Study Suggests Psilocybin Can Reduce Alcohol Cravings

12/06/2021

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A study published last month in the journal Science Advances suggests that psilocybin can change the part of the brain that is responsible for alcoholism and alcohol cravings, and may be able to reverse alcohol brain damage, Microdose reports. The research on rats focused on a “mGluR2” glutamate receptor in the brain that was damaged by alcohol use.

The team of more than 20 researchers “established model of alcohol dependence” in which the rats received chronic intermittent exposure to alcohol vapor, which the researchers said, “leads to intoxication levels similar to those seen in clinical alcohol addiction and induces long-lasting behavioral and pronounced molecular changes in the brain.”

The rats showed “persistent escalation of alcohol self-administration, increased motivation to obtain alcohol, and increased relapse-like behavior” and “were made alcohol-dependent by chronic intermittent exposure for seven weeks.” The brain-damaged rats were then divided into groups – one group received low dose psilocybin treatments, one received high doses, while the third received none of the compound.

In both of the psilocybin groups, the mGluR2 levels were regenerated after treatment, and the addictive behavior was reduced, with the group relapsing back to the alcohol about 45% less than the group that did not receive any psilocybin.

The researchers concluded that the preclinical results, combined with their previous research, “provide support for mGluR2 as a molecular target for treating reduced cognitive flexibility, craving, and relapse responses in alcohol-dependent patients.” The team suggested “an experimental medicine trial in alcohol-dependent patients to demonstrate improved cognitive flexibility in response to a single administration of psilocybin” and another “cue-elicited craving study in alcohol-dependent patients in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner to demonstrate normalized functional connectivity in brain areas known to be involved in neuronal cue reactivity following a single application of psilocybin.”

“In the case that both proposed human experimental studies yield positive results,” the authors note, “a randomized controlled trial for testing the antirelapse properties of psilocybin is indicated.”

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Michigan Judge Blocks Part of Recall Linked to Viridis Laboratories

12/06/2021

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A Michigan judge has lifted part of last month’s massive recall of products tested by Viridis Laboratories, which affected about 60% to 70% of the on-shelf cannabis products in the state, the Detroit News reports. The decision by Court of Claims Judge Christopher Murray came in the lawsuit by Viridis against the state. Murray rules that a segment of the recall was “in all likelihood based upon an arbitrary decision.”

In the opinion, Murray said that regulators relied on retesting products tested at Viridis’ Lansing lab but not Viridis North, which is located in Bay City. The decision blocks the part of the recall that pertains to Viridis North. Viridis said the decision blocks about half of Michigan’s recall.

“Yet, the recall bulletin expressly states in the first sentence that the MRA ‘has identified inaccurate and/or unreliable results of products tested by safety compliance facilities Viridis North, LLC and Viridis Laboratories, LLC. As to Viridis North, that does not appear to be accurate, as everyone has agreed that no samples from Veridis (sic) North were included in the random samples re-tested prior to the recall, and which in part led to the recall.” — Murray, in the December 3 opinion, via the News

Kevin Blair, an attorney with Honigman representing Viridis, said that while the company maintains “the entire recall was completely without merit” they “applaud the Court for at least reversing the [Marijuana Regulatory Agency]’s faulty decision to recall products tested at Viridis Bay City.”

“This ill-advised recall has caused irreparable harm not only to Viridis but to growers, retailers, and consumers throughout the state,” Blair said in the report.

Viridis says the recall affected about 64,000 pounds of flower worth about $226 million.

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Bipartisan Federal Bill Encourages States to Expunge Cannabis Convictions

12/03/2021

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A federal bipartisan bill to incentivize states and local governments to expunge non-violent cannabis crimes was introduced on Thursday by Reps. Dave Joyce (R-OH) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Marijuana Moment reports. The measure — the Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement (HOPE) Act — would provide grants to states that would help cover administrative costs associated with identifying and clearing eligible cases.

The bill includes $2 million in federal funding to support the program from 2023 through 2032.

“Reforming cannabis law is not a partisan issue. Americans in both parties overwhelming support it. … As we continue to advocate for the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana, this bill will provide needed resources to expunge drug charges that continue to hold back Americans – disproportionately people of color – from employment, housing and other opportunity.” — Ocasio-Cortez via Twitter

The legislation requires states to “submit to the attorney general an application at such time, in such manner and containing such information as the attorney general may reasonably require” to qualify for the program, the bill states. It would also require the attorney general to conduct a study on the impacts of cannabis convictions on both individuals and states that jail people for low-level, non-violent cannabis crimes.

Joyce said that his sponsorship with Ocasio-Cortez on the proposal “goes to show that lawmakers don’t have to agree on everything to find common ground on solutions to the challenges facing everyday Americans.”

“By helping states establish and improve expungement programs for minor cannabis offenses, the HOPE Act will pave the way for expanded economic opportunities to thrive alongside effective investments to redress the consequences of the War on Drugs,” Joyce said in a statement.

The Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act, which includes expungement provisions in addition to de-scheduling cannabis federally, passed the House Judiciary Committee in September but has not been taken up by the whole chamber. The bill did pass the House last year but was not considered by the Senate.

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San Francisco Delays Implementing Cannabis Tax Again

12/03/2021

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San Francisco, California officials on Tuesday unanimously voted to suspend the city’s cannabis business tax through the end of next year in an effort to curb unregulated cannabis sales, KPIX reports. The tax was set to take effect on January 1.

Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, the sponsor of the measure, said that while “cannabis businesses create good jobs for San Franciscans and provide safe, regulated products to their customers” the “illegal market is flourishing by undercutting the prices of legal businesses.”

“…Which is bad for our economy as illegal businesses pay no taxes while subjecting workers to dangerous conditions and consumers to dangerous products. Now is not the time to impose a new tax on small businesses that are just getting established and trying to compete with illicit operators.” — Mandelman in a statement via KPIX

Mandelman added the cannabis retailers are also being targeted by thieves. He said that cannabusinesses in the city – along with many other retailers – “are struggling under the weight of out-of-control retail theft.”

“San Francisco needs to do more to protect these businesses, their employees, and their customers before we hit them with a new tax,” he said in the report.

San Francisco voters approved the tax, which imposes a 1% to 5% citywide tax on gross receipts from cannabis businesses, in November 2018. It is the second time the rollout of the tax has been delayed. The initial bill to delay the rollout was also authored by Mandelman who said at the time that the tax break was needed because operators had been slow to get the permits they needed to open and that more cannabusinesses would be open by the time the tax was supposed to take effect at the start of 2021.

