Majority of California Labs Barred From Testing Cannabis Flower

1/12/2024

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Many of California’s cannabis testing labs are currently blocked from testing the potency of flower products — the industry’s most popular consumer option — under new guidelines from the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) that took effect this year, KTLA reports. Labs that are not compliant with the new guidelines are not allowed to test any cannabis flower products including the buds themselves and non-infused pre-rolls.

At the start of the year, just 12 of the state’s testing labs had met the new requirements but MJBizDaily reported this week that six more labs had become compliant and could resume their testing regiments, bringing the total number of labs equipped for testing flower products to 18.

Previously, 38 labs across California were performing the tests.

“The Department has not been informed of any significant product delays, but there could be a slight delay in some products reaching dispensaries in the near term. To help prevent this from happening, the Department DCC has been prioritizing re-sampling requests from distributors who had samples with labs that cannot currently conduct flower and non-infused pre-roll testing.” — DCC spokesperson David Hafner, via KTLA

Hafner also suggested that more labs’ testing methods would be verified “in the near future.”

DCC regulators introduced the rule change last year and it took effect on October 1, 2023, although compliance with the shift was not required until January 1, 2024. The agency said at the time that the reason for the change was “to ensure all licensed laboratories are using the same standardized cannabinoid test method which will ensure consumers receive accurate and consistent information regarding the cannabinoid content of the cannabis and cannabis product they use or consume.”

Under the new guidelines, regulators hope to deter bad actors from the practice of “lab-shopping,” which occurs when testing labs inflate their potency results so cannabis companies can list the higher potencies on their products, making them more attractive to consumers.

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Thailand Reverses Course on Cannabis Legalization

1/11/2024

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Thailand is on the brink of a major shift in its cannabis policy with the introduction of a new law proposed by the Minister of Public Health, Mr. Cholnan Srikaew. According to the Thai Examiner, this law aims to strictly regulate the use of cannabis, focusing solely on medical applications and effectively outlawing its recreational use.

The proposed legislation stipulates that any cannabis product with a THC level above 0.2% is illegal, a stark contrast to the previous more liberal stance that saw the proliferation of cannabis outlets across the nation.

The introduction of this law represents a significant departure from the policies of the former Minister of Public Health, Anutin Charnvirakul, under whom cannabis was legalized and integrated into the Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Department. This new direction raises numerous questions, including whether purchasing cannabis will require a medical certificate and how strictly cannabis stores must adhere to the new regulations. The law also specifically bans the sale of cannabis flower, which is the mainstay of both adult-use and medical markets in the US.

This shift in policy also has international implications. Recent seizures of cannabis in Ireland, originating from Thailand, have brought to light the challenges associated with cannabis regulation and enforcement. Thailand’s government must also consider obligations under international drug control treaties, such as the 1971 Convention on Psychotropic Substances, to which Thailand is a signatory.

However, with the emergence of a strong cannabis lobby in Thailand driven by the industry’s profits, there is expected to be stiff resistance to this legislative change. The situation highlights the complexities and divisive nature of cannabis regulation around the world, reflecting broader global discussions and ideology about drug use and plant medicine.

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Navajo Authorities Charge Two Tribal Members Over Illicit Cannabis Farm

1/11/2024

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According to a recent report from the Navajo-Hopi Observer, two members of the Navajo Nation, Dineh Benally and Farley BlueEyes, have been formally charged with the illegal cultivation of marijuana. This case, unfolding in Window Rock, Arizona, marks a significant development in an ongoing legal saga that has spanned several years and included accusations of forced labor. On January 4th, tribal prosecutors accused the pair of operating a large marijuana growing operation around Shiprock, New Mexico. Both men are expected to face arraignment later this month, according to the report.

Dineh Benally, a Navajo businessman, had previously faced charges in 2020 for interfering with judicial proceedings. These charges stemmed from a Navajo judge’s order to stop the marijuana farms’ operations in northwestern New Mexico. Benally’s attorney, David Jordan, claimed the interference charges were dismissed in December as the case approached trial. In a statement to the paper, Jordan described the latest charges as harassment and said that Benally insists he was growing hemp, not marijuana.

The controversy first gained public attention in 2020 when local authorities discovered Chinese immigrant workers trimming marijuana in motel rooms near Shiprock. This discovery led to raids by federal, state, and tribal authorities, resulting in the destruction of a quarter-million plants. A group of Chinese immigrant workers has since sued Benally and his associates, alleging they were forced to work long hours trimming cannabis and were lured to New Mexico under false pretenses, according to the report.

Additionally, Benally’s license for another growing operation in central New Mexico was recently revoked by New Mexico regulators due to multiple violations, including the cultivation of far more plants than the license permitted. Benally’s case is particularly noteworthy due to his past as a Navajo Nation presidential candidate who advocated for large-scale hemp farming as an economic opportunity, and who reportedly campaigned under the slogan, “Let’s grow together.”

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Report: States Have Pardoned 2.3 Million Cannabis Convictions Since 2018

1/10/2024

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State courts have pardoned or expunged cannabis-related convictions for more than 2.3 million U.S. citizens since 2018, including about 500,000 in just the last year, according to an updated NORML analysis.

