Cannabis News

The Scrooge of Cannabis Takes on VP Harris with Reefer Madness

Published

9 months ago

April 10, 2024

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Sabet on rescheduling weed

Reginald vs The Scourge – Analyzing Sabet’s latest Reefer Madness

As an advocate for personal responsibility, bodily autonomy and freedom, I have made it my mission to challenge the stance of prohibition and counteract the misinformation that fuels it. The right of individuals to make informed choices about what they put into their own bodies is fundamental. Yet there are still vocal prohibition advocates who spread falsehoods and rely on fearmongering rather than facts. It’s crucial that we critically examine their claims to determine if there is any real scientific and logical basis behind them.

For years, one of the loudest voices on the prohibition side has been Kevin Sabet and his organization SAM (Smart Approaches to Marijuana). Sabet recently co-authored an opinion piece in The Hill arguing against rescheduling cannabis and painting a dire picture of the supposed harms of legalization. But do his arguments hold up to scrutiny?

In this article, we’re going to take a close look at the claims made in Sabet’s latest letter, titled “Kamala Harris is gravely wrong about rescheduling marijuana.” We’ll see if there is factual merit behind the rhetoric, or if it’s simply drug war propaganda fueled by ideology and vested interests.

To be clear, I hold no love for Vice President Harris given her history as a prosecutor who gleefully sent cannabis users to jail as California Attorney General. It pains me to have to defend her recent comments in favor of rescheduling. But intellectual honesty demands calling out Sabet’s flawed arguments, even if Harris and I are strange bedfellows on this issue.

With over 90% of Americans now in favor of legal access to cannabis, at least for medical use, Sabet’s prohibitionist views represent an increasingly marginalized fringe. Yet he still garners attention as the media’s go-to “anti-pot” voice. So join me as we dissect his latest screed and I make the case for why his Reefer Madness mindset belongs in the dustbin of history.

As always, I approach this not as a blind defender of cannabis, but as someone who believes policy should be grounded in science, reason and human rights. Let’s see if Sabet’s arguments meet that bar.

In order to save you all time from reading the Letter, I have gone through some of their arguments and come up with a response to each point. Mainly, I challenge their logic, their conclusion, and whether or not they have a bias in a particular arena.

Let’s go!

“First, we should address what Harris left unsaid. Since his election, Biden has demonstrated that criminal justice reform is possible without commercializing today’s industrialized, high-potency THC drugs or legalizing dangerous psychoactive drugs.”

While President Biden has taken some symbolic steps towards cannabis reform, such as pardoning low-level federal possession offenses, his overall impact on the legal status of cannabis has been sorely lacking. The glaring elephant in the room is that cannabis remains a Schedule I substance under federal law, a classification reserved for drugs with “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.”

This scheduling is not only scientifically baseless, but a cruel joke to the millions of patients who rely on cannabis as a safer, less addictive alternative to prescription opioids and other pharmaceuticals for treating conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, and the side effects of chemotherapy. The medical applications of cannabis are extensively documented, with FDA-approved cannabinoid medications like Epidiolex and Marinol just the tip of the iceberg.

Moreover, the notion that cannabis belongs in the same category as heroin in terms of abuse potential is laughable when compared to the legal and widely available drug alcohol, which is far more toxic and addictive by any objective measure. The continued Schedule I status of cannabis is a relic of the racially and politically motivated War on Drugs, not a reflection of scientific reality.

While incremental criminal justice reforms are welcome, they don’t address the root problem of cannabis’ egregious misclassification, which perpetuates stigma, stifles research, and keeps the industry in a legal gray area. If the Biden administration is serious about righting the wrongs of the drug war and embracing an evidence-based approach, it must prioritize the descheduling of cannabis altogether.

Sadly, these glaring contradictions and the need for substantive change seem to be among the many things left “unsaid” by our political leaders, even as public opinion and state-level legalization increasingly leave federal prohibition behind. It’s time for the Biden administration to match its rhetoric with bold action and consign cannabis prohibition to the dustbin of history where it belongs.

“There was no one representing social justice advocates, scientists and public health experts concerned about the harms of marijuana commercialization. Many of these experts have studied the socioeconomic effects of lax marijuana policies, including the fact that pot shops are often concentrated in and target poorer and non-white communities on purpose, much like menthol cigarettes target Black communities.”