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Portland Approves Cannabis Emergency Relief Fund

12/03/2021

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The Portland, Oregon City Council gave the go-ahead to distribute $1.33 million to local cannabis companies impacted over the past two years by the pandemic, property crime, and wildfires, according to KGW8. Funded by a 3% tax on cannabis sales passed by voters in 2016, the money is meant to help cannabis shops not eligible for federal COVID relief.

During the council session, Portland’s Cannabis Licensing and Policy Coordinator Christina Coursey reminded the body that small businesses received $114 million in CARES Act funds at the beginning of the pandemic. However, due to cannabis’s federal designation as a Schedule I narcotic, most of the “essential” cannabis businesses felt virtually none of the relief.

Compounding the issues, were robberies that affected the cash-only businesses especially hard and the devastating 2020 wildfires, Coursey said.

She estimates the Cannabis Emergency Relief Fund will help 75% of Portland’s cannabis licensees. Businesses must be located in the city, or be based in Oregon but operate in Portland, to be eligible for the program. Social equity licensees will be prioritized. Individuals may receive up to $5,000 and businesses may receive up to $25,000, according to the report.

Businesses who receive money from the city will be able to spend the funds on personal protection equipment, paying rent, or mortgage, insurance, or pay-roll expenses. The city is leaning on three external groups, NuLeaf, The Initiative, and the Oregon Cannabis Association, to distribute the funds to speed up the process and cut down on administrative costs.

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New Mexico Creates Loan Program for Cannabis Microbusinesses

12/03/2021

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The New Mexico Finance Authority Oversight Committee on Tuesday approved a $5 million loan program aimed at helping licensed cannabis microbusinesses. The program is specifically for business owners from communities disproportionately impacted by the state’s previous cannabis law or located in rural communities.

Under the program, individual loans are capped at $250,000 and officials said the expected loan size is $100,000. There is a minimum 5% equity requirement and the loans will be fully collateralized, the Regulation and Licensing Department said in a press release, and loan terms will go up to five years with interest rates varying from 2% to 3%.

Marquita Russel, CEO of the New Mexico Finance Authority, said the program will provide “access to capital to help even more New Mexicans benefit from the economic opportunities created by the legalization of adult-use cannabis.”

“This program will give New Mexico small businesses, particularly in rural and economically-disadvantaged communities, a tool to make this industry more accessible and help get their businesses off the ground.” — Russel in a statement

Linda Trujillo, superintendent of the Regulation and Licensing Department, which houses the Cannabis Control Division, said the agency decided to make the loans available after officials “listened to and really heard concerns that it’s hard for microbusinesses to access the capital needed to start a successful business.”

“This Administration is committed to creating a thriving cannabis industry that incorporates New Mexico’s values of social equity and fairness,” she said in a statement. “We are grateful to be able to work with the New Mexico Finance Authority to put forward this loan program to make good on our commitment to social equity in this exciting new industry.”

The application system for the program is expected to be available by February 1 and applications will be accepted and reviewed on a monthly basis, the agency said, with the first loans expected to be available in March 2022.

Adult-use cannabis sales are expected in the state no later than April 1, 2022.

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2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Ganjapreneurs

12/03/2021

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The winter holidays have already kicked off with Chanukah celebrations, which means it’s past time for business owners to start thinking about gift-giving. Some companies give their employees a bonus and/or small but useful gift each year. It is also common to give gifts to clients. Some client gifts are given by the company while others may be directly from an individual that works there who does more client interface in their position.

When putting together this list of gifts for clients and/or employees, we consulted the Emily Post Business Etiquette laid out in this guide to gift-giving for corporations and business contacts. As it states, for corporations, it’s important that any branded gifts are high-quality and actually useful. Some large businesses will make charitable donations in the names of their employees. However, in this time of monetary instability for many, it may be more ideal to give bonuses rather than charitable donations. When contemplating a gift for an assistant, first take into account how long they have worked for you. A $25 gift is acceptable for assistants who have been with you for five or fewer years, but any longer and a more substantial gift is recommended. When gifting a boss, get together with your team and give a gift together so as not to stir up drama amongst jealous co-workers.

For individuals looking to gift outside of their own company, it is essential not to give any gifts to clients who are in the middle of a bidding process as that can be seen as a bribe. Many corporations have rules for giving and accepting gifts, some will only allow employees to accept gifts with a value of $25 or less. Because of this, refer to your own company rules & handbooks and the recipient’s HR department to be sure you follow the appropriate guidelines this season. The same rules apply to accepting gifts from clients: be sure to follow company protocols. When it comes to gifting CBD or THC products, there aren’t any agreed-upon rules but, to me, it seems like in this case you can compare gifting cannabis to gifting alcohol. I never gift alcohol because you never know someone’s relationship with the substance, and the same goes for consumable and inhalable cannabinoids. Perhaps an individual gift of mind-altering cannabinoid products is acceptable, but as a blanket gift, it probably isn’t appropriate.

With all of this in mind, we’ve gathered an independently-sourced gift guide for cannabis employees and clients for this holiday season. We do not make anything from the links provided here, I simply love to recommend my favorite things.

PARA Stash Bag Stuffer

$31

The Stash Bag Stuffer from PARA includes a variety of hemp rolling papers, some pre-rolled cones featuring cute prints, and a bubble stash pouch in either Cherry Red or High Moon. Even someone who doesn’t roll their own joints would be inspired to impress guests with the printed cones from Burner Babe. The bubble bag is great for your pipe, grinder, and smoke sesh valuables; and each print has a fun flare.

The Stash Bag would make a great gift for both employees and clients, especially from a brand that grows flower.

Seawitch Botanicals Candles

$29

I don’t often make generalizations but I’m comfortable saying that everybody enjoys candles, especially when they’re mindfully made. Seawitch Botanicals is a company local to where I live, and I know first hand that they choose ingredients and packaging that is as environmentally friendly as possible. Their candles feature a long wooden wick that has a delightful crackle as it burns, and they last for a long time with regular use. Choose candles with elemental essential oil blends or a pure beeswax candle without an added aroma.

