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When Conservatives Regulate Cannabis – Florida Bill Would Cap THC at 10% on Smokable Marijuana

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thc cap in Florida at 10%

On January 5, Florida Representative Ralph Massullo introduced House Bill 1269, which underwent its initial reading on January 9. If approved, this legislation aims to establish restrictions on the potency of cannabis products, particularly in the event of the legalization of adult-use cannabis.

 

The proposed bill outlines stringent limitations for smoking products, concentrates, and edibles. According to the original filed version, marijuana intended for personal use must not exceed a tetrahydrocannabinol potency of 10%, whether measured by weight or volume, for smoking products. Additionally, for all other forms of marijuana, excluding edibles, the final product must not surpass 60% tetrahydrocannabinol. In the case of edibles for personal use, the bill specifies that they must not contain more than 200 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol, and each serving portion of an edible should not exceed 10 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol.

 

Massullo’s Proposed Potency Limits and Other Legislative Developments

 

Massullo suggests considerably lower potency percentages than those seen in other state’s potency limitations. Furthermore, the word “potency” is defined in detail in the text of HB-1269, involving both the total milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and the relative potency of cannabinoids. When a patient or caregiver receives the finished product, this contains the total of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol plus 0.877 multiplied by tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, as well as delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, which is the total of cannabidiol plus 0.877 multiplied by cannabidiolic acid.

 

Several other bills have been proposed for the 2024 legislative session in Florida. House Bill 1435 aims to establish “Registry Identification Cards” for military veterans. House Bill 1497 seeks to exempt specific applicants from medical cannabis treatment center licenses. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 94 suggests reduced penalties for individuals possessing 20 grams of cannabis or less for the first three violations, and Senate Bill 166 proposes protections for medical cannabis patients who are public employees.

 

Massullo envisions that the legalization of adult-use cannabis is imminent in Florida, particularly with the 2024 ballot approaching later this year. Smart & Safe Florida, an initiative that was announced in June 2023, claims to have gathered enough signatures to qualify for the ballot in the upcoming election.

 

Trulieve’s Support and Smart & Safe Florida’s Legal Battle

 

The primary financial support for the campaign is derived from the multistate entity Trulieve. In a statement, Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers emphasized the company’s commitment to consumers, stating, “Our investment reflects our strong belief that Floridians are ready to enjoy the freedom of using cannabis for personal consumption—a liberty currently embraced by over half of America’s adults.” Rivers expressed enthusiasm over the campaign reaching a significant milestone with over 965,000 validated signatures from across the state, indicating widespread support. The goal is to have the initiative on the ballot in the upcoming November election.

 

However, the initiative faced opposition from Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody shortly after gathering sufficient signatures. Smart & Safe Florida, the organization behind the initiative, defended the petition language, emphasizing its conservative drafting with the guidance of the court. They anticipated the court’s adherence to a deferential standard of review, asserting that the language strictly complies with the law and the Florida constitution, providing voters with the opportunity to decide on the matter.

 

The Florida Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in November 2023. In a statement released after the hearing, Smart & Safe Florida expressed confidence that the wording was written in compliance with the court’s stated requirements. The group is hoping that the court would acknowledge the stern adherence to the law, allowing Florida’s residents to exercise their sovereign right to vote on a proposed constitutional amendment. The case has not moved further as of yet, therefore it is unclear what will happen to Smart & Safe Florida’s effort.

 

Support for Cannabis Legalization and the Struggle for Grassroots Initiatives

 

As per data furnished by the University of North Florida’s Public Opinion Research Lab, 67% of survey respondents expressed their support for the legalization of adult-use cannabis in Florida. In contrast, only 28% indicated a negative stance, while 5% either did not know or chose not to respond to the question.

 

Recently, another 2024 ballot initiative related to cannabis, which aimed to permit medical cannabis patients to cultivate their plants at home, was terminated. In late December 2023, activists associated with a group named Wise and Free declared the withdrawal of the initiative, citing insufficient signature collection. Advocate Moriah Barnhart commented on the challenges faced, stating, “The legislators are continually making it more challenging for us to pass constitutional amendments, favoring giant conglomerates and large corporations, leaving us at a disadvantage.”

 

The initiative necessitated 900,000 signatures, and the group also lacked the essential funding to effectively run the campaign. Barnhart elaborated, “Anticipating potential charges in the millions for late petitions, I couldn’t take the personal responsibility for those fees—particularly when donations weren’t keeping pace with expenses, let alone additional costs. Now, it seems that only billion-dollar companies and conglomerates have a voice in shaping Florida law.”

 

Public Response, Advocacy Concerns, and Industry Support

The unveiling of House Bill 1269 has prompted a diverse array of reactions from the public, including both staunch cannabis advocates and concerned citizens. Advocacy groups are voicing reservations regarding the proposed THC caps, emphasizing the potential limitations these restrictions may impose on the medicinal benefits of cannabis. Critics argue that patients requiring higher potency strains for specific medical conditions could face challenges accessing the most effective treatments. As the bill advances through the legislative process, the engagement of advocacy groups and the general public becomes integral to ensuring that the final regulations strike a balance between public health considerations and the therapeutic needs of patients.

 

Simultaneously, the notable endorsement of House Bill 1269 by major cannabis entity Trulieve adds an intriguing dimension to the unfolding narrative. Trulieve’s CEO, Kim Rivers, underscores the company’s commitment to consumer freedom and signals confidence in the readiness of Floridians to embrace personal cannabis consumption. However, questions loom about the potential ramifications for the cannabis industry, as the proposed THC limits may reshape market dynamics. The intersection of public sentiment, advocacy efforts, and industry reactions will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the final contours of cannabis regulations in Florida.

 

Bottom Line

 

In Florida’s evolving cannabis landscape, House Bill 1269, proposing a 10% cap on smokable THC products, has elicited a multifaceted response encompassing advocacy concerns, public sentiments, and industry dynamics. The bill’s stringent THC limitations have prompted cannabis enthusiasts and advocacy groups to express reservations about potential restrictions on medicinal benefits, emphasizing the importance of balancing public health considerations with patients’ therapeutic needs. Concurrently, the notable endorsement of the bill by cannabis entity Trulieve raises questions about its potential impact on the industry, hinting at a changing market landscape. Against this backdrop, the legal battles faced by initiatives like Smart & Safe Florida and the challenges encountered by grassroots movements underscore the complexities of shaping cannabis policies in Florida, where the outcome remains uncertain pending the Florida Supreme Court’s decision and the forthcoming November election.

 

CAPPING THC IN CANNABIS, READ ON…

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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..

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



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