Kevin Sabet and his cohorts at SAM love to posture as champions of social justice, but their actions and affiliations tell a different story. It’s high time we called out their cynical exploitation of marginalized communities as a cover for their true agenda – protecting the profits of the rehab industry that funds them.

Let’s be clear: Sabet’s organization has deep financial ties to the very same rehabilitation clinics that benefit from the court-ordered treatment of cannabis users caught up in the criminal justice system. These are the same clinics that are often in cozy partnership with the state, creating a perverse incentive to keep cannabis criminalized and the treatment beds filled. So when Sabet sheds crocodile tears over the impact of legalization on disadvantaged populations, forgive me if I’m a bit skeptical of his sincerity.

If Sabet and friends truly cared about social justice, they’d be working to dismantle the racist and classist drug war policies that have devastated communities of color, not fighting to preserve them. They’d be advocating for restorative justice, expungement of past convictions, and equitable access to the legal cannabis industry, not scaremongering about the supposed harms of legalization.

I’m all for an honest, evidence-based discussion about the public health implications of cannabis policy. Sabet claims to have science on his side? Great – let’s see him square off against the countless medical professionals and researchers who have attested to the therapeutic potential and relative safety of cannabis compared to legal substances like alcohol and tobacco. I’ll bring my experts, he can bring his, and we’ll see whose arguments hold up to scrutiny.

Of course, no policy is without trade-offs and the transition to a legal, regulated cannabis market is no exception. There will undoubtedly be some unforeseen consequences and challenges along the way. But when we weigh the evidence objectively, it’s clear that the overall societal benefits of ending prohibition – from reducing incarceration to generating tax revenue to weakening the illicit market – far outweigh the potential downsides.

So spare me the social justice smokescreen, Kevin. It’s time to have an honest conversation about cannabis policy, one grounded in science, compassion, and a genuine commitment to righting the wrongs of the failed war on drugs. The American people are ready for change – the question is, are you?

“While Biden should be praised for his stance opposing legalization and supporting expungement and removing penalties, rescheduling marijuana would be an abandonment of his efforts to keep drugs off our streets”

Your claim that rescheduling cannabis would undermine efforts to “keep drugs off our streets” would be laughable if the consequences of this thinking weren’t so tragic. News flash: after decades of prohibition and trillions of dollars wasted on enforcement, drugs are more readily available than ever. If you don’t believe me, just ask any high schooler how long it would take them to score some molly or a vape pen. Spoiler alert: probably less time than it takes to get a pizza delivered.

The painful reality is that the War on Drugs has been an abject failure by every conceivable metric. Despite the tireless efforts of the DEA and other law enforcement agencies, the illicit drug trade continues to thrive, with devastating consequences for public health and safety. Overdose deaths are at record highs, cartels are raking in billions, and marginalized communities bear the brunt of the violence and incarceration that prohibition fuels.

It’s time to face the facts, Kevin. We can’t arrest and incarcerate our way out of this crisis. The only way to truly get drugs under control is to bring them out of the shadows and into a system of strict regulation and oversight. By legalizing and regulating substances like cannabis, we can ensure that adults have access to safe, lab-tested products while keeping them out of the hands of minors. We can redirect law enforcement resources toward more serious crimes, and use the tax revenue generated by legal sales to fund education, prevention, and treatment programs.

This isn’t some radical, untested idea – it’s the approach that’s already working in countries like Portugal, where decriminalization has led to dramatic reductions in overdose deaths, HIV transmission rates, and drug-related crime. It’s the direction that more and more U.S. states are moving in with cannabis, as they recognize the failure of prohibition and the benefits of regulation.

Don’t just take my word for it. Let’s look at the data from states that have already legalized cannabis. Teen use has remained stable or even declined, opioid prescriptions and overdoses have fallen, and billions in tax revenue have been generated for public services. The sky hasn’t fallen, Kevin – in fact, by most measures, the situation has improved.

So please, spare us the fear-mongering about legal cannabis flooding the streets with drugs. The streets are already flooded, and it’s prohibition that’s keeping the cartels in business. It’s time for a new approach, one grounded in harm reduction, public health, and respect for individual liberty. The mission of the drug war has failed – it’s time to evolve. The question is, Kevin, are you ready to join us in the 21st century, or will you keep clinging to the failed policies of the past?