Clients and employees alike would enjoy burning a Seawitch candle, but it might be ideal to get the smell-free option to please a larger swath of people’s tastes.

dosist Health Relief Topical Spray

$49

Topical cannabinoid products are, in my opinion, are the best product category to gift to a large list of people like employees. They also tend to be the best introductory product for someone who is on the fence about the benefits of the cannabis plant. The dosist health relief spray was effective for my neck and shoulder pain. When I tried the product I really loved the ability to spray it directly on the site of pain instead of wasting some on my fingers.

A CPG company might not want to gift products from a different brand to clients, but internally the dosist health relief spray would be useful to employees.

Loud Grandma Chili Crisp

$29

Chili crisp is a delicious oil-based condiment that features crunchy, crispy bits of peppers and other ingredients. Loud Grandma Chili Crisp includes CBD for a chill complement to the spice of the chilis they use. The product is made in partnership with Pot d’Huile olive oil and Ganjapreneur recently did a full review of the product — you can check that out here. The microdose of CBD shouldn’t intimidate anyone in a regulated state and an edible gift is always appreciated.

Branded Hoodie

Varies

As long as you’re a good employer and nice to work with, both employees and clients would rock well-made branded merch. There aren’t many people who don’t have use for a good hoodie but don’t skimp on the materials. Most towns will have a local screen printer that can help print merch so you can keep the process somewhat local.

Gifting branded products can get tricky: a good rule of thumb is to ask yourself if something is useful before slapping a logo on it and giving it out to clients or employees.

Kush Queen bath bombs

$12.99 – $20

Not everyone takes baths but bath bombs are still a widely accepted gift, especially when they’re infused with CBD. Kush Queen bath bombs are made with premium cannabinoids and in delightful colors that transform a therapeutic bath into an ethereal experience. Grab them in multiple aromas and with either 25 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg of CBD. Read our recent review of Kush Queen Swamp Queen products here.

PARA Translucent Hudson Pipe

$54.99

Paraphernalia isn’t always an appropriate gift for clients or employees, even if you operate a cannabis company. But we think the Hudson piece from PARA is a beautiful, multifunctional glass piece that would look beautiful on end tables and dressers. It comes in three colors: yellow, blue, and burnt orange-brown.

The translucent glass pipe is on the pricier side so it is an acceptable present for a long-time assistant or long-time/big-time client.

Actually Curious Human Rights Edition cards

$25


There used to be a time when social justice wasn’t a topic discussed in the workplace but that bred a toxic culture, which many workplaces have started working to dismantle. Social justice should be especially important to cannabis companies since many original cannabis entrepreneurs are still serving long sentences for doing what we now call “cannabis business.”

With that in mind, the Human Rights Edition deck from Actually Curious is a great gift for employees of a cannabis business that is working towards creating a positive work environment. Each card in the deck features prompts on social justice, environmental sustainability, mental health, and other human-forward topics.

Face Masks

$18


Many people are returning back to the office, but that doesn’t mean the COVID pandemic is over. New variants are out there and masks seem to be an accessory that’s here to stay. Facemasks that fit well and are made by small businesses are a great gift for employees and promote safe work environments. Black Rabbit Masks are local to where I live and regularly drop one-of-a-kind prints on their website. The masks fit me best out of all that I’ve tried, and they feature double paneling and a place to insert a filter. To give a little extra, check out their ‘Donate a Mask’ option that goes towards providing free masks to essential workers and those in need. This gift is most appropriate for employees.

Grocery or Gas Gift Card

$25+


As we mentioned earlier, the pandemic years have put a strain on even the best financial planners so useful gifts are especially thoughtful. A gift card to the local food co-op or gas station is a great way to let employees know that you’re thankful for them. With that in mind, perhaps putting all of the gifting budget into bonuses would be the most useful for your employees. A good boss will know what the best option is for their team.

Disclaimer: None of the links to these products are paid affiliate links, they are simply recommendations of some of my favorite things. 

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Spacestation Merges with Mammoth Distribution

12/02/2021

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The largest cannabis beverage and tincture producer in the world joins California’s top distributor and house of award-winning brands.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – November 12, 2021 – Spacestation, the global leader in the manufacturing of cannabis beverages, has merged with Mammoth Distribution, California’s premier distributor and producer of some of the state’s top-selling brands, including Heavy Hitters™ and Almora™.

“After seeing the cutting-edge technology pioneered by Spacestation to create Liquid Trichomes™ for our Heavy Hitters HVY™ tincture, and their robust ability to ensure an authentic cannabis experience in everything they produce, we knew they were the only team with the vision and capabilities to grow with us as we roll out new products across the USA and Canada,” said Mammoth CEO and Co-Founder Skyler Sutton. “The deal quickly came together when we realized both companies have an aligned priority and culture of radiating love through people and products.”

The initial collaboration between Spacestation and Mammoth is the groundbreaking, cannabis tincture reimagined, the HVY Grand. Launched under the Heavy Hitters brand, which is celebrating its 25th Anniversary, HVY is a love letter to cannabis, featuring a first-of-its-kind formulation that preserves and accentuates the taste and effects of the storied Acapulco Gold strain, all presented in a bespoke bottle and box. The key innovation, developed with Spacestation, is the Liquid Trichomes process, a proprietary single-strain nanoemulsion infused with pure Acapulco Gold terpenes.

“From the beginning, our strategy was to remain independent but when we started working with the people at Mammoth, we realized that our culture, goals, and synergies were so aligned that the combination made too much sense to pass up. We knew that If we were ever to attach to a brand house it had to be one that could win in competitive states, especially California,” said Spacestation CEO Brad Mora. “Mammoth proved that with the success of its top premium brand, Heavy Hitters, and the state’s fastest-growing flower brand, Almora. It’s a testimony to the amazing culture and relationships they have in this industry. Liquid Trichomes and HVY are just the beginning.”

With this monumental merger, the cannabis community can expect a future filled with a slew of innovative beverage and tincture products for the California market and beyond.

