Category: All Medical Marijuana News

Marijuana, Cannabis, Ganja, Weed, Grass, Pot, Reefer, or Maryjane: What’s In a Name?

I am periodically amused when we receive an email or phone call at NORML from an enthusiastic, usually young, supporter, advising us he/she has found the missing link to marijuana legalization: come up with a new name for our favorite herb.

That’s right. Some who are new to the issue, when they first discover the racist under-pinning’s of both marijuana prohibition, and the word “marijuana” itself, naively think if we could just stop using the word “marijuana,” and instead use “cannabis” or some other synonym, our opposition would suddenly disappear, and we would have a clear path to legalization.

I wish it were that simple. But it is not the name we use that makes it difficult to legalize marijuana; it is the misinformation left from decades of government anti-marijuana propaganda. We are having to re-educate millions of Americans about marijuana, including especially those in the media and our elected officials.

At NORML we do not follow some stylebook, and we use all kinds of words to describe marijuana at different times. I’m an old-timer so I generally stick with “marijuana,” and I do not consider it a negative term. It’s the name most Americans use to identify the plant. But others at NORML prefer “cannabis”, and our political alerts, press releases and media interviews also frequently include the use of “pot” or “weed” or other popular slang terms for marijuana.

As an aside, it is a little strange that one would write NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, to suggest that we stop using the word “marijuana.” We are proud of the acronym NORML, a double entendre, which is also our registered service mark. We wanted to normalize marijuana smoking when we started the organization in 1970, and NORML seemed like the perfect acronym.

But more importantly, those who feel the term we choose to use in our advocacy is a primary obstacle holding the country back from legalizing marijuana, misunderstand the nature of our opponents.

Those who oppose marijuana legalization, and support prohibition, either have an exaggerated view of the potential dangers from marijuana smoking; or they have decided to oppose legalization for political reasons (e.g., they still identify marijuana smoking with radical, lefty politics).

In either case, using another word in place of marijuana will have absolutely no impact. Those who ignore the science, and believe that marijuana is “the devil’s weed,” will not assume a more rational position, regardless of what we call it. And those who consider marijuana smoking to be anti-establishment behavior will continue to think of marijuana smokers as cultural rebels, even if we call ourselves “cannabis users.” The name is inconsequential.

It’s the level of public support that determines when and where we legalize marijuana. Public attitudes, in a country as large as the US, change slowly, and gradually, over a period of time. Because of the government’s “reefer madness” campaign of the 1930s, 40s and 50s, most older Americans were effectively “brain-washed” (another term from the 50s) into believing that marijuana was dangerous and evil, and would lead to depravity. Thus it is no surprise that when NORML was founded in late 1970, only 12% of the public favored legalizing the drug. It was only by advancing a more rational understanding of marijuana and marijuana smokers over several decades that we eventually began to see higher levels of support for legalization, bringing us to where we are today, with 58% of the country nationwide now favoring an end to prohibition and the establishment of a legally regulated market.

We are finally winning this long struggle, not because we came up with a new term for marijuana; but because we took the time and made the effort to re-educate Americans about the relative safety of marijuana, as well as the important medical uses of the drug. We have finally won the hearts and minds of a majority of the country, who now understand that marijuana prohibition causes far more problems than the use of the drug itself, regardless of what name one prefers to use for marijuana.

NORML’s Legislative Round Up February 5th, 2016

This week we have an array of legislative updates ranging from more bills being introduced, other bills stalling, and everything in between. We have news out of Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Virginia, Utah and Washington D.C.! Keep reading below to get the latest in marijuana law reform this week.

Federal:

The Marijuana Advertising in Legal States (MAILS) Act was introduced this week by Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici. This legislation would “reverse the outdated declaration by the U.S. Postal Service in December 2015 that prohibited the mailing of newspapers with ads offering to buy or sell marijuana, even if the marijuana-related ad complies with state law.” Senator Wyden says, “Our bill updates the federal approach to marijuana, ending the threat to news publications that choose to accept advertising from legal marijuana businesses in Oregon and other states where voters also have freely decided to legalize marijuana.”

Democrat Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton made comments this week in response to a question at a town hall meeting from a medical marijuana patient who asked what she would do to decriminalize the drug. Clinton responded boldly saying, “She would do a lot.” She reiterated her support for states to decide the issue and reaffirmed that, if elected President, she would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I drug in the Controlled Substances Act to a Schedule II substance. She stated, “I have no doubt there are very real benefits to people.”

Democrat Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders also made comments this week related to marijuana policy when he addressed the question, “If elected, how would your administration address the current tension between state and federal marijuana laws?” Sanders responded, “As President, I would direct HHS and DOJ to immediately review if marijuana should be rescheduled or descheduled under the Controlled Substances Act, and I would instruct DOJ not to interfere with states who have legalized or decriminalized marijuana.”

State:
Arizona: House Bill 2007, was introduced to defelonize minor marijuana possession offenses.Under present law, marijuana possession is classified as a felony, punishable by up to two years in jail. House Bill 2007 reclassifies minor marijuana possession offenses from a felony to a civil offense, punishable by a fine only — no arrest, no criminal prosecution, and no criminal record. #TakeAction

California: Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation that seeks to dissuade California cities and counties from enacting municipal restrictions on the cultivation and dispensing of medical marijuana by amending a drafting error in the The Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act. It also removes objectionable language authorizing local governments to prohibit patients from cultivating, storing, donating, or processing marijuana for their own personal use, and by doing so, reaffirms that qualified patients have the right under state law to engage in personal cultivation absent a city or state license.

Florida: House legislation, House Bill 271, redefines industrial hemp as an agricultural crop and establishes licensing regulations to allow for the plant’s cultivation. A committee substitute version of the bill was unanimously approved by members of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Tuesday, February 2nd. We’ll keep you updated as this legislation moves forward. #TakeAction

Hawaii: Objectionable legislation is pending in the House to eliminate patients’ longstanding rights to cultivate medical marijuana. House Bill 1680 repeals patients’ legal authority to cultivate personal use quantities of cannabis. Criminalizing the personal cultivation of cannabis is an arbitrary prohibition that has absolutely no basis in public safety. For sixteen years, thousands of Hawaii patients have possessed the ability to cultivate personal use qualities of medicinal marijuana. There exists no evidence that this law has led to any sort of widespread abuse or public safety threat.. #TakeAction

Illinois: Legislation is pending in the Senate to expand Illinois’ hemp law to promote hemp-related commerce. The act seeks to establish regulations for the Department of Agriculture to license persons “desiring to grow, process, cultivate, harvest, process, possess, sell, or purchase industrial hemp or industrial hemp related products.” #TakeAction

In separate news, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner this week rejected a recommendation from the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board to expand the state’s medical marijuana program by adding eight additional qualifying conditions. For more information on organizing patients’ efforts in Illinois, please contact Illinois NORML.

Kansas: Members of the Senate voted 38 to 1 on Wednesday, February 3, in favor of a Committee substitute version of HB 2049 to reduce criminal penalties for first-time marijuana possession offenses from a Class A misdemeanor (punishable by up to one year incarceration and a $2,500 fine) to a Class B misdemeanor (punishable by no more than six months in jail and a $1,000 fine). Second convictions will no longer be classified as a felony offense. The amended language now returns to the House for a concurrence vote. #TakeAction

Maine: Marijuana legalization advocates turned in more than 100,000 signatures to the Secretary of State’s office this week in hopes of meeting the 60,000 requirement to qualify for the 2016 ballot. Read more about this campaign here.

Maryland: House Bill 443 is pending in the General Assembly to permit the Department of Agriculture to authorize institutions of higher education to cultivate industrial hemp for academic research purposes.This legislation is scheduled to be heard Wednesday, February 10th by members of the Environment and Transportation Committee at 1:00PM. #TakeAction

Separate legislation, House Bill 665, seeks to place a constitutional amendment on the November 2016 ballot to regulate adult marijuana use. If approved by lawmakers, the bill would allow voters to decide if they wish to regulate the commercial cultivation, processing, and retail of marijuana to adults over the age of 21. You can read the full text of this proposal here. #TakeAction

New Jersey: Assembly Bill 2050, legislation to decriminalize minor marijuana possession offenses in New Jersey, is pending in the General Assembly. If approved, the legislation would remove criminal penalties for those who possess 15 grams of marijuana or less. New Jersey’s 24,765 arrests for possession of small amounts of marijuana in 2013 was the state’s highest number in 20 years. #TakeAction

Rhode Island: Governor Gina Raimondo has proposed that a new tax be imposed upon state qualified patients who choose to cultivate their own cannabis. The proposed taxes range from $150 per plant for an individual patient up to $350 per plant for growers with cultivator licenses. The proposed tax is rightfully drawing fire, from patients and other concerned citizens. For more information on efforts to oppose this change, please visit the Rhode Island Patient Advocacy Coalition.

Utah: On Thursday, February 4th, members of the Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice Committee moved SB 73, the Medical Cannabis Act, to the Senate floor. The legislation seeks to amend state law to permit for the state-licensed cultivation of cannabis, including strains with higher THC content, for the manufacturing of medicinal products and/or herbal preparations. We’ll keep you updated as this measure continues to move forward. #TakeAction

Virginia: House and Senate lawmakers set aside legislation that sought to eliminate criminal penalties for marijuana possession offenses. On February 3rd, Senate Bill 104, was passed by indefinitely by the Courts of Justice Committee in an 11-4 vote. This action stalls any legislative progress for now, but allows for the committee to reconsider legislation at a later meeting. It is apparent by these actions that Virginia lawmakers need to hear from constituents that marijuana law reform ought to be a legislative priority. #TakeAction

Washington D.C.: A bill aimed at permanently banning private marijuana clubs in the District was pulled on Tuesday and instead Council members passed an amendment to create a seven member taskforce to look into the issue more closely. The taskforce will be made up of two members from the D.C. Council, one from the Office of the D.C. Attorney General and five from city agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the D.C. Health Department, who will be appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser.

Ibogaine Treatment Expanded in Brazil: Will the U.S. Take Note?

Last month, the government of the Brazilian state of São Paulo issued a statement that may signal the country’s path toward approving scientific research of psychoactive substances, including the medical use of the drug ibogaine. This announcement marks the first instance of a government agency in South America to recognize the need to further evaluate the potential for psychoactive drugs like ibogaine to treat addiction.

For decades, researchers in Brazil have been seeking increased approval to use ibogaine, a drug derived from the West African shrub Tabernanthe iboga, in their work evaluating treatments for a variety of substance use disorders. Ibogaine became recognized in the late 1980’s and early 90’s as an ‘addiction interrupter’ and attention was given toward its use as a detoxification treatment for opiate dependency, with lasting effects that minimize physiological craving and psychological obsession for drugs like heroin and opioid painkillers for several weeks following a single treatment.

The recent statement, issued by Leonardo Arquimimo de Carvalho, the President of the São Paulo State Council on Drug Policy (CONED-SP), would allow them to move forward with their work. It includes encouragement for clinical investigation of ibogaine and other synthetic and semisynthetic substances derived from T. iboga, calls for institutional funding for research, and permission for doctors and psychiatrists to use ibogaine to treat people with substance use disorders in São Paulo hospitals.

In 2009, Medsafe, New Zealand’s equivalent of the US Food and Drug Administration, recommended classifying ibogaine as a prescription medicine, becoming the first and only other country in the world to officially recognize ibogaine’s efficacy for treatment of substance use disorders. While the United States Drug Enforcement Administration considers ibogaine a schedule I drug – having a high abuse potential and no evidence for medical use – most other countries have no specific laws controlling ibogaine. The governments of São Paulo and New Zealand have allowed restricted medical use of ibogaine, and there are many other countries where ibogaine is used to treat people with substance use and mental health disorders in legally operating clinics.

Conversation about ibogaine as an effective addiction treatment is beginning to open up in Central and South America. Next month, the Global Ibogaine Therapy Alliance (GITA) will host an international conference on ibogaine in Mexico, which will include a presentation by Bruno Rasmussen Chaves, a Brazilian doctor who has overseen more than 1,200 treatments in São Paulo hospitals under the currently existing guidelines.

While the U.S. has never authorized the use of ibogaine in humans, hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world have been treated for misuse of drugs like methamphetamine, alcohol, cocaine, as well as for mental health disorders like PTSD and depression. But just last week, legislators in Vermont filed a bill in the general assembly that would fund a clinical trial with ibogaine in the Green Mountain state. Vermont isn’t alone as many other states throughout the U.S. are struggling for ways to address the increasing public health demand for treating heroin addiction, as overdose rates are rising in cities throughout the northeast.

As empirical evidence continues to strengthen regarding ibogaine’s efficacy for treating opiate dependency, it may only be the beginning of what this remarkable drug could bring if restrictions were lifted on clinical research. The prohibition of drugs like ibogaine unjustly limit opportunities to evaluate a promising treatment, reflecting a criminal justice policy that does far more harm than good when it comes to what ought to be a public health approach to treating complex conditions like addiction.

Kevin Franciotti is a Program Associate at the Drug Policy Alliance.

Photo via Flickr.

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Author: Kevin Franciotti
Date Published: February 4, 2016
Published by Drug Policy Alliance

New Data Released: NYC Marijuana Possession Arrests Under 17K for First Time Since 1996, 67% Drop from 51,000 Arrests in 2011

New York —According to data just released by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, New York City marijuana arrests in 2015 dropped to under 17,000 for the first time since 1996. The 16,590 arrests for low-level marijuana possession in 2015 is a 42% decline from the 26,386 in 2014 and a 67% drop from the nearly 51,000 arrests in 2011.

“New York is finally starting to shed its embarrassing distinction of being the marijuana arrest capital of the world,” said Kassandra Frederique, New York State Director at the Drug Policy Alliance. “Over the last twenty years, more than 700,000 lives were irrevocably harmed by our draconian marijuana arrest policies. We must repair the harms of marijuana prohibition and end the biased policing practices that have ruined the lives of so many young Black and Latino New Yorkers.”

In 2015, with the continuous advocacy of community members, advocates, and elected officials – the New York Police Department made 16,590 arrests for low level marijuana possession, down from a high of 26,386 in 2014. This continues a four year trend of declining marijuana possession arrest by the NYPD. Marijuana possession arrest numbers in New York City are the lowest they’ve been since 1996. Though low level marijuana possession arrests have declined, the arrests remained racially disparate, with 88% of people arrested being Black and Latino, despite consistent government data that show young white men use at higher rates.

The reduction is a departure from the marijuana arrest crusade that had become the norm for the NYPD. NYPD made almost 700,000 marijuana arrests in the last 20 years and spent 1 million police hours from 2002 to 2012 enforcing marijuana prohibition. New York State spent $675 million enforcing marijuana prohibition in 2010 alone. In 2011, nearly 51,000 people were arrested for marijuana possession, more than the occupancy of Yankee Stadium. Now, however, with 16,590 marijuana possession arrests in 2015, New York appears to have begun to turn a corner. However, much needs to be done to repair the damage these arrests have done, and to fix New York’s broken marijuana policies.

In the New York State legislature, Brooklyn Senator Daniel Squadron and East Harlem Assembly member Robert Rodriguez introduced the Fairness and Equity Act, legislation that would begin to address the collateral consequences associated with arrests, like sealing and vacating past marijuana convictions.

“The reduction in arrests for possessing small amounts of marijuana is an important step toward ending the racial disparities in marijuana enforcement,” said State Senator Daniel Squadron. “It proves that fairer policies make a difference, which is why it’s critical we pass my Fairness and Equity Act, to turn this policy into law across the state. I thank the Drug Policy Alliance, VOCAL –NY, and my colleagues for continuing their push.”