The report covers the publicly available data about cannabis pardons and expungements since sweeping efforts to relieve cannabis convictions first started to gain steam. Pardons, which forgive past criminal convictions, are granted by elected officials like a governor or president; expungement, which forgives and seals past convictions from the public, is typically enacted via the legislature or by voter initiative.

Ultimately, expungement policies have accounted for the majority of the relief, including some 800,000 cannabis convictions being sealed by Illinois state officials, more than 300,000 each in New Jersey and Virginia, and about 200,000 each in California and New York, although many other states have also enacted sweeping expungement policies. Elected officials meanwhile have issued cannabis pardons to about 100,000 individuals, the report said.

President Joe Biden (D) in December renewed his call for state governors to pardon state-level cannabis possession charges, a request he first made alongside the October 2022 blanket pardoning of all federal convictions for simple cannabis possession. The president expanded that action last month but he still stopped short of commuting the sentences of any prisoners currently serving time for cannabis-related convictions.

“Hundreds of thousands of Americans unduly carry the burden and stigma of a past conviction for behavior that most Americans, and a growing number of states, no longer consider to be a crime. Our sense of justice and our principles of fairness demand that public officials and the courts move swiftly to right the past wrongs of cannabis prohibition and criminalization.” — NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano, in a press release

Recent polling data suggests that a record 70% of Americans support federal cannabis legalization.

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Wisconsin Republicans Unveil Highly Restrictive Medical Cannabis Proposal

1/10/2024

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Republican lawmakers in Wisconsin unveiled a highly restrictive medical cannabis proposal on Monday, drawing an unenthusiastic response from Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, the Associated Press reports.

Under the proposed bill, medical cannabis products would only be legally available to people with chronic illnesses like cancer, and the products would only be available via five state-run retailers that would be designated at a later point by the state Department of Health Services. Additionally, smokable cannabis products would not be available to patients.

A spokesperson for Gov. Evers — who alongside Democratic lawmakers has called for the full legalization of cannabis in Wisconsin — said the governor would review the proposal and that “he looks forward to hearing from Wisconsinites and other stakeholders as the bill moves through the legislative process.”

Wisconsin Republicans currently hold strong majorities in both the House and Senate, and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos has said the proposal is as far as Assembly Republicans are willing to go, the report said.

“We want to make this available to people, but we want to have tight controls on it as well.” — Wisconsin State Rep. Jon Plumer (R), in a statement

Meanwhile, a report published last year found that neighboring Illinois generated about $36.1 million in tax revenue from cannabis sales to Wisconsin residents in 2022. In total, Wisconsinites were estimated to have accounted for nearly 8% of total cannabis sales in Illinois that year, the report said.

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Florida Bill Would Cap Adult-Use Cannabis at 10% THC

1/09/2024

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Florida State Representative Ralph Massullo has introduced a bill proposing limitations on the potency of cannabis in the event that adult-use marijuana is legalized in the state later this year. The proposed legislation seeks to set a maximum THC content of 10% for cannabis products intended for smoking and 60% for concentrates. Additionally, marijuana edibles would be subject to a cap of 200 milligrams of THC per package and 10 milligrams per serving.

The text of the bill reads:

Marijuana for personal use may not have a tetrahydrocannabinol potency, by weight or volume, of greater than 10 percent for marijuana in a form for smoking or greater than 60 percent in the final product for all other forms of marijuana, excluding edibles. Edibles for personal use may not contain more than 200 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol and a single serving portion of an edible may not exceed 10 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol.

Considering that most cannabis for sale in other adult-use markets is over 15% THC and that the rule would apply only to adult-use cannabis, not the current medical cannabis market in Florida, the bill would inherently give medical cannabis brands a significant advantage. However, the possibility of Florida voters encountering an adult-use legalization measure on their November ballots is still in question.

A campaign named Smart & Safe Florida has garnered enough signatures to potentially qualify for the 2024 ballot, but the Florida Supreme Court is currently deliberating on a constitutional challenge against the measure, initiated by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody.

Most of the campaign’s funding, approximately $39.5 million, reportedly comes from Trulieve, a multi-state, publicly-traded cannabis brand. Moody has accused Trulieve of attempting to monopolize the legal cannabis market in Florida through this initiative.

Despite its introduction, the bill’s chances of success remain uncertain. Previous attempts to limit cannabis flower potency to 10% THC have not passed. For the measure to pass, it would require approval from 60% of voters.

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Minnesota Regulators and Police Discuss Closing THCA Hemp Loophole

1/09/2024

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A perceived loophole in Minnesota’s new adult use cannabis law is set to be addressed in a summit later this week, according to a report from news outlet MinnPost. The meeting, convened by the state Office of Cannabis Management and the Department of Health, will bring together law enforcement and local government associations to discuss the unregulated sale of products portrayed as hemp that may contain high THC levels.

The ambiguity arises from the law’s description of regulated products, which includes hemp-derived edibles and beverages but omits raw hemp flower. Consequently, the Office of Medical Cannabis, currently overseeing the regulation until the permanent Office of Cannabis Management is established in 2025, lacks jurisdiction over raw hemp flower. This gap has allowed some hemp retailers and smoke shops to sell raw flower potentially high in THC without regulatory oversight or testing.

