Connect with us

alcohol

Will Ohio Legalize? – Cannabis | Weed | Marijuana

Published

on


Will the State of Ohio legalize cannabis this November? Officials announced Wednesday that the legalization initiative will appear on the November 2023 ballot.

The Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (CTRMLA) submitted more than 220,000 signatures, short by 679. Officials gave them ten more days, and the activists found 6,500 more.

Ohio’s Secretary of State found that 4,405 of those signatures were valid. This means in November, residents can decide: will Ohio legalize cannabis?

Will Ohio Legalize?

Will Ohio Legalize?

“We are grateful to the thousands of Ohioans who helped us get to this point and are excited to bring our proposal to regulate marijuana like alcohol before Ohio voters this coming Election Day,” Tom Haren, a spokesperson for CTRMLA said.

The group’s 41-page proposal wants to see legal cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and sales to people over 21. They also advocate for growing at home, with a limit of six per person and 12 per household.

Like other states, Ohio will likely create a new regulatory bureaucracy to hand out licenses and dole out fines and penalties if the ballot measure passes.

So will Ohio legalize cannabis? While statewide ballot initiatives legalizing cannabis have been popular in the US, it’s rare in Ohio. The last time a citizen-initiated statute passed was in 2006 when Ohioans voted to outlaw indoor smoking.

Since Ohio’s beginning, there have only been four citizen-initiated statutes passed. So will Ohio legalize? Even if a majority of residents vote in favor, the Ohio General Assembly could amend or even rescind the statute.

This isn’t the first time Ohioans have been asked about legalization. In 2015, 63.4% of voters rejected a constitutional amendment that would have created a cannabis monopoly with only 10 (government-handpicked) growers for the entire state.

Ohioans voted against the cannabis bill and voted for an anti-monopoly amendment, which prevents something like that from happening again.

So what are the details this time? Will Ohio legalize cannabis if it doesn’t mean a government-protected cartel of 10 exclusive growers?

Ohio Legalization Details

Will Ohio Legalize?

Ohioans were right to reject the 2015 amendment. But what about the initiative for this November? The actual ballot measure may differ from CTRMLA’s wording. But we can still get a general idea of what to expect.

  • Age restriction: 21 and older
  • Legal possession of up to 2.5 ounces of flower
  • 15 grams of concentrates
  • Individuals can grow up to six plants for personal use.
  • A maximum of 12 plants per household
  • 10 percent sales tax on cannabis
  • A new bureaucracy: a “Division of Cannabis Control” established under the state Department of Commerce
  • The new bureaucracy will have the authority to “license, regulate, investigate, and penalize adult use cannabis operators, adult use testing laboratories, and individuals required to be licensed.”
  • Medical cannabis businesses can easily switch over to recreational markets.
  • The new cannabis bureaucracy will issue licences in “preference to applications who are participants under the cannabis social equity and jobs program.”
  • Individual municipalities can opt-out from having cannabis companies in their jurisdiction (but cannot ban medical cannabis firms)
  • Employers are still able to keep their anti-cannabis policies.
  • Regulators would be required to provide “cannabis addiction services,” which involves broadcasting propaganda about cannabis and burdening individuals with the “addiction and recovery” mentality that their brain is broken or “diseased.”
  • “Study and fund” criminal justice reform that includes cannabis expungements

Will Ohio Legalize? Pros and Cons

Will Ohio legalize cannabis? While not perfect, the November initiative is far better than the monopoly amendment from 2015.

Still, the November ballot leaves much to be desired.

As we’ve covered before, markets are self-regulating. We have a centuries-old Anglo-American legal tradition to draw from if or when “market failure” occurs.

A legal cannabis industry (or any industry, for that matter) doesn’t need government bureaucracies handing out licenses and issuing rules based on their perspectives of “best practice.”

A government that bans your right to grow a medicinal plant unless you have the correct “papers” is oppressive. It may be petty tyranny compared to other areas of the world, and certainly when compared to our history, but it’s tyrannical nevertheless.

But the cons of Ohio’s November ballot go beyond mere licensing and regulation. Will Ohio legalize cannabis this November? If not, it may be because, like in 2015, Ohioans are unhappy with the details.

CTRMLA’s November Ballot

Will Ohio Legalize?

Critics have pointed out that the CTRMLA’s initiative text lacks concrete information on cannabis expungements. Instead of specific language indicating clear expungements for those with cannabis on their records, they dance around the issue by suggesting criminal justice reform.

As well, employers can maintain their anti-cannabis policies. While we’re all for private businesses doing what they want, if cannabis is legal in your state, it’s annoying to be subject to drug tests for things you do outside of work in your free time.

While prioritizing certain applicants based on gender or race (as opposed to merit) is becoming increasingly common (and accepted) in America, the CTRMLA’s initiative doesn’t address the issue this way.

Instead, they want the new bureaucracy to prioritize applicants based on “social equity,” but only through the jobs program. In other words: you may have to go through Maoist struggle sessions before getting your commercial cannabis licence.