“It’s encouraging that the number of arrests and summonses for marijuana possession is decreasing; and the change in policy is yielding progress,” said Assemblymember Robert Rodriguez. “Yet, more can and should be done to end meaningless low level arrests of people of color. I have introduced the Fairness and Equity Act that will help to further reduce arrests across the state, and prevent the perpetual over criminalization that targets the youth in our minority communities.”

Increasingly, jurisdictions and legislators across the country, including here in New York, are realizing that marijuana prohibition has been ineffective, unjust, and disproportionately enforced and are working to implement policies that are fair and effective. Manhattan Senator Liz Krueger and Buffalo Assembly member Crystal Peoples-Stokes introduced the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act, which would create a system to tax and regulate marijuana for adults in a manner similar to alcohol.

“It’s heartening to see that arrests for marijuana possession are down significantly. But the numbers also show that enforcement continues to be heavily racialized, with communities of color bearing a disproportionate share of the costs, said State Senator Liz Krueger. “Marijuana prohibition is simply a failed policy. Allowing personal use, with appropriate regulation and taxation, will end the unacceptable racial disparities in arrests, allow law enforcement resources to go where they’re most needed, close off an underground criminal marketplace, and provide additional revenue and economic development opportunities throughout the state. That’s the kind of smart, responsible policy that our communities desperately need.”

“The reduction in arrests are a positive step forward, but the racial disparities that remain demonstrate the need for ending marijuana prohibition altogether, said Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes. “Marijuana prohibition has extensively harmed our communities and continues to do so. We should be learning from states like Washington and Colorado who have ended their investment in prohibition and instead create a system to tax and regulate marijuana.”

With these bills, an increasing number of New York elected officials are calling for a comprehensive solution to marijuana prohibition that includes enacting regulations, addressing collateral consequences, and setting up legislative accountability measures to impede racial disparities in enforcement of the law. The New York City Council already adopted both bills as a part of their Albany legislative agenda in 2015. Advocates and community members are increasing the pressure for New York to lead the nation with comprehensive marijuana reform that deliberately address the consequences for non-citizens, formerly incarcerated people, and people of color.

“Marijuana arrests are down and that is a good thing. However, New York still has a long way to go to catch up with the types of drug policy reforms that are making other states and municipalities more just and prosperous, said Alyssa Aguilera, Political Director, VOCAL-NY. “ I hope that Governor Cuomo and the NYS Legislature will move forward the Fairness & Equity Act and the Marijuana Regulation & Taxation Act – so that we can finally stop the needless arrests and cultivate economic opportunity across our state.”

Author:
Date Published: February 4, 2016
Published by Drug Policy Alliance | VOCAL-NY

NORML Chapters Continue to Lead Reform Efforts on the Local, State and Federal Level

LATEST NORML NEWS

State and Local:

Everyday NORML Affiliates and Chapters from around the country invest countless hours into contacting representatives, hosting events, and talking to voters, all with the hope of passing meaningful marijuana reforms on the local, state and federal level! In an effort to highlight their hard work and accomplishments, we will feature their stories on NORML.org and promote the content through our social media channels. To get involved in your area, please send an email to KevinM@nullNORML.org to get started today!

California:

California NORML’s executive director questioned a recent report produced by an anti-tobacco organization that encouraged municipalities to ban the use of marijuana in public areas or in locations that must adhere to clean indoor air regulations.

“The report vastly inflates the health hazards of smoked marijuana, but concedes that it shouldn’t be criminalized. Rather, it calls for stigmatizing it as much as possible,”

As California gets closer to approving a legalization measure for this November’s ballot, some activists are raising concerns about the impact it will have on the state’s medical marijuana program.

“If you look at the ballot initiative that’s circulating right now, it doesn’t give a lot of incentives to the medical marijuana industry except that you can avoid some of the (proposed 15 percent excise and extra cultivation) taxes if you go to some trouble.”
http://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/Will-doctors-suffer-if-marijuana-is-legalized-6793270.php

“We are calling for locals to repeal the bans in favor of meaningful land regulations that will enact the statewide licensing standards … in order to protect public safety, the environment and patients’ rights,”
http://www.governing.com/topics/public-justice-safety/tns-california-local-marijuana-regulations.html

Colorado:

Last week, Denver NORML announced they will be leading a Responsible Use initiative that will allow the limited consumption of marijuana in the City of Denver. Details are still being worked out with NORML’s national office.

“We are willing to work with them on this issue — we just really want something to happen, we want action to take place,”

“Denver NORML announced that it would be filing its own initiative to put a limited social use of marijuana item on the ballot in 2016.”
http://www.westword.com/news/denver-norml-to-file-marijuana-social-use-initiative-for-2016-ballot-7537133

Illinois:

Medical marijuana patients in Illinois experienced another setback after lawmakers rejected a proposal that would have expanded access to the state’s medical marijuana program.

“My concern is first and foremost for patients to have access to this medicine and if shops are closing then patients will have to go farther distances to get access to this medicine.”
http://foxillinois.com/news/local/springfield-medical-marijuana-dispensary-to-open-in-february

“By having the Illinois Department of Public Health deny the eight conditions that the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board approved to be added to the list of debilitating conditions for the Medical Cannabis Pilot Program, this administration has turned their back on veterans suffering from PTSD”
http://www.sj-r.com/article/20160201/OPINION/160209956

Iowa:

After a long court battle, Iowa State University NORML won a first amendment lawsuit against school administrators after an attempt to censor a marijuana leaf printed on a t-shirt.

“Members of ISU NORML weren’t keen on being censored. They felt the administration was discriminating against their group. So on July 1, 2014, they filed a lawsuit alleging that school administrators had violated their constitutional rights.”
http://www.civilized.life/cannabis-shirt-freedom-speech-1582756933.html

Missouri:

NORML KC is working hard to push an initiative that would decriminalize the possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana in Kansas City.  

“Once you start talking to people about cannabis reform, you’d be surprised how many people are for it,” Kacz said. “It doesn’t have to be Democrats or liberals, it’s Republicans, it’s religious people, it’s elderly people.”
http://kcur.org/post/kansas-city-marijuana-reformers-working-toward-decriminalization#stream/0

New Hampshire:

New Hampshire NORML urged lawmakers to support a bill that would add PTSD to the state’s list of ailments for medical marijuana.

“By stuffing opiates down people’s throats, it’s going to create a problem. You guys are going to have a heroin epidemic. You’re going to see it. And in the last two years, it is just out of control,”
http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2016/1/22/new-hampshire-medical-marijuana.html

Virginia:

With some of the stringent marijuana laws in the country, Virginia NORML continues to work with state lawmaker on a wide range of marijuana reform bills.

“We will continue to work educating lawmakers who wish to learn more about cannabis science and widely accepted medical applications, the successful decriminalization legislation in 21 states and successful medical legislation in 24 states.”
http://www.dailyprogress.com/starexponent/house-gop-favors-criminal-penalties-for-marijuana-possession/article_fdb5d256-c706-11e5-89c2-1b85526f966e.html

Washington:

Washington NORML is encouraging lawmakers to support a bill that would permit the home cultivation of marijuana.

“NORML Washington is doing a great job leading this fight to grow your own marijuana. They have even made it possible for you to help the movement from your computer/tablet/phone. Here’s a letter they’ve put together for you to send to your representatives and urge their support for personal cultivation”
http://www.marijuana.com/blog/news/2016/02/if-marijuana-is-legal-why-is-growing-your-own-a-felony/

Wyoming:

After going through a much needed reorganization, Wyoming NORML has assembled a strong team who are dedicated to passing the Peggy A. Kelley Wyoming Cannabis Act of 2016.

“We haven’t stopped on that from day one, but in the same process we just had to get things a little more organized and get a better structure in here.”
http://kgab.com/wyoming-norml-makes-final-push-to-get-medical-marijuana-question-on-2016-ballot/

“NORML Wyoming spokeswoman Carrie Satterwhite said the group has the fewest number of volunteer petition circulators in the conservative northeast part of the state, but that region will be targeted in the upcoming months”
http://www.wyomingnews.com/opinion/drake-medical-marijuana-will-improve-quality-of-life/article_a6184c86-c652-11e5-8361-4fcfb98c3a2f.html

“Even though Wyoming NORML didn’t get enough signatures this year, members say if they have enough signatures for the 2018 ballot, medicinal marijuana could help Wyoming in the long run.”

Federal:

NORML’s deputy director, Paul Armentano recently spoke to reporters about the need for a common sense approach to ending the prohibition of marijuana in America.

“This administration clearly recognizes that the present enforcement of marijuana prohibition and marijuana criminalization is out of step with both public opinion and common sense,”
https://www.mintpressnews.com/212416-2/212416/

NORML board member and passionate marijuana advocate will prove to be one of this year’s most effective weapon in the war against the prohibition marijuana.

“Steves has been on the board of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) for years and he has worked closely with Washington pot initiative author Alison Holcomb, who now heads the American Civil Liberties Union’s Campaign for Smart Justice”
http://crosscut.com/2016/02/rick-steves-ready-to-push-pot-nationally/

During a recent interview, NORML’s deputy director, Paul Armentano shared his thoughts on a recent study about the health risks associated with marijuana use.

“Ultimately, this study’s findings are consistent with the notion that while cannabis is not altogether harmless, its potential risks to health relative to other substances — including legal substances like alcohol, tobacco and prescription medications — are not so great to warrant its continued criminalization,”
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/marijuana-use-may-hurt-memory-in-middle-age/

Events:

2016 NORML Congressional Lobby Day

NORML Houston Marches at the State Capital

Illinois NORML Lobby Day Feb. 17, 2016

Veterans: Operation Trapped – Year Long Project

Texas NORML’s 3rd Annual Puff-N-Putt Spring Fling at Willie’s Golf Course

Texas NORML’s 9th Texas Marijuana March

Texas NORML Statewide Veteran Conference Call

Georgia Representative Working to Fix Medical Marijuana Program

The Georgia government enacted an ineffective law last year that was intended to provide relief to patients with epilepsy, but which didn’t provide for a source of medical marijuana within the state.

Rep. Allen Peake

Since then, state Rep. Allen Peake (R) publicly admitted to illegally transporting medical marijuana from Colorado to Georgia to help some parents with epileptic children, and he’s now pushing hard to fix the ineffective law by legalizing dispensaries for patients to purchase medical marijuana.

If you are a Georgia resident, please tell your lawmakers to support a workable medical marijuana bill. 

The post Georgia Representative Working to Fix Medical Marijuana Program appeared first on MPP Blog.

Maine Campaign Submits More Than Twice Signatures Necessary to Qualify for Ballot

After months of hard work, the

Soon, we will hear back from the Secretary of State, but we are very confident that our campaign collected enough valid signatures to qualify for the November ballot.

The post Maine Campaign Submits More Than Twice Signatures Necessary to Qualify for Ballot appeared first on MPP Blog.

Arizona Campaign Uses Billboard to Educate Golf Fans

This weekend, the Waste Management Phoenix Open, one of the largest golf events of the year, will take place in Scottsdale. This tournament has been called “The Greatest Party on Grass,” based, in part, on the amount of alcohol consumed at the event. The tournament even has Coors as one of its sponsors.

In response, the Campaign to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol posted a billboard in Phoenix posing the question, “If beer and golf make for the ‘Greatest Party on Grass’… Why can’t adults enjoy a safer party on grass?” As you can see, it is a fun billboard. But the message is quite serious. We as a society let adults enjoy alcohol — as we should — but we punish adults who prefer a safer substance. That’s just wrong.

The post Arizona Campaign Uses Billboard to Educate Golf Fans appeared first on MPP Blog.

Annual Arrests for Marijuana in NYC Drop From 51,000 in 2011 to Under 17,000 in 2015

According to data just released by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, New York City marijuana arrests in 2015 dropped to under 17,000 for the first time since 1996. The 16,590 arrests for low-level marijuana possession in 2015 is a 42% decline from the 26,386 in 2014 and a 67% drop from the nearly 51,000 arrests in 2011.

As we all know, the NYPD has been on a marijuana arrest crusade for the last 20 years. Spending billions of dollars and wasting millions of police hours making nearly 700,000 arrests for low-level marijuana possession. What’s worse is that the vast majority of those arrested (86 percent) are young black and Latino New Yorkers, despite the fact that they use marijuana at lower rates than their white peers.

However, things slowly began to change in 2010 when VOCAL-NY, the Marijuana Arrest Research Project, the Center for NuLeadership, and the Drug Policy Alliance launched a multi-sector campaign to expose the racism and waste that’s at the heart of marijuana enforcement in New York. We published reports, rallied at Albany and City Hall, pushed for legislative fixes, and told the stories of individuals who had their lives upended because of a simple marijuana possession.

And now, we’re winning!

In 2015, marijuana arrests were at the lowest they’ve been since 1996, when George Pataki was Governor of New York and “Macarena” by Los Del Rio was the number one song on the Billboard Top 100.

Although we are pleased that marijuana arrests are down overall, we cannot yet declare “mission accomplished”. Simple marijuana possession arrests have been on the decline for the last four years, since we began our work, but they still remain 19 times the rate they were at the start of the 1990’s. Furthermore, despite the overall decline in arrests there’s been virtually no change in the racial dis-proportionality of the arrests with Black and Latino New Yorkers still making up nearly 90 percent of those arrested.

Meanwhile, states like Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and Alaska have already recognized the need to change the way they deal with marijuana. They’ve begun this process by creating a system to tax and regulate marijuana sales and use. Even Washington, D.C., a city that has seen similar racial disparities in the enforcement of marijuana prohibition, has seen over a 99 percent reduction in marijuana possession arrests (over their first 8 months of legalization).

As the country contemplates marijuana reform, New York has a second chance to enact policies that promote justice and economic growth and an opportunity to lead the way in repairing the harms that the drug war has already inflicted on low-income communities of color.

New York can do this by passing the Fairness and Equity Act and The Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. These bills will honor the spirit and intent of the 1977 Decriminalization law by ending marijuana arrests for all instances of low-level marijuana possession, allow for investment in the communities that have been ravaged by prohibition, and address the collateral consequences that two decades of senseless marijuana arrests have created.

We are now back to where we started in 1996, except this time we know what happens when we embrace failed drug war tactics – it’s time for a new approach.

Kassandra Frederique is the director of the New York policy office of the Drug Policy Alliance.
Alyssa Aguilera is the political director of VOCAL-NY.

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Author: Kassandra Frederique and Alyssa Aguilera
Date Published: February 4, 2016
Published by Drug Policy Alliance

Save The Date: 2016 NORML Congressional Lobby Day in Washington D.C.

NORML’s 2016 Congressional Lobby Day at the United States Capitol is scheduled for May 23rd and 24th. Hundreds of marijuana consumers, activists, patients and business owners are expected to attend a day-long training and informational conference on Monday and re-convene on The Hill Tuesday to personally lobby their elected members of the House of Representatives and Senate.

Whether you’re a longtime activist, young college student, medical marijuana patient or simply just a marijuana consumer and NORML supporter, consider taking the next step and travelling to Washington D.C. to directly lobby Congress in support of common sense marijuana law reform. You’ll meet like minded activists from across the country and you’ll get a glimpse into the Capitol Hill lawmaking process!

Scheduling and registration information will soon be posted to norml.org, and promoted as well across NORML’s network via listservs, Facebook, Twitter, etc. Please save the dates and participate in this historic lobbying effort in our nation’s capital at this crucial time in the law reform effort as cannabis prohibition increasingly gives way to legalization!

For planning purposes you can look up hotel information. Our day-long training and informational conference on Monday will be held at 1957 E Street if you wish to look for something close to the planned activities. Last year, participants also benefited from booking with AirBnb.

Legal Colorado Marijuana Market Hurting Drug Cartels

According to a story published today by Fox News Latino, the legal marijuana market in Colorado is partially responsible for decreased Mexican drug cartel activity within the U.S. and along the border.