State law explicitly states that illegal cannabis sales are a criminal matter, with enforcement responsibility falling to local law enforcement. However, the new Office of Cannabis Management, when operational, will have the authority to take action against illegal sales, including confiscation, testing, and imposing civil fines. In the interim, the state is developing outreach initiatives to assist law enforcement with these issues.

Law enforcement agencies and retailers following the law are seeking clarity and intervention from either state regulators or local police to address retailers who are violating the law. However, they face challenges due to the technical nature of the issue, lack of resources for testing, and legal complexities. The federal regulations on these products are also under debate: despite a memo from the DEA stating that Delta-8 THC and other THC derivatives sourced from hemp are controlled substances, purveyors of these products claim they are operating legally under the rules put in place by the 2018 Farm Bill.

The situation has left many in a confusing in-between period where no clear authority or resources are available to ensure the safety of these products.

A legislative fix to include raw hemp flower under the Office of Medical Cannabis’ regulatory jurisdiction is being considered for the 2024 session. Meanwhile, the Minnesota cannabis community is awaiting guidance and hoping for a resolution.

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Canada Has Destroyed 3.7 Million Pounds of Cannabis Since 2018

1/08/2024

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Data from Health Canada shows that Canadian cannabis operators destroyed a record 611.7 million grams (about 1.7 million pounds) of cannabis products and unpackaged cannabis flower in 2022 and during the first half of 2023, MJBizDaily reports.

The number represents about 16% of the industry’s total 2022 production; and, while data from the second half of 2023 is not currently available, the first six months suggested that the industry is inching closer to a supply-demand equilibrium, the report said.

Cannabis industry consultant Farrell Miller said the usual reason for destroying packaged cannabis products is their age.

“There is no demand for old and low-THC products, so manufacturers of finished products are not buying this biomass as inputs. …As consumers become more savvy with packaging dates on dried cannabis products, this trend will only continue.” — Miller, via MJBizDaily

The total amount of cannabis destroyed by Canadian cannabis operators has now exceeded 3.7 million pounds of cannabis and cannabis products.

Canada, which became the first North American country to legalize adult-use cannabis in 2018, has experienced issues of cannabis overproduction since the industry’s launch. Experts say this is at least partly because the country’s publicly held cannabis companies were initially being valued based on the amount of cannabis they could produce, not sell, according to the report.

A poll published last October found that 65% of Canadian cannabis consumers utilize the legal market. Another report from June 2023 found that the Canadian cannabis industry saw its sales grow 157% over the previous two years.

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After Adult Use Market Launch, Maryland Cannabis Sales Near $700M in 2023

1/08/2024

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After launching its adult-use market last year, Maryland cannabis retailers and dispensaries together have sold nearly $700M in products, according to a report from CBS Baltimore. According to the report, medical cannabis, which was already a thriving sector, saw an increase of over $200 million in just about five months. On the other hand, adult use sales rose to $270 million since stores opened.

In a statement to CBS, President of SunMed Growers Jake Van Wingerden highlighted the dramatic impact that adult use legalization has had on their business.

“Once legalization happened we were able to stabilize and a lot of our projections came true. […] We recently at SunMed gave the entire staff a 5-dollar-an-hour raise across the board. So, we were very excited to be able to reinvest back into our team and our people.”- Van Wingerden, to CBS

A portion of Maryland’s cannabis revenue is being redirected to benefit communities statewide. Consumers are charged a 9% tax at the point of sale, which, from July to September alone, amounted to over $12 million in taxes for adult-use cannabis. This is allocated across Maryland’s counties and infused into various funds dedicated to health, business, social equity, and the state’s general fund.

Like many other states, Maryland is also taking proactive steps to expand and diversify the industry. Starting this year, the state is issuing 75 new dispensary licenses via a lottery system, particularly targeting jurisdictions disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs.

This initiative aims to promote market share and ensure a more inclusive and equitable industry. Baltimore City received the lion’s share in the first round with 11 licenses, followed closely by Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, each receiving 9.

If cannabis sales in Maryland continue on their current trajectory, retailers in the state should be on track to generate well over $1 billion in revenue collectively in 2024.

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Scientific Study Finds Cannabis Makes Exercise More Enjoyable

1/05/2024

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The long-standing stereotype that cannabis use leads to inactivity is being challenged by new research suggesting that cannabis might actually make working out more enjoyable. The study, titled “Acute Effects of Ad Libitum Use of Commercially Available Cannabis Products on the Subjective Experience of Aerobic Exercise: A Crossover Study” conducted by researchers Laurel P. Gibson, Gregory R. Giordano, L. Cinnamon Bidwell, Kent E. Hutchison, and Angela D. Bryan, sheds light on the relationship between cannabis use and exercise, potentially changing the narrative surrounding cannabis consumption.

The study aimed to examine the acute effects of legal-market cannabis on regular users’ subjective responses to exercise in a controlled laboratory environment. The research team compared participants’ experiences of exercise without cannabis to their experiences after using commercially available cannabis flower products, either THC-dominant or CBD-dominant.

The study recruited 42 volunteers from the Boulder, Colorado area who regularly incorporate cannabis into their running routine. Initially, the researchers established a baseline by measuring fitness levels and gathering survey data. Participants were then instructed to obtain either a CBD-dominant or THC-dominant cannabis strain from a dispensary. During a follow-up visit, volunteers ran on a treadmill for 30 minutes at a moderate pace. Throughout this exercise, they were asked to report on various factors including motivation, enjoyment, perceived exertion, time perception, and pain levels to assess the subjective impact of cannabis on their workout experience.