“Drug scheduling is not a harm index. It is a legal term that categorizes drugs based on medical benefit and potential for abuse. From a scientific basis, marijuana fails to meet the statutory requirements for any schedule other than Schedule I.”

Kevin, your claim that cannabis meets the criteria for Schedule I would be almost impressive in its sheer audacity if it weren’t so easily debunked by even a cursory glance at the scientific literature and real-world evidence.

Let’s start with the FDA-approved cannabinoid medications Epidiolex and Marinol, which are prescribed for conditions like epilepsy and chemotherapy-induced nausea. How exactly do these fit into your narrative that cannabis has “no currently accepted medical use”? Are you suggesting that the FDA is in on some vast stoner conspiracy?

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the medical applications of cannabis. Countless studies have documented its efficacy in treating chronic pain, muscle spasms, anxiety, PTSD, and a host of other conditions. In states with medical cannabis programs, patients are using it as a safer alternative to prescription opioids, with many able to reduce or eliminate their use of these highly addictive and potentially deadly drugs.

But hey, don’t take my word for it – just ask the millions of people worldwide who have found relief and improved quality of life through medical cannabis. Or consult the numerous medical organizations, like the American Nurses Association and the American Public Health Association, that have endorsed rescheduling or descheduling cannabis to facilitate research and patient access.

The notion that there is no evidence for cannabis’ medical utility is not just factually incorrect – it’s a slap in the face to the patients and healthcare professionals who have seen its benefits firsthand. It’s an ideologically driven talking point that has no place in a serious discussion about science and public health.

So please, Kevin, spare us the Schedule I nonsense. It’s a relic of the racist and politically motivated war on drugs, not a reflection of scientific reality. If you’re going to engage in this debate, at least have the intellectual honesty to grapple with the evidence instead of regurgitating long-debunked prohibitionist myths.

“It is also more dangerous than people think. In fact, the drug has undergone a transformation in its addictive potential. Today’s marijuana is nothing like Woodstock-era weed.”

Oh boy, here we go again with the “today’s pot is not your grandpa’s woodstock weed” scaremongering. Kevin, I hate to break it to you, but this tired talking point is the definition of reefer madness 2.0.

Yes, cannabis potency has increased over the years, thanks in large part to prohibition driving cultivation underground and incentivizing the production of more concentrated products. But the idea that higher THC content automatically equates to increased danger is overly simplistic and ignores the way cannabis is actually consumed in the real world.

The average THC content of popular strains in legal markets hovers around 14% – undoubtedly stronger than the schwag of yesteryear, but a far cry from the 90%+ concentrates that prohibitionists love to wave around to scare soccer moms. And let’s be real, even the most potent bud isn’t going to turn someone into a homicidal maniac. That’s the kind of hysterical nonsense that even the most die-hard D.A.R.E. graduates have trouble believing these days.

What Sabet and his ilk fail to grasp is that cannabis consumers are not mindless slaves to ever-increasing THC levels. People titrate their dose and use a variety of consumption methods to achieve their desired effect, whether that’s relief from pain and anxiety or a social buzz. Regular consumers also develop tolerance over time, meaning that what might be an uncomfortably intense experience for a newbie is just another Tuesday for a seasoned smoker.

Now, this is not to say that cannabis is harmless or that there aren’t risks associated with excessive use, particularly for young people with developing brains. Some folks will undoubtedly develop problematic relationships with cannabis, just as they do with alcohol, gambling, and Fortnite.

But the solution to mitigating those risks is not prohibition and criminalization – we already know how well that works out. It’s legalization, regulation, education, and harm reduction. By bringing cannabis out of the shadows and into a system of age restrictions, potency limits, and mandatory labeling, we can create guardrails to encourage responsible use while respecting the liberty and agency of adults to make their own choices.

And spare me the false equivalence between cannabis and alcohol, Kevin. If you’re going to play the Schedule I card, let’s at least be consistent. By any objective measure, alcohol is far more dangerous and addictive than cannabis – yet I don’t see you crusading to bring back the 18th Amendment. It’s almost as if your selective outrage and disdain for “psychoactive drugs” only applies to the ones you personally disapprove of. Funny how that works, isn’t it?