Legal marijuana in Colorado seems to have helped with resolving the problem of drugs in Mexico, says the report, citing the pro-marijuana Weed Blog, which says that over the past two years trafficking of the drug by Mexican cartels has dropped by “up to 70 percent.”

An official report by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration in October 2015 confirmed the reduction, showing that in 2014 there had been a year-on-year 23 percent drop in border smuggling.

The post Legal Colorado Marijuana Market Hurting Drug Cartels appeared first on MPP Blog.

California Medical Association Officially Endorses Marijuana Initiative

On Monday, the California Medical Association announced that it was officially supporting the Adult Use of Marijuana Act (AUMA), which would make marijuana legal for adults in California and regulate it similarly to alcohol.

The Sacramento Bee reports:

CMA officials, in a statement released by the legalization campaign, which is funded by billionaire venture capitalist Sean Parker and supported by Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, said their rationale was twofold: Under a legal market, cannabis could be monitored, researched, regulated and mitigated to protect the public health; and improper diversion by healthy patients into the medical marijuana system could reduced. They stressed they do not encourage marijuana use and discourage smoking.

“The California Medical Association believes the Adult Use of Marijuana Act is a comprehensive and thoughtfully constructed measure that will allow state officials to better protect public health by clarifying the role of physicians, controlling and regulating marijuana use by responsible adults and keeping it out of the hands of children,” Dr. Steven Larson, CMA’s president, said in prepared remarks.

“Medical marijuana should be strictly regulated like medicine to ensure safe and appropriate use by patients with legitimate health conditions and adult-use marijuana should be regulated like alcohol. This measure – along with the recently-passed medical marijuana bills – will ensure the State of California does both – while keeping the public health and public interest as paramount concerns,” Larson added.

The post California Medical Association Officially Endorses Marijuana Initiative appeared first on MPP Blog.

Illinois Governor Rejects Adding Conditions to Medical Cannabis Program

Despite a recommendation from the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner decided not to add eight medical conditions to the state’s medical cannabis pilot program. This is the second time his health department has turned down expanding the list of qualifying conditions.

Gov. Bruce Rauner (IMAGE: Local150.org)

The petition included four pain syndromes and post-traumatic stress disorder.

The first time Gov. Rauner’s health department rejected new conditions, the governor noted that the program was not yet fully up and running. However, now that dispensaries have opened in Illinois, that reasoning no longer applies. The Medical Cannabis Advisory Board reviewed relevant studies and heard testimony from patients who could find relief if their conditions were added to the program.

Adding qualifying conditions would significantly improve the state program. The medical cannabis program recognizes only a narrow range of conditions, and Illinois is one of very few medical marijuana states that excludes patients with serious pain.

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Vape Pens: What You Should Know

Vape pens continue to grow in popularity due to their discreet nature. Here’s why — they contain a battery-powered heating element that vaporizes your cannabis…

The post Vape Pens: What You Should Know appeared first on Leaf Science.

D.C. Voters Want Mayor to Work Around Congressional Ban on Regulating Marijuana Like Alcohol

A survey release this week by Public Policy Polling showed that 66% of voters in the

Voters overwhelming approved Initiative 71 in 2014, which made marijuana legal in the nation’s capital, but Congress passed a budget rider that prevents the implementation of regulated commercial cultivation and retail establishments. Provisions related to personal possession and limited home cultivation were unaffected by the law and are currently legal in D.C.

This poll shows that the vast majority of D.C. voters would support the mayor using reserve funds to implement a system to tax and regulate marijuana. This would not only show that D.C. rejects Congressional interference with the will of the voters, but also bring the illicit marijuana market out of the shadows and reap millions in tax revenue.

In addition, 61% of voters are in favor of giving adults a safe and lawful place to consume marijuana outside their homes. Supporters including MPP met with the mayor last week, and she said she was open to working with us and our allies on the D.C. Council to move forward on a compromise that would end the blanket ban on use outside the home, currently set to expire on April 13. This will help restore the rights that D.C. voters supported when they voted yes on Initiative 71.

The post D.C. Voters Want Mayor to Work Around Congressional Ban on Regulating Marijuana Like Alcohol appeared first on MPP Blog.

NORML’s Legislative Round Up January 29th, 2016

Exciting news from across the country with NEW legislation being introduced and promising legislation moving forward! This week we highlight Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Maryland, New
Mexico, New Orleans, and Vermont. Plus our lawmakers in Congress and lawmakers in Puerto Rico took action this week too! Keep reading below to get the latest in marijuana law reform.

International: 

Puerto Rico: Health Department officials have signed off on regulations overseeing the licensed production and distribution of medical cannabis within the US territory. The new program is anticipated to be operational by year’s end.

Puerto Rico Gov. Alejandro J. Garcia Padilla signed an executive order in May calling on health officials to adopt regulations permitting medical cannabis production and access. Under the new plan, patients who possess a physician’s authorization will be able to obtain cannabis-infused products, such as oils and pills, from state-licensed facilities.

Patients will not be permitted to cultivate their own marijuana and herbal formulations of medical cannabis will not be permitted.

Federal: On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of lawmakers signed on to a letter addressed to the Veteran’s Administration (VA) requesting a policy change be made to allow veterans to access medical marijuana.

Current law prevents VA doctors from recommending medical marijuana to patients, even in states where it is legal for qualified patients to possess it. Senators Gillibrand (D-NY), Daines (R-MT), Merkley (D-OR), and Reps. Blumenauer (D-OR), Rohrabacher (R-CA) and Titus (D-NV) are leading the efforts in reforming this nonsensical policy. If these Senators and Representatives are from your state, consider giving their office a call and thanking them for their work on medical marijuana! You can find your lawmakers contact info here.

State:

Arizona: After a Republican lawmaker this week received hundreds of complaints, he withdrew his bill that aimed to restrict access to medical marijuana in the state.

The bill would have denied physicians practicing alternative medicine such as naturopathy and homeopathy the ability to recommend cannabis therapy.

California: Legislation that seeks to dissuade California cities and counties from enacting municipal restrictions on the cultivation and dispensing of medical marijuana has been approved lawmakers and awaits the Governor’s signature. Once signed into law, the bill will take immediate effect.

Assembly Bill 21 amends a drafting error in the The Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act by removing an apparent March 1, 2016 deadline for localities to establish their own cultivation regulations or else forfeit that authority to the state. It also removes objectionable language authorizing local governments to prohibit patients from cultivating, storing, donating or processing marijuana for their own personal use.

In recent months, numerous California cities and counties have hastily enacted provisional bans on medical marijuana-related activities out of fear that the state would become to sole authority on the issue following the March 1 deadline. Passage of AB 21 states that localities retain the ability to regulate medical marijuana production and commerce in the manner that they see best. The hope is that localities will halt efforts to impose restrictions, and will reconsider existing moratoriums, now that it is clear that local lawmakers will continue to possess the authority to legislate the issue beyond March 1, 2016.

Further information on both pending and enacted local ordinances, as well as talking points to best address them, is available from California NORML here.

Florida: Floridians will decide on a proposed constitutional amendment this November that seeks to permit the physician-authorized use and distribution of cannabis for therapeutic purposes.

Proponents of the measure, United for Care, collected more than the 683,000 signatures required to place the measure on the November ballot, the Florida Division of Elections confirmed this week.

Passage of the amendment would permit qualified patients to possess and obtain cannabis from state-licensed facilities.In November 2014, Floridians narrowly rejected a similar amendment, which received 58 percent of the vote.

Hawaii: Legalization, decriminalization, and hemp measures are all pending in the Hawaii state legislature.

Senate Bill 873 amends the criminal code to remove criminal penalties specific to the possession and cultivation of marijuana for personal use by those age 21 or older. The measure is presently pending before the House Judiciary Committee.

Senate Bill 596 SD 1 reclassifies possession of less than one ounce of marijuana from a criminal misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,000 fine to a civil violation, punishable by a $100 fine only — no arrest and no criminal record.

Senate Bill 2787 encourages the state Department of Agriculture to license farmers to grow industrial hemp for “research and development purposes.”

To find more information on all of these measures, check out our #TakeAction Center here.

Kansas: Members of the Senate will take a floor vote on legislation, HB 2049, to amend various penalties and regulations specific to marijuana possession and use.

House Bill 2049 seeks to a) establish a statewide research program to oversee the production of industrial hemp, b) authorize the limited use of cannabidiol for therapeutic purposes, and c) reduce criminal penalties for first-time marijuana possession offenses from a Class A misdemeanor(punishable by up to one year incarceration and a $2,500 fine) to a Class B misdemeanor (punishable by no more than six months in jail and a $1,000 fine). Second convictions will no longer be classified as a felony offense. Members of the House approved the measure last year.

Maryland: Legislation NORML opposes is pending in the Maryland General Assembly. House Bill 183 and House Bill 334 both seek to recriminalize offenses involving the public use of small amounts of marijuana. While NORML is generally supportive of efforts to dissuade the use of marijuana in public or in a vehicle, these measures are both unnecessary and overly punitive.

Under present law, it is not permissible to consume marijuana in public view. Those who do so are subject to a civil violation punishable by a fine of up to $500.00.

Both measures will be heard in the Judiciary Committee on February 9th at 1:00PM. To #TakeAction and contact your lawmakers to urge they not support this legislation click here.

New Mexico: New Mexico has both legalization and hemp measures pending.

House Bill 75 regulates and controls the commercial cultivation and retail sale of marijuana to adults over the age of 21. You can read the full text of this proposal here. Senate Joint Resolution 5 is pending action by the Senate Rules Committee.

SB 3 and HB 148, seek to permit the state Department of Agriculture to license farmers to grow industrial hemp for “research and development purposes.”

For more information on these measures or to take action and contact your lawmakers urging their support for these measures click here.

Vermont: Members of the Senate Committee on Judiciary voted 4 to 1 on Friday, January 29, in favor of pending legislation to regulate the adult use, production, and sale of cannabis. NORML wishes to thank those of you who contacted the Committee and urged their support for this important and historic legislation.

Senate Bill 241 now goes before the Senate Committee on Finance for further action.

Senate Bill 241 makes it legal for adults 21 years of age and older to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and regulates its commercial production and retail sale.

Local:

New Orleans: City Councilwoman Susan Guidry has proposed an ordinance change to treat minor marijuana possession offenses the same as  minor traffic infractions. Under the proposal, officers would have the option of issuing verbal and written warnings before any penalties kick in. Subsequent offenses would be dealt with through fines that would be capped at $100.

At this time of the year it’s hard to keep up with all of the newly introduced and pending marijuana related bills. Even this week, it was impossible to include every piece of legislation that moved so if you think there was action in your state, be sure to visit our #TakeAction Center to see an update.

Vermont Senate Committee Approves Marijuana Regulation Bill

The Vermont Senate Committee on Judiciary approved a bill (4-1) on Friday that would end marijuana prohibition in the state and regulate marijuana for adult use.

S. 241 would make it legal for adults 21 years of age and older to possess up to one ounce of marijuana and establish a tightly controlled system of licensed marijuana cultivation sites, testing facilities, and retail stores. It would also create a study commission to examine issues such as edible marijuana products and home cultivation, which would not be allowed under the bill. It would remain illegal to consume marijuana in public or drive under the influence of marijuana. If approved, the new law would not take effect until January 2018.

The bill will now go to the Senate Committee on Finance for consideration. Please visit the Vermont Coalition to Regulate Marijuana to find out how you can help.

The post Vermont Senate Committee Approves Marijuana Regulation Bill appeared first on MPP Blog.

Celebrating the Life of a Legend; May He Rest in Peace

Michael J. Kennedy

I just returned from attending the wake and memorial service held in New York for the legendary civil rights and criminal defense attorney, Michael J. Kennedy. It was truly an inspiring experience, and underscored the crucial role of criminal defense lawyers in society

Kennedy was a giant in the legal profession, a brilliant, creative and compassionate attorney who was drawn to those cases that seemed hopeless and unwinable, because he saw injustice and was compelled to try to help the victims. He had empathy for the less fortunate among us and saw the humanity in even the most despised defendants. They were all created equal in God’s eyes, and in Kennedys mind and soul, they deserved equal treatment.

And he was an unabashedly outspoken “lefty,” as we were called during the contentious cultural battles that led the country out of the war in Vietnam, and provided African Americans the opportunity to claim an equal role in society.

Kennedy was involved in many of the high-profile, political cases arising out of the tumultuous decades that ended the 20th Century. And the wonderfully consistent point of most all of his cases was protecting the individual against the awesome power of the state. He provided a voice for the underdog and the oppressed, and he did it with elegance and style.

The list of his clients during those decades reads like a “Who’s Who” of radical politics. For those younger readers who may not immediately recognize the names or the cases, I encourage you to do a quick Wikipedia search, and learn just how important those people and their causes were at that time.

For those of us who came of age during the Vietnam war, and the anti-Vietnam war demonstrations, no case was more important than the case of the Chicago 8, the anti-war activists who had been charged with inciting a riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. The defendants were all prominent anti-war radicals including Abby Hoffman and Jerry Rubin from the Youth International Party (the Yippies); Rennie Davis and Tom Hayden with the Students for a Democratic Society (SDS); Bobby Seale of the Black Panthers; and David Delinger from the National Mobilization Committee (NMC). Kennedy represented Rennie Davis in the Chicago conspiracy trial, as well as when he was subpoenaed to testify before the US House Un-American Activities Committee.

And he represented Black Panther Huey Newton on murder charges in Oakland. And Bernadine Dohrn of the then-infamous Weathermen. And a Penobscot Native American arrested for assaulting an FBI agent in Wounded Knee. And members of the Brotherhood of Eternal Love (the LSD group to which Tim Leary also belonged). And seven young Mexican Americans (Los Siete de la Raza), charged with murdering a police officer in San Francisco.

The list goes on and on and includes many non-famous defendants as well, many of whom Kennedy represented pro bono, because he recognized they were being destroyed by a hostile government that wanted to silence their voices.

Tom Forcade and High Times Magazine

Kennedy also represented Tom Forcade, a marijuana smuggler who founded High Times magazine in 1974. Forcade, who also founded the Underground Press Syndicate to connect alternative newspapers, and whom I first met in Miami Beach in 1972 at the Democratic National Convention selling marijuana to demonstrators from the People’s Pot Tree, once famously said there are only two kinds of smugglers; those who need a fork lift, and those who don’t! Clearly Forcade needed the forklift, and he needed Michael Kennedy to stay out of jail.

Kennedy was the general counsel to High Times from it’s founding to the time of his death. And true to Forcade’s desire that the magazine always support NORML, he continued and expanded their support, making High Times the single largest financial supporter in NORML’s history. It was an enduring partnership that has served marijuana smokers well over these many decades.

In more recent times, as we began to enact legalization measures in more and more states, Kennedy was one of the strongest voices reminding everyone that we must not forget those prisoners who are still in prison on marijuana charges, including a petition for clemency he and his associate David Holland filed with the Obama Justice Department seeking clemency for a number of non-violent marijuana prisoners serving life sentences.

So we lament Michael Kennedy’s passing as a tremendous personal loss for those of us who were fortunate to know him and work with him over these many years, and even more importantly, for the loss of one of the truly great advocates for personal freedom and equality for all people. Michael had a quick Irish wit, and for those who came up against him, a quick Irish temper; but he generally spoke softly, with the knowledge that truth and justice are powerful allies in the struggle for freedom.

It is terribly sad to lose an old friend and political ally, but the memorial service was an appropriate reflection of a life well-lived. Michael Kennedy was an extraordinary individual who could not ignore injustice when he saw it.

______________________________________________________________

This column first appeared on Mariijuana.com.

http://www.marijuana.com/blog/news/2016/01/celebrating-the-life-of-a-legend-may-he-rest-in-peace/

Marijuana Policy Bills Progressing in Kansas

Two bills that would improve Kansas’ marijuana policies have passed the House and are moving in the Senate.