The results were intriguing. Participants, all regular cannabis users, reported a more positive affect, increased enjoyment, and heightened “runner’s high” symptoms during their cannabis-influenced exercise sessions compared to non-cannabis sessions. However, they also experienced more exertion. Notably, pain levels remained low and consistent across both scenarios. The study observed that effects varied depending on the cannabinoid content, with people who consumed CBD showing a larger difference in enjoyment and a smaller difference in exertion compared to THC consumers.

While the study did not find cannabis to be performance-enhancing in a way that might give competitive athletes an unfair advantage, it highlights its potential to positively influence the subjective exercise experience for regular users. This insight is particularly relevant as many sports leagues, recognizing the medical value of cannabis and its role in recovery, have relaxed their policies on cannabis and CBD. Notably, the UFC recently removed cannabis from their banned substances list, with numerous other professional sports leagues relaxing policies in varying degrees.

The research team’s findings suggest that cannabis, when used in conjunction with exercise by regular users, may lead to an increase in both positive and negative aspects of the subjective exercise experience. However, they caution that more research is needed to establish these findings, calling for diverse samples, exercise modalities, and methodologies, including placebo-controlled trials.

This study stands as the first to investigate the acute effects of commercially available cannabis on subjective responses to exercise in a laboratory environment. It opens the door to a new understanding of how cannabis can interact with physical activity, challenging the stereotypical classification of cannabis consumers as sedentary. As the legal landscape and public perception of cannabis continue to evolve, this research provides a timely insight into how it might be used to enhance rather than hinder an active lifestyle.

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Cannabis Payment Processor Shuts Down, Files $500M Lawsuit

1/05/2024

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Cannabis brands have been facing a significant challenge in accessing financial services since states began to legalize the plant. This struggle has been highlighted by a recent lawsuit filed by FP Omni Technologies, a cannabis-friendly payment processor, against TSYS Acquiring Solutions, LLC (“TSYS”), a subsidiary of Global Payments, Inc. The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of Gwinnett County, Georgia, details FP Omni’s claims against TSYS, alleging false representation and a breach of contract.

In a press release published on December 28th, FP Omni Technologies, based in Peachtree City, Georgia, announced its decision to wind down operations. Since 2020, the company has provided hundreds of dispensaries and their customers with a compliant way to process legal cannabis transactions.

According to the announcement, the issues leading to the shutdown stem from FP Omni’s inability to continue payment processing services promised by TSYS. The two parties had reportedly entered into a long-term agreement in 2019, which FP Omni alleges TSYS has not honored. Specifically, FP Omni claims TSYS misrepresented its ownership and control over the payment gateway through which FP Omni’s transactions were processed and failed to provide the agreed-upon payment processing services without the consent of any other entity.

FP Omni believes that, as a result of TSYS’ continuing actions and inactions, the company could no longer service its customers properly. 

– Excerpt from the press release

The lawsuit gained momentum on September 29, 2023, when the trial court denied TSYS’ request for dismissal. The court ruled that FP Omni could proceed with its claims for breach of contract, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, and breach of implied duties of good faith and fair dealing. FP Omni seeks compensatory and punitive damages, and the latest valuation of the company exceeded $500 million. A copy of the lawsuit and court order can be viewed on the FP Omni website.

One key aspect of FP Omni’s operations was its use of pin debit transactions, a method singled out by major credit card processors earlier in the year. This method was considered one of the few available to cannabis businesses due to the federal illegality of cannabis, which restricts traditional banking and credit card processing options. The lawsuit and FP Omni’s subsequent shutdown highlight the ongoing difficulties cannabis businesses face in accessing essential financial services.

FP Omni says they are determined to continue their litigation against TSYS vigorously. The company aims not only to recover the full value of its lost business but also to expose the actions of TSYS and others involved in stifling a legal, competitive cannabis payment processing industry.

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DEA Letter to Congress Asserts “Final Authority” on Cannabis Scheduling

1/04/2024

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In a recent letter to congress that was published by Punchbowl News, a DEA representative asserted that the Drug Enforcement Administration has “final authority” on any decision regarding the status of cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act. Amid numerous active efforts to change how the federal government treats cannabis that have been playing out in congress, courts, and the executive branch, this assertion by the DEA highlights the complexity of the situation.

The DEA is currently reviewing the federal classification of marijuana as a Schedule 1 drug, following a recommendation from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to reclassify cannabis to a less restrictive Schedule III, indicating a shift in perspective on its medical value and potential for abuse. Meanwhile, public support of cannabis legalization is at an all-time-high: a recent Gallup poll revealed that seven in ten Americans support a change in policy.

While the HHS has made its stance clear, the DEA holds the final authority to reschedule or deschedule drugs under the Controlled Substances Act. Despite the ongoing review initiated under President Biden’s directive, the DEA has not provided a timeline or clear indication of its position, maintaining a secretive and procedural stance.