But hey, I get it. Admitting that you’ve hitched your wagon to a losing battle must be a bitter pill to swallow. But the American people are waking up to the absurdity of cannabis prohibition, and no amount of reefer madness redux is going to put that genie back in the bottle. It’s time to get with the times, Kevin. The future is green whether you like it or not.

SOURCE:

https://thehill.com/opinion/criminal-justice/4559148-kamala-harris

-is-gravely-wrong-about-rescheduling-marijuana/

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/house-gop-committee-urges-opposition-to-marijuana

-banking-bill-saying-gateway-drug-causes-violence-depression-and-suicide/

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/only-one-out-of-ten-americans-wants-to-

keep-marijuana-totally-illegal-pew-poll-shows/

https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2024/03/26/most-americans-favor-legalizing

-marijuana-for-medical-recreational-use/

MORE ON KEVIN SABET AND SAM, READ ON…

KEVIN SABET IS GOING DOWN ON THE SINKING SHIP OF WEED PROHIBITION

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5 Cannabis Christmas Recipes to Try This Holiday Season at Home or the Office Party!

Published

10 hours ago

December 23, 2024

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cannabis christmas recipes

Ah yes, it’s that magical time of year again when Ganja Clause slides down the chimney to visit all the good little stoners. The lights are twinkling, the fire is crackling, and the sweet aroma of cannabis-infused treats fills the air. As someone who’s spent years experimenting with cannabis cuisine, I’ve learned that the holidays present the perfect opportunity to elevate traditional recipes to new heights.

To help make your holidaze more “dazey,” I’ve crafted five festive recipes that combine seasonal favorites with our favorite herb. These dishes aren’t just about getting high – they’re about creating memorable experiences and new traditions. But before we dive in, I need to emphasize something crucial: dosing is always important, and you should NEVER give these recipes to anyone without their explicit consent. While sharing is caring, tricking someone into consuming cannabis is not only unethical but potentially illegal. Always clearly label your infused treats and keep them safely away from children and unsuspecting guests.

With those important notes out of the way, let’s get into these magical recipes that will make your holiday season extra special.

Look, we all know eggnog is a holiday staple, but why not kick it up a notch? This cannabis-infused version will have you feeling jolly in no time. Just remember – this isn’t your grandma’s recipe (unless your grandma is really cool).

What You’ll Need:

4 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative if that’s your jam)

1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for you plant-based folks)

6 egg yolks (fresh is best, trust me)

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1 tbsp cannabis tincture or cannabis-infused syrup

The Magic Process:

Start by heating your milk and cream in a saucepan. You want it hot but not boiling – we’re making eggnog, not scrambled eggs.

In a separate bowl, whisk those egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla until they’re well combined and looking smooth.

Here’s the tricky part: slowly (and I mean SLOWLY) add the hot milk mixture to your egg mixture while whisking constantly. If you dump it all in at once, you’ll end up with sweet scrambled eggs, and nobody wants that.

Pour everything back into your saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Remove from heat, stir in that nutmeg, and let it cool a bit before adding your cannabis tincture or syrup.

Chill thoroughly before serving.

Pro tip: Start with a small serving – this stuff can creep up on you!

Want to elevate your holiday meal? This gravy will take your feast to new heights. It’s perfect for drowning those mashed potatoes or smothering that turkey.

The Goods:

2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary work great)

The How-To:

Melt your cannabutter over medium heat in a saucepan. Watch it carefully – burnt butter is not the vibe we’re going for.

Whisk in the flour to create your roux. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste.

Now, slowly pour in your stock while whisking like your life depends on it. No lumps allowed!

Add your seasonings and herbs.

Keep stirring and simmering until it reaches your desired thickness.

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed (before you get too lifted).

Remember: Label this clearly! You don’t want Aunt Martha accidentally pouring this all over her plate without knowing what’s up.

Forget that canned stuff – this homemade cranberry sauce with a special twist will have everyone at the table asking for seconds (though you might want to limit them to just one serving).

The Ingredients:

Getting Saucy:

Toss your cranberries, OJ, and sugar into a saucepan over medium heat.

Let it cook until those cranberries start popping like tiny little fireworks (about 10 minutes).

Once it’s thickened up nicely, remove from heat.

Here comes the fun part – stir in your cannabis-infused honey or tincture.