The first bill, now called SB 147, would permit patients with seizures to access low-THC cannabis, called medical hemp preparations in the bill. While it is not a full medical marijuana law and would leave many patients behind, the bill proposes a workable system to provide immediate relief to some seriously ill Kansans. In addition, by passing the House, it has advanced much further than any medical marijuana bill ever has in Kansas.

The second bill, which is currently designated as the Senate Sub. for HB 2049, would reduce the penalty for first, second, and third-time marijuana possession. A first offense would be punishable by a maximum of six months, instead of one year, in jail, and a second offense would no longer be a felony, removing many of the associated collateral consequences. The Senate combined the marijuana-related provisions with another bill that increases penalties for burglary, on which MPP does not take a position.

If you are a Kansas resident, please urge your senators to support common sense reform.

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Study: Marijuana May Ease Migraine Headaches

New research suggests marijuana may be an effective treatment for migraine headaches. Migraines are a severe form of reoccurring headache that affect 36 million Americans…

The post Study: Marijuana May Ease Migraine Headaches appeared first on Leaf Science.

Top 7 Portable Vaporizers of 2015

So you’ve decided the time is right to purchase a portable vaporizer – great! Now comes the tricky part of figuring out exactly which unit…

The post Top 7 Portable Vaporizers of 2015 appeared first on Leaf Science.

Is Cannabis Good For ADHD?

Doctors and researchers are voicing support for cannabis as a way of managing ADHD. Relaxation is one of the most known effects of cannabis. But…

The post Is Cannabis Good For ADHD? appeared first on Leaf Science.

The Cannabis Taxonomy Debate: Where Do Indica and Sativa Classifications Come From?

Cannabis sativa, C. indica, C. ruderalis — it’s possible that you’ve already heard these terms used to describe different species of cannabis. Sativa plants are known for their skinny leaflets, tall stature, long flowering times, and a stimulating, cerebral high. Indicas are thought to be short, bushy plants with wide leaflets, used for hashish production and possessing a powerful, sedating body high. Ruderalis is the feral, ancestral relative with its low THC content and auto-flowering characteristics. Recently, though, new research and technological advances have led to a greater understanding of the cannabis plant, which in turn has led to a new approach to the taxonomic classification of the cannabis family.

First, let’s look at the etymology of the currently accepted taxonomy. Cannabis is an adaptation of an ancient word for the hemp plant and is the longstanding name of the genus that includes all hemp and drug varieties of the plant. Sativa is a Latin adjective meaning “cultivated,” indica is Latin for “of India,” and ruderalis is based on the Latin rūdera, the plural of a word meaning “rubble, lump, or rough piece of bronze.” Ruderal plant varieties are those that pop up first in an area that has been cleared of other vegetation or barriers to propagation (growing “out of the rubble,” if you will).

At first glance, these seem like fairly accurate descriptions for three distinct species. What we consider to be sativa has long been cultivated by humans for its seed, fiber, and flowers. Cannabis indica may well have developed on the Indian subcontinent, and ruderalis is a feral, weedy plant that thrives in harsh conditions. However, new discoveries and DNA analyses have provided a much more likely picture of how these species developed and how they are related.

To date, the history of the cannabis plant is still a bit of a mystery. The evidence suggests that it originated in Central Asia. Sometime near the end of the Pleistocene epoch, it migrated to small geographic pockets in Western and Southern Asia, as well as what is now the Balkans and Caucasus Mountains. This represents the first major geographical split in the cannabis population, and is thought to be the main factor in producing two distinctly different species: plants bred and grown for oil seed and hemp fiber (Eastern Europe/Western Asia), and those selected for their psychoactive properties (South and East Asia). Geographical barriers like the Himalayan Mountains kept these two populations ostensibly separate for centuries, thus allowing natural and artificial selection to create two very different types of cannabis.

It’s important to note that human selection is the most influential factor in the rise of these two different species. Ancient cultures in Eastern and Southern Asia had many available plants that provided fiber and food, so they selected cannabis plants for their psychoactive properties, probably as a spiritual aid. Conversely, Western/Northern cultures had fewer available sources of sustenance and cordage, so they selected cannabis plants for those properties.

Cannabis researchers are now starting to coalesce around a system of taxonomy proposed by Robert C. Clarke and Mark D. Merlin in their exhaustively researched book Cannabis: Evolution and Ethnobotany. Using historical and recent publications as a launch pad, Clarke and Merlin produced the most thorough examination of the cannabis plant to date, using archaeological findings, historical accounts, and DNA sequencing along with their own personal findings and observations to present a very compelling explanation for their proposed taxonomy.

The previously mentioned split between western hemp fiber cannabis and eastern drug cannabis proves to be the linchpin of this “rope vs. dope” system. Cannabis ruderalis is considered to be either the ancestor of both of these types, or, more likely, a hybrid of this ancestor and some newer, “escaped” cultivars. In their system, Cannabis sativa encompasses all narrow-leafleted, low THC plants cultivated for hemp fiber and seeds, grown all across Europe and in North America and parts of South America as well. Cannabis indica refers to all varieties cultivated for their drug content, whether it’s the broad-leafleted plants we associate with Afghanistan and the Hindu Kush Mountains or the narrow-leafleted varieties cultivated in India, Southeast Asia, South America, Mexico, and Jamaica.

Decades of research by dedicated ethnobotanists and various methods of DNA analyses have helped to create what is probably the most accurate taxonomic structure to date. It may lead to a future change in vernacular used in the cannabis industry, but, for now, we’ll continue to refer to our bushy, broad-leafleted, sedating varieties as indicas, and our tall, narrow-leafleted, stimulating varieties as sativas. Using the new taxonomical nomenclature would surely present much confusion for retailers and consumers, so it’s unlikely that the current meanings will be abandoned any time soon.

References: Cannabis: Evolution and Ethnobotany by Robert C. Clarke and Mark D. Merlin, copyright 2013, University of California Press

Hawaii Cannabist: No clues ahead for transport, testing

“Hawaii is going to be a really interesting market in general, basically because of the geography,” said Chris Walsh, managing editor of Marijuana Business Daily. “First, it’s a chain of islands separated by bodies of water, and second, it’s remote.” Edited to reflect more recent developments. The Hawaii Department of Health, known for it’s horrifying […]

Cannabis in the Kitchen: How to Get Flirty with Your Partner Using Food as Foreplay

Sex and cannabis help infuse joy into even the most mundane household activities. This week, we’re focusing on sexy time in the kitchen. Few things bring me as much joy as cooking or baking while baked, and having a partner next to me at the counter makes it even more fun. For making a meal, whipping up a sensual snack, or other food-centric activities, I’d suggest trying creative strains like Jack Herer or Blue Dream, both of which I’ve used successfully for sexy time. You can also check out some active sativas and hybrids or some motivating strains to get the ball rolling.

Food play doesn’t have to be a fetish–it could just be a fun way to interact. Imagine one partner is making dinner, let’s say spaghetti, and is stirring the pot of sauce on the stove. Partner A can stir the sauce and pull out the wooden spoon to taste it and make sure the flavor is just right. Perhaps partner B is standing nearby and asks for a taste. Voila! Instant opportunity! A quick kiss, licking sauce off the corner of the mouth, or possibly a playful food fight, and you’ve just had a nice sexy moment.

You can also use food as a road map for intimacy. Dessert is always a sensual option — try planning a fun night where you and your partner turn each other into “human sundaes.” Gather your favorite sundae ingredients such as chocolate sauce, whipped cream, honey, peanut butter, caramel, etc., and drizzle it wherever you want your partner to lick, kiss, or nibble. (Pro tip: Ladies, keep anything containing sugar away from your vagina. It’s a recipe for an infection, which is anything but sexy.) If you’re baking something tasty, have your partner lick the icing/batter off your finger. The fingertips have tons of nerve endings, and it can be incredibly arousing.

Sexy time doesn’t have to be long, drawn out, or planned. Frequent touching, kissing, or caressing throughout the day can do wonders to remind your partner just how much they love sexy time with you. Whatever your approach, the most important thing to keep in mind is get creative and have fun! If sexy time isn’t playful, what’s the point? A sense of humor is vital to a healthy sexual experience. Real people don’t go at it like porn stars—there are no flawless bodies or perfect sexual interactions. Some of the best advice I ever received was “enjoy the sex you’re having.” Don’t try to have the kind of sexual experience you think you’re “supposed” to have.

Keep in mind that I’ve used the phrase “sexy time” instead of “sex” throughout this article. I think people naturally think of sex as intercourse, and I don’t want to limit the experience. Sexy time could include intercourse, but it can also encompass oral stimulation, touching, rubbing, licking, caressing, kissing, cuddling, and all manner of other activities in which you and a partner choose to engage. The only limit is your imagination. Remember: your partner’s body is a treasure map, and there are lots of X’s! Bon appetit!

Cannabis and Cancer

This is part one of a two-part series. Part two will examine the evidence that cannabis can cure cancer.

Cancer has touched the lives of nearly every American, either directly or through a loved one. Although the US Food & Drug Administration hasn’t approved marijuana as a cancer treatment, America’s shifting legal landscape has encouraged many patients to consult their physicians about the effects it can have on cancer and cancer-related symptoms.

The medical benefits of cannabis are no secret. In October 2003, the government patented medical marijuana under US Patent # 6630507, which mentions the antioxidant properties of cannabinoids. The patent also identifies the active chemicals in cannabis that cause drug-like effects on the body, and cites their benefits for patients going through chemo, radiation, or other sources of oxidative stress.

What is Cancer?

Cancer is not one disease, but the name given to a collection of related diseases characterized by an abnormal growth of cells. There are more than 100 different types of cancer that are caused by both external factors (such as smoking, viruses, or carcinogens) and genetic factors (such as genetic mutation inherited from one’s parents). Trillions of cells compose the human body, meaning cancer could start anywhere.

Like humans, cells grow old or become damaged and eventually die. Other cells grow and divide to form new ones to replace these old and damaged cells, but when cancer develops, abnormal cells including the old and damaged ones survive even though they should die. Some of the body’s cells will start to divide interminably and spread into surrounding tissues, creating new cancerous cells that aren’t needed. And since these new cells won’t stop growing and dividing, they are likely to hide in the immune system and form abnormal growths like masses of tissue known as tumors.

Cancerous tumors can spread into and invade nearby tissues because they’re malignant. Although they can be removed, these tumors are likely to grow back. As tumors grow, cancer cells can break off and travel through the blood or the lymph system to any other part of the body to form new tumors — often far away from the original one. This process is known as metastasis.

Benign tumors, on the other hand, don’t spread to or invade nearby tissue and won’t grow back after being removed. Unfortunately, benign tumors in the brain can be life-threatening.

What are the Symptoms of Cancer?

Cancer (and its treatments) leave its host feeling weak and dizzy. Symptoms may differ depending on where in the body the cancer is located, but may include:

• Blood in pee or stools
• Bruising
• Changes in genitalia
• Coughs lasting more than a month or accompanied by blood
• Depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficult bowel movements
• Discomfort after eating
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Heartburn
• Lumps or swelling
• Persistent indigestion
• Night sweats
• Spots and growths on the skin or changes in size, shape, and color of an already-existing mole like yellowing, darkening, or redness
• Sores that won’t heal
• Weight loss
• Weight gain
• Unexplained bleeding
• Unexplained joint pain

What are Current Cancer Treatments?

Cancer treatment can be costly and time-consuming, often requiring repeat visits to administer treatments in cycles. Doctors will likely begin by performing a biopsy to determine which treatment will be most effective.

Surgery: Surgeries can be performed to remove or debulk tumors and ease the pains and pressure they’re causing. Tumors can sometimes be removed using minimally invasive surgery. Surgeons will often remove some healthy tissue and lymph nodes as well.

Radiation: High doses of radiation can kill cancer cells after weeks of treatment or slow their growth, as well as shrink tumors. Sadly, it can take months for the cancerous cells to die and radiation can leave patients feeling exhausted by killing or damaging healthy cells.

Chemotherapy: Chemo, which is the use of drugs to directly kill cancer cells, became one of the most common ways to treat cancer in the 1940s. It is often administered in cycles. Today, more than 100 drugs are used to treat cancer, while more are being investigated and developed.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is the administration of living organisms to stimulate the immune response, which often leaves the patient with flu-like symptoms.

Hormones: Administered orally, via injection, or during surgery, hormone therapy can be used to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells and reduce or prevent cancer symptoms from arising. It can be used with other treatments to lessen the chance of the cancer returning. Along with nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue, hormone therapy may weaken bones and cause menstrual changes in women.

Heat: Local hyperthermia can destroy small areas of cells (like a tumor), while regional hyperthermia, or whole-body hyperthermia, can be used in conjunction with other treatments to help them work better. Hyperthermia may be created externally, using a machine’s high energy waves aimed at the tumor, or internally, when a thin needle is put right into the tumor to release heat energy.

How Can Cannabis Help Cancer?

Cannabis contains at least 85 different types of cannabinoids, the active chemicals that create drug-like effects throughout the body. The impact of these cannabinoids in treating cancer symptoms as well as the side effects of cancer therapies is so favorable, cannabinoids are synthesized for legal, prescription use. Dronabinol and Nabilone/Cesamet, two synthetic pill forms of THC, are FDA-approved and currently being used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with chemo.

Cannabinoids that are known to benefit people living with cancer include CBC, CBD, CBDa, CBG, THC, and THCa. Cannabidiol (CBD) is known to relieve pain, lower inflammation, and decrease anxiety without the “high” of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. In Canada, a cannabis extract containing THC and CBD called Nabiximols/Sativex is approved for pain relief in patients with advanced cancer and multiple sclerosis.

According to the U.S. government’s National Cancer Institute, other effects of cannabinoids include anti-inflammatory activity, blocking cell growth, preventing the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors, fighting viruses, and relieving muscle spasms.

NCI also acknowledges that inhaled cannabis is attributed to improved mood and sense of well-being. Studies suggest cannabis can be used for symptom management in cancer patients by preventing vomiting, stimulating appetite, providing pain relief, and improving sleep as well as inhibiting the growth of certain types of tumors.

Other studies leading scientists down promising avenues of cancer treatment include:

• A 1979 study showed THC damaged and killed liver cancer cells and, when the study was repeated in mouse models, showed it had anti-tumor effects that could aid in the fight against lung and breast cancer.
• A 1996 study discovered the protective effects of cannabinoids on the development of certain types of tumors. Cannabinoids were observed causing cell death, blocking cell growth, and preventing the development of the blood vessels tumors needed to grow — suggesting cannabinoids may be able to kill cancer cells while protecting normal cells.
• A series of studies on brain tumors conducted in 2003 proved CBD may make chemo more effective and increase the deaths of cancer cells without harming normal cells.
• A 2004 study on mice which showed cannabinoids protect against inflammation of the colon, thus reducing the risk of colon cancer and possibly aiding in its treatment.
• In 2011, the American Association for Cancer Research revealed CBD kills cells associated with breast cancer while having little to no effect on normal breast cells. When studied in mice, CBD reduced the growth, number, and spread of tumors.
• A study published in February 2015 found rates of bladder cancer are 45% lower in cannabis users, compared to those who do not use it.

Cannabinoid receptors have been discovered in the brain, spinal cord, and nerve endings throughout the body, suggesting cannabis may play a larger role in immunity as well.

Several studies are in progress on the effects of cannabis on cancer in adults, including:

• Treating solid tumors with oral CBD
• Treating recurrent glioblastoma multiform with a THC/CBD oral spray
• Treating graft-versus-host disease with CBD in patients who’ve undergone stem cell transplants

Stay tuned for part two of our Cannabis and Cancer series, where we look at whether cannabis can cure cancer.