This lack of transparency and the DEA’s power to make a final decision have caused frustration among lawmakers, advocates, and the public. Critics argue that the DEA should align with the evolving public opinion and Congressional calls for legalization. In response, Rep. Earl Blumenauer, co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, and other lawmakers have urged the DEA to recognize the merits of legalization and consider a more progressive approach during their review.

The secretive nature of the HHS’s rationale for recommending the rescheduling of cannabis, with only heavily redacted documents available to the public, further complicates the issue. Although the Congressional Research Service suggests that the DEA might follow the HHS’s recommendation based on historical precedent, the agency’s current opaque approach leaves the outcome uncertain.

As the debate continues, stakeholders eagerly await the DEA’s decision, which will have significant implications for federal cannabis policy and broader efforts towards reform.

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Oklahoma Introduces ‘Secret Shoppers’ to Help Regulate Medical Cannabis Industry

1/04/2024

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Under an Oklahoma state law taking effect this week, the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) can now utilize “secret shoppers” in its effort to regulate the state’s medical cannabis industry, FOX25 reports. Specifically, the new law requires regulators to send at least 50 secret shoppers per year to licensed retailers to anonymously purchase medical cannabis products, and then have the products tested by a lab.

Rep. Josh West, who co-sponsored the bill, said the new law prioritizes the safety of Oklahomans by keeping potential bad actors in check. “Constituents, people in the industry, people outside of the industry, the average public, they wanted some checks and balances in place,” he said in the report.

“Consumer safety is the biggest part of it. And we want to ensure that we are keeping the bad actors out. And so it’s no different than what ABLE does when ABLE goes into a liquor store and ensures that they’re following the law.” — Rep. West, via FOX25

The bill (HB3971) was passed and signed into law in 2022 but didn’t take effect until the start of 2023.

The new law represents Oklahoma‘s latest strategy for cracking down on illegal cannabis operations in the state.

Cannabis regulators said in November they were seeking to revoke 165 medical cannabis cultivation licenses over the companies’ failure to post signage on their properties as required by state law, while the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics said in August that over the previous two years, officials shut down more than 800 unlawful cannabis farms.

State officials said last month that throughout their efforts to rein in the industry, the number of licensed medical cannabis cultivators in the state has dropped from about 9,400 in 2021 to about 3,200 at the end of 2023.

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CBD.market Responds to Growing Evidence That CBD Enhances Sleep

1/03/2024

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Recent research from medical experts at the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Utah, and the University of Illinois at Chicago indicated that taking 50 mg of CBD may significantly impact sleep quality while enhancing Natural Killer (NK) immune cell function. The study explored various claims regarding CBD and sleep and the human immune system’s role in regulating sleep. Online retailer CBD.market has responded to the growing interest in CBD products to promote natural sleep methods.

The Rising Trend in Using CBD for Sleep Management

Many people are desperate for high-quality sleep at night because of their stressful daytime environments. At the same time, they are reluctant to take prescription sleep aids because of potential side effects and the possibility of dependency. CBD offers a natural way to aid circadian sleep rhythms.

The study followed 28 participants with an average age of 25.9 years for eight weeks who took 50 mg of CBD nightly and were not currently taking sleep medications. Participants received either CBD or a placebo. After completing the eight-week course, the researchers found no significant changes in weight, BMI or body fat percentages among those taking CBD. However, the CBD group experienced significant improvements in sleep quality. This study confirms anecdotal evidence that CBD users experience better sleep.

Researchers believe CBD affects sleep by working on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the hypothalamus, impacting sleep regulation and body temperature. CBD can suppress stress hormone overactivation and equalize the sleep and wake rhythm.

CBD.market Delivers High-Quality Products for Better Sleep

CBD.market has recognized the sleep-related CBD demand by responding with increased products geared toward those who want better sleep quality. Overall, gummies are the preferred method of using CBD because they deliver a premeasured dose and are discreet.

“The most popular sleep support products in our store are CBD gummies, CBN gummies, ones with melatonin and other sleep aid additives,” said Michael Levin, CBD.market Head of Analytics. “Following these, tinctures and capsules are also in high demand.”

Consumers seeking high-quality CBD products for sleep and other uses will find many items available at CBD.market. Among the trusted CBD brands CBD.market sells are Wyld CBD, Lazarus Naturals, Joy Organics, NuLeaf Naturals and several others, all thoroughly tested by third parties prior to sale. The company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

About CBD.market
CBD.market is a top online retailer focusing on elevating and educating consumers on how to use CBD for better wellness. The company provides access to premium CBD products from top-quality manufacturers, with efficacy tested by independent labs. Operating out of its headquarters in San Diego, the company remains on the cutting edge of CBD research to offer the best organic edibles, capsules, tinctures and more to prevent and treat disease and illness in a holistic manner. As the industry leader in high-quality CBD products, CBD.market maintains transparent shipping policies that have helped customers throughout the United States enjoy delivery of these products at reasonable prices.

To contact CBD.market please visit cbd.market or call 422-777-0177, or email info@cbd.market.

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UFC Removes Cannabis From Banned Substances List

1/03/2024

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The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has taken a significant step in sports health and safety by formally removing marijuana from its list of banned substances for athletes, setting a progressive example in the realm of professional sports.

The UFC’s decision to exclude cannabis from its prohibited substances is an extension of its earlier reform in 2021, which protected fighters from being penalized for testing positive for THC. The revised anti-doping policy aims to align with the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) list, yet it notably deviates by excluding marijuana, reflecting a more nuanced approach to substance regulation in sports.

