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Veterans are Betting Their Lives on Medical Cannabis, So Why Doesn’t the Military Agree?

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Why Vets Bet on Pot!

 

Meet Jack, a military veteran who valiantly served his country, only to return home with wounds that ran deeper than the eye could see. As he attempted to reacclimate to civilian life, the burden of PTSD weighed heavily on his soul, a haunting reminder of the unspeakable horrors he had witnessed while deployed. His nights were tormented by nightmares, and his days were clouded by anxiety and despair.

 

In search of relief, Jack sought professional help, but the prescribed antidepressants only seemed to deepen his suffering. Desperate for solace, he turned to alcohol, his loyal yet treacherous companion in the battle against his demons. He was a man on the edge, teetering precariously between hope and despair, until one fateful day, a fellow veteran offered him a small edible and a hit from a joint.

 

Skeptical but out of options, Jack took the plunge, and as the cannabis coursed through his veins, something miraculous happened. His tightly coiled muscles began to relax, his racing thoughts slowed, and for the first time in what felt like an eternity, his nervous system shifted into the parasympathetic mode, allowing his body and mind to unwind.

 

Jack’s story echoes the experiences of countless other men and women who have donned the uniform and faced the unimaginable in service to their country. As they return home, these brave souls often find themselves grappling with the debilitating effects of PTSD and the challenges of reintegrating into society. Traditional treatments often fall short of providing the relief they desperately need, leaving them searching for alternative solutions.

 

In their quest for healing, many veterans, like Jack, have discovered the transformative power of cannabis. No longer simply an illicit substance, marijuana has emerged as a beacon of hope for those struggling with the invisible scars of war. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why an increasing number of vets are betting on pot as a viable path towards reclaiming their lives and finding solace amidst the chaos of their inner battles.

 

According to the Department of Defense (DOD), marijuana’s primary psychoactive component, delta-9 THC, tops the list of substances found in positive drug tests for active-duty military service members. The runner-up is delta-8 THC, increasingly prevalent in hemp-derived products, even in states where marijuana remains illegal.

 

In response to a 2022 inquiry by Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) and colleagues, the DOD detailed its efforts to combat drug overdoses, promote harm reduction programs, and destigmatize treatment, particularly focusing on addressing opioid misuse. The response also revealed that, mirroring general population use rates, cannabis is the most common substance detected in drug tests for service members.

 

For Fiscal Year 2021, delta-9 THC accounted for 73.4% of all unique drug-positive tests among active-duty service members. Delta-8 THC, though naturally occurring in trace amounts in cannabis plants, was found in 42.7% of drug tests, largely due to its synthetic production. The DOD noted that delta-9 THC contamination during the delta-8 THC production process explains the co-occurrence of both cannabinoids in many positive tests.

 

The prevalence of marijuana in positive drug tests for military personnel is partly due to its increasing availability in regulated markets as states legalize it. Another factor is that THC’s inactive metabolite can linger in a person’s system for weeks or months, unlike drugs like cocaine, which exit within days.

 

In a letter to Sen. Ed Markey, the DOD outlined its efforts to educate service members on the risks of substance misuse and the penalties for positive drug tests. The department is also implementing harm reduction policies to support those seeking treatment and reducing stigma around addiction.

 

Sen. Markey highlighted the urgency of ensuring access to quality care without stigma or shame. The DOD has been closely monitoring cannabis policy amidst the state-level legalization movement. Last year, the department expressed concerns about CBD-infused products like hand sanitizer or hemp granola, suggesting they could compromise military readiness and should therefore be avoided.

 

But what does “readiness” have to do with CBD or THC for that matter? Well, that comes due to government policy relating to the war on drugs. 

 

“Military readiness refers to the preparedness of armed forces to respond effectively to any situation or threat, ensuring the safety and security of a nation. It encompasses various aspects of military operations, including personnel, equipment, training, and overall force capability.”

 

Which means that according to military policy, a person’s “readiness” is compromised due to their use of cannabis – any kind! 

 

Yet what evidence do they have? Or is this merely based on the fact that the federal government doesn’t permit cannabis, and as a consequence – this life changing medicine is being withheld from the very people who need it most. 

 

Not to mention, wouldn’t being “shell shocked” be an indicator of “not being ready?” When the nervous system has been battered so  much that the sound of a car exhaust exploding might have them diving to the floor. 