About Spacestation

Spacestation is the largest manufacturer of cannabis-infused drinks and tinctures in the world. Over the last two years, Spacestation has partnered with the fastest-growing cannabis beverage brands to scale their drinks in California. With this, Spacestation has emerged as a leading innovation hub and the premier platform for launching and scaling cannabis beverage brands. For more information, visit https://flyspacestation.com/

About Mammoth Distribution

Mammoth Distribution, along with its Heavy Hitters and Almora brands, is one of the largest and most established cannabis companies in California. Heavy Hitters, known for the potency, purity, and innovation of its industry-leading products, is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary. Almora, known for its sun-grown quality and consistency, has quickly established itself as a top-five flower brand in the state. The company’s expansive distribution network serves over 600 retail partners with industry-leading delivery speeds, maximum efficiency, and consistency. For more information, visit https://www.mammoth.org/

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Wave of Robberies Targets Cannabis Dispensaries

12/02/2021

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Cannabis dispensaries and other licensees are still operating under an elevated risk of robbery as a combination of issues including police indifference and a lack of financial services make these companies a prime target for burglars. The issue is highlighted best by a recent string of dispensary robberies up and down the West Coast.

On the weekend of November 20-21 in Oakland, California, a coordinated mob of people traveling in what police described as a “roving band of vehicles” carried out a lengthy spree of smash-and-grab retail robberies. The criminals targeted a variety of cannabis operations, traditional retailers including jewelry and department stores, and pharmacies, CBS SF Bay Area reported.

The weekend was a frightening callback to a last year’s similar crime spree which took place during the nationwide social justice protests following the murder of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, by Minneapolis police. Some Bay Area businesses, like Oakland’s Purple Heart — which was the city’s longest-running cannabis dispensary — have yet to recover from the repeated burglaries.

Amber Sentner, the CEO of Oakland-based MAKR House, a cannabis distribution and infusions company, said at a news conference outside City Hall on Monday that cannabis businesses in her city are “under attack” and police are doing little or nothing to protect them, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Sentner said that the recent crimespree affected more than 25 cannabis licensees and caused more than $5 million in losses for the industry, and called for a two-year cannabis industry tax reprieve from the city of Oakland to help local businesses recover.

“We need more protection. We need more funds and resources to improve security so that we can protect ourselves.” — Amber Sentner, CEO of MAKR House and Co-Founder of Supernova Women, in a statement

The claim that officers sometimes look the other way when it comes to crimes against cannabis firms is hard to verify but has been echoed elsewhere in the industry. Additionally, security footage that surfaced last week appears to show San Francisco police observing — and doing nothing to stop — an in-progress burglary at a cannabis grow site, the Chronicle reports.

The issue is not secluded to California — in Medford, Oregon, police arrested six suspects this week who are accused of burglarizing two cannabis dispensaries and robbing an ATM, KTVL reports.

Willamette Week reported in March, meanwhile, that there were 95 dispensary robberies, burglaries, or lootings in Portland over a 10-month period in 2020. In December, the worst-case scenario played out: a budtender was shot and killed during an armed robbery. During the same time frame, Portland saw just 22 liquor store burglaries and zero liquor store robberies.

Armed robberies are also rampant in the Washington state cannabis industry. On November 18, three men wearing masks held employees at gunpoint and stole cash and cannabis worth a combined $7,000 at Uncle Ike’s Pot Shop in Lake City. During the robbery, one of the suspects hit a customer who attempted to flee in the head with his pistol but nobody was seriously injured — security footage posted on Facebook shows the group’s brutally efficient smash-and-grab tactics.

Meanwhile, just a few hours earlier in Spanaway, Washington, a group of five men robbed a local dispensary at gunpoint. According to The News Tribune, a store employee managed to retrieve a gun during the holdup and fired at the suspected robbers, injuring two of them as they fled the scene. Police later arrested and charged two teenagers who had checked into the hospital with gunshot wounds but the other suspects — as well as the three suspects behind the Lake City robbery — remain at large.

And just last weekend, three masked men robbed an East Wenatchee dispensary at gunpoint. They restrained employees with duct tape before making off with cash and cannabis products, The Wenatchee World reports.

Federal law keeps the cash, and crime, flowing

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent such crime, federal legalization — or at the very least, opening up state-legal cannabis industries to traditional banking services — would be a significant step forward for cannabis worker safety.

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Harborside Acquires Urbn Leaf, Loudpack to Create ‘West Coast Cannabis Powerhouse’

12/02/2021

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Oakland, California-based Harborside Inc. has agreed to acquire UL Holdings — which owns and operates Urbn Leaf dispensaries, and LPF JV Corporation, or Loudpack, one of the state’s leading cannabis companies. Once the deals are finalized, Harborside will rebrand as StateHouse and Urbn Leaf CEO Ed Schmults will be named CEO.

“The cannabis industry in California has reached an important tipping point, and with the collective strengths of these three companies and the benefits of integration, we have the right combination of assets and skills to set a new standard, offering consumers the widest variety of products with best-in-class customer service.” — Schmults in a press release

For the first nine months of 2021, Harborside reported gross revenues of $57.8 million, on a proforma basis, while Urbn Leaf and Loudpack had revenues of $45.9 million and $61.4 million, respectively. Were the companies already combined, StateHouse would have revenues of $165 million over the first nine months of the year on a proforma basis.

Matthew Hawkins, current chairman and interim CEO of Harborside, will remain as chairman of the board of StateHouse. He said that, with the transactions, the companies “are working to create a west coast cannabis powerhouse.” He added that Schmults “is the right person to lead StateHouse into the future.”

“StateHouse will have a unique ability to navigate the operating challenges in the state and capitalize on the combined potential of the businesses we are acquiring,” Hawkins said in a statement. “We are building what we believe is the ideal platform to consolidate the California cannabis sector, positioning us for long-term growth in both market share and profitability.”

Once complete, StateHouse will have 15 retail locations; nine brands; manufacturing facilities with an annual capacity of more than $400 million; a state-wide distribution network for its branded products that reach more than 780 active accounts, including about 75% of California dispensaries; 230,000 square feet of greenhouse cultivation space; and 36,000 pounds of cultivation capacity with 22,000 pounds of additional near-term cultivation capacity.

Additionally, the management team has entered into a letter of intent with Pelorus Equity Group to complete the real estate financing of $77.3 million of non-dilutive real estate debt financing. The companies said the deal “unlocks significant value from the StateHouse real estate portfolio and provides significant growth capital for the business.”

The transactions are expected to close in the first half of 2022 and must still be approved by California regulators.

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Session Goods Designer Series Bong and Pipe Review

12/02/2021

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San Francisco-based cannabis lifestyle brand Session Goods presents their limited edition Designer Series of black and white pipes, bongs, and cleaning caps. The series was designed to highlight the artistry and sleek modernity of the black and white style, fusing fashion and functionality seamlessly in these unique pieces.