In a press statement, UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell highlighted the organization’s ambition to lead with the “most effective and progressive anti-doping program in all of professional sports.” The policy, which came into effect on December 31, is part of UFC’s broader effort to ensure a fair and safe competitive environment. This initiative also includes a new partnership with Drug Free Sport International for sample collection and shipping, further solidifying UFC’s commitment to athlete health and performance integrity.

Jeff Novitzky, UFC Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance, emphasized that the updated anti-doping program is the culmination of extensive input and trial, signifying an ongoing commitment to evolve based on scientific evidence and athlete welfare. The move is seen as a significant stride in acknowledging the changing societal and scientific perspectives on marijuana use and its implications for athletes.

The UFC’s policy shift mirrors a broader trend in sports organizations reevaluating their stance on marijuana amidst a growing legalization movement. Several entities have recently adjusted their drug policies to be more accommodating of cannabis use in the past few years, including the NCAA, NBA, and NFL, among others.

State sports regulators and other organizations like the New York Media Softball League have also adapted their approaches, reflecting a shift in recognizing the potential therapeutic benefits and reduced stigma surrounding marijuana. These changes in the sports world align with a broader societal shift toward more progressive views on cannabis, particularly given its legal status in various jurisdictions.

However, despite these evolving perspectives, the World Anti-Doping Agency continues to maintain a ban on cannabis, citing concerns about the “spirit of sport” and athlete role modeling. This stance has drawn criticism, particularly in the wake of high-profile cases like U.S. runner Sha’Carri Richardson’s Olympic suspension for a positive THC test. The case spurred a widespread call for policy reform, including from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, the White House, and congressional lawmakers, highlighting a growing consensus that international rules on marijuana need to be reconsidered to reflect contemporary understanding and attitudes toward the substance.

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New Mexico Regulators Revoke Two Cannabis Cultivator Licenses

1/03/2024

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The Cannabis Control Division (CCD) of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department on Tuesday revoked the licenses of two adult-use cannabis cultivators, the agency said in a press release.

The operators in question — Bliss Farm and Native American Agricultural Development Company (NAADC), both located in Torrance County — were said to have exceeded the legal plant count limits and failed to properly utilize the state’s mandatory track-and-trace system. Regulators noted at both locations signs of a recent harvest without any record of the plants or where they might have gone. Additionally, the companies were said to have fostered unsafe working conditions, among other violations.

Under the order, the companies must immediately cease their commercial operations and, in addition to losing their licenses, they have been ordered to pay $1 million in fines. Under state law, such cannabis industry fines go into the state’s school fund.

Clay Bailey, the Acting Superintendent of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department, said in the release, “The illicit activity conducted at both of these farms undermines the good work that many cannabis businesses are doing across the state.”

“Compliance within the industry is the CCD’s main priority and our office is committed to ensuring New Mexicans have access to safe cannabis products. The team worked diligently on both of these cases to determine the appropriate action for violations at a scale we hadn’t seen before. The outcomes were justified under the law based on the egregious conduct of these individuals and I hope this serves as a reminder to those who might be violating the laws and rules the state has put forth.” — Todd Stevens, Cannabis Control Division Director, in a statement

After the order, New Mexico regulators have revoked six cannabis industry licenses since the market’s January 2022 launch.

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Police Officer Killed While Responding to Burglary at Cannabis Business

1/02/2024

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Tragedy struck the Oakland Police Department early Friday morning as Officer Tuan Le, 36, lost his life in the line of duty while responding to reports of a burglary at a cannabis business, as reported by CBS. This marked the second burglary incident at the same location within just four hours.

Officer Le, originally from Vietnam, moved to Oakland and became a naturalized citizen on September 11, 2001. He graduated from the 183rd police academy in 2020 and had been serving as the community resource officer in West Oakland for the past two years.

In a heartfelt statement, the Oakland Police Department expressed their grief, stating, “Officer Le was a devoted husband to his wife. His passing leaves a void in the law enforcement community, the city of Oakland, and in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, his smile, and the positive change he brought to the lives of those around him. He is a true hero who dedicated his life to making our community safer.”

The shooting has once again brought to the forefront a critical issue concerning the federal status of cannabis in the United States. While many states have legalized or decriminalized cannabis for medical and recreational use, it remains classified as a federally illegal substance. This conflicting legal landscape forces cannabis dispensaries to operate predominantly as cash-based businesses, making them vulnerable targets for robberies.

Without access to traditional banking services, such as credit card processing and business loans, dispensaries are left with little choice but to deal primarily in cash. This cash-heavy environment not only poses significant security risks but also complicates financial management, tax reporting, and regulatory compliance.

Dispensary operators and advocates have been calling for federal reform for years, emphasizing the urgent need to address the discrepancies between state and federal cannabis laws. The ongoing federal prohibition not only endangers the safety of those involved in the cannabis industry but also puts law enforcement officers like Officer Tuan Le in harm’s way when responding to incidents at these businesses.

Reform efforts have gained momentum in recent years, with calls for comprehensive legislation that would provide a safe and legitimate banking framework for the cannabis industry. The SAFE Banking Act, for instance, aims to allow cannabis-related businesses access to the traditional banking system, reducing their reliance on cash transactions and minimizing the associated risks.