 

It’s simply another reason as to why we do need to completely do away with the war on drugs and drug prohibition. 

 

Of course, we don’t want military personnel tripping on LSD while they are fighting, however, these vets should have the right to use it to deal with the side-effects of war, which the government is so compelled to get into. 

 

 

In the smoky haze of psychedelics and cannabis, many souls have found themselves drifting away from the path of violence, embracing a newfound understanding of the human experience. The profound insights gained from these altered states of consciousness often illuminate the futility of endless wars, fueled by the machinations of private corporations peddling weapons and destruction for profit.

 

This revelation could, in part, explain the military’s reluctance to allow soldiers to consume such substances. Envision a soldier who, after partaking in these mind-expanding journeys, begins to empathize with the so-called enemy. They come to understand that those on the other side of the battle line are also human beings, defending their homeland against what they perceive to be threats.

 

The ability to see the world through another’s eyes, transcending the narrow confines of cultural and political divides, could potentially weaken the resolve of a soldier trained to follow orders without question. This newfound empathy may challenge the very foundations of the military-industrial complex, where unquestioning loyalty and obedience are paramount.

 

In a world where soldiers can recognize the humanity in their adversaries, the gears of war might grind to a halt, leaving no room for profiteers to exploit the suffering of others. Thus, the prohibition of cannabis and psychedelics within the military may be less about maintaining military readiness and more about preserving the status quo—a world where divisions are exploited for gain, and the machinery of war continues to churn.

 

As our society grapples with the consequences of our choices, perhaps it’s time to reconsider the wisdom of barring access to substances that could foster empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a more peaceful world.

 

 

As the prevalence of cannabis in military drug screenings comes to light, it’s crucial for society to recognize the potential value of this plant for mental health, particularly for those who have faced unimaginable hardships. The very fact that service members, who bear the scars of war and its traumatic aftermath, are turning to cannabis as a means of relief speaks volumes about its potential therapeutic benefits.

 

While the military may continue to enforce its strict policies on substance use, it’s time for society as a whole to rethink the way we perceive and utilize cannabis. The plant could provide much-needed relief to our veterans, offering a balm for the emotional and psychological wounds that often remain long after the physical ones have healed.

 

Rather than demonizing cannabis and other mind-expanding substances, we should strive to understand their potential in fostering empathy, healing, and unity in a world all too often divided by conflict. By embracing the therapeutic potential of these substances, we could not only support the mental health of our soldiers but also contribute to a more compassionate and peaceful society.

 

In conclusion, the increasing presence of cannabis in military drug screenings is not a cause for alarm but rather an opportunity for reflection and growth. It’s a call for us to open our minds to the potential benefits of this ancient plant and to explore new ways to promote healing and understanding among the battered and the bruised. Only then can we begin to forge a path toward a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

 

MEDICAL MARIJUANA FOR VETERANS, READ ON…

VETERANS USING MARIJUANA FOR PTSD

WHY VETERANS ARE USING MEDICAL CANNABIS FOR PTSD!



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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

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In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

TRUMP ON MARIJUANA REFORM

TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?

 



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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



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I Had Just One Puff

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“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.

 

The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.

 

Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.

 

Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.

 

THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.

 

THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.

 

The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.

 

The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.

 

Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests

 

Urine Tests

Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.

 

Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:

 

– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days

– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days

– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days

– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days

 

Blood Tests

Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.

 

Saliva Tests

THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.

 

Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.

 

In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.

 

Hair Tests

Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.

 

Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.

 

Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention

 

The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.

 

Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:

 

– Dosage: How much you consume

– Frequency: How often you use cannabis

– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual

– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time

 

Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.

 

How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?

 

When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.

 

The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:

 

– Altered senses, including perception of time

– Mood changes

– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving

– Impaired memory

 

Other short-term effects can include:

– Anxiety and confusion

– Decreased coordination

– Dry mouth and eyes

– Nausea or lightheadedness

– Trouble focusing

– Increased appetite

– Rapid heart rate

– Restlessness and sleepiness

 

In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.

 

Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:

 

– Cognitive issues like memory loss

– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke

– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections

– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety

 

Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.

 

Duration of Effects

Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.

 

Bottom Line

The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.

 

PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..

how long does weed stay in your urine

HOW LONG DOES WEED STAY IN YOUR URINE FOR A DRUG TEST?



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