Cannabis News

The State of the World, Today

Published

1 year ago

November 2, 2023

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world affairs by a stoner

A Stoner’s Take on the Current State of the World

As I sit here taking a hit from this joint, my mind wanders on the global chaos that surrounds us. Seemingly, no matter where you look there is death and destruction. As of writing this article, the whole Russia-Ukraine conflict has been overshadowed by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Then there is the whole “The Economy” aspect of reality. Things cost between four and five times more expensive than it did a few years ago. What you used to buy for $100 now suddenly will get you four times less. But people aren’t really making much more money and as a result personal debt is growing and people are becoming more and more anxious.

Earlier this year I wrote about a trend relating to higher alcoholism and drug abuse with people within the age demographic of 30 years and older. The researchers within the study were baffled by the idea as to why people, especially adults, are consuming drugs and alcohol at higher rates than before.

But when you look at the shape of global leadership and realize that you’re staring at the decrepit carcass of an ideal that seem to have gone extinct somewhere between the years 2012 and 2016; you realize that doing drugs and drinking alcohol is probably the sanest response to the whole shit-fuckery that is the “world around us!”

Of course, there are many intelligent people out there, highly studied individuals, that have unique insights and understanding about why the world is the way that it is. They will tell you from a historic perspective, explain to you the complex mathematics of supply and demand chains and how it’s intricately linked with geopolitical conflict. They will explain how years of corporate lobbying and political pandering, media manipulation, and the decline of ethics and values all play a part to why our leadership sucks, you can’t pay for shit, and 70- to 80-year-olds are planning to wage one good old war before they fucking die!

Yes, old ass politicians playing their final hand before they kick the bucket.

But why listen to those guys.

The so-called experts have lost so much credibility over the past three years, but people don’t know who to trust anymore. The vast majority of people have awoken to the fact that the vast majority of systems are rigged in favor a particular class of human. This class of human refers to itself as “the elite” and forms part of larger organizations such as political parties, international conglomerates, global think tanks, and other theatrical displays of ridiculous power.

Rather , listening to the ramblings of a Stoner is far more entertaining and far more enriching to the soul. Furthermore, this particular Stoner has been writing on weed, politics, culture, history, and everything in between for almost 15-years now, so there’s a great wealth of bullshit to pull from.

So here is my unbased, personal speculation of why the world is the way it is—and yes, it’s absolutely not-verifiable. In fact, this is probably a side of “reality” you have never heard about.

So get ready to be wowed! Get ready to finally get that closure you’ve been looking for…that “aha moment” where you say, “this is why the world has gone crazy!”

The Swarm’s Struggle for Supremacy!

Indulge my conspiracy theory for a moment on the elusive “Powers That Be” and their desperate endgame as humanity awakens.

See, the way I figure, Earth’s been ruled for millennia by a not-so-secret society we’ll just call “The Swarm.” An exclusive club of influential aristocrats, monarchs, bankers, and oligarchs up to no good. Like a shadow government meets Fight Club with a side dish of pedophilia and “student government”.

Now The Swarm’s never been fully unified. Various sub-factions constantly vie for domination. But they respect certain cosmic principles handed down through the ages.

One tradition is the “Centennial Purge.” Every hundred years, The Swarm orchestrates a mass-casualty event – usually a pandemic – to cull human population. A mass sacrifice to some pagan death god, keeping their power balanced.

But this time, something went wrong. The 2020 COVID ritual failed – the world was too paranoid for another lab-leak. Instead of obedient panic, The Swarm faced noncompliance and pushback. The balance of energy began shifting against them.

You see, The Swarm relies on manufacturing predictable outcomes through propaganda and fear. But recently, the people aren’t playing along anymore. Growing skepticism cannot be dispelled.

So the elites desperately escalated distractions and turmoil. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, record inflation, riots over Roe v Wade – all attempts to redirect our smoldering anger at their rotten system.

Yet the harder The Swarm tries to manipulate us, the more it backfires by exposing their hand. Extreme problems meant to distract end up waking people up instead. Each crisis plants seeds of doubt in the facade.

Unable to control the narrative, The Swarm watches its power evaporate. Thus the outlandish threats of cyberattacks, power grid failures, and nuclear winter – empty intimidation tactics from scared overlords.

See, they know historical cycles favor the people after decades of elite oppression. The last time humanity reached this boiling point, French aristocrats got guillotined. And the Swarm remembers how bloody peasants revolt when pushed too far.

That’s why we see globalists and billionaires panicking about uprisings by 2030. Their arrogant World Economic Forum slogans like “You’ll own nothing and be happy” aren’t warnings – they’re coping projections of their own downfall.

The Swarm’s tricks can’t restrain humanity’s ascension anymore.