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New York Cannabis Market Tops $150M During First Year of Operations

1/02/2024

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New York licensed cannabis retailers sold more than $150 million worth of products during the legal market’s first year of operations, according to data from the New York Office of Cannabis Management (OCM).

Regulators said that while just 40 adult-use cannabis dispensaries have opened for business across the state, there were more than 6,900 cannabis industry applications received in 2023, including:

  • 538 cannabis processor applications,
  • 372 cultivation license applications,
  • 351 distributor license applications,
  • 1,349 microbusiness license applications, and
  • 4,324 retail dispensary applications.

Of the 6,934 total applications, 3,826 — about 55% — were equity applications, regulators said.

“New York Cannabis has momentum heading in to 2024 and we’ll keep working to make this market grow. We have a lot of work to do, and we have much to be proud of; now that the core market architecture is in place, my team at OCM is ready to scale and help this industry thrive across New York State.” — Chris Alexander, OCM Executive Director, in a statement

Ultimately, the state’s adult-use roll-out was slower than expected due to a lawsuit that blocked the early licensing of equity applicants; officials settled that lawsuit in November.

To alleviate the pressure from the state’s slow retail roll-out, New York regulators last year approved a “cannabis showcase” project that enabled producers to distribute their stockpiled products through a farmers market-style arrangement. The state’s first such showcase opened in August and, over the course of 141 showcase days, businesses earned $4.8 million in cannabis sales across 43 cities and towns.

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Medical Cannabis Research

Johns Hopkins Researchers to Track 10,000 Medical Cannabis Patients 

12/29/2023

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Researchers from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine are set to track 10,000 medical cannabis patients across the U.S. at length to better understand cannabis medicine. The study, which is supported by a $10 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), aims to inform clinicians about the efficacy of medical cannabis.

Ryan Vandrey, one of the creators of the Johns Hopkins Cannabis and Health Research Initiative and a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences, said that while cannabis is available “as a therapeutic” in the majority of U.S. states, “we’re lacking the quality of data that we have with other medicines.”

“Our mission with this research is to understand the health impacts of therapeutic cannabis use. We hope to provide some starting points for understanding what types of products may or may not be helpful and what types of products may be more risky for use in certain populations or for certain therapeutic purposes.” — Vandrey, in a press release

Johannes Thrul, associate professor of mental health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and collaborator on the project, said the researchers will follow the 10,000 patients as they start as new patients through a year or more of medical cannabis use.

“We’re tracking them with multiple assessments over the course of their first year with more tightly spaced assessments toward the beginning because our assumption is that as people are starting their medical cannabis journey, they’re likely going to try different products until they find the products that best help them with their symptoms,” Thrul said.

 

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Alabama’s Medical Cannabis Licensing Process to be Disputed in Court Today

12/28/2023

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In the latest development from Alabama’s nascent medical cannabis industry, several companies including Southeast Cannabis, TheraTrue 3 Notch Root, Alabama Always, and Jemmstone are set to make their legal case against the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) today, as reported by the Alabama Political Reporter. The applicants are contesting the commission’s methods of awarding medical cannabis licenses, asserting that the AMCC’s decisions during a crucial December 12 meeting were procedurally flawed, specifically criticizing the handling of application scoring and electronic files, as well as a restrictive 10MB limit on submission portals.

Alabama Always, LLC is also seeking expedited discovery in its lawsuit against the AMCC, alleging violations of the Alabama Administrative Procedure Act and the Open Meetings Act. They argue that this discovery is essential to challenge the Commission’s rejection of their license application effectively. Concurrently, 3 Notch Roots and Jemmstone are looking to consolidate their cases with Alabama Always, as they are addressing similar grievances against the AMCC’s actions.

This series of lawsuits is indicative of growing discontent with the AMCC’s transparency and fairness, potentially setting the stage for a major legal battle. Earlier this month the AMCC made headlines with their decision to award Trulieve — a publicly-traded company out of Florida — the only license reserved for “minority-owned” businesses. Cannabis operators from Alabama and other states decried the decision, pointing out that large corporate brands should not be allowed to capitalize on licensing provisions intended to boost market diversity.

The outcomes of today’s hearings are anticipated to have far-reaching implications not only for Alabama’s medical cannabis industry but also for the national conversation around how a legalized cannabis market should function, and who should be granted opportunities to participate.

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Vermont Department of Health Opposes Removal of THC Potency Cap

12/28/2023

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As cannabis has been legalized for adult use and medical purposes in different US states, vastly different rules have been implemented in different markets, with one of the most controversial regulatory practices being the implementation of maximum THC caps and taxes based on product potency. In Vermont, a 60% THC potency cap on cannabis concentrates has been the focus of a heated policy debate within the state, with cannabis regulators calling for its removal, pointing out that other states like Washington and Colorado have opted to focus on consumer education and daily purchase limits rather than the potency of the products themselves.

In a recent report submitted to policymakers by the Vermont Department of Health, a special commission has recommended keeping those caps in place, pointing to risks associated with high-potency products. The report states: “The SMPC supports the potency cap for cannabis concentrates due to the negative public health implications of high potency THC products.”