Oaksterdam University Offers New Half Day Business Course At CA Cannabis Business Expo

Oaksterdam University is pleased to offer a very unique program in response to demand, and geared for current business owners and managers of dispensaries, and cultivation and manufacturing companies, as well as investors providing private equity and resources, and professional and business service providers. This program, which is part of the California Cannabis Business Expo

The Shake: Colorado Preps for Super Tuesday, Canada Turns Back Charlo Greene, Face-Blotting Rolling Papers

Colorado prepares to host first cannabis-legal presidential caucus. “Weed May Make Colorado Caucuses Actually Bearable,” says Bustle.com writer Emily Shire in a story about the pros and cons of preboarding prior to Colorado’s upcoming March 1 Super Tuesday caucuses. Speaking as a veteran of the 2008 Colorado Democratic caucus, I can confirm that Ms. Shire is on to something, especially if you’re voting blue. Organization ain’t the Democratic Party’s strong suit, and those caucuses can run lo-o-o-o-o-o-o-ng. If you choose to use, we suggest two things: discretion, as public consumption is illegal, and an energy-lifting sativa, so you aren’t snoozing when it finally comes time to raise your hand.

Cannabis Cup to Pueblo? Not necessarily, say county officials. Local bureaucrats seemed to be caught by surprise by the 4/20 Cannabis Cup’s move to Pueblo this year. They say the permits haven’t been issued yet, and Pueblo County Sheriff Kirk Taylor vowed to appeal the permits if approved. Meanwhile, property owner Tommy Giodone told the Pueblo Chieftain that he sent out a letter to neighbors alerting them that he’d booked a “Spring Festival.” Which seems a little… vague. Smells like a whole lot of drama is on its way.

Holder’s comments steam the clams of the NYT. The great Francis X. Clines, legendary New York Times reporter and rewrite man, takes note of the teeth-gnashing gall of former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, whose comments we reported here yesterday. ICYMI, the now-retired Holder told the PBS show Frontline that he was in favor of rescheduling cannabis. Fat lot of good that does us now, Eric. In the more tactful words of Mr. Clines: “This was hailed as encouraging news by marijuana enthusiasts who immediately asked why Mr. Holder didn’t push for this change when he was running the Justice Department.”

Alaska’s Charlo Greene arrested, turned back at Canadian border. The former Anchorage TV broadcaster, who blessed us with one of the world’s greatest “Fuck it, I quit” mic drops, was arrested and refused entry to Justin Trudeau’s homeland. Greene, on her way from Anchorage to Vancouver, B.C., to visit with folks at Phant Extracts, was stopped at customs at the Vancouver airport. “Laptops, cell phones, luggage, purses, even Charlo’s dog was searched,” Greene’s Facebook page reported. Border agents at YVR scraped enough “marijuana residue” from the bottom of her purse to charge her with suspicion of smuggling and deny her entry into the Great White North. After an unpleasant nine-hour visit in the customs office, Greene was sent back to the United States. Lesson: Cannabis is legal in Alaska, legal (medically) in Canada, but international borders exist in their own twilight zone. Travel clean, everybody. Like, scrub-your-purse clean.

It’s a facial blotter, it’s a rolling paper… it’s both! Not since the heyday of Shimmer — SNL’s floor wax and dessert topping — have we been so entranced by the discovery of a two-in-one product. It’s Milk Makeup’s Roll + Blot, the facial blotter that doubles as rolling papers! “Portable blotting sheets are made from unbleached hemp fibers to absorb excess oil and reduce shine,” say the folks at Milk. “Can also be used as rolling papers.” Bonus: All Milk Makeup products are cruelty-free. Watch that flame near your face, though.

QUICK HITS: Vermont Senate approves the nation’s first full legalization-by-legislation package. The bill now moves to the House. Wyoming still hates edibles, but maybe not as much as last week. State legislators moved to make possession of brownies ‘n’ stuff a misdemeanor instead of a felony. Texas(!) hosts its first cannabis convention this weekend, in Fort Worth. I’m sure all will be treated to a warm, respectful welcome by the local gendarmes. More media love for Foria Relief, as Business Insider says it “could be the future of period relief,” and accompanies the article with a photo of a non-medicated “typical tampon.” Friendly reminder: It’s not a damn tampon! Three words: cannabis crème gelato. It’s a thing at Perlecò, a local gelato shop in Alassio, Italy. And finally, your weekend starts here. Because owl rotation is amazing.

Image Source: Milk Makeup via Vimeo

Good Shepherd: Back to Reality Series

Primary Outcome Measures: Psychosis and Cannabis Quiz [ Time Frame: 1.5 hour -Post video game playing ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] Assess for significant differences in the responses between randomized intervention (Back to Reality series) group versus a control game group with respect to Psychosis and Cannabis Quiz measure. Effect will be tested at a 2-sided α level of 0.05. Early Psychosis […]

The Impact Of The Addition Of Budesonide To Low-Pressure, High-Volume Saline Sinus Irrigation For Chronic Rhinosinusitis

Placebo Comparator: Saline Alone Each study bottle will contain 60 capsules of placebo, which is lactose monohydrate and will be supplied in clear plastic capsules identical to the budesonide capsules. Subjects will be required to dissolve the contents of two capsules into the 8-ounce (240 ml) NeilMed Sinus Rinse Regular Bottle along with the saline […]

Planet Green Trees Radio Show #288 ‘Working Man’

Each week I perform “The Cannabis News” on The Planet Green Trees Radio Show. In honor of a visit to Michigan by Marijuana Business Daily reporter John Schroyer this week, I decided the broadcast on PGT #288 would be made up exclusively of news stories originating from the MJBD newsletters over the last seven days.

US CA: Column: Medicinal Taxation

Sacramento News & Review, 25 Feb 2016 – Last week, you mentioned a new tax on medical marijuana. Can you give me some more details? – -John Q. Publique I can indeed. Senate Bill 987, introduced by Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, imposes a 15 percent excise tax on marijuana which will be imposed on the purchaser at the retail level. This is in addition to the taxes that many cities and counties already place on the purchase of medicinal marijuana, making the effective rate 25 percent in some jurisdictions. Cannabis advocacy groups Americans for Safe Access and California NORML oppose this bill.

US CA: Local Group Challenges Recent Butte County Decisions on

Chico Enterprise-Record, 25 Feb 2016 – Oroville – A local group is seeking a vote on recent changes to Butte County’s medical marijuana cultivation rules and right to farm ordinance. The Inland Cannabis Farmers Association submitted about twice as many signatures as needed to challenge the Board of Supervisors’ Jan. 26 votes on the ordinances.

PGT #288-Working Man

Contributions from Rick Thompson from The Compassion Chronicles-also providing the news, and show producer Jamie Lowell from the Third Coast    Tonight- Dispensary raids continue throughout the state- even in cities and counties accepting and approving of the establishments. One consistent issue raised- the legality concerning cannabis concentrates and infused products. During a recent state […]

Ep. 47 – He markets pot cigs, He has multi-state shop plan

Published: Feb 25, 2016, 5:22 pm • Updated: Feb 25, 2016, 5:22 pm Cannabist Staff Featured guests: Chris Connors, COO of America’s First Brands and Jake Salazar, owner of MMJ America Podcast: Play in new window | Download LOTS TO TALK ABOUT • We dive into some of the issues with marketing cannabis cigarettes, and why […]

Does D.A.R.E. Still Think Cannabis is a Gateway Drug? Nobody Knows

On Wednesday night, a Redditor made a discovery: D.A.R.E., the program that teaches school kids to stay far away from substances, seemed to have removed cannabis from its page about gateway drugs.

It’s a good find, but we wanted to double-check things first. Did the change happen recently? What was D.A.R.E.’s reasoning? Is the program’s stance on cannabis evolving? Could it really be that the only two substances deemed “gateway drugs” are ones that are federally legal: alcohol and tobacco?

So we gave D.A.R.E. a call. Which confused us even more.

Ron Brogan, a D.A.R.E. America regional director, explained that D.A.R.E. relies heavily on an outside contractor to handle its website. That makes it difficult to know when the change happened — or whether it happened at all. “I suppose it could have come out as part of our new curriculum, ‘Keepin’ It Real,’ and that may be the thought of the scientist that developed that,” he said.

“To be quite honest, I really don’t have an answer.”

Strange changes to D.A.R.E.’s website have happened before. The group raised eyebrows last year when it published a pro-cannabis opinion piece that claimed “children only are being put in more danger when marijuana is kept illegal.” The post stayed up for three days. A few months earlier, D.A.R.E. shared an article with an outlandish claim: “For every one joint of marijuana, four teenagers become burdened with pregnancy.” It turned out the original post was satire, and D.A.R.E. took it down.

Eventually we gave up on trying to get a clear answer from D.A.R.E. and did some sleuthing ourselves (others didn’t). We looked at cached versions of the gateway drug page going back to 2013. And guess what? Cannabis isn’t on the list anywhere.

D.A.R.E. mentions marijuana only once on the page, in a paragraph about tobacco use: “Tobacco use is associated with alcohol and illicit drug use and is generally the first drug used by young people who enter a sequence of drug use that can include tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, and harder drugs.” D.A.R.E. says it’s a quote from the Department of Education. We found it on a CDC page from 1994, but oh well.

So does D.A.R.E. consider cannabis a gateway drug or not? The sad truth is that it doesn’t matter.

Brogan, a 26-year veteran of the DEA, didn’t mince words: “We are unalterably opposed to marijuana,” he said, “whether for recreational use or medical use. That pretty much sums it up.” He went further, predicting that states that have legalized cannabis “will at some point rethink it.”

Not that D.A.R.E. knows much about rethinking. The program is still up and running — spending hours indoctrinating children across the country — more than a decade after research showed it didn’t actually work.

Lisa Rough contributed reporting to this story.

Culinary Cannabis: Chris Sayegh’s Michelin-Starred Background Inspires Gourmet Cannabis-Infused Cuisine

This article is sponsored by Herbalizer, one of the leading suppliers of table-top vaporizers. Herbalizer provides you with the ultimate vaporizing experience as you honor your flower with our power.Check out Herbalizer’s exclusive Leafly discount offer here.

Chris Sayegh didn’t always know he wanted to be a chef – though he had cooked his entire life, he was already on a pre-med track in college before an epiphany led him to pull a 180. “Everyone in my family cooked, and anytime we would gather for any event, we gathered around food,” says Chris Sayegh, better known in the cannabis community as The Herbal Chef. “I learned to associate food with community…and having an amazing time.”

Sayegh left school to pursue his passion. He landed a job in a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, and then a three-starred one. After plenty of time spent cutting his teeth in high-pressure kitchens, Sayegh began to open his own businesses. And approximately six years ago, he got hooked on the idea of gourmet cannabis-infused cuisine.

Creating a Gourmet Experience with Cannabis

“I didn’t smoke until college,” says Sayegh of his relationship to cannabis, “but when I was there I smoked every day, so I needed to know exactly what I was putting into my body.” He began researching the endocannabinoid system, and became fascinated by the topic. “I developed a deep love and admiration for [cannabis],” recalls Sayegh. “When consumed properly and with respect, it will enhance your life in many ways.” As The Herbal Chef, he embraces his involvement in the cannabis industry.

Sayegh’s business is multi-tiered; he offers gourmet edibles, frozen CBD-infused meals for medical patients, ticketed public events, and private fine dining experiences – “ridiculously intricate meals,” as Sayegh describes them. He’s gone so far as to rent out one of the largest art galleries in the world for a dinner, and bring the LA Philharmonic String Quartet in for a special performance. “I’m a huge fan of art and music and I want to incorporate that into the experience. Since cannabis is psychoactive it can enhance all of those things.”

Sayegh’s process for developing the events he hosts is as elaborate as the food he serves. When he receives an inquiry, he asks dozens of questions – about the number of courses, drink pairing requests, the kitchen and dining spaces, and more. He’ll also send out a detailed questionnaire to each individual attendee, asking about dietary restrictions and tolerance level, as every diner will be individually dosed. He then begins exploring the area surrounding the location of the event a month in advance, calling farmers and fishermen to see what’s available, and sometimes hunting and fishing for ingredients himself. “I go foraging around the area. I use the land. It’s about showing people what’s around them,” he explains.

Sayegh also frequently cooks for cannabis industry events, which is how a partnership with Herbalizer came about. Sayegh and the Herbalizer team connected through the Direct Cannabis Network’s Seed Series, and began talking about the possibility of using the Herbalizer to enhance Sayegh’s events. “When we were designing [the Herbalizer] we didn’t think of infusing food,” says Herbalizer’s CTO Bob Pratt. But Sayegh’s experience with cutting-edge molecular gastronomy techniques provided the perfect jumping-off point for experimentation. Soon, Sayegh had developed a unique cannabis vapor infusion technique utilizing Herbalizer’s table-top vaporizer, and he began to work on recipes that incorporated cannabis through vapor infusion.

The Art of Cannabis Vapor Infusion

“It is a sensory experience,” says Sayegh of cannabis. “You start to lighten up and really pay attention to certain flavors…if you sit there and eat a pecan and really taste it, it is a different experience than eating it sober. It’s an overall enhancement, just like how a glass of wine enhances a dinner.”

The vapor infusion process doesn’t actually provide the high; that comes from cannabis-infused elements incorporated into the meals, or from cannabis consumed concurrently with the meal. In fact, the psychotropic effects of vapor infusion itself are virtually nonexistent; instead, it enhances the aromatic elements of the cuisine and accentuates certain flavor profiles without compromising the integrity of the food. “I’ve been using extracted terpenes and putting them with CO2 and having that aroma as the centerpiece of the table,” explains Sayegh. His favorite strains to work with? “Right now I really love the Presidential OG I’m using,” he says. “Super piney, very sweet on the end – it’s very pungent. I also love Jack Herer. And Amnesia Haze is my all-time favorite.”

Sayegh’s prowess in cannabis gastronomy is evidenced again and again by rave reviews from diners, and there is no denying that enjoying his cooking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. “My whole mission as The Herbal Chef is to leave a positive impact on people,” says Sayegh. “And it’s so fun! It’s about elegance, it’s about finesse. Anybody can get you super-stoned. What’s really fun is getting someone perfectly stoned so they can see the beauty in what you’re doing.”

Chris Sayegh’s Recipe for Cannabis Vapor-Infused Beef Tartar with Mushroom Tuile

Special equipment: Herbalizer table-top vaporizer.

Ingredients for Tuile

5 Tbs Butter

3 Large Garlic Cloves

¼ C Button Mushrooms

1 Tbs Chives

½ Tsp Pepper

¼ Tsp Cayenne

⅓ Tsp Salt

¼ C All-Purpose Flour

2 Egg Whites

⅕ C Powdered Sugar

½ C Dehydrated Shitake Mushroom Powder

Ingredients for Beef Tartar

10 Oz Beef

2 Tsp Capers

1½ Tsp Dijon

2 Egg Yolks

2 Tbs Red Onion

2 Tbs Parsley

4 Tsp Olive Oil

½ Tbs Horseradish

½ Tsp Lemon Juice

1 Tsp Lemon Zest

Salt To Taste

½ Tbs Worcestershire Sauce

2 Tbs Chives

½ Gram Favorite Cannabis to Use with Herbalizer

Method For Tuile

Preheat oven to 320˚F. Sautee the butter, garlic and mushroom together until mushrooms are starting to crisp, turn off the heat and let steep for 30 minutes. Add the pepper, cayenne and salt to the mixture. Blend thoroughly and pass through a fine sieve. Put into a large bowl and gently fold in the cut chives. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy and then slowly add the powdered sugar until it starts to hold its shape. Mix the flour and the dehydrated mushroom powder together and set aside. Gently fold the egg white with the blended mushroom mixture until just combined. Slowly add the flour mixture and fold in until completely combined. You will need to make a rectangular cut out of a thin plastic and then spread the mixture on either parchment or a silpat using an offset spatula. Bake for 10-12 minutes in the middle of the oven rack. You will need a cone shape to roll the tuile around to hold its shape. (You can use any shape if you don’t want a cone but let it rest in that shape until it cools and hardens.) Set aside for filling later.

