Cannabis News
Why Heavy Cannabis Taxation is Essentially Stealth Prohibition
How Heavy Taxation is essentially “Stealth Prohibition”
Prohibition has long been a scourge on society, casting a dark shadow over the freedoms we hold dear. By stifling the civil liberties of its citizens, drug prohibition has fed the monstrous appetite of the state, allowing it to reach further into our lives and erode the very foundations of liberty.
Legalization emerged as the beacon of hope that would dismantle this oppressive regime, taking the wind from the sails of the black market, and restoring balance.
However, we failed to foresee the devious resilience of prohibition, its insidious ability to transform and adapt.
As it turns out, heavy taxation has become the new, more cunning form of prohibition. Rather than eradicating the black market, excessive taxes have breathed life into it, allowing it to persist and thrive in the shadows.
This is the cautionary tale of how even the most well-intentioned efforts to bring about change can be subverted by the stealthy persistence of prohibition’s sinister grasp.
The treacherous tale of prohibition and heavy taxation and regulation is one of eerie parallels, as if the two were long-lost siblings separated at birth, only to converge upon a path of destruction. Both stem from the same misguided belief that the state knows best and can wield its power to control the choices and behaviors of its citizens. Just as the iron fist of prohibition sought to smother the sale and consumption of illicit substances, heavy taxation and regulation stifle the budding potential of legal markets, suffocating their growth beneath a crushing weight.
Consider the ill-fated era of alcohol prohibition in the United States. In the 1920s, the government’s zealous crusade against alcohol led to a surge in organized crime, underground speakeasies, and tainted, dangerous beverages. Fast forward to the present day, and we witness a strikingly similar situation unfolding in the realm of cannabis. Exorbitant taxes and byzantine regulations have driven consumers into the welcoming arms of the black market, where shadowy figures peddle their wares, unconcerned with quality control or the safety of their customers.
California’s cannabis market stands as a prime example of this phenomenon. Despite the state’s efforts to legalize and regulate the industry, illegal sales continue to dwarf their legal counterparts, reaching a staggering $8 billion annually. The culprit? A complex web of taxes and fees, driving the cost of legal products to two or three times that of their illicit counterparts.
A chilling parallel can be drawn to the cigarette market in New York, where high taxes have led to a booming smuggling trade, accounting for over 53% of all cigarettes sold. The lesson is clear: when the state clamps down on a market with heavy taxation and regulation, it inadvertently breathes life into the very black markets it seeks to eliminate.
Like an ominous echo reverberating through history, the consequences of prohibition and heavy taxation and regulation share a dark, twisted commonality. They both serve to empower the state, restrict individual freedom, and fuel the growth of underground markets. These grim similarities serve as a stark reminder that the battle for personal liberty is far from over, and that vigilance is needed to prevent the resurrection of prohibition in a new, insidious form.
As the old adage goes, “if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.” But when it comes to black markets, the best approach is not to join them, but to outsmart and outprice them. Creating a peer-to-peer marketplace that is accessible, affordable, and operates with minimal regulation can be the key to dismantling the stronghold of black markets on the cannabis industry.
In an ideal world, individuals over the age of 21 would be free to grow, gift, and even sell cannabis in small, “farmer’s market” type establishments, without being burdened by onerous regulations. A $1,000 per year license, coupled with a cap on individual profit, could help nurture a thriving, grassroots marketplace that keeps the black market at bay.
Under this proposed “individual license,” sales to dispensaries or authorized retailers would be prohibited, and no transactions could take place with organizations or businesses. This would ensure a 100% peer-to-peer marketplace, where cannabis enthusiasts could support one another and cultivate a sense of community.
For larger operations, a second, more heavily regulated marketplace could exist, catering to those who generate income beyond the maximum allowed under the first license. The second license would encompass all the heavy tax burdens and provide larger corporations access to the mass retail market. This two-tier licensing system would create a balanced environment in which small, individual sellers could coexist alongside larger, corporate entities.
I have written about this idea before, but I cannot stress enough the importance of bringing it to the forefront of public discourse. By presenting it as a viable, realistic option, we can help reshape the way people think about cannabis regulation and encourage them to embrace alternative approaches.
This dual marketplace model not only fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among cannabis enthusiasts, but also helps combat the black market by offering consumers a safer, more affordable, and more legitimate alternative. When the legal market can compete with the black market on price, quality, and accessibility, consumers will have little incentive to venture into the shadows for their cannabis needs.