The pair (bong and pipe) make for a sophisticated procurement for both medical patients and adult-use cannabis enthusiasts. Here are the design features and stand-out aesthetic properties in this fabulous glassware.

Pipe

The pipe comes in a silicone sleeve for protection and for quick stowing, even if the piece is hot from just being passed around. Its functional design gives it a distinct conical shape that is filled with explorable intricacies for both the eye and touch. A near-mouthpiece ash catcher doubles as a suitable finger hold for easy passing while on the trail or at the pad. Both the carb and air out on the bowl are small enough to make sure the ash and resin stay out of your mouth and off your fingers. Plus, the specially designed rigid cleaning wire will help with that too.

This is a pipe that will be around for many sessions and will be great for making memories with friends for years to come.

Bong

Both pleasing to the eye and touch, the bong features a slew of unique modern design points. Besides including a silicon sleeve for the bottom and a base-heavy design that helps the water pipe sit solidly on a bar top or display shelf, the ergonomic design of the piece itself makes it easy to grip and pass. Even the frosty finish adds to its ease of grip, making it a great bong for medical patients or late-night revelers who may have trouble with hand or finger dexterity. The package includes two stems, a silicon stem collar, two bowl pieces — large and small — and an interchangeable, branded silicone tab to pull the bowl carb for the perfect hit. But, the best part of the bong is that it comes with two caps that fit in the mouthpiece and stem to allow for easy cleaning. Just pour your alcohol and salt in, put the caps on, shake, pour and repeat — and the bong is back to its original condition, ready for the next session.

For more information and additional pics, check out Session Good’s limited edition Designer Series on their website. The pipe and bong bundle make a great purchase or gift for collectors, recreational heavy hitters, or medical patients. While at their website be sure to take a peek at their wide selection of merch and smoking implements.

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Arizona Raises $106M in Cannabis Taxes in First Year

12/02/2021

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Since adult-use cannabis sales launched in Arizona one year ago, the state has raised more than $106 million, KGUN reports. Under the state’s legalization law, the funds are earmarked for public safety, which Jeffrey Yates, head of Tucson’s Business Services Department, explained was the city’s “largest expenditure.”

“So a large portion of every dollar the city gets goes to that public safety effort, which includes community safety programs and all those different things not just law enforcement, but all the components.” — Yates to KGUN

Pima County, the state’s second-largest behind Maricopa, is expecting about $1.8 million in taxes, of which $314,000 will go to the Sheriff’s department budget and about $900,000 for road repair. The city of Tucson is expecting about $9.7 million, which represents less than 1% of the city budget.

In all, Arizona has sold more than $405 million worth of adult-use cannabis from January through October, according to state data, and more than $572 million in medical cannabis. Data for October published by the state is incomplete, though.

The state reached its adult-use sales record in July when it sold more than $54.3 million worth of cannabis products; that same month medical cannabis sales reached more than $71 million.

In July, officials admitted that some of the tax data might be off as some retailers were missing tax payments, while others were paying off more than a month of taxes at once, according to an Arizona Republic report.

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Cannabis Decriminalization Ballot Initiative Signatures Submitted in Austin 

12/02/2021

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Activists in Austin, Texas have submitted signatures to city officials seeking to add a ballot initiative to decriminalize cannabis in the city and ban no-knock police warrants, Fox 7 Austin reports. Ken Casaday, president of the Austin Police Association, said that since a city ordinance last year changed how police enforce cannabis laws, he doesn’t “really see the point” of the cannabis proposal as Austin police “don’t arrest for low amounts of marijuana.”

Mike Siegel, political director of Ground Game Texas, which is backing the campaign, said the initiative would codify the city’s “current informal policy.”

“These are two measures that have been very popular with voters but have not yet become city law.” — Seigel to Fox 7

Seigel added the city officials have asked Austin police to end the use of no-knock raids, but the group wants to see the policy “formally” put into law.

“We want to avoid unnecessary injury to residents and officers themselves,” he said.

Casaday indicated that the force has “done three or four” in the city this year, adding that the action is “usually saved for very violent individuals or people that have barricaded their homes.”

The practice came under increased scrutiny last year after Breonna Taylor, a Black medical worker, was shot and killed during a no-knock raid in her Louisville, Kentucky apartment. Her boyfriend, Jamarcus Glover, was the target of that raid. He was sentenced Tuesday on a drug-related charge, WAVE 3 reports. Investigators believed Glover was using Taylor’s apartment to sell drugs and conducted a no-knock raid. The Federal Bureau of Investigation still has an open case on the circumstances surrounding Taylor’s death.

Siegel said that the group will submit more than 34,000 signatures to the city clerk, of which 22,000 have been pre-validated. At least 20,000 valid signatures are required to be certified for the ballot.

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Jamaica Launches ‘Good Ganja Sense’ Campaign

12/02/2021

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The Jamaican government has launched a cannabis education campaign, Marijuana Moment reports. Branded “Good Ganja Sense,” the program features a website with educational materials covering the risks and benefits of cannabis and debunking some common cannabis myths. The program is under the Jamaican Ministry of Health and Wellness in partnership with the National Campaign on Drug Abuse (NCDA), the report says.

“The NCDA through the Good Ganja Sense Campaign seeks to support the national goal of reducing substance use and dependence by addressing misconceptions about ganja and how these might potentially result in misuse of the substance, especially by vulnerable groups such as adolescents and adults prone to substance dependence. The Good Ganja Sense Campaign will attempt to clarify the potential benefits of ganja use and raise awareness about the potential harms of its misuse.“ — Good Ganja Sense website excerpt

Program head Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, said in a press release the site provides “several resources that will certainly stimulate more talk about ganja,” adding that there is a contact form “so you can get in touch with the ‘Good Ganja’ team.”

“We are in a digital world where people are finding information for themselves, and the information may be false or it very well may be true, depending on where they go,” said Cuthbert-Flynn. “Ganja will no longer be underpinned by what has been passed down through oral traditions and old tales, but fact-based information that is now available at the fingertips.”

General cannabis use is decriminalized in Jamaica and medical cannabis has been legalized. Jamaica was also the first country in the world to legalize cannabis for religious purposes.

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CDC Issues Cannabis Guidance for Businesses That Employ Drivers

12/01/2021

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The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has shared cannabis workplace policy guidance for businesses that employ drivers. First reported by Marijuana Moment, the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) said that due to rising cannabis use rates in the U.S. and the fact cannabis is second only to alcohol as the most prevalent drug in post-crash testing, “the substance needs to be addressed as part of all workplace motor vehicle safety programs.”