Method for Beef Tartar

You will need a paddle attachment for your stand mixer for this recipe. Cut the beef into small cubes, crush the capers, brunoise the red onion, chop the parsley and add everything besides the chives into the bowl at once. Start mixing on a slow setting and gradually speed it up until everything is incorporated and the color is a little lighter. Make sure to scrape down the sides. Add the chives and fold in. Now put this tartar into a flat pan (I used a 9-inch baking pan with deep sides) and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Puncture the plastic wrap with a small knife, just big enough for the mouthpiece end of the Herbalizer hose to fit. Fill the bowl and set the Herbalizer to 375˚F on the vaporizer function. When the vapor starts to come out, put it inside the slit you made and cover completely with another piece of plastic wrap. When the pan is cloudy, take the hose out and keep covered in the fridge. Keep doing this every hour for 5 hours. Then leave in your fridge for at least 5 more hours and up to 2 days. Make sure you don’t burn the cannabis or use the already vaped cannabis, it will impart a flavor and aroma that you don’t want into the meat. Put the tartar into a piping bag and use it to fill the tuiles. Serve and enjoy!

For more information on Chris Sayegh, the Herbalizer and vapor infusion, visit Herbalizer’s website.

Image Sources: Herbalizer and Sara Dilley

The Shake: An Eric Holder Facepalm, Vermont's Speedy Progress, and Cannabis Ceviche

Eric Holder says the federal justice system, which he used to run, has cannabis all wrong. “I certainly think it ought to be rescheduled,” the former U.S. attorney general told PBS in a Frontline documentary that aired Wednesday. “We treat marijuana in the same way that we treat heroin,” he said, “and that clearly is not appropriate.” Holder also seemed open to seeing how recreational legalization goes, saying that beyond just rescheduling cannabis, “we need to look at what happens in Colorado and what happens in Washington.” (No pressure, people, but the whole world is watching.) Holder’s statements are laudable, but come on: This is the guy who signed off on the largest federal cannabis crackdown of Obama’s presidency, even as the country’s heroin epidemic exploded. And he did nothing to move the needle on rescheduling when he actually had the power to do so. Funny how things change when politicians retire.

No matter where you live, pay attention to Vermont. Sure, it’s a small state better known for its ice cream than its Blue Dream, but Vermont has quickly become the hot topic in cannabis legalization. The state Senate on Thursday gave its final approval to a plan to legalize cannabis, putting the Green Mountain State on track to be the first state to establish an adult-use program through the legislative process rather than a citizen initiative. Why does that matter? Because it’s easier to dream big when you have lawmakers on board: Artisanal, socialist cannabis, anyone? Stay tuned — Vermont is fast on its way to becoming the next state to go legal.

Montana’s micro dispensaries will stay that way. The state Supreme Court on Thursday upheld a number of medical marijuana restrictions from 2011 that lawmakers passed in response to the skyrocketing number of patients in the state. Notably, the court left in place a provision that limits medical cannabis providers to only three clients. The ruling also upheld a ban on advertising, though it struck down a law that prevented businesses from charging for cannabis. Between 2008 and 2010, the number of patients in Montana climbed from about 1,000 to more than 25,000. Thanks to the ruling, it’s a safe guess that a lot of those new patients will simply return to the black market.

Canadian patients have a right to grow cannabis. That’s according to a ruling from a federal judge in Vancouver who on Wednesday struck down the country’s ban on home grows. Don’t go grab your shovel just yet, though — the judge suspended the decision for six months “to permit Canada to enact a new or parallel medical marihuana regime.” (Yes, Americans, that’s how it’s spelled in Canada.)

New laws are closing dispensaries across the country. Even though the cannabis sector is booming, individual businesses spend a lot of time in existential fear. Why? Because rules change quickly as state and local governments adjust their positions on cannabis. In a piece out of Detroit, the BBC’s Zoe Thomas looks at how changing regulations across are putting businesses across the country at risk just as the legal industry is getting off the ground.

QUICK HITS: Connecticut is worried it’s late to the party. With Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island making strides toward legalization, experts in Connecticut are expressing concerns the state could miss out on revenue. A former Googler thinks cannabis is the “next internet.” He explains in The Globe and Mail why he quit the tech giant to launch coffee/cannabis/lifestyle brand Tokyo Smoke. Legal cannabis isn’t just about profit. The Drug Policy Alliance’s California policy manager Amanda Reiman highlights the positive social change that legalization can bring. What’s up with the FDA and CBD? Marijuana Business Daily has a Q&A with an attorney to help make sense of warnings sent to CBD companies by the Food and Drug Administration. And finally, BloombergBusiness makes our mouths water with cannabis ceviche and other gourmet edibles. Yes, please.

Top 10 Cannabis Strains in Washington

Washington is a special place (as a born-and-bred state native, I of course say this with total, unabashed bias). Two enormous mountain ranges cut through the evergreen terrain, creating a snowcapped fence that keeps the climate wet and temperate year-round. This presents a unique set of challenges for the outdoor grower. Because of those struggles and Washington’s legal market regulations, almost all harvests come from indoor grows. So what are some of the top strains to come out of those greenhouses and grow rooms?

We took a look at menu items from our Washington vendors to determine the top ten most commonly listed strains in the state. Unsurprisingly, this list is similar to the most frequently searched strains in Washington. Budtenders and inventory overseers, take note of what supply and demand is trying to tell you!

1. Blue Dream

I don’t know what induced a national craze over Blue Dream, but it’s dominating menus in Washington, California, Colorado, and most other major markets in the U.S. If you’re one of a bajillion people to say your favorite strain is Blue Dream, you’re in luck because it’s practically everywhere.

2. Dutch Treat

As prolific as it is pungent, you can basically walk out your back door and smell the sweet aromas of Dutch Treat. This hybrid beckons you with the strong scent of candied citrus and evergreen trees, a reflection of the strain’s colorful terpene palette.

3. Green Crack

We’ve got a Green Crack problem here in Washington. This sativa, named for its racy cerebral effects, puts your mind on the fast-track, a rollercoaster ride some enjoy more than others. Creatives and social butterflies flock to this tropical-flavored strain for its ability to spark ideas and conversation, and it’s sure to help Washingtonians through those long, dark winters.

4. OG Kush

It wouldn’t be the West Coast if menus weren’t packed full of OG Kush and OG hybrids. Carrying a piney aroma familiar to any Pacific Northwest woods-wanderer, OG Kush is a commonplace strain in any Washington stash box.

5. Super Lemon Haze

Though originally from gardens of Dutch breeders Green House Seeds, this sativa-dominant strain is no stranger to Washington cannabis shops. Rich citrus flavors hit with profoundly uplifting effects, making Super Lemon Haze a pleasure for all the senses.

6. Cinex

We Washington residents love our sativas as much as we love our coffee, apparently. The love child of Cinderella 99 and Vortex, Cinex provides all the energy and focus you need to hammer out all those projects that have been cursing your to-do list.

7. Grape Ape

The number one indica choice among Washington customers, Grape Ape is lovingly cherished for its district grape flavor and stunningly potent effects. Sedating in all the right ways, this indica powerhouse is often chosen by those with stubborn aches and pains, as well as anyone who could use some help getting to sleep.

8. Blueberry

A pedigree in the cannabis world, the Blueberry indica has been around a long time, which means it’s a classic strain that has perfected the art of flavor. Bursting with the aroma of ripe blueberries, this indica’s taste is as much a delight as its dreamy, relaxing effects.

9. Sour Diesel

Few strains make better outdoor companions than the enlivening Sour Diesel. This sativa-dominant strain offers a burst of energy and sensory stimulation, so hikers and backpackers keep this one in mind for your next sunny stroll through the Cascades or Olympics.

10. Girl Scout Cookies

Washington couldn’t escape the Cookie craze, and Girl Scout Cookies still clings to its position on this list. Veteran and heavyweight consumers demand potency, and this hybrid rarely disappoints. Get ready for a psychoactive blast that will leave you feeling weightless and worry-free on euphoria’s Cloud 9.

Who Got Medical Licenses in Seattle? You Might Be Surprised

Cannabis is famously legal in Washington, but the state has allowed a confusing two-track system for the past two years. Washington’s Liquor and Cannabis Board issued licenses for adult-use recreational stores in 2014, but hundreds of unlicensed medical marijuana dispensaries continued to operate across the state until recently.

In Seattle alone, more than 200 unlicensed MMJ dispensaries existed alongside the city’s 21 licensed recreational stores. The rec shops were open to anyone 21 or older. Entering an MMJ dispensary required a medical marijuana card. The dispensaries continued to thrive because of a loyal customer base, a wider range of products, lower prices, and budtenders who were free to discuss medical issues with patients. (In Washington, it’s illegal for budtenders in licensed retail shops to discuss medical use of their products.)

That bifurcated system is scheduled to end on July 1, when unlicensed dispensaries become illegal across the state. At that point cannabis can be sold legally only in state-licensed stores. Some of those stores will receive medical endorsements that allow them to serve state-registered medical patients with higher purchase limits, stronger potency, and untaxed medicine.

In Seattle, the shift led to a sense of impending doom in the medical marijuana community. Under the coming change, most medical-only dispensaries will disappear.

Last week it became clear just how few will survive into the licensed era. In a city that once supported more than 200 MMJ outlets, there will soon be only 28. And many of those will be run by, or hosted within, existing recreational stores.

This map shows the cannabis stores that received medical endorsements within the city limits.

Some things won’t change. Many medical dispensaries will remain clumped in green-cross districts such as Lake City Way, Aurora Avenue North, and SoDo. A few that were formerly pure medical shops, like Fweedom Cannabis, Trees Collective, and The Source, may either go on as fully licensed and medically endorsed operations or open up to patients and consumers alike. Some of Seattle’s best-known dual outlets (which operate medical and recreational shops at separate locations) will continue to serve patients. The local Have A Heart chain won licenses for two medical shops. Dockside Cannabis, which now operates two recreational stores and one unlicensed medical dispensary, won a medical endorsement for its SoDo recreational store.

Dockside co-owner Maria Moses told Leafly her medical dispensary in Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood will remain open until the end of June. “We’re getting more patients than ever” at that location as Seattle’s other dispensaries close down, she said. Come July 1, the company’s medical operation will leave Fremont and move to Dockside’s SoDo location to operate under the new license.

Find it confusing? You’re not alone. Most people in the industry in Washington are struggling to figure it out. “We still don’t know what the rules are and how the system will work,” Moses said. “Whatever they turn out to be, we’re committed to making them work, because we feel strongly that we want to continue to serve patients.”

A surprising number of existing recreational stores won medical endorsements. Uncle Ike’s, Seattle’s most famous rec shop, won a medical endorsement for its flagship store. “We are waiting to see what the final rules look like,” owner Ian Eisenberg told Leafly, which means it may be a while before Uncle Ike’s opens a medical counter.

It’s unclear what the future holds even for existing medical dispensaries that won medical licenses. The Source, a now-defunct dispensary in Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood, appears to have won two medical licenses — but not for its former location on Washington Street. According to Liquor and Cannabis Board records, both The Source and an entity known as Washington OG were granted medical endorsements for a single address in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. Both licenses link to The Source’s old phone number, which went unanswered last week. The new address, though, could prove to be brilliantly chosen. It’s directly across the street from Swedish Medical Center Ballard. As medical cannabis finds more acceptance among physicians, such a dispensary could capitalize on the old pharmacy model: Go where the patients are.

Though the city’s unlicensed dispensaries are supposed to be shut down by July 1, it’s unclear how many of the 28 stores with medical endorsements will actually have their medical side up and running by then.

It’s not as simple as setting up an extra product case. Under the new law, stores offering a medical side must have at least one medically certified consultant on staff during business hours. Certification isn’t easy or cheap. It requires 20 hours of initial training followed by ten hours of annual continuing medical education. And as of this writing, four months prior to the deadline, there are no programs set up specifically to meet the state’s certification requirements — which themselves have yet to be finalized.

That’s the risk: a high initial investment in certified medical marijuana consultant training. The reward could be great, though. Patients who supported more than 200 dispensaries will now be filing into 28, or fewer, licensed outlets. The demand and volume could be enormous. We’ll see how it plays out come July 1.

Adaptation Processes in School-based Substance Abuse Prevention

Primary Outcome Measures: Secondary Outcome Measures: Perceptions of number of peers using drugs [ Time Frame: 2 years ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] Self report Perception of self efficacy resisting drug offers [ Time Frame: 2 years ] [ Designated as safety issue: No ] Self report measure The goals of the proposed study are to conduct an effectiveness trial of the keepin’ it REAL (refuse, explain, avoid, leave) middle school substance […]

Press Release: FORMER AG HOLDER DECLARES SUPPORT FOR RESCHEDULING

Contact: Mikayla Hellwich                                                    For Immediate Release: media@nullleap.cc                                               […]

Colorado visitors using marijuana more likely to end up in emergency room

Out-of-towners using marijuana in Colorado — which has legally allowed sales of the drug in retail dispensaries since 2014 — are ending up in the emergency room for marijuana-related symptoms at an increasing rate, reports a new study. Visitors are unprepared for the adverse effects of marijuana use. The study shows the importance of educating […]

Inside Report: Ohio Campaign Goes Medical-Only, Vermont Makes Strides Toward Adult Use, and Switzerland Eyes Cannabis Clubs

Ohio’s initiative efforts are heating up, but organizers are shifting from their goal of full legalization to a purely medical program. Iowa and Utah are looking to seize a rare chance to allow limited medicinal use in their deep-red states. Switzerland hopes to start a pilot program for cannabis social clubs in four lucky Swiss cities. And cannabis cultivation is going Down Under.

Leafly’s got the scoop to keep you informed. Here’s the latest:

U.S. News

Arkansas

Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge has a history of rejecting cannabis initiatives, but for the first time since she came into her position, Rudtledge has approved the language for a proposed constitutional amendment that would legalize cannabis in the conservative Midwestern state. Not to be confused with the Arkansas Medical Cannabis Act, another medicinal cannabis initiative that’s been gathering signatures since 2014, the latest proposal comes from Little Rock attorney David Couch and is dubbed The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment of 2016. Couch had submitted ballot language for the measure three times before it won approval. The Arkansas Medical Marijuana Amendment will need to gather 67,887 signatures in order to qualify for the November ballot. The Arkansas Medical Cannabis Act already has a head start.

Ohio

Ohio’s legalization efforts are moving forward, but forward in a slightly different direction. Legalize Ohio 2016 announced this week that the campaign will join forces with a medical marijuana initiative movement spearheaded by the Marijuana Policy Project. “We must put aside our differences and do our best to live up to the expectations of the sick and dying citizens of Ohio,” Legalize Ohio said in a statement to supporters. “There is no more time to waste.” A recent Public Policy Polling survey found that 74 percent of Ohioans support medical legalization, a good sign for the upcoming ballot measure.

Oregon

There are three major bills on the docket to improve Oregon’s legal cannabis market. House Bill 4904 provides legal protection to banks and credit unions that offer financial services to cannabis-related companies. Senate Bill 1511 would combine medical and recreational shops into one entity and allow recreational outlets to offer untaxed cannabis for medical patients, similar to the system Washington state is implementing. And HB 4014 would eliminate the in-state two-year residency requirement, which was initially intended to protect small marijuana businesses, but has prevented the influx of much-needed equity investment from sources outside the state.

Iowa

Iowa passed legislation last year to allow patients with epilepsy to use and possess cannabidiol oil (CBD) with the recommendation of a doctor. But like so many CBD-only states, Iowa failed to include a provision to allow the legal production or distribution of CBD oil to qualified patients. A new bill in the House could change that. House Study Bill 607 would allow production and distribution in the state itself, but would only cover three qualifying conditions: epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and terminal cancer. The bill passed through committee and is now headed to a full House vote.

