Legalization also reduces the costs associated with enforcing drug laws. States can reallocate funds previously used for law enforcement to other community programs, further amplifying the positive economic impacts.
Long-term Economic Growth
As the cannabis industry matures, it is expected to contribute significantly to overall economic growth. Projections indicate that the total economic impact of the cannabis industry could reach nearly $150 billion by 2026, underscoring its potential as a major economic driver in the U.S.
Community Benefits
Beyond economic metrics, communities are experiencing benefits from legalized marijuana:
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive economic impacts associated with marijuana legalization, several challenges remain:
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Federal Regulations
One significant hurdle is the ongoing federal prohibition of marijuana. While many states have legalized its use, cannabis remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This creates complications for banking and taxation:
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Social Equity Concerns
As states continue to generate substantial revenues from legalized marijuana, there is growing concern about social equity:
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Market Saturation
As more states legalize marijuana and existing markets expand, there is potential for market saturation:
Prospective Developments
As more states legalize recreational marijuana, tax revenues are expected to continue rising. With 37 states and Washington, D.C., having legalized some form of cannabis by 2024, the potential for increased tax revenue is significant. Experts estimate that nationwide legalization could generate up to $8.5 billion annually for all states. This growth will likely be driven by expanding markets and consumer acceptance, as well as the introduction of new products and services within the cannabis industry.
States are experimenting with various tax structures to optimize revenue while ensuring competitiveness against the illicit market. The adoption of potency-based taxation—taxing products based on THC content—has emerged as a trend in states like New York, Illinois, and Connecticut. This approach aims to create a more equitable tax system that can adapt to market changes and consumer preferences. However, states must remain cautious about overtaxing, which can drive consumers back to illegal markets.
The allocation of marijuana tax revenue will continue to be a critical issue. Many states have earmarked funds for essential services such as education, public health initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. For instance, Colorado has directed substantial portions of its cannabis tax revenue toward school construction and behavioral health programs. As revenues grow, states may face pressure to diversify spending or address social equity issues related to past drug enforcement practices.
As the cannabis market matures, prices may stabilize or decline due to increased competition and efficiency in production. This maturation could result in fluctuating tax revenues as consumer behavior adjusts. States that have seen significant price drops—like Colorado, where prices fell by 60% from 2014 to 2023—may experience challenges in maintaining consistent revenue streams. Policymakers will need to adapt their strategies accordingly.
The ongoing conversation about federal legalization could dramatically impact state revenues. If cannabis were legalized at the federal level, it would open up interstate commerce opportunities and allow cannabis businesses access to traditional banking services. This change could lead to an influx of investment and further stimulate job creation within the industry.
As states continue to collect substantial tax revenues from marijuana sales, there is growing recognition of the need for social equity initiatives. Many advocates argue that a portion of tax revenue should be directed toward communities disproportionately affected by past drug policies. Future developments may include programs aimed at providing grants for minority-owned businesses within the cannabis sector or funding for substance abuse treatment programs.
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Conclusion
The collection of over $8.7 billion in marijuana taxes since 2021 demonstrates not only the financial viability of legalized cannabis but also its potential impact on public services and community development. As more states navigate their paths toward legalization and regulation, it will be crucial for policymakers to address challenges related to equity, access, and federal regulations.
With continued advocacy for reform at both state and federal levels, along with innovative approaches to taxation and regulation, the future looks promising for both consumers and businesses within this burgeoning industry. As society continues adapting its views on cannabis use, understanding these dynamics will be essential for maximizing benefits while minimizing challenges associated with this rapidly evolving sector.
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