In the post, CDC reminds readers that cannabis affects parts of the brain that control “movements, balance, coordination, memory, and judgment.” They say cannabis use may slow down reaction time and point to studies that have shown an increased risk of crashing after cannabis use. However, CDC says that “marijuana’s specific contribution to crash risk is unclear because it can be detected in body fluids for days or even weeks after use.”

Instead of advising a blanket no-tolerance policy, CDC calls for a more nuanced approach depending on the cannabis laws in the state the business is located. However, they encourage a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to on-the-job cannabis use and cannabis use right before work.

“Despite some unanswered questions about marijuana’s role in crash risk, workers under the influence of marijuana do not have the skills needed to drive safely,” NIOSH wrote.

The post outlines a host of other suggestions like partnering with an attorney to review drug policies and to be very clear about drug testing and the conditions and circumstances where such a test may be required. They advise employers to explain to drivers that consuming CBD products may be risky as the labels may not accurately reflect THC concentrations, which could lead to a failed drug test.

CDC also recommends driver education around impaired driving and suggests managers stay up to date on relevant cannabis laws in their state.

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Deftones Launch Cannabis Brand

12/01/2021

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The alternative metal band Deftones have launched a cannabis collection in partnership with Golden Barn with strain names based on their songs. In an Instagram post, the band said that throughout their career, “it has been an ongoing mission to provide our fans with quality products.”

“Whether it’s music, beer, or tequila, we put in the time, care and effort to make sure we’re delivering merchandise to the market that have been thoroughly scrutinized by all of us. The obvious next step in this progression is cannabis.” — Deftones via Instagram

The band also launched an Instagram page — @deftonescannabis — for the brand.

The first edition of the cannabis line is a set called The Passenger Box, which includes flower, edibles, concentrates, and disposable vapes.

“We’ve been waiting and smoking forever, you know,” guitarist Stephen Carpenter said in the Instagram video announcing the Passenger Box. “And to finally be able to present something that we all enjoy and like is awesome.”

The band worked with Frank Maddocks on the product design. Maddocks also collaborated with the band on their White Pony IPA and previous records, including their most recent release “OHMS.”

The line is currently available at nine dispensaries in California with more retailers expected to offer the product soon, the band said via Instagram.

Other metal musicians, including Slipknot co-founder Shawn “Clown” Crahan and System of a Down bassist Shavo Odadjian, have launched their own cannabis brands. Another metal band, Korukuma, last year partnered with NemeSeeds in creating a strain known as KuroKush.

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Alaska Cannabis Businesses Owe Nearly $1.8M in Back Taxes

12/01/2021

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By the end of June, Alaska cannabis businesses owed $1,785,751 in back taxes, and the state Marijuana Control Board has started shutting down the businesses for non-payment, the Anchorage Daily News reports. In Alaska, cannabis taxes aren’t charged at the point-of-sale, rather paid by growers who say that flat tax structure — $800 per pound on flower and $240 per pound for concentrates — requires them to pay the same amount of money regardless of the end-product quality.

In the fiscal year 2021, Alaska regulators collected just under $29 million, so the $1.8 million in unpaid taxes is a small portion of the total taxes that cultivators pay the state.

Alaska Marijuana Industry Association (AMIA) President Lacy Wilcox told the Daily News that while high-THC crops could sell for around $4,000 a pound, the $3,000-range is more typical. But if a crop sample sent off for a potency test has lower THC levels, cultivators might only be able to get $2,000 per pound wholesale. After state taxes are paid, the cultivator can be left with $1,200 to cover the labor, rent, supplies, and energy costs associated with that crop. Cultivators can destroy crops to avoid the tax liability but will, in turn, make nothing off of the labor and time inputs.

Wilcox called the current tax structure “not sustainable.”

Earlier this year, the AMIA sent a survey asking about whether the state should implement license caps on the industry — currently there are no caps — and 70% of survey respondents indicated they supported such caps. The lack of caps, some in the industry argue, has led to a market surplus and oversaturation, which has a negative effect on wholesale prices.

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Vermont Medical Society Calls for 15% THC Limits

12/01/2021

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The Vermont Medical Society (VMS) last month adopted a resolution calling for a 15% THC limit on adult-use cannabis products in the state. The VMS Board said that the state “has the nation’s highest past-month cannabis use, including use of high potency (greater than 15%) THC” and noted that the Vermont Department of Health said last year that cannabis use “is a significant public health problem in Vermont and it is getting worse.”

The resolution amends and replaces the board’s 2018 resolution which opposed legalized cannabis for adults. The society represents 2,400 physicians and physician assistants throughout the state.

The board cites several studies that suggest using cannabis with THC levels higher than 15% “is associated with increased urgent and emergency department psychiatric visits and increased mental health disorders including psychosis.” The resolution also points to one study, published in 2019, that found using high-THC products “is associated with increased urgent and emergency department non-psychiatric visits, including respiratory distress, often associated with overcrowding and overutilization of emergency room facilities.”

“VMS strongly opposes the advertising, marketing and promotion of cannabis in the state of Vermont (including through the use of packaging, flavorings and placement/density of retail locations) in order to disincentivize establishments from pushing sales through fostering high use and addiction, given that 80% of product will be consumed by 20% or less of users (notably those with current or future dependence or addiction to cannabis).” — Vermont Media Society, VMS Position on Commercialized Sales of Cannabis, Nov. 17, 2021

The board is calling for cannabis packaging and advertising to include warnings about psychosis, impaired driving, addiction, suicide attempt, uncontrollable vomiting, and harm to fetuses or nursing babies.

Adult-use cannabis sales are expected to launch in Vermont in October 2022. The state legalized cannabis for adults in 2018 but the reforms did not include commercial sales.

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GKUA Proprietary Strain Review

11/30/2021

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GKUA Ultra Premium flower is elevating, inspiring, and giving consumers some of the best highs of their lives. Products are available now in five states and over 400 cannabis dispensaries. Each jar, pre-roll, and vape cartridge is tasted and tested by Mr. Dwayne “Lil Wayne” Carter. Nothing hits the dispensaries unless Weezy approves.