Utah

Utah’s Senate passed SB 73 by a nose, on a 15–13 vote. The measure would allow qualifying patients to use cannabis edibles, extracts, and oils. A narrower competing bill, SB 89, passed on an 18–8 vote. Sen. Mark Madsen (R-Saratoga Springs), the author and sponsor of SB 73, already had to reword the language of his bill to remove access to whole plant cannabis, which essentially earned a pass from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, albeit not an actual endorsement.

Vermont

Vermont may legalize recreational cannabis sooner rather than later, becoming the first state to legalize through the legislative process rather than a voter initiative. With the newfound support of the state attorney general, S.241 sailed through the Senate Judiciary and Finance Committee. It won initial approval from the full Senate on Wednesday, and a second vote is expected later this week. If the Senate passes the bill, it will head to the House for scrutiny by a number of committees. Gov. Peter Shumlin has promised his signature.

Wyoming

The state Senate is wrestling with how to regulate marijuana edibles. And by “regulate,” it means outlaw. The Senate voted to advance Senate File 96, which would make possession of more than three ounces of cannabis-infused edibles a felony. Lawmakers can’t decide potency details or how to measure the concentration of the cannabis in the edibles, however. Sen. Cale Case (R-Lander) proposed an amendment that would allow defendants to argue that their stash of edibles actually contained less than three ounces of raw cannabis material. The amendment failed.

International News

Australia

The Australian Parliament just took a monumental step forward in cannabis policy reform. Amendments to the Narcotics Drug Act will now allow the growth and manufacture of products for medicinal use within the country, actions that previously were forbidden. The New South Wales government is in the process of setting up clinical trials on the medicinal benefits of cannabis, but ran into a problem when it came to sourcing cannabis. Due to restrictions in the Narcotics Drug Act, cannabis products would have to be imported from outside the country, likely from Europe, which would limit the supply and could compromise the trials.

Switzerland

Cannabis clubs could be coming soon to four Swiss cities. A pilot program is seeking to open social clubs for members to consume cannabis freely in Zurich, Basel, Bern, and Geneva. If enacted, the program would allow an estimated 2,000 citizens to use cannabis legally. That might not meet demand: Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen recently reported that more than 500,000 Swiss residents regularly consume cannabis. Cannabis is decriminalized in Switzerland, and possession of up to 10 grams is punishable by a civil fine of 100 Swiss francs ($99). The four-year project still needs approval from local governments before it can take effect.

BREAKING: Canadian Judge Declares Home Medical Cultivation Legal

A legal decision years in the making finally landed in the Canadian Federal Court of Appeals on Wednesday morning. For the first time since the 2013 passage of the Marihuana for Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR), patients in Canada will legally be allowed to grow their own cannabis without fear of seizure or retribution from the government.

The case of Neil Allard v. Her Majesty the Queen began in another time, under another government. Until 2013, the Marihuana Medical Access Regulations (MMAR) made up the country’s medical marijuana program. Under that structure, patients could access cannabis through Health Canada’s government supply, apply for a personal-use production license, or designate someone to cultivate cannabis on their behalf.

In June 2013, however, Health Canada adopted the new rules of the MMPR, which created a system of licensed producers from which patients could access medical cannabis. Under this new program, personal-use production licenses were to be suspended after March 2014, and all patients were expected to register with a licensed producer.

Nanaimo resident Neil Allard was the first to question the constitutionality of the new program. He challenged the law on grounds that removing his cultivation license would constitute a government-sponsored attack on his personal health, as he couldn’t afford to purchase medicine through the MMPR’s licensed producer system.

The court order issued Wednesday by Justice Michael L. Phelan undoes the cancellation of personal-use cultivation licenses. Cannabis activist Marc Emery said it was a crucial development for patients across the country. “Everybody was on edge about this, because 20,000 or 30,000 people are growing large amounts of pot under that that temporary injunction against the government,” he told Leafly. “Lots of things are going to be changing in Vancouver and across Canada over the next few months.”

While the move might help patients, it hasn’t been so good for licensed producers. Health Canada-licensed operations such as Canopy Growth, OrganiGram, and Aphria watched their stocks slump after the ruling. (Full disclosure: Tilray, a Health Canada-licensed producer, is owned by Privateer Holdings, which also owns Leafly.)

Although the ruling will have immediate implications for Canada’s medical cannabis industry, Phelan suspended his decision for six months “to permit Canada to enact a new or parallel medical marihuana regime.”

Big Cannabis News Today in Canada and Australia

There was big cannabis news today for the medical marijuana industries in Canada and Australia.

This Wednesday, both countries saw significant changes to rules surrounding the use of medical cannabis, and investors in the space will certainly want to be paying attention.

Here’s a look at what’s happened:

Canadian medical marijuana patients allowed to grow their own cannabis

First, Canada’s Federal Court struck down federal regulations aimed at restricting the rights of patients who grow their own marijuana for medical purposes. As CBC News reported, that’s a big win for patients who rely on medical marijuana.

“Basically we won, and it was a complete victory,” said Kirk Tousaw, lawyer for Neil Allard, who filed the claim. “[The Marijuana for Medical Purposes Regulations] were declared to be unconstitutional and violate the charter rights of medical cannabis patients.”

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Under the Marijuana for Medical Purposes Regulations, introduced in 2013, patients would have been required to buy cannabis from licensed producers, and would not have been allowed to grow their own.

That could have been a problem for some patients. As Lynne Belle-Isle, chair of the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition, told CBC News in March 2014, buying from licensed producers might mean a fair jump in cost for those who currently grow at home.

“I’ve heard recently they can grow for about 50 cents a gram, so going from 50 cents to $12 is quite a jump,” she told the news agency. Meanwhile, marijuana activist Dana Larsen said that dispensaries in Vancouver would typically sell marijuana for $7 to $8 per gram.

Still, there will be plenty of room for licensed medical marijuana producers at market.

For first time growers, the price for initial supplies needed can run upwards of $1,000, according to Colorado Pot Guide, not to mention the space needed to set things up. Buying from licensed producers could certainly be a simpler alternative.

“The ball is in the federal government’s court. Mr Trudeau and the justice minister have six months to respond to the court’s ruling and come up with a system of medical cannabis regulation in this country that doesn’t impact and negatively take away the charter rights of medical cannabis patients and their providers,” Tousaw added.

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DelMar Pharmaceuticals (OTCQX:DMPI) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of new cancer therapies. The company’s lead product candidate, VAL-083, is a first-in-class small molecule chemotherapy with the potential to overcome chemo-resistance in cancer patients and surpass the current standard of care in a range of cancers. Connect with DelMar Pharmaceuticals to learn more.

Australia legalizes medical marijuana

In other cannabis news today, medical cannabis is now legal in Australia. Health Minister Sussan Ley announced on Wednesday afternoon that a bill allowing for access to medical cannabis products had passed in both the House and the Senate.

“This is an historic day for Australia and the many advocates who have fought long and hard to challenge the stigma around medicinal cannabis products so genuine patients are no longer treated as criminals,” said Ley in a statement. “This is the missing piece in a patient’s treatment journey and will now see seamless access to locally-produced medicinal cannabis products from farm to pharmacy.”

Cannabis is still technically illegal in Australia, and patients will need a valid prescription to access cannabis products.

In any case, the announcement was certainly good news for Australian medical cannabis company MGC Pharmaceuticals (ASX:MXC), previously Erin Resources, which gained nearly 25 percent to close at $0.033 on Wednesday. Certainly, investors will want to keep an eye on how the medical marijuana space continues to develop in Australia.

Company news

Mettrum Health (TSXV:MT) recently put out its third quarter results for the period ended December 31, 2015. The company had a strong quarter, recording an 18 percent increase in revenues to roughly $2 million, and a 20 percent reduction in growing costs to $2.55 per gram. The company’s EBITDA improved by 18 percent to a loss of $1,337,989 for the quarter relative to Q2.

Meanwhile, THC BioMed (CSE:THC) was granted a license to produce medical marijuana under Canada’s Marijuana fr Medical Purposes Regulations (MMPR). “We are filled with emotion and pride and take this opportunity to thank our dedicated shareholders for helping us get to this point,” said THC president and CEO John Miller in a statement. “Now we look forward to providing the highest quality product to our customers and value to our shareholders as we work diligently to build a world class cannabis company.”

Finally, Naturally Splendid (TSXV:NSP) recently reported signing a memorandum of understanding with Korea Beauty & Healthcare Co. regarding the distribution of its food brands in South Korea. Under the terms of the agreement, Korea Beauty & Healthcare must achieve minimum hemp seed sales of 200 metric tonnes in the first year of the agreement, 300 metric tonnes in the second year of the agreement and 300 metric tonnes in the third year of the agreement in order to retain exclusive rights to Naturally Splendid’s hemp food brands.

Securities Disclosure: I, Teresa Matich, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article. 

Editorial Disclosure: Mettrum Health and Naturally Splendid are clients of the Investing News Network. This article is not paid for content.

The post Big Cannabis News Today in Canada and Australia appeared first on Investing News Network.

Long Beach Ballot Initiative Is A Model For Responsible, Safe Cannabis Control, Taxation, Regulation

I received the following message from Long Beach Neighborhoods First: Long Beach Neighborhoods First, a coalition of cannabis collectives, patients, Long Beach residents, and the workers who are on the front lines of patient safety and education, introduced a city ballot initiative that would control, tax, and regulate medical marijuana within the city limits. “With

PhillyNORML Responds To Flower Show Denial

On February 22, 2016 the Philadelphia Flower Show said that local cannabis reform groups are not welcome to participate in a booth at their event. The show is beginning on March 5, 2016. “The Cannabis flower is beautiful and beneficial, witha strong tradition in America,” said PhillyNORML spokesperson Chris Goldstein, “Attendees to the Philadelphia Flower

Stanton Municipal Medical Cannabis Ballot Measure Campaign Announcement

For those who want verification aside from the word document, I believe one can do a public records check with the city clerk for the documents if one wishes. On December 22, 2015 the Stanton City Clerk returned the Stanton City Attorney’s Title and Summary of Stanton Patients Access PAC’s initiative. Next week we will

Cannabis Crackup: A Q&A with Leafly Comedy Tour Performer Brandon Wardell

It’s hard not to start a story about Brandon Wardell like everyone else does: by pointing out how young he looks. The now 23-year-old comic has been known to show up onstage in a backpack. Just look at his picture.

Don’t let his boyish looks fool you, though. Vice may have quipped that Wardell looked 14 when he was actually 22, but now, at 23, he’s getting ready to host a pilot on the company’s fledgling TV network, Viceland. He’s toured and made an album with comedy legend Bob Odenkirk, and he’s even written a “Guide to Sex with Millennials” (but please, read this interview before you get wrapped up in that).

Want to see Wardell in person? It’s easier (and free-er!) than you think. He’ll be among the comics at the Leafly Comedy Tour’s L.A. show on Saturday. Tickets cost nothing — all you have to do is RSVP.

Leafly reached Wardell in a Los Angeles loft, where he was holed up working on the Viceland pilot, dubbed Rap Nerd. He talked to us about his upcoming projects, L.A. apartment envy, and cannabis. But mostly cannabis. Here’s an edited transcript of the conversation:

Leafly: You, sir, are a busy man. Where’d we catch you?

Brandon Wardell: I am at this loft I’m staying at. I’m working on this Viceland pilot, and Vice rented an Airbnb for us to do work at. The Vice office is in Venice and I live in Hancock Park, so they were like, “Oh, we’ll rent an Airbnb for you guys to write at.” And when I got here, I was like, “Oh, this is amazing!” This is so much better than any place I’ve lived at. This is the first place where I’ve, like, taken a girl back and not been like, “Oh, sorry.”

As soon as I got here I was like, “I have to sleep here as long as I can.”

So I’m in my makeshift office-slash-bedroom right now. I want to stay here as long as possible. Now that I’ve lived in a loft for a week and a half, I can’t go back.

What can you tell us about the Vice pilot? And what else on your plate right now besides standup?

My Vice show, that should come out in March. It’s called Rap Nerd, and it’s me FaceTiming with rappers. It’s going to be super fun. And then I have this Comedy Central Snapchat show every week, and it’s called Hot Takes. Those are the two things that are taking up most— I mean, the Vice show takes a lot of time. The Comedy Central Snapchat thing, we’ll film like five episodes before lunch. And I’m doing Getting Doug.

Oh, nice! Some of the other comedians on the Leafly tour, like Natasha Leggero and Michael Ian Black, have been on Doug’s show, too. Are you a cannabis fan in general?

I smoke a fair amount of weed. I never got into, like, weed culture or anything, but I like weed.

Just to wind down at the end of the day, something like that?

Yeah exactly. I can work while high, but for the most part I like to have like an indica at the end of the day.

And had you heard of Leafly before the Comedy Tour?

I had! You have a great marketing team. There’s billboards in L.A. I’ve used it before. It’s a great app, a great website.

I know you’re in L.A. now, but you have roots in Seattle. Did you feel any kind of pride seeing Washington state become one of the first to legalize?

Yeah, absolutely! I don’t have a [medical] card here in California, so I was very excited about that. The last time I was there, I was on tour with Bob Odenkirk, and I needed to pick up an edible before my flight. I just literally drove to the weed store and then just showed my ID and walked out. It was like, “This is crazy.”

Oh, that’s another thing: Usually when I’m on flights I like to have an edible if it’s a flight longer than 3 hours. That’s very necessary.

When you’re performing for a cannabis-friendly crowd, does that change the feel of the show at all?

My friend, Andy Haynes, he ran a show called Midnight Run, where everybody would get high before they performed. And then he sort of gave me the show, and I’ll do it occasionally at festivals or whatever. And yeah, I think the crowd is maybe more accepting, I think they’re more open to hearing you out. You’re all in the same state. If the whole crowd is high, and you’re high, there’s a mutual understanding: “If I’m rambling a little bit, you guys are still going to stay on board. Because you get it.”

There are a lot of strange strain names: Alaska Thunder Fuck, Cat Piss, Super Cat Piss. If someone said, “Brandon, we just came up with this new strain,” what would you call it?

Like a new strain of weed? How about “Michael Ian Black.”

And how would you consume it?

I’d just go high-school gravity bong.

Intense. OK, last question, and it’s a toughie: Can you send us off with a haiku? That’s 5-7-5.

Oh, man, that’s so much pressure. I could email you a haiku.

That’ll do.

[Note: Wardell never emailed the promised haiku. So here’s a recent tweet of his instead. Eat your hearts out.]

when u get too doug w high pic.twitter.com/frFRNSdWrI

— BRANDON WARDELL (@BRANDONWARDELL) February 22, 2016

America's Favorite Travel Guide is Moving Legalization Nationwide

PBS travel host Rick Steves helped legalize cannabis in Washington and Oregon. Now he’s taking his message to Maine, Massachusetts, and even Oklahoma. In an article that first appeared on Crosscut, Knute Berger talks with the footloose author about the challenge of opening minds to the idea of a post-prohibition world.

Rick Steves has changed the way middle America sees the world through his European guidebooks, tours, columns, PBS television and public radio shows. He’s a successful entrepreneur with a teacher’s mien and an everyman persona that can steer curious Americans into foreign travel — not so easy in a country where the majority of residents don’t have passports. But like a good teacher, he makes taking the steps toward broadening one’s horizon easy.

New York Times columnist Timothy Egan captured Steves’ public image in a story a few years back. The travel guru, he wrote, is “benignly suburban to the core, with a bit of a paunch and the ever-quizzical look of someone who would try raw squid for breakfast and not complain about it.” But these days, Steves is about much more than raw squid. He’s become the pied piper of legalized cannabis, not just in the Pacific Northwest, but nationally.