Their demand that regulators “enter into agreement” with addiction programs may be to win over the more conservative-thinking Ohioans. 

But ultimately, framing habitual behavior as “disorders,” or as the consequences of exterior forces, undermine the individual’s ability to evaluate their substance use rationally.

Of course, the organization’s name, the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol, tells us everything we need to know.

Ohio should not regulate cannabis like alcohol. Alcohol is a poison. Too much of it, and you die. Too much over a long period, and you die from cessation.

Cannabis is a medicinal herb. There is no lethal overdose. It needs as much regulation as your locally-grown tomato.

But, if your options are complete prohibition or a lesser version of it envisioned by CTRMLA, then the latter is often (but not always) the better option.

So will Ohio legalize cannabis? We’ll find out this November.





Source link

alcohol

The Best Cocktails To Welcome Spring

Published

on

By


The darkness of winter is slipping away and bright, warm spring has arrived – and here is the perfect cocktail to toast it’s return!

It always seems winter is the longest season, but now warm weather, longer days, and the blooming of plants have arrived. Here are the best cocktails to welcome spring. Migrating birds return to their base and plants began to reemerge. And while the weather can be a bit wacky, the promise of a fun summer is right around the corner. Fun fact, more babies are born during spring. Many families gain an additional member during this period, making spring officially the season of babies. All this give multiple reasons to toast with something refreshing.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Lemon Lavender Gin Rickey

Why not give a refreshing classic cocktail a spring twist by making it even more light and refreshing? The refreshing cocktail of gin, lime juice, and soda water, originated in Washington, D.C. in the late 1880s and was named after Democratic lobbyist Colonel Joe Rickey who frequented Shoemaker’s bar.  The addition of lavender provides a little flair for the taste buds.

Ingredients

  • 3 ounces gin
  • 4 ounces freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 4 ounces seltzer water
  • 2 sprigs lavender
  • 2 wedges of lemon

Create

  1. Pour gin, lemon juice, and honey over ice in a cocktail shaker and shake well
  2. Strain into two glasses filled with ice
  3. Top with seltzer
  4. Garnish each glass with a sprig of lavender and a slice of lemon

The Desert Bird

You can hear the birds chirping as they emerge or return from winter. This sweet-yet-bitter drink celebrates the return with a treat for the mouth.  You can use either mezcal or tequila for equal results. Or do a taste test.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 ounces bacanora, mezcal, or tequila
  • .75 ounces pineapple gum (or simple syrup mixed with equal parts pineapple juice)
  • .50 ounces Campari
  • .50 ounces fresh lime juice
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 sprig mint, for garnish

Create

  1. Combine all the ingredients together in a shaker
  2. Strain over ice into glass
  3. Serve with mint leaf

The Spring Bloom

With this cocktail, reflect the spring like atmosphere outside with a beverage in a glass. Combing the flavors of spring over ice with vodka will be a floral bouquet for your mouth!

  • 1 1/2 ounces vodka
  • 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce honey syrup
  • 3 ounces soda water
  • 1 sprig fresh rosemary (for garnish)
  • 1 pinch lavender salt (for garnish)

Create

  • Combine vodka, lemon juice, honey syrup, and ice in a shaker
  • Shake 30-40 seconds
  • Strain the mixture into a glass with fresh ice
  • Top off with soda water
  • Give it a swirl with the sprig of fresh rosemary
  • Finish with a pinch of lavender salt

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Kentucky Spire

While the Kentucky Derby is still a couple of months away, you can still celebrate with a good bourbon. This drinks adds a layering of flavors to allow you to kick back and take in the moment.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Bourbon
  • 2 oz Lemonade
  • 1 oz Cranberry Juice
  • Lemon zest for garnish

Create

  • Add ice to a lowball glass
  • Add lemonade and cranberry juice and stir with spoon
  • Add bourbon and stir until thoroughly mixed
  • Garnish with a lemon zest

Sweet Tea Smash

This drink will give you a little extra energy to enjoy the longer evenings.  Tea is the second most caffeinated drink after coffee, so use this for a pick up on enjoyable spring evenings.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz iced tea
  • 4 Mint leaves
  • 2 Lemon wedges
  • 1 tsp simple syrup
  • Mint sprig for garnish

Create

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle mint leaves and lemon wedges
  2. Add bourbon, tea, simple syrup, and ice to cocktail shaker
  3. Shake until chilled, roughly 20 seconds
  4. Strain into a chilled glass with fresh ice
  5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig



Source link

Continue Reading

alcohol

How Cannabis Can Help You During Lent

Published

on

By


Even a planned sacrifice can use a little help, here is how marijuana can help you during Lent

Today is Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. This time is observed in many Christian traditions, including Catholic, Lutheran, Moravian, Anglican, United Protestant, and Orthodox. It is usually a 40-day period, which echoes the time Jesus spent fasting in the desert. The time is thought to symbolize testing, trial, and renewal. In addition to donating time, talent and treasure along with self reflection, the true believer believes you should give us something you love. For some it is wine or alcohol, for others it could be more.Here is how cannabis can help you during Lent.

