Connect with us

Cannabis

Unlicensed Shops in NYC Are Doing Better Than The Naked Cowboy

Published

2 years ago

on


New York is home to the Naked Cowboy, is the city with the most billionaires, and a reputation to get what you want when you want.  Now it is famous for the huge number of unlicensed marijuana shops – even one close to City Hall.

Cannabis isn’t fresh to New York. Long before recreational (or adult-use) cannabis was legalized in 2021, there was a thriving underground cannabis market that supplied the Empire State. Decades of criminalization did not stop the spread of cannabis across the state, with New Yorkers developing a robust illicit market known for famed strains like Sour Diesel. The Marihuana Regulation & Tax Act effectively legalized adult-use cannabis on March 31st of 2021. While the Act specified a regulatory and licensing scheme to build a legal adult-use cannabis market, not everything has gone so smoothly.

The rollout of NY’s adult-use licensing program was initially delayed by former Gov. Cuomo, who did not select any members of the Cannabis Control Board (CCB) during his tenure. While now Gov. Hochul quickly established the CCB, thus kicking off the adult-use program, the unlicensed market was already starting to bloom. While some unlicensed operators continued selling upon legalization, many new operators saw this as a golden opportunity. Recently, New York has opened a few licensed storefronts, but their single-digit numbers pail in comparison to the estimated 1,400+ unlicensed shops. Some products seen in the current unregulated market resemble pre-legalization cannabis (such as pre-rolls or simple bags of cannabis flower), but many do not.

NYC Mayor Shares Plan On Using Federal Public Housing Rooftops To Grow Marijuana
Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

RELATED: New York Mayor Suggests Public Housing Rooftops To Grow Weed — There’s Just One Big Problem

One only has to walk a couple Manhattan blocks to find a shockingly wide variety of cannabis products. Unlicensed operators have evolved, with many unlicensed products imitating licensed products (and non-cannabis products), through appropriating well-known brand iconography and/or simply using the recognizable California cannabis warning. What may be even more surprising however, is the fact that some unlicensed sellers are now selling “legal” cannabis. While their sale (and interstate trafficking) is not legal, the cannabis once was. Through diverting legal cannabis products to the illicit market at some point along the supply chain, these licensed operators make a side profit (free from their often-significant taxes). But does it even matter if people buy and sell unlicensed cannabis?

RELATED: New York’s Illicit Cannabis Market Is Booming, But Do You Know Why?

Every state, even those with robust licensed adult-use cannabis markets, have some sort of unlicensed cannabis market. While this was an inevitability in NY, the degree of unlicensed growth seen in New York is nearly unmatched. New Yorkers will smoke metric tons of cannabis, legal or not, every year. The underlying concern is the competition (or lack thereof) between unlicensed and licensed stores. Even upon the establishment of enough cannabis dispensaries to supply the state, unlicensed cannabis operators will be able to sell cannabis products for significantly cheaper. This is due to the much higher overhead cost of licensed operators and effective tax rates as high as 40-80% (which is in part due to excise taxes and the federal 280E problem). The inability for licensed operators to compete will not only result in widespread untested cannabis, but will directly hurt many of those most disenfranchised by the War on Drugs, such as the Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary Licensees. But then how does the NYC, NY or the nation solve this?



Source link

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Cannabis

5 Ideas To Have A Fun Single’s Valentine’s Day

Published

15 hours ago

on

February 12, 2025

By


Valentine’s Day is considered a big night for couples – but if you are single, it can be tough…here are some ways to make it fun

It is day of love, candy, silliness and more….but for some, it is a tough day emotionally. It is one of the busiest restaurant days and flowers and candy abound everywhere you look. But what if you are single or taking a break for the big night.  Just because you are single, doesn’t mean you have to hide, rather it gives the chance to do something special for yourself.  Here are 5 ideas on having a fun single’s Valentine’s Day.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

Gather your closest and/or your most fun friends and celebrate with a Guy/Galentine’s Day party. This can be a fun way to spend time with people you love and appreciate. You can play games, share snacks, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of romantic expectations. It’s a great way to remind yourself that you’re never truly alone on Valentine’s Day.

Treat yourself to a day of pampering. Book a spa appointment or create your own DIY spa day at home with face masks, bubble baths, and your favorite music. Self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to prioritize it. Whether it’s a relaxing bath or a rejuvenating facial, make sure you feel loved and cared for by yourself.

Chill out with cannabis and let your body relax.  Watch a movie or lose yourself in music. marijuana taps into our minds in all sorts of ways, many of which seem to positively influence how we perceive things, including music. It also accesses a special neurotransmitter system, the endocannabinoid system, which regulates appetite, pain, mood and memory. The way the plant activates this system explains a lot of the unique effects. The THC in marijuana can increase dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.

Indulge in hobbies or interests. It can a be a chance to spend time iwth a new or existing activity you love, but might night share with others. Whether it’s gaming, cooking, or learning a new language, stepping out of your comfort zone can be incredibly rewarding. You might discover a new passion or talent, and it’s a great way to keep your day exciting and productive

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by taking a solo trip or exploring new places in your city. Whether it’s hiking a scenic trail, visiting a local museum, or trying a new restaurant, getting out and experiencing new things can be incredibly liberating. It’s a chance to focus on yourself and enjoy and discover new things.