As a fan of Lil Wayne and lover of cannabis, one of the things that always makes me smile is the sound of Lil Wayne lighting up his blunt before he releases words to take me on a journey. When I learned of the launch of his cannabis company, my mission became to consume and review Weezy’s weed! I wanted to get to know more about the company, brand, mission, and strains, so I set out on a mission to connect with the company, interview them, and tour their cultivation.

I accomplished this goal in November 2021 when I toured GKUA’s production and cultivation facility in California. At the visit, they handed over jars of everything they grow, with emphasis on exclusive strains that only GKUA cultivation partners can grow: Slime, Mr. Carter OG, G.O.A.T.

And with that, it is my pleasure and honor to share this review of the following exclusive GKUA Ultra Premium cannabis strains. When reviewing these strains, I consumed them using a tobacco leaf. I like to review on a fresh palate, so I consumed as the first smoke of the day — wake and bake.

Slime by GKUA Ultra Premium

  • Hybrid
  • 25%+ THC
  • Lil Wayne tasted and approved
  • Impact: Focus, creativity, euphoric, and energizing
  • Flavor: Nature/ floral

Slime was a real heady high for me, with a lovely massage of my third eye halfway in, like a deep tissue massage. As I continued to consume, Slime began to give me a full-blown forehead massage that had me in the clouds. Slime picked me up like a new husband picks up his new wife, and carries her over the threshold. Slime took me up, gently sat me down on a thick fluffy cloud, kissed my forehead, and left me to enjoy the high — the energy, the gratitude.

On the day of reviewing, my calendar had writing on the schedule and Slime had me ready to create! As my high settled in, I was in a focused zone with a sense of flowing, no pushing. I was listening to the pockets of silence found through the noise and focusing there. In this headspace, content ideas and clarity for existing ones came through, I felt like:

“I’ma go so opposite of soft, off the richter, Hector, Camacho Man, Randy Savage; far from average, above status-quo, flow so pro.” — “Mr. Carter” lyrics

Mr. Carter OG by GKUA Ultra Premium

  • Indica
  • 30%+ THC
  • Lil Wayne tasted and approved
  • Impact: Happy, social, inspired
  • Flavor: Piney with a little lemon seeping through

The flavor of Mr. Carter OG lingered on the tongue a bit- so great! It was a heady one for me; I felt it in my eyebrows and forehead. Halfway into the blunt, my eyelids started to relax, and smiles followed. My mood was lifted up and the focus Mr. Carter OG provided, allowed me to cancel out all distractions, focus on the inhale, and the feeling provided because of it.

This one made me feel like being a little social which I love because I’m introverted and socializing isn’t easy for me. I was focused on intellect, ready to chat about complex topics, happy, and elevated — like, really excited about everything.

By the end of the blunt I felt like:

“MR. CARTER, WHERE YOU BEEN?” — “Mr. Carter” lyrics

I swear I saw him smiling at me and heard him respond, “Shit, you know.”

G.O.A.T by GKUA Ultra Premium

  • Indica
  • 25%+ THC
  • Lil Wayne-tasted and approved
  • Impact: inspired, connected, tuned in
  • Flavor: a mixed batch of sweet and nature

The G.O.A.T was another heady high for me. This one rubbed my temples, and by the 3rd inhale, my brain felt connected to the source. By that 6th inhale, I felt G.O.A.T massage my forehead, so much so that I literally closed my eyes and laid my head back. As I consumed, I found myself looking back at the blunt like, “no wonder you’re named the G.O.A.T!”

The focus this gave me was more than amazing! I was able to hear nature’s music: birds and pigeons, the wind blowing through the leaves, the sounds of wings flapping, and then… the faint sound of the airplane flying over the city. With more than half of the blunt consumed, I was super elevated though grounded — like, my body was on the ground and my spirit in the clouds.

The connection to the source intensified the thoughts within me, as if the source dropped them off for me to consider. I was sitting there deep in thought, while smoking the last of my blunt, with the question burning a need to know in my core: how much of reality is really real if we can just mess with something as crucial as time (daylight savings: spring forward and fall back in time every year)? People really swear by the concept of time but, what is it, really?

By the end it was like:

“They say you gotta hear it from the G.O.A.T. mouth, that’s that G.O.A.T. talk.” — “Goat Talk” lyrics

When GKUA says that they want to give people the best high of their life, they aren’t lying. It’s a “mission accomplished” for me!

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9% of New York Towns Opt Out of Cannabis Operations

11/30/2021

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Only 9% of New York towns and villages have opted out of allowing adult-use cannabis operations, according to Associations of Towns of New York (ATNY) data outlined by Finger Lakes 1 News. The 9% opt-out rates include 84 towns and 46 villages throughout the state.

Although there is time left for jurisdictions to opt out, the ATNY does not expect a “major wave” of last-minute program refusals, Chris Anderson, research director for ATNY said.

“We expect to see some more activity, but it’s certainly pretty late in the game. We have a good indication now it will be a low opt-out percentage statewide.” — Chris Anderson, via Finger Lakes 1 News

The opt-out figures in New York, which only legalized cannabis this year via the legislative process, are in stark contrast to the opt-out rate in California, which — despite being the world’s largest regulated cannabis marketplace — stands at 68%, according to a Politico report from September. That report notes that the low acceptance numbers have been blamed on the state’s flourishing underground cannabis market.

“You don’t have a real cannabis industry if the dominant portion of it has no interest in being legal,” Adam Spiker, executive director of the cannabis trade group Southern California Coalition, told Politico. “There’s no other regulated industry in the world that I know of that operates like that.”

A report from Maine Public Radio in September, meanwhile, found a 90% opt-out rate in Vacationland with just 47 of the state’s 500 towns and cities permitting any adult-use cannabis sales.

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61% of Massachusetts Residents Favor Cannabis Legalization

11/30/2021

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According to a University of Massachusetts-Amherst and WCVB poll published Monday, 61% of Bay Staters had a favorable view of cannabis legalization five years after voters approved the reforms. The poll found 37% who had a “very positive” view of legalization along with 24% who had a “somewhat positive” view.

The poll found 25% of respondents held “neither positive nor negative” opinions of the reforms; while 6% held “somewhat negative” views and 7% held “very negative” views.

The poll included 773 respondents and has a margin of error of 4.3%.

Earlier this month, the Massachusetts Cannabis Commission announced that the state had sold $2.3 billion worth of cannabis in the three years since the first adult-use dispensaries opened on Nov. 20, 2018. Commission Chairman Steven Hoffman called the sales figures “pretty phenomenal.” The state’s adult-use cannabis sector employs more than 17,000 employees, while medical cannabis employs about 8,800, according to state figures.