Let it cool completely before serving.

Pro tip: Make two batches – one regular and one infused. Just make sure to label them clearly!

These aren’t your regular sweet potatoes – they’re elevated sweet potatoes. Perfect for getting baked while getting baked.

What You Need:

4 large sweet potatoes

1/2 cup cannabis butter (cannabutter)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

Salt to taste

Marshmallows (optional, but highly recommended)

The Method:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake those sweet potatoes until they’re tender (about an hour).

Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel and mash them up.

Mix in your cannabutter, brown sugar, and spices.

Transfer to a baking dish.

If you’re feeling extra, top with marshmallows.

Bake for another 20-30 minutes until everything’s golden brown and gorgeous.

Warning: These are dangerously delicious – pace yourself!

This warm, spicy cider will lift your spirits in more ways than one. Perfect for those chilly winter nights.

The Essentials:

The Process:

Pour your cider into a large pot.

Add your cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices.

Heat until it just starts to bubble, then reduce to a simmer.

Add your cannabis-infused maple syrup (or add tincture to individual cups for controlled dosing).

Let everything mingle and get cozy for about 20 minutes.

Serve it up warm with an orange slice or cinnamon stick garnish.

Pro tip: Keep a non-infused batch warming for designated drivers and non-partaking guests.

Remember folks, the key to a successful Dankmas feast is clear labeling and careful dosing. Nothing ruins a holiday gathering quite like someone getting unexpectedly zooted. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be dank and delightful!

There you have it, folks – five unique ways to spice up your Dankmas traditions and make the season truly memorable. As someone who’s hosted many cannabis-friendly holiday gatherings, I can’t stress enough the importance of starting slow with these recipes. Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to fully kick in, and you definitely don’t want to overdo it during family dinner. I strongly recommend doing a test run with different dosages before the big day to find your sweet spot.

What I love most about these recipes is that they offer a fantastic alternative for those looking to skip the traditional alcohol-heavy holiday celebrations. Cannabis provides a more natural way to unwind and connect with loved ones during this special time of year. Plus, you won’t have to worry about a hangover the next morning!

Remember to celebrate responsibly, be open about what’s infused and what isn’t, and most importantly, enjoy the magic of the season. Happy Dankmas to all, and to all a good height!

Cannabis News

The Grinch Stole SAFE Banking from the Cannabis Industry This Christmas, Yet Again!

Published

1 day ago

December 22, 2024

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no safe banking in 2024

The landscape of cannabis legislation in the United States has been a complex and evolving issue, particularly concerning banking regulations. As of December 2024, it has become official: the current Congress will not provide any protections for banks that serve state-legal marijuana businesses. This decision has significant implications for the cannabis industry, which continues to grow rapidly despite the lack of federal support. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this decision, the implications for cannabis businesses, and the broader context of cannabis legalization in America.

The State of Cannabis Legalization

A Growing Industry

The cannabis industry has seen remarkable growth over the past decade. As of late 2024, 23 states and Washington D.C. have legalized recreational marijuana use, while 38 states allow medical marijuana. According to recent estimates, the legal cannabis market in the U.S. is projected to reach over $40 billion by 2025. This growth has been fueled by changing public perceptions of marijuana, increased advocacy for legalization, and significant tax revenues generated by state-legal cannabis sales.

The Banking Dilemma

Despite this rapid expansion, cannabis businesses face unique challenges, primarily due to their inability to access traditional banking services. Federal law classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification creates a significant barrier for banks and financial institutions that wish to work with cannabis businesses, as they risk federal penalties for facilitating transactions related to an illegal substance.

As a result, many cannabis companies operate on a cash-only basis. This situation not only poses safety risks—such as increased theft and violence—but also limits these businesses’ ability to manage finances effectively, pay taxes electronically, and build credit histories.

Legislative Attempts at Reform

One of the most prominent legislative efforts aimed at addressing these banking issues is the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act. First introduced in 2019, the SAFE Banking Act sought to provide protections for banks that serve legal cannabis businesses by preventing federal regulators from penalizing them for doing so.

The act garnered significant bipartisan support in both the House and Senate. In previous sessions of Congress, it passed multiple times in the House but faced hurdles in the Senate due to opposition from certain lawmakers who were concerned about broader implications of marijuana legalization.