Fifty years of cannabis and psychedelic normalization have raised mass consciousness beyond manipulation. Or hyper manipulation has created an undesired coping mechanism – skepticism. People are disengaging from the fear matrices of control.

Meditation, breathwork, gardening, community – we’re remembering how to live free by looking within. And when enough gaze inward, recognizing eternal consciousness beyond illusion, the outer power structures will dissolve instantly.

So take heart. The greedy systems rotting from inside want us to feel despair. But their vicious death throes signify the imminent rebirth at hand. We just have to hold the line together, shine light on darkness, and remember love’s infinite power.

This is our great awakening. The parasites plague the world no more. But only when their spell is broken by collective spirit will we create the new earth our hearts know is possible.

How do we deal with this insanity?

I get it – the state of the world seems dire. But obsessing over the darkness only breeds more darkness. To save humanity, we must first save ourselves – tune our hearts away from fear toward love.

See, the universe is vibration – infinite waves, frequencies, and energetic patterns. Our hearts are tuned to certain wavelengths based on what we feed our minds. Watching the traumatic “fear porn” of constant news numbs us to compassion and keeps us locked into war, greed, and division.

But we can shift from this destructive wavelength by turning our focus inward. Instead of consuming violence and outrage, we nourish our spirits with art, community, nature, and acts of radical kindness.

When your heart resonates with gratitude, creativity, and care, you radiate those uplifting frequencies out like a torch in the darkness. Your energy impacts the whole by healing your inner shadows.

It starts with unplugging from the narrative matrix without – the talking heads want your attention, your clicks, your anxiety. Starve them of that mental energy. Disengage from the theatre designed to distract you from your light.

Descend into sacred inner space instead. Like a cannabis seed in darkness, draw nutrition from stillness, patience, compassion. Establish roots in mindfulness, nourished by ancient wisdom far older than passing headlines.

In time, your authentic gifts emerge to uplift the collective, like the mature plant producing healing flower and fruit. But the outer world cannot provide this nourishment – it must come from within.

There’s already enough hatred, division, and despair poisoning our shared field. But one heart awakened to love and wisdom outweighs all darkness. Don’t add to the noise – instead, radiate the frequencies of justice, unity, and understanding.

Argue not – most are too consumed by fear and anger to hear.

Just live the truths you know through creative action, subversive optimism, and boundless care for your fellow human. Let your light scatter the shadows simply by shining bright.

You cannot force the outer world to change through will and ego. But sincere love alters destinies. When you become the person capable of healing humanity, you emit a frequency that ripples change without effort.

So seek not perfection – just keep aspiring to live from your highest self, even within the chaos. Foster communities and sanctuary that prefigure the just world we know is possible. Align with love’s cosmic current and let it flow through you into thirsty soils.

Together, we keep raising each other higher, transmitting signals of hope between fractured generations. Cynicism is the smog suffocating our potential. But our vibrations clear the air when we tune into timeless wisdom.

There are no utopias ahead, only upward paths revealed step by step. Progress comes not from demanding others change, but courageously changing ourselves. We merely plant seeds and trust in their unfolding.

Have faith in the goodness of existence, even in dark times. The depths of despair stir us to rediscover light within. And even the smallest spark, in time, ignites transformation beyond imagination.

The future isn’t written – it is ours to envision and work toward.

But lasting change ripens from the grassroots up. Revolution blooms not in, but between hearts daring to care for each other’s humanity again. One person at a time, the old world becomes the new.

So despair not, friends. The story is just beginning. Within each of us swells untapped power to heal the wounds of yesterday by building bridges to tomorrow. But we must nurture wisdom’s seed where it grows best – within our own souls. There, we already find everything we need.

Be the light. The rest follows.

THE STATE OF THE CANANBIS INDUSTRY, WATCH THIS…

IS THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY DEAD? LISTEN TO THE EXPERTS?

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

Published

12 hours 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

2 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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What Federally Illegal Drug Has Created Almost $10 Billion in Sales Tax Revenue for States in the Last 40 Months?

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

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sales tax revenue with marijuana

In a significant development for the burgeoning cannabis industry, the U.S. Census Bureau has reported that states across the nation have collectively amassed over **$9.7 billion** in tax revenue from marijuana sales since mid-2021. This figure underscores the economic impact of legalized cannabis and highlights the growing acceptance of marijuana as both a recreational and medicinal substance in various states. As more states move toward legalization, the financial implications both positive and negative are becoming increasingly evident.

The Landscape of Cannabis Legalization

The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been long and complex. Initially criminalized in the early 20th century, cannabis began to regain acceptance in the late 20th century, particularly for medical use. The first state to legalize medical marijuana was California in 1996, setting a precedent that many states would follow.