Hoffman told MassLive that the UMass and MCVB poll “shows that legalization is reducing the stigma historically associated with cannabis,” which he said, “will only enable the commission to continue making headway on efforts to ensure full participation in this industry by disproportionately harmed communities.”

Since Massachusetts became the first New England state to allow adult-use cannabis operations, 179 stores have started operations, including 325 adult-use establishments which encompass indoor and outdoor cultivators, product manufacturers, microbusinesses, delivery businesses, and independent testing labs, according to the state data outlined by MassLive.

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Alliance for Cannabis Equity Launches in Connecticut

11/30/2021

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Two Connecticut-based workforce and economic development organizations last week announced the creation of the Alliance for Cannabis Equity (ACE), which will focus on social equity and the economic opportunities for Black and Brown entrepreneurs and minority workers throughout the state’s cannabis industry.

The groups — the Connecticut Community Outreach Revitalization Program (ConnCORP) and The WorkPlace — said the Alliance “is being created in recognition of the need for an authoritative and trusted resource for those interested in assuring that the social equity provisions related to adult-use cannabis are fully realized.”

In a press release, Carlton Highsmith, board chair for ConnCORP, said that cannabis legalization in the state “introduces a brand new growth industry” which will lead to the creation of “thousands of new jobs, … dozens of new businesses, [and] millions, if not billions, of dollars of wealth.”

“Provisions of the law aim to ensure that Black and Brown communities that have been disparately impacted by aggressive marijuana enforcement; that these communities not be left behind, but also benefit from the commercialization of cannabis.” — Highsmith, in a statement

Joseph Carbone, president and CEO of The WorkPlace, said the “collaboration will support underserved communities with the resources to develop enterprises and provide workers with training to access careers with good-paying, quality employment.”

“Legalized cannabis creates significant economic opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers from distressed communities to gain skills and advance in the growing cannabis industry,” he said in a statement.

State lawmakers approved the reforms earlier this year and parts of the law, including possession by adults, took effect on July 1. Officials had expected retail sales would begin sometime next year; however, in September, Commissioner for the Department of Consumer Protection Michelle Seagull indicated the rollout could be delayed.

The state’s 15-member Connecticut Social Equity Council, which was created by the legalization law, has already held meetings, the Associated Press reports. In August, the council approved 215 communities that will be given priority for cannabis licenses and access to special equity programs.

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Cannabis Reform Ballot Question Bills Pre-Filed in Kentucky

11/30/2021

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Kentucky state Rep. Nima Kulkarni (D) on Monday pre-filed bills to decriminalize cannabis possession in the state and to allow voters the opportunity to entrench broader reforms, including adult-use sales, in the state constitution, the River City News reports.

Kulkarni said she was sponsoring the bills for three reasons — the impact of the unequal enforcement of drug laws on communities of color, the medical benefits, and the potential revenue associated with the reforms. She added that “any one” of those reasons “should be enough for them to become law.”

“First, current cannabis statutes have needlessly and tragically ruined many lives, especially people of color who have suffered because of unequal enforcement. Second, thousands of citizens, from cancer patients to veterans suffering from PTSD, should have the right to use something that gives them the mental and physical relief they deserve without relying on stronger, potentially addictive medicine. Third, cannabis decriminalization would give the state a much-needed source of reliable revenue without raising current taxes a single cent.” — Kulkarni to River City News

Were the bill to add the ballot question approved by three-fifths of the House and Senate, it would be put to voters but the timeline is unclear. If approved, the amendment would legalize use and possession by adults 21-and-older and allow the home cultivation of up to five cannabis plants. The General Assembly would create cannabis industry rules and regulations, the report says.

The decriminalization measure would remove criminal penalties for possession of personal amounts of cannabis and remove cannabis accessories from Kentucky’s drug paraphernalia statutes.

“My bills complement each other because they give the General Assembly a short-term path to act quickly and a more permanent fix that gives cannabis use the constitutional protection it deserves,” Kulkarni told the Times. “With the public’s support, I believe we can pass both next year.”

In a press release, C.J. Carter, Kentucky State Director for Minorities for Medical Marijuana, noted that the state is “at the precipice of the opening” of the state’s cannabis industry.

“This is indeed a dangerous moment in time for Black and Brown people. There’s a new multi-billion-dollar industry that will soon open on both the Federal and State level while simultaneously, people who look like me remain criminalized behind bars and are once again being left out of the conversation,” he said in the statement. “We now have the opportunity to write a different narrative in Kentucky that would benefit us first and foremost. The State of Kentucky and its history as it relates to cannabis owes a tremendous debt to the Black Community and that starts with this legislation that is being introduced by Rep. Kulkarni.”

In February, Democratic state Rep. Rachel Roberts filed a similar bill to legalize cannabis and expunge low-level cannabis crimes in Kentucky. That measure would allow home cultivation, up to five mature and five immature plants, and would require home growers to pay $250 for a permit.

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Study: Police Solve More Violent Crimes After Cannabis Legalization

11/29/2021

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The legalization of adult-use cannabis is associated with increased clearance rates for varying types of violent crimes according to a study soon to be published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, outlined by NORML. Researchers from the University of Utah and the University of China looked at crime clearance rates in Oregon and control states prior to and post adult-use cannabis legalization.

The clearance rate for violent crime represents the proportion of violent crimes solved — meaning when an arrest is made and charges are laid — versus all violent crimes that are reported to the police.

Researchers found “significant increases in the clearance rate for overall violent crimes and for aggravated assault in Oregon counties relative to those in non-legalized states following legalization.”

“These conclusions reaffirm the notion that states can sensibly regulate the adult use and sale of cannabis in a manner that doesn’t adversely impact public safety. Moreover, in some cases, legalization may contribute to an environment that positively affects police officers’ performance in solving serious crimes.” — NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano, in a statement

Titled “Recreational marijuana legalization on clearance rates for violent crimes: Evidence from Oregon,” the paper found, however, that the positive effects of legalization on clearance rates “appear to reduce over time.” Additional research is also needed on the effect of adult-use cannabis legalization on police performance and clearance rates, investigators wrote.

A 2019 study, also outlined by NORML, noted a similar increase in the clearance rates for violent crime following the legalization of cannabis in Washington state and Colorado.

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