RELAETD: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

Cannabis use during Lent, a traditional Christian period of fasting and spiritual reflection, is a complex and controversial topic requiring careful consideration. While some may view cannabis as incompatible with Lenten practices, others argue it can potentially aid in spiritual growth and personal reflection when used mindfully. Done correctly, it can help you reach your goals.

Studies suggest cannabis can be used as a replacement for alcohol and can improve overall health. It offers a range of benefits for those seeking to reduce or eliminate their alcohol consumption. CBD and THC drops are becoming popular substitutes, providing natural relaxation without the negative side effects associated with drinking. Unlike alcohol, which can lead to dehydration, impaired judgment, and potential long-term health risks, cannabis promotes relaxation and improved sleep quality without causing hangovers.

Studies suggest cannabis may help individuals maintain alcohol abstinence, with some patients reporting it as an effective substitute. The trend of replacing alcohol with cannabis is growing, with daily cannabis use surpassing daily alcohol use in the United States for the first time. Cannabis-infused beverages are also on the rise, offering a diverse range of options for those looking to socialize without alcohol.

In addition, many adherents of Lent are older, and a key benefit of cannabis is relief. For those dealing with chronic pain or anxiety, cannabis may offer relief without breaking Lenten commitments to abstain from other substances. Medical marijuana users have reported significant improvements in quality of life, pain levels, and overall functioning. This could allow individuals to focus more deeply on their spiritual practices without being hindered by physical discomfort.

Part of the  sacrifice is to reflect on the spiritual journey. Cannabis can promote introspection and heightened awareness, which aligns with Lenten goals of self-examination and spiritual growth. However, it’s crucial to approach this mindfully and avoid using cannabis as an escape or distraction from the purpose of Lent.



Source link

Continue Reading

alcohol

The Best Easy Super Bowl Cocktails

Published

on

By


Ready to get your game on with these Super Bowl cocktails?

It is the finale to the football season and a good chunk of the population tunes in to watch the Super Bowl. Alone, with a few friends or a full on party…it is a festive occasions (at least until the 4th quarter in a tight game) and people enjoy a beverage.  The Super Bowl is a drinking day for most viewers.  As you settle into the 59th annual game, try the best Super Bowl cocktails.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Creole Bloody Mary

In a nod to the host city New Orleans, a Creole Bloody Mary is the best to pre-func and get right to start watching the game! This is a flavorful way to start the day.

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup vodka
  • 4-1/2 cups chilled tomato juice
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4-6 dashes Tabasco hot sauce
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Celery for garnish

Create

  1. Fill shaker with ice
  2. Combine vodka, juices, Worcestershire, salt, pepper and hot sauce in shaker
  3. Strain and pour in a tall glass with ice
  4. Garnish with celery stick

Super Bowl Julep

The nice thing about the Super Bowl is you can enjoy day drinking. While a Mint Julep is the drink of the Kentucky Derby, it is refreshing enough for morning football drinking. Plus it is good for the throat after all the cheering.

Ingredients

  • 4 sprigs of mint
  • 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons of water
  • 2 oz. bourbon
  • Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Create

  1. Muddle the mint, the sugar and the water in a cup
  2. Add the bourbon and stir gently
  3. Fill a glass to the top with finely crushed ice, add the julep mix and garnish with mint

FYI, an ounce of mint simple syrup can be substituted for the mint/sugar/water mixture

Perfect Stormy

Why not combine the classic beer with the cocktail.  Mix it up and enjoy this drink…rich in flavor and filling enough you don’t have too many over the course of the game.

2 oz amber rum

1 oz egg white

1 oz fresh lime juice

¾ oz ginger simple syrup

3 dashes Scrappy’s lime bitters

4 oz light beer

Glass: Highball tumbler/Collins glas

Create

  1. Dry shake all ingredients except the beer
  2. Add ice and shake
  3. Double strain into a collins glass with ice
  4. Top up with beer

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Gatorade Margarita

Everyone knows hydration is important when plays sports. It is also important for fans, especially if they are celebrating.  Gatorade is part of the football culture, dive in with this take on a classic cocktail.

Ingredients

Create

  1. Mix the sugar and salt in a shallow dish
  2. Wet the rims of 4 to 6 rocks glasses with water and then dip in the sugar-salt mixture to coat
  3. Combine the sports drink, limeade concentrate, tequila and blue curacao in a large pitcher and stir
  4. Fill the rocks glasses with ice
  5. Pour the margarita into the glass
  6. Garnish each with an orange slice

Fourth Quarter Rum Countdown

When the fourth quarter hits, it can be a focus time, keep it simple with this classic drink.  Quick to prepare, refreshing to drink and the soda is a little caffeine boost after tailgating.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 oz Bacardi Superior rum
  • 3 oz cola
  • Lime for garnish

Create

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice
  2. Pour in a good rum
  3. Add the chilled cola, stir
  4. Garnish with lime



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Trending

Copyright © 2021 The Art of MaryJane Media