Source link

Continue Reading

Alien Cookies

The Best Marijuana Strains For Valentine’s Day

Published

1 day ago

on

February 12, 2025

By


It is the day for lovers and/or friends…make it a little extra special with these love strains.

Friday is Valentine’s Day, one of the most fraught emotional days of the year. It is one of hte business days of hte year for restaurants, second only to Mother’s Day.  It is also given rise for singles to celebrate including the new trends of Galentine’s Day.

Candy, chocolate, and sweets are a top choice for Valentine’s Day gifts. In 2018, 63% of consumers bought candy for Valentine’s Day, but this year think outside the heart shaped box.  Here are the best marijuana strains for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking to enhance intimacy, boost creativity, or simply relax with your partner, there are numerous marijuana strains which can help set the mood. 

RELATED: Couples Using Cannabis Can Increase Intimacy

When selecting a strain for Valentine’s Day, consider the desired effects and your partner’s preferences. Sativa-dominant strains like Lemonatti and Rainbow can enhance energy and creativity, while indica-leaning strains like Pineapple God and Sugar Black Rose offer relaxation. Balanced hybrids like Cereal Milk and Red Velvet provide a mix of both, making them versatile choices for any romantic evening.

Love Potion

This Sativa-dominant strain is known for its arousing effects. Love Potion enhances focus and energizes the mind, making it perfect for foreplay and deep conversations.

Lemonatti

This sativa-dominant hybrid offers a sophisticated blend of uplifting and relaxing effects, with THC levels ranging from 21-28%. Its energizing properties make it ideal for a lively (wink wink) Valentine’s evening.

Alien Cookies

This hybrid strikes a balance between relaxation and euphoria, creating a cozy atmosphere while setting the mood for connection.

Rainbow

This Uplifting strain has bright and is full of flavor, Rainbow is great for couples seeking a lighthearted, adventurous Valentine’s Day experience.

Pineapple God

This Indica-leaning is perfect for a relaxing evening, offering a stunning visual display of sticky green, pink, and purple buds. If you are spending the evening alone, this can put you in a great mood.

RELATED: The Best Tips To Up Your Intimacy Game While High

Donny Burger

This Indica is ideal for winding down after a romantic evening, providing full-body relaxation effects perfect for cuddling.

Sugar Black Rose

This Indica offers a deeply relaxing experience with a sweet, fruity aroma, making it a beautiful gift for Valentine’s Day.

GG4 Sherbet FF

This energizing strain boosts energy and creativity, perfect for romantic moments and enhancing intimacy.

Cereal Milk

This balanced hybrid promotes creativity and sensory exploration, with a sweet, dessert-like flavor that pairs well with romantic treats….could be a big winner.

Create a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music and enjoy the cannabis alongside romantic treats like chocolates or desserts.  Avoid alcohol since combining marijuana and booze my not provide the right atmosphere.

 



Source link

Continue Reading

cancer

Federal Funding Freeze To Hit Medical Marijuana Research

Published

2 days ago

on

February 11, 2025

By


Research on Cancer, chronic pain, nausea and more are grinding to a halt due to the federal funding freeze.

New research is validating cannabis can help cancer, chronic pain or more.  It is a key alternative to avoid opioid use for post surgery pain.  But now the deal funding freeze to hit medical marijuana research has significant implications for various sectors of scientific research, including medical marijuana studies. While the freeze has been temporarily halted, the uncertainty it created has already affected ongoing projects and future research prospects.

RELATED: Veterans With PTSD Are Given A Little Hope

Medical marijuana research has long faced challenges due to federal restrictions. Despite growing interest in its therapeutic potential, the classification of marijuana as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act limits research opportunities. Historically, most federal funding for cannabis research has focused on its potential harms rather than its medical benefits. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) are key players in controlling access to research-grade cannabis, which further complicates the process for researchers.

Federal Funding Freeze To Hit Medical Marijuana Research

Effects of the Funding Freeze

  1. Uncertainty and Delayed Projects: The funding freeze, even if temporary, has introduced uncertainty into the research environment. Scientists rely on stable funding to plan and execute long-term studies. Any disruption can delay projects, impacting years of research efforts.
  2. Impact on Academic Freedom: The freeze is seen as a threat to academic freedom, as researchers fear speaking out against government actions might jeopardize their funding4. This fear can particularly affect medical marijuana research, which is already controversial and underfunded.
  3. Limited Access to Research Materials: The NIDA monopoly on research-grade cannabis has historically limited access to materials necessary for comprehensive studies6. A funding freeze exacerbates this issue by potentially reducing the already limited resources available for acquiring and studying cannabis.
  4. State-Level Initiatives: While federal funding is crucial, some states have taken the initiative to fund medical marijuana research. However, these efforts are often insufficient to compensate for the lack of federal support

The ongoing challenges in medical marijuana research highlight the need for consistent and supportive federal policies. As more states legalize cannabis for medical use, there is a growing demand for rigorous scientific studies to validate its efficacy and safety. However, until federal restrictions are eased and funding becomes more accessible, progress in this area will remain slow.

The federal funding freeze compounds the existing barriers to medical marijuana research, further hindering efforts to explore its therapeutic potential. Addressing these challenges requires a shift in federal policy to support comprehensive and unbiased research into cannabis’s medical benefits.



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media