In light of ongoing discussions about federal spending and budgetary priorities, advocates had hoped that some version of the SAFE Banking Act would be included in recent spending bills. However, during negotiations leading up to December 2024, a House committee led by Republicans removed any provisions related to marijuana banking protections from key spending legislation.

This decision reflects a broader trend within Congress where discussions around cannabis reform have become increasingly contentious. While there is still bipartisan support for certain aspects of cannabis legislation—particularly when it comes to medical use—more comprehensive reforms like banking protections have struggled to gain traction.

Implications for Cannabis Businesses

Continued Cash-Only Operations

The removal of banking protections means that many cannabis businesses will continue to operate primarily on a cash basis. This situation presents several challenges:

Safety Risks: Cash-only operations make cannabis dispensaries and cultivation facilities prime targets for theft and robber Employees often have to handle large amounts of cash daily, increasing their risk of violence.

Operational Inefficiencies: Without access to banking services, businesses cannot easily manage payroll or pay bills electronically. This inefficiency can lead to operational delays and increased costs.

Impact on Public Safety

Advocates argue that providing banking access would enhance public safety by reducing the amount of cash circulating within the community. By allowing cannabis businesses to deposit their earnings into banks, it would minimize the risks associated with cash transactions, making both employees and customers safer.

Moreover, having a transparent financial system would help law enforcement track illicit activities more effectively. Currently, without proper banking oversight, there are concerns that some cash-only operations may be involved in money laundering or other illegal activities.

Politics and Public Opinion

Changing Attitudes Toward Cannabis

Public opinion on marijuana legalization has shifted dramatically over recent years. According to various polls, a significant majority of Americans now support legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use. This shift has put pressure on lawmakers to address outdated federal policies regarding cannabis.

Despite this growing acceptance among the public, political divisions remain strong within Congress regarding how best to approach cannabis reform. Some lawmakers advocate for full legalization at the federal level, while others prefer a more cautious approach that prioritizes regulation over outright legalization.

The Role of Advocacy Groups

Advocacy groups play a crucial role in pushing for legislative change regarding cannabis banking protections. Organizations such as the National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA) and Americans for Safe Access (ASA) have been vocal proponents of reforming banking laws to support state-legal cannabis businesses.

These groups have mobilized public support through campaigns highlighting the safety risks associated with cash-only operations and advocating for policies that promote financial inclusion for cannabis entrepreneurs.

Future Prospects for Cannabis Banking Reform

While current congressional efforts have stalled regarding marijuana banking protections, there are still potential avenues for reform:

Incremental Reforms: Rather than pursuing comprehensive federal legislation like the SAFE Banking Act all at once, lawmakers may consider incremental reforms that address specific issues related to banking access without fully legalizing marijuana at the federal level.

The Role of Public Awareness

As public awareness about the challenges faced by cannabis businesses grows, there may be increased pressure on lawmakers to act decisively on this issue. Continued advocacy efforts can help ensure that banking reform remains a priority on Congress’s agenda.

Conclusion

The decision by Congress not to include marijuana banking protections in its current spending bill underscores ongoing tensions surrounding cannabis legislation in America. While public opinion increasingly favors legalization and reform, political divisions continue to hinder progress on critical issues such as banking access for state-legal marijuana businesses.

As the industry continues to grow despite these challenges, stakeholders must remain vigilant in advocating for change while exploring alternative solutions at both state and federal levels. The future of cannabis banking reform remains uncertain; however, with continued advocacy and public support, there is hope that meaningful progress can be made in addressing these pressing issues facing one of America’s fastest-growing industries.

SAFE BANKING SINCE 2018, WHAT A FAILURE, READ ON…

SAFER BANKING ACT FAILS AGAINS, SAME OF BANANA IN THE TAILPIPE!

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HHC vs. Delta 9: Differences & Similarities

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

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Cannabis has so many compounds, and two that have been making the rounds lately are HHC and Delta 9 THC. They’re not the same thing, even though they’re both cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Some people want a mild, steady experience, while others might be looking for something more intense. Understanding these two can help you figure out what’s right for you.

What Is HHC?

HHC, short for hexahydrocannabinol, is a hydrogenated version of THC. It’s not something you’d find naturally in large amounts in cannabis plants. Instead, it’s made through a process that adds hydrogen molecules to THC. The result? A more stable compound that’s less prone to breaking down when exposed to heat or UV light.