According to the report, the Substance Misuse Prevention Oversight and Advisory Council (SMPC) is “charged with reviewing the current prevention policies and initiatives in Vermont and providing advice to the Governor and General Assembly on the prevention system throughout the state.” One key argument cited by the report is that high potency products are often to blame when children ingest cannabis accidentally, resulting in more hospital visits. The report also cited studies suggesting a link between high potency cannabis and psychosis.

A section of the report highlights a perceived increase in cannabis use by young adults over time, comparing surveys from 2017 and 2018 focused on all Vermonters over age 12, to surveys from 2020 and 2022 focused on Vermonters aged 18-25. According to the data, the 2017 and 2018 surveys showed that approximately 19% of respondents acknowledged using cannabis within the past month. The 2020 and 2022 surveys showed cannabis consumption rates of 40% for the age range 18-25.

It is worth noting, however, that these surveys’ framing criteria do not align with each other, and that other variables could be playing a significant role in the discrepancy: for example, respondents may be influenced by the current legal status of cannabis in their decision to answer surveys truthfully. As Ganjapreneur has reported extensively in the past, the legal status of cannabis can also play a role in whether or not parents are willing to bring their children to the hospital over accidental cannabis ingestion. Additionally, potency caps that focus on percentage of THC as opposed to total milligrams of THC per container do not account for the inherent differences in product types.

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Ghana Legalizes Cannabis for Medical & Industrial Purposes

12/27/2023

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Lawmakers in Ghana’s Parliament voted this month to legalize the cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes, according to AfricaNews.com.

Under the December 14 decision, the country’s Interior Minister was given the authority to begin issuing cultivation licenses. Licenses are ultimately expected for every aspect of the cannabis industry including cultivation, distribution, processing, sale, import, and export, according to the report.

Notably, the new law includes a 0.3% THC cap for cannabis crops grown in the country, which matches the restrictions for industrial hemp crops grown in the U.S.

Experts predict that cannabis and hemp cultivation could prove to be a significant boon to the country because the crop will grow readily in every region of Ghana and will bring a multitude of employment opportunities, the report said.

The move marks Ghana’s next step in aligning itself with the international trend of reforming cannabis laws, which lawmakers had set as a priority in 2020 with the Narcotics Control Commission Act.

Other African countries that have legalized medical cannabis and/or industrial hemp include Lesotho, Malawi, Morocco, South Africa, Eswatini, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe; South Africa has also decriminalized the personal possession of cannabis.

A 2022 report described the cannabis sector in Africa as “poised” for significant growth, and New Frontier Data reported in 2019 that approximately one-third of the world’s cannabis consumers live in Africa.

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Florida Arrests Two for Falsifying Cannabis Legalization Petition Signatures

12/27/2023

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The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has arrested two paid canvassers for allegedly falsifying signatures on petitions to put an adult-use cannabis legalization on the state’s 2024 ballot, Marijuana Moment reports. FDLE said it also arrested a third canvasser who was petitioning for a gambling-related initiative.

Officials did not disclose how many fraudulent signatures had been submitted by the canvassers but said that there were “dozens” of affected petitions submitted for the state’s cannabis legalization and gambling-related initiatives.

“The Florida Constitution is a sacred document by which Florida’s government, voters and citizens are adjudicated. Florida Law lays out a detailed process by which issues can be submitted to Florida’s voters for consideration before they are added to Florida’s Constitution.” – Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd, in a statement

“To fraudulently misappropriate this process for personal gain is not only illegal but also violates the trust of law-abiding Floridians across the state,” Byrd said.

A spokesperson for the Smart & Safe Florida legalization campaign told Marijuana Moment it is “fully supportive” of the investigation, that it intends to cooperate with any law enforcement requests, and — if the allegations are substantiated — that “we hope the individuals involved are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” according to the report.

A recent poll found that about 67% of Florida voters would support the bid to legalize adult-use cannabis.

The campaign was challenged in August by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody as potentially breaking the state’s single-subject rule for ballot initiatives but the state Supreme Court ruled recently in the campaign’s favor.

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President Biden Issues Additional Cannabis Pardons

12/26/2023

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In an expansion of last year’s sweeping federal pardons for cannabis possession, President Joe Biden (D) on Friday issued additional pardons for thousands of individuals convicted of simple cannabis use and possession on federal lands and in Washington D.C., the Associated Press reports.

The White House announced on Friday that the president was also granting clemency to 11 people serving “disproportionately long” prison sentences for nonviolent drug offenses. But, while the pardons represent a symbolic shift in the federal government’s approach to cannabis convictions, the president’s cannabis pardons – both those recently announced and those carried out last year – will not result in the release of any prisoners currently serving time for cannabis-related sentences. Rather, the goal of the pardons is to prevent past cannabis convictions from hindering individuals’ efforts to find a job and/or acquire housing.

The president said that the pardons would help make the “promise of equal justice a reality,” the report said.

“Criminal records for marijuana use and possession have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. It’s time that we right these wrongs.” – President Joe Biden, via the AP

President Biden also reiterated his wishes for governors in the U.S. to nullify state cannabis convictions, stating, “Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely due to the use or possession of marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either.”

Officially, cannabis remains federally prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule I substance, which is reserved for substances that have “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended in August that cannabis be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III.

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