Connect with us

Cannabis News

Why People Choosing Cannabis over Beer and Wine is a Very Good Thing for America!

Published

on


cannabis over beer or wine

Why people choosing cannabis over beer and wine is a good thing!

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/marijuana-legalization-is-a-significant

-threat-to-alcohol-industry-because-people-substitute-cannabis-for-beer-and-wine-analysis-finds/

 

In recent years, a fascinating shift has been taking place in the realm of recreational substances. More and more people are opting to light up a joint instead of uncorking a bottle of wine or cracking open a cold beer. This trend, which has been steadily growing, shows no signs of slowing down. It’s a change that’s causing ripples across industries and raising eyebrows in boardrooms.

While some may view this shift with alarm, crying “bloody murder” at the potential impact on the alcohol industry, there’s a compelling case to be made that this transition is actually a positive development for society as a whole. The reasons behind this are multifaceted, touching on aspects of health, social behavior, and even economic factors.

In this article, we’re going to dive deep into these reasons, exploring why the switch from alcohol to cannabis might be more beneficial than detrimental. We’ll examine the potential impacts on public health, social dynamics, and even crime rates. But we won’t stop there.

We’ll also take a journey into the future, imagining a world 50 years from now where this shift has become firmly entrenched in society. What might our social gatherings look like? How might our cities change? What new industries might emerge, and which ones might fade away?

As we embark on this exploration, we invite you to keep an open mind. Whether you’re a cannabis enthusiast, a wine connoisseur, a teetotaler, or somewhere in between, the changing landscape of recreational substances affects us all. So let’s lift the veil on this green revolution and see where it might lead us.

The journey of cannabis from counterculture symbol to mainstream acceptance is nothing short of remarkable. In the 1960s, only about 4% of Americans had tried marijuana. Fast forward to today, and that number has skyrocketed to nearly 50%, with 18% of adults reporting cannabis use in the past year.

But it’s not just usage rates that have changed; public opinion has undergone a seismic shift. In 1969, a mere 12% of Americans supported legalization. Today, that number stands at a staggering 68%, reflecting a complete reversal in public sentiment.

The advent of legal dispensaries has played a crucial role in this transformation. No longer confined to shady street corners, cannabis purchasing has become a legitimate, regulated experience. Sleek, modern dispensaries staffed by knowledgeable “budtenders” have normalized the act of buying cannabis, making it feel more akin to visiting a high-end boutique than engaging in an illicit transaction.

From a physiological standpoint, cannabis often proves superior to alcohol. While excessive alcohol consumption can lead to severe health issues and even death, it’s virtually impossible to fatally overdose on cannabis. Moreover, cannabis lacks the physically addictive properties of alcohol, and its use typically doesn’t result in the aggressive behavior sometimes associated with heavy drinking.

Globally, attitudes towards cannabis have softened as the failures of the War on Drugs become increasingly apparent. Countries from Canada to Uruguay have fully legalized cannabis, while others have decriminalized its use or implemented medical programs. This shift reflects a growing recognition that prohibition causes more harm than good.

Looking ahead, full-scale legalization in the United States seems inevitable, though pinpointing an exact date remains challenging. The complexities of politics and entrenched interests make predictions difficult. However, the momentum is undeniable. As more states legalize and more people experience the benefits of cannabis firsthand, the pressure for federal reform continues to build.

One thing is certain: the people have spoken, and they want cannabis. This trend shows no signs of reversing. As research continues to unveil the plant’s potential benefits and as stigma continues to fade, we can expect cannabis to cement its place as a preferred substance for relaxation and recreation in the years to come.

As cannabis continues its march towards mainstream acceptance, a provocative question emerges: What happens when the masses smoke weed? This isn’t just idle speculation; it’s a query with profound implications for the fabric of our society.

To understand the potential impact, we must first consider the effects of our current drug of choice: alcohol. According to FBI data, alcohol is present in a staggering 45% of all violent crimes. This statistic alone paints a grim picture, but it becomes even more alarming when we consider domestic abuse and sexual assault cases, where alcohol frequently plays a central role.

In stark contrast, cannabis has not been linked to such violent behaviors. In fact, the longstanding narrative surrounding marijuana use has been one of passivity rather than aggression. While this stereotype may be oversimplified, it does reflect a fundamental truth about cannabis’s effects on behavior.

Even more surprisingly, in states where cannabis has been legalized, we’ve seen a decline in automobile accidents. This counterintuitive finding challenges the fear-mongering narratives that predicted roads would become more dangerous with legal marijuana.

So, as cannabis gains ground and potentially displaces alcohol as the recreational substance of choice, could we be looking at a less violent, more tolerant society? It’s a tantalizing possibility. If alcohol consumption decreases as more people turn to cannabis, we might see a corresponding drop in violent crimes, domestic abuse, and sexual assaults.

But the potential benefits don’t stop at reduced violence. Cannabis has long been associated with creativity and introspection. Could a society that embraces cannabis be one that produces better art, music, and literature? Might we see a surge in innovation as more people tap into cannabis-induced creative states?

Moreover, cannabis often promotes a sense of connection and empathy. In a world grappling with division and polarization, could increased cannabis use foster greater understanding and tolerance among different groups? It’s not unreasonable to imagine that a substance known for promoting peace and love could have a positive impact on social cohesion.

Of course, this is all speculative. We can’t predict with certainty how mass adoption of cannabis will shape our society. However, based on what we know about cannabis’s effects and the harm reduction potential compared to alcohol, it seems reasonable to hypothesize that society at large could benefit from this shift.

Perhaps most intriguingly, this cannabis wave could be just the beginning of a broader transformation in consciousness. As attitudes towards psychoactive substances evolve, we’re seeing increasing interest in and research on psychedelics. These substances, known for their ability to induce profound spiritual experiences and shift perspectives, are poised to enter the mainstream in the coming years.

Could we be on the cusp of a neo-spiritual awakening? As cannabis paves the way for more open-minded approaches to consciousness alteration, and as psychedelics follow in its wake, we might see a society more attuned to spiritual and existential questions. This could lead to shifts in values, priorities, and ways of understanding the world and our place in it.

While it’s crucial to approach these possibilities with a balanced perspective, acknowledging potential downsides and unintended consequences, the overall picture is one of promise. A society less burdened by alcohol-fueled violence, more open to creative expression, more empathetic and interconnected, and potentially more spiritually aware – these are outcomes worth considering as we navigate this transition.

As we move forward into this new era, it’s essential to continue studying the effects of cannabis on individuals and society, to implement responsible policies, and to remain open to the possibilities this shift might bring. The cannabis revolution isn’t just about a change in recreational substances; it could be the harbinger of a broader societal transformation.

 

ALCOHOL OR WEED, WHICH SHOULD PARENTS WORRY ABOUT THE MOST?

ALCOHOL OR WEED FOR PARENTS TO WORRY ABOUT

WHAT DRUG SHOULD PARENTS WORRY ABOUT  THE MOST RIGHT NOW?



Source link

Cannabis News

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

Published

on

By


trump on marijuana reform

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?

 



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis News

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

Published

on

By


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!



Source link

Continue Reading

Cannabis News

I Had Just One Puff

Published

on

By


one puff of a joint a drug test

“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?



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media