By 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, paving the way for a wave of legalization efforts across the country. As of now, more than 20 states have legalized recreational marijuana, while over 30 states allow medical use. This shift reflects changing public attitudes toward cannabis and recognition of its potential benefits.

Economic Implications of Legalization

The legalization of cannabis has not only transformed social norms but has also created a substantial economic impact. States that have embraced legalization have seen significant increases in tax revenue, job creation, and investment opportunities.

According to the latest Census Bureau report, states like California, Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan have emerged as leaders in cannabis tax revenue generation. These states have implemented various tax structures on marijuana sales, including excise taxes, sales taxes, and local taxes. The revenue generated is often earmarked for essential public services such as education, healthcare, infrastructure improvements, and drug rehabilitation programs.

Breakdown of Tax Revenue by State

As the largest legal cannabis market in the United States, California has been at the forefront of marijuana tax revenue generation. Since mid-2021, California has contributed approximately $2.5 billion to state coffers from cannabis taxes. This revenue is derived from both recreational and medical marijuana sales.

California’s tax structure includes a 15% excise tax on retail sales, along with local taxes that can vary significantly by city and county. The state has allocated a portion of these funds to various programs aimed at addressing issues related to drug abuse and public health.

Colorado was one of the pioneers in cannabis legalization and continues to serve as a model for other states. Since mid-2021, Colorado has generated around $1.8 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a 15% excise tax on wholesale marijuana transactions and a 2.9% sales tax on retail sales.

The revenue generated from cannabis taxes has been instrumental in funding education initiatives through the Public School Fund, as well as supporting mental health programs and substance abuse treatment services.

Illinois has seen remarkable growth in its cannabis market since legalizing recreational use in January 2020. In just two years, Illinois has collected approximately $1 billion in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state imposes a tiered excise tax based on the potency of the product, ranging from 10% to 25%.

The funds collected are allocated to various initiatives, including community reinvestment programs aimed at addressing social equity issues related to past drug enforcement practices.

Michigan’s cannabis market has also flourished since legalization. Since mid-2021, Michigan has generated about $700 million in tax revenue from marijuana sales. The state’s tax structure includes a 10% excise tax on recreational marijuana and a 6% sales tax.

The revenue is utilized for various purposes, including education funding and support for local governments impacted by legalization.

Broader Economic Impact

The legalization of cannabis has led to significant job creation across various sectors. According to industry reports, the legal cannabis market supports hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide—from cultivation and processing to retail and distribution. As more states legalize marijuana, this trend is expected to continue.

With the growth of the legal cannabis industry comes increased investment opportunities. Entrepreneurs are entering the market at an unprecedented rate, leading to innovations in product development, marketing strategies, and distribution channels. This influx of investment not only benefits individual businesses but also stimulates local economies.

Social Equity Considerations

While the financial benefits of cannabis legalization are clear, it is essential to address social equity issues that arise alongside this new industry. Many states have recognized that communities disproportionately affected by past drug enforcement policies should benefit from legalization efforts.

States like Illinois have implemented community reinvestment programs that allocate a portion of cannabis tax revenues to support communities impacted by previous drug laws. These funds can be used for education initiatives, job training programs, and mental health services—aiming to rectify historical injustices associated with cannabis prohibition.

In addition to financial support for communities affected by past policies, some states are also working to create equitable licensing opportunities for individuals from those communities. By prioritizing applications from minority-owned businesses or those directly impacted by previous drug laws, states can foster a more inclusive cannabis industry.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the significant progress made through legalization efforts, challenges remain on both state and federal levels.

Federal Legalization Uncertainty

One major hurdle is the ongoing conflict between state and federal laws regarding cannabis. While many states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This discrepancy creates complications for businesses operating legally at the state level but facing potential federal prosecution.

Efforts toward federal legalization or decriminalization have gained traction recently; however, progress remains slow due to political divisions and differing opinions on drug policy reform.

Regulatory Hurdles

As more states enter the legal cannabis market, regulatory frameworks must evolve to ensure consumer safety while promoting fair competition among businesses. States face challenges related to product testing standards, labeling requirements, advertising restrictions, and taxation policies that can impact market dynamics.

Conclusion

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that states have collected over $9.7 billion in marijuana tax revenue since mid-2021, highlighting the significant economic impact of cannabis legalization. As public acceptance grows, more states are likely to pursue legalization. Despite ongoing challenges, including federal regulations and social equity issues, legalized cannabis is poised to remain a vital part of state economies. Collaboration among government officials, business leaders, and community advocates will be essential for fostering an equitable and sustainable cannabis industry. This evolving landscape not only presents economic growth opportunities but also addresses historical injustices tied to drug policy enforcement, shaping the future of cannabis legislation in the U.S.