Steves says 2016 is a big year with the potential to tip the balance on cannabis laws in this country. And he intends to be out there, committing his reputation, time, and money to make it happen.

In 2016, Steves has committed to nine or ten days of campaigning in October for legalization laws in Maine and Massachusetts. He says he’ll go wherever the experts think he can be most effective. To date he estimates he has spent approximately $500,000 of his own money on the legalization fight and thinks he’ll spend another $200,000 or so this year. “It’s more money than I’ve spent on anything than a house.” But if it contributes to national momentum toward legalizing marijuana for adults, he thinks it’s worth the investment.

Steves was a driving force behind Washington’s I-502 in 2012 and Oregon’s legalization initiative in 2014. This year, legalization laws are percolating in many states. A recent Leafly roundup lists four states where legalization is “almost a sure thing” this year (California, Nevada, Maine, and Arizona) and 10 more where there’s activity and reason for hope.

His commitment to the issue is deeply personal, but he’s also a team player with a role to play. Steves has been on the board of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) for years, and he has worked closely with Washington adult-use initiative author Alison Holcomb, who now heads the American Civil Liberties Union’s Campaign for Smart Justice with its focus on ending the War on Drugs. He’s also closely associated with Ethan Nadelmann, head of the Drug Policy Alliance.

Nadelmann calls Steves “a godsend” for legalized marijuana. “I think Rick is incredible,” he says. “I think he’s an exceptional human being.” What makes Steves influential, he says, is not simply that he is well known and seen as an honorable human being by millions of Americans, but that his commitment is broad. Steves often writes about drug policy in his travel books — it is integrated with his work and the way he sees the world. He’s deeply informed on drug policy and its consequences in society. He’s not a celebrity going out with a few memorized talking points, but as a real student with principled beliefs.

Steves can reach an important constituency: the swing voter. “He raises the right eyebrows,” says Nadelmann. Think of this travel audience: largely white, middle class, middle American, neither stereotypical potheads nor people interested in making a buck in the marijuana business, not even current users — just folks who probably haven’t given the issue much thought. Steves, the knowledgeable travel guide, is there to get them to think about it.

First, Steves says, he is not “pro pot.”

I am anti-prohibition and pro-civil liberties. He believes adults should have the right to smoke marijuana. A proposal he didn’t like: a recent Ohio law, defeated last year, that would have established what was essentially a cannabis cartel of approved suppliers. The idea of “Big Weed” does not appeal to him.

He also doesn’t think legal cannabis means a free-for-all. Steves is for “legalize, tax and regulate.” He supports public safety, cracking down on DUIs, and keeping marijuana away from kids. “I don’t want to endorse something that doesn’t address fears and legitimate concerns,” he insists. That doesn’t mean every concern, such as overblown worries that legalization will lead to civilization’s downfall. Sitting in his office in downtown Edmonds, Wash., Steves gestures out his corner window. “Marijuana’s legal — you can’t tell!” he exclaims. The suburban village outside has hardly become a perpetual Hempfest. Washington state has taken things in stride.

On the other hand, cannabis laws have a terrible consequence for people of color, the poor, those who are already marginalized in society or incarcerated for something that shouldn’t be a crime, let alone a lifelong mark on one’s record.

The Europeans have the right attitude, says Steves. “Tolerate alternative lifestyles or build more prisons,” he says. In Europe, countries have taken different approaches. The Netherlands has its famous coffeeshops. In Spain, you can obtain plants for personal use from a gardening co-op. In Europe, they’ve generally done a better job of mitigating the problems of substance use, such as addiction and HIV. Done right, legalization can reduce crime (gangs, the illegal drug trade) and the negative consequences of imprisoning so many people, Steves says.

Europeans are now learning something from Americans, he adds. Adult-use laws in Washington and Colorado are ahead of the European curve, and policymakers from across the Atlantic are coming here to study how we’re changing the legalization and regulation landscape. That might help soften attitudes of those Americans who bristle at importing “foreign” ideas but love the idea of “exporting” American ones.

Steves says his years of taking people abroad on tours have prepared him for spreading a message to a curious but sometimes nervous audience. He’s used to talking to folks who are out of their comfort zones in foreign countries, often for the first time.

He also has little to lose if people hate his message. His business remains largely unaffected by his activism. He can’t be fired, nor is he running for anything. If he loses a travel customer over his stance on marijuana, he thinks to himself: Good. Europe’s going to be more fun without you.

Steves relishes speaking to skeptical audiences in places like Oklahoma. The key is to not abuse bully pulpit, he says. Steves tries to make the message palatable and pragmatic. He reassures audiences by telling them America is great, as is our freedom and the military that protects us. He tells them he’s thankful that he runs his business in America, not Europe. Being a Christian helps too, he says. Steves is active in his local Lutheran church.

With his pro-American bone fides established, conservative audiences are often open to considering his views on marijuana. A Rick Steves travel talk might segue from where to stay in Tuscany to the issue of legalizing cannabis. Steves is comfortable with introducing uncomfortable ideas to the comfortable. Travel has taught the value of that role, he says, quoting Thomas Jefferson: “Travel makes a person wiser, if less happy.” A little discomfort is what travel, and stretching one’s mind, is all about.

Knute Berger is a regular contributor to Crosscut.

The Shake: Cannabis Cup moves to Pueblo, Boston Globe discovers Denver

Goodbye Denver, hello Pueblo! With Adams County shutting the 4/20 Cannabis Cup out of Denver, organizers of the annual bacchanal have booked a venue 120 miles south in Pueblo. It looks like the owners of The Yard, an outdoor music venue, have accepted the Cup for an April 16-20 run. It’s an appropriate spot, given Pueblo’s recent cannabis growing boom, but it’s unclear how Cup-goers will take to the sleepy steel town. Downside: Book your room now, because hotels are limited. Upside: There’s a Domino’s, a Chinese restaurant, a grocery store, a Loaf ‘N Jug, and a Mexican restaurant all within walking distance of The Yard. Which means munchies-hungry patrons may have a better chance of actually getting fed. Not that we’re bitter, Burger King That Ran Out of Burgers During the 2014 Cup.

The free agent market opens up. More football players are being cut following off-season run-ins involving cannabis. University of Kentucky coach Mark Stoops dismissed linebacker Jason Hatcher for a “violation of team rules.” Hatcher was pulled over for speeding on Monday morning; cops found nearly a pound of cannabis in his car and charged him with trafficking. Meanwhile, at the pro level, the Indianapolis Colts waived linebacker Jonathan Newsome four days after a marijuana arrest that began with a noise complaint from the neighbors. Look for Newsome to turn up in camp with the Broncos or Seahawks later this summer.

Utah OK with edibles, won’t touch the leaf. Utah’s medical marijuana bill made surprising progress in the state Senate on Monday after its sponsors allowed extracts but banned the use of whole-leaf cannabis. Banning the leaf seemed the placate Mormon church leaders, who said the amendments were “a substantial improvement.” The church had earlier opposed the bill, which pretty much doomed it. Now it’s got a chance.

Wyoming, meanwhile, panics over edibles. Dick Cheney’s home state already owns some of the nation’s most draconian cannabis laws. But they want more. Last year a local judge dismissed charges against a man found with cannabis candies in his car, ruling that state law prohibited only marijuana in leaf form. So outlawing gummies jumped to the top of the state’s to-do list. Shockingly, one brave senator rose to voice second thoughts about imprisoning candy holders. “It is a new world out there, and we face the reality that our neighboring states treat these crimes differently,” said Sen. Cale Case, a Republican. He warned his colleagues that if they turn edible possession into a felony, “you’re going to catch your own kids, or your grandkids,” and ruin their lives.

QUICK HITS: The Boston Globe dispatches a reporter to the badlands of Denver’s Colfax Avenue to report on “life after marijuana legalization.” After a dive into regulated grows and state-licensed stores, the Globe correspondent reports “the sky didn’t fall” after the end of prohibition. In New Zealand, a bunch of cannabis users sparked up at a public park to protest the drug’s illegal status, shocking the president of the New Zealand Police Conduct Association. Another day, another Girl Scout selling cookies outside a dispensary. And finally, if you’re a chocolatier and cannabis enthusiast, this infused chocolate startup in Portland, Ore., wants your resume. Imagine: “If your a stoner, to be around marijuana at work!” Grammar skills not required, apparently.

10 Celebs Who Share Their Names with Cannabis Strains

The nominations are in, the red carpet gowns are (presumably) purchased, and Oscar week is upon us! In celebration of all the celebs who’ll be gracing the awards ceremony with their presence on Sunday, we compiled our own A-list – of celebrities with cannabis strains named after them.

Numerous luminaries, both living and dead, lend their names to strains. Among them are rappers, singers, actors, comedians, athletes, a president – even celebrity youngsters. The following are just 10 of the stars immortalized by strains. And the awards go to…

Snoop Dogg

The inimitable rapper and cannabis evangelist has been singing about smoking weed every day since the 90s, and even has his own cannabis brand, so it’s no surprise that he lends his name to both Snoop’s Dream and Snoop Dogg OG.

Marshawn Lynch

The legendary Seattle running back, who hung up his cleats for good on Superb Owl Sunday, inspired two strains with his nickname – Beastmode OG, and Beastmode 2.0.

Blue Ivy Carter

Though it’ll be years before she’s old enough to consume cannabis herself, the four-year-old daughter of Beyoncé and Jay-Z inspired the eponymous Blue Ivy hybrid.

Michael Phelps

The 18-time Olympic gold medal swimmer and most decorated athlete in Olympic history made waves in 2009 when a photo surfaced of him smoking out of a bong. Michael Phelps OG is named in his honor.

Charlie Sheen

The TV and movie star, who was once the highest-paid actor on television, lends his name to the hybrid strain Charlie Sheen, whose effects are in fact relaxed and mellow.

Margaret Cho

Edgy, outspoken and hilarious, actress and comedian Margaret Cho is also a cannabis entrepreneur and activist, meriting a strain called Margaret Cho-G.

Tiger Woods

The lionized golfer, considered by many to be the best of all time, is just one of many superstar athletes thought to consume cannabis – hence the Tiger Woods strain named after him.

Stevie Wonder

The prodigious singer-songwriter’s relaxed, uplifting music matches the relaxed, uplifting effects of the Stevie Wonder hybrid.

Barack Obama

Though we wish he’d take more of a stand on cannabis reform before leaving office, it’s no secret that Barack Obama has both enjoyed cannabis himself and allowed states to legalize free of federal opposition. Obama Kush shares his name.

Tommy Chong

Tommy Chong’s acting and comedy careers alike have been interwoven with cannabis culture for decades, so it’s no surprise that the cannabis personality and activist is the namesake of the Chong Star strain.

Image Sources: WEBN-TV via Flickr Creative Commons, Angela George and Tim Hipps via Wikimedia Commons

Tickets Go On Sale Next Week For The High Times Cannabis Cup In Pueblo, Colorado

I went to the High Times medical cannabis cup in Denver in 2012, and again the following year after recreational marijuana became legal. Both of those Cups were held at a venue called the Exdo Center in Denver. It was a beautiful venue with a lot of unique characteristics that made it a very fun

Cannapics: Our Favorite Cannabis Photos on Leafly This Month

Is your photo the best on Leafly?

Each month, thousands of strain images are uploaded to Leafly through our app. We’ve seen everything, from lush, jaw-dropping images of trichome-rich buds in purple, orange, and green hues, to low-quality dried flower photographed blurrily on dirt-encrusted countertops. We’ve even seen dick pics. (Yes, we see each and every one you upload. No, you’re not the first one to think of submitting your junk.)

The more images each strain page has, the more it helps other consumers who are looking for information about a particular cannabis strain. To encourage more photo submissions, as well as to highlight examples of which images to upload, we decided to share a monthly roundup of a few of the best strain photos Leafly has to offer.

Have you ever shared your strain photos on Leafly? We’d love to see them, and so would other Leafly members. Upload your strain photos through our iOS or Android App today!

Romulan

Romulan, named after the alien Star Trek race, is a powerful indica revered for its potent therapeutic qualities. Though mostly indica, Romulan growers insist sativa genetics have crept in over time, lending it intense cerebral effects. These squat, pine-scented plants produce dense frosty buds that have found their following among connoisseurs in B.C. and the Pacific Northwest.

King’s Bread

Six Best Practices for Opening Your Own Cannabis Business

Leafly recently polled existing cannabis businesses in an effort to ferret out what it’s like to open shop. We asked about what worked well in the initial stages of the venture, which aspects were a little bumpy, and what was most important to remember. If you’re a budding ganjapreneur hoping to break into the cannabiz, here’s what you need to keep an eye on.

Are you a business owner with some tips or tricks you’d like to pass along? Take our poll and let us know what issues you found most crucial while opening your business.

Legal Requirements

Forty-four percent of respondents said staying compliant with state and local laws was one of the most important areas of focus when starting their cannabis businesses. State laws vary greatly, and making sure you and your employees adhere to them is quite possibly the highest priority for a prospective business owner. Do your homework and consult an attorney, preferably one that specializes in cannabis law. Many businesses are now also navigating the confusing legal waters of trying to pay state and federal taxes despite remaining illegal in the eyes of the federal government. When in doubt, consult an attorney or tax specialist.

Advertising

Advertising is key for maintaining a solid reputation, customer base, and revenue generation, but it can be tricky. Some states, such as New Jersey, prohibit advertising dispensaries, while other states, such as Illinois, do not allow health clinics to advertise dispensaries. You can find out more about advertising guidelines in our handy state-by-state guide to cannabis advertising regulations.

Money

It’s just like they say: Money makes the world go round, and this business is no different. Ensuring you and your potential investors have enough startup capital to keep the business going for as long as it needs to is crucial to surviving your first year in business. Up-and-coming business owners sometimes expect cash to begin flowing as soon as sales start, but businesses often see little income early on, especially in the first few months. In the words of one successful Oregon retailer, David Alport, owner of two Bridge City Collective locations in Portland, when it comes to financial overhead: “Whatever your projections are, double it!”

Education

This may seem like a no-brainer, but this is one of the hot tips that make a great dispensary or retailer truly stand apart from the rest. Whether or not your state requires training, make sure you staff your business with employees who are smart and well educated on the product. Make sure they know how to recommend strains and products to fit various medical conditions and symptoms, as well as being aware of what recreational consumers may want in a cannabis product. This means sampling products for effects, training on cannabis basics, and ensuring that your employees also know how to stay compliant with state laws (checking identification and medical recommendations, knowing expiration dates, etc.). In addition to basic cannabis knowledge, it’s always a good plan to make sure your employees are personable and friendly. A little customer service goes a long way!

Plants

Know your plants, know your growers, and know what good product looks like. This is often more difficult in recreational markets due to tight regulations on packaging and labeling cannabis products, but most producers are happy to give you a tour of their cultivation facilities. Maintaining a steady supply of high-quality cannabis is the lifeline for your business, especially in the first few months. Make sure you have a reliable source with quality growers. Make sure you and your growers are aware and in compliant with pesticide laws. If the state you’re operating in decides to ban certain pesticides after a major harvest, you may be faced with losing thousands of dollars in contaminated product. Know the laws, know your pesticides, and make sure your growers know, too!

Business Model

Another key component to survival is making sure that your business plan is solid and well thought out. Whether it’s a business model of your own design or created with the help of a professional, this will help you go further and lead you to a more successful future. Many states require that you present a business model in order to obtain a license, but either way, make sure your ducks are in a row. Know where your product is coming from, make sure you have security measures in place for the safety of your business and your clients, and create estimated projections of your losses and gains. The extra steps you take to plan for a successful business could be the difference between success and failure.

Looking for more great tips to make your cannabis business stand out? Learn more about how Leafly can help grow your cannabis business.