How HHC Is Made

Think of it like a science experiment. HHC is usually created in a lab by taking Delta 9 or Delta 8 THC and using hydrogenation—basically, combining it with hydrogen under pressure and in the presence of a catalyst. This process changes its structure while keeping its effects somewhat similar to THC.

Common Uses and Effects of HHC

People who use HHC say it’s somewhere between Delta 8 and Delta 9 in terms of effects. It’s often described as relaxing but without being overly sedative. You might feel a light buzz, reduced stress, or mild euphoria. Some even claim it helps with discomfort or improving sleep, but solid research is still catching up. Since it’s less potent than Delta 9, it’s often favored by those who want a manageable experience without the strong psychoactive punch.

If you’re interested in trying HHC and Delta 9 for yourself, check out their wide range of products at trycandycloud.com. They’ve got everything from gummies to disposable vapes, all crafted for a smooth experience.

What Is Delta 9 THC?

Delta 9 THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. It’s the reason you feel “high” when you use weed. Chemically speaking, Delta 9 has a double bond in its ninth carbon chain, which plays a big role in how it interacts with your brain.

Natural Occurrence in Cannabis

This one is straightforward: Delta 9 is found in high concentrations in marijuana plants. It’s what most people think of when they hear “THC.” Unlike HHC, there’s no need for a lab process—it’s already there. Hemp plants, however, contain much lower levels of Delta 9 THC, which is why it’s primarily extracted from marijuana.

Common Uses and Effects of Delta 9 THC

The effects of Delta 9 are well-documented. Depending on the dose, you might feel euphoria, increased appetite, or deep relaxation. For medical users, it’s often used to manage chronic pain, nausea, and other conditions. It’s also been studied for its potential benefits in anxiety relief, though higher doses might have the opposite effect, causing paranoia. Delta 9 THC is versatile, but it’s not without its risks, particularly for new users or those sensitive to its psychoactive effects.

Key Differences Between HHC and Delta 9 THC

Chemical Structure and Composition

The main difference is in their structure. Delta 9 THC has that iconic double bond, while HHC’s hydrogenation makes it more stable. This difference might not mean much to the average person, but it’s why HHC is less likely to degrade over time.

Potency Levels

Delta 9 THC is generally more potent. HHC might require a higher dose to get a comparable effect, but some people prefer its lighter touch. Potency differences can also depend on the method of consumption, with edibles typically providing a stronger, longer-lasting effect compared to vaping or smoking.

Duration of Effects

Both last a few hours, but some users report that HHC’s effects fade more gradually. Delta 9, on the other hand, can have a sharper comedown. HHC’s gradual fade makes it appealing for those who want a smooth end to their experience.

Benefits and Drawbacks of HHC and Delta 9 THC

HHC: Pros and Cons

Pros:

More stable, so it lasts longer on the shelf.
Effects are milder, making it less overwhelming for beginners.
Can be a functional option for daytime use.

Cons:

Limited research, so we don’t know its full impact yet.
Availability can be hit or miss depending on where you live.
Legal gray area in many regions.

Delta 9 THC: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Well-studied with established medical uses.
Widely available in areas where cannabis is legal.
Stronger effects make it ideal for experienced users or those with high tolerance.

Cons:

Higher chance of side effects like anxiety.
More likely to show up on drug tests.
Shorter shelf life compared to HHC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Is HHC safer than Delta 9 THC?

Not enough research exists to say definitively, but HHC’s milder effects might make it feel safer to some users.

Q. Will HHC or Delta 9 THC show up on a drug test?

Yes, both can potentially show up on a drug test, so use with caution if that’s a concern.

Q. Which one is better for recreational use?

That depends on your preferences. HHC is great for a mellow time, while Delta 9 is better if you’re looking for something more intense.

HHC vs. Delta 9: Choosing the Right One for You

The choice comes down to what you’re after. If you want a milder, more laid-back experience, HHC might be a good option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something stronger or need it for medical reasons, Delta 9 is the way to go. It also depends on what’s legal and available where you are. And always consider your tolerance levels and experience before diving in. If you’re unsure, consult with a knowledgeable dispensary staff.

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