As history has shown time and time again, heavy-handed regulation and exorbitant taxes only serve to drive consumers toward black markets, where prices are lower and the allure of illicit transactions is too tempting to resist. By implementing a two-tier licensing system that caters to both small-scale, peer-to-peer transactions and larger, corporate sales, we can create a more inclusive and equitable cannabis market that leaves the black market struggling to survive.
The path to defeating the black market lies not in the iron grip of regulation or the crushing weight of taxation but in the power of a fair and open marketplace that empowers individuals and communities. By promoting a dual marketplace model, we can cultivate a thriving cannabis culture that not only undercuts the black market but also fosters creativity, innovation, and connection among cannabis enthusiasts.
The key to dismantling the black market’s dominance over the cannabis industry is to beat them at their own game by offering consumers a legal, safe, and affordable alternative.
The two-tier licensing system proposed here, with a focus on peer-to-peer transactions and a balanced approach to regulation and taxation, can help to create an inclusive and vibrant cannabis marketplace that leaves the black market in the dust.
By championing this idea and bringing it to the forefront of public discourse, we can pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for the cannabis community.
As a seasoned cannabis blogger and psychonaut, I have seen the landscape of the cannabis industry change dramatically over the past two decades. While there is a growing push for legalization and a shift in public perception, the reality is that the greed of politics, lobbying, and powerful interests continues to shape the laws and regulations that govern this industry. Despite my idealistic vision of a two-tiered marketplace that can effectively undercut the black market, I must admit that the prospect of such a system coming to fruition anytime soon seems unlikely.
The unfortunate truth is that the power dynamics within the cannabis industry are deeply entrenched, and the financial interests of politicians, lobbyists, and big businesses often eclipse the desires of the grassroots cannabis community. Unless there is a strong, sustained movement from the ground up, it is difficult to imagine the kind of sweeping change that would be necessary to implement a more equitable and inclusive marketplace.
That being said, the anarchist within me recognizes that there is a certain degree of subversion and defiance already at play in the current cannabis landscape. The so-called “grey market” – that nebulous space between the legal and illegal spheres – is home to countless individuals and small collectives who are already operating under the principles of the two-tiered marketplace I propose. They grow, share, and sell cannabis in a way that emphasizes community and cooperation, rather than profit and power.
By bringing these grey market operators into the legal fold, my proposed system would not only give them a legitimate space to compete with the black market but also help to divert money away from criminal cartels and into the hands of conscientious, community-minded individuals. While this may seem like a pipe dream in the current political climate, the very existence of the grey market – and the passion and commitment of those who operate within it – is evidence that the seeds of change have already been sown.
As we look to the future of the cannabis industry, it is essential that we remain vigilant and outspoken in our advocacy for a more equitable and just system. While the two-tiered marketplace I propose may not be on the horizon just yet, it is important to keep this ideal alive in our collective consciousness and use it as a guiding star as we continue to navigate the murky waters of cannabis politics.
In the meantime, the best we can do is to support grassroots movements, educate ourselves and others about the complexities of the cannabis industry, and continue to push for change at every level. By keeping the dream of a fair and open marketplace alive, we can help to shape the discourse surrounding cannabis and ensure that our voices are not drowned out by the cacophony of greed and power that currently dominates the industry.
In conclusion, while I do not believe that the two-tiered marketplace I propose will become a reality in the immediate future, I remain optimistic that the tides of change are shifting, albeit slowly. By continuing to advocate for a more inclusive and equitable cannabis industry, we can keep the flame of hope alive and work towards a future in which the black market is a relic of the past, and the cannabis community thrives in a fair and just marketplace.
GUESS HOW MUCH CHEAPER THE BLACK MARKET IS? READ ON…
Cannabis News
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
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 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?
“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..
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
I Had Just One Puff
Marijuana firms Eaze, Green Dragon find new life after $10 million capital infusion
Get some rest on Modified Grapes—November’s Leafly HighLight
Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
The CBD Dog Treat Guide
Trippin’ Golf Balls – Can Magic Mushrooms Help Your Golf Game?
Australian Broadcasting Corp Alleges Military Veterans Have Been Targeted By Medicinal Cannabis Companies Via Social Media & Offered Free “Product”
Distressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
United States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
What you Need to Know
Drug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
NCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
It has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
Cannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
A new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse
Your Go-To Source for Cannabis Logos and Designs
UArizona launches online cannabis compliance online course
-
Cannabis News2 years agoDistressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
-
One-Hit Wonders2 years agoUnited States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
-
Cannabis 1012 years agoWhat you Need to Know
-
drug testing11 months agoDrug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
-
Education2 years agoNCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
-
Cannabis2 years agoIt has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
-
Marijuana Business Daily2 years agoCannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
-
California2 years agoA new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse