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Hemp News, Laws & Product Updates

A curated news hub focused on hemp regulation and policy changes, cannabinoids (CBD/Delta-8/Delta-9/hemp-derived THC), lab testing and COAs, product safety, brands, and industry trends.

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https://hightimes.com/

WTF, Florida!

I’m a full Florida native, having been born and raised in Tampa before adventuring outside this state. When I was a younger stoner I remember visiting an “arcade” that was really just a discreet room in a shopping strip mall stacked with underground vendors – jars of edibles, mushrooms, and ounces of weed…it was the most quantity I had ever seen.  Fast forward to a few months ago, when I noticed a recently opened Cookies dispensary ten minutes down the road from me. Florida has come a long way, but what a long and strange trip it has been down the road to legalization. In the November election later this year, Florida will have a chance to expand its billion-dollar medical market to full recreational. Amendment Three, also known as the Marijuana Legalization Initiative, would allow adults over the age of 21 or older to buy and possess up to 3 ounces of product.  This would grant existing licensed medical operators in the state to grow, manufacture, and sell to the new adult-use market. The details don’t clarify if it will open up licenses to new businesses.  Earlier this year, State Attorney Ashley Moody argued that the Marijuana Legalization  Initiative was misleading and detrimental to the state’s legal market. The Florida Supreme Court overruled the State Attorney’s claims, ensuring Amendment 3 a place on the ballot.  A recent poll surveyed 56% of Florida voters support this recreational bill, just shy of the 60% voter approval required for this Florida Amendment to pass. Not every legal cannabis state requires this voter approval rate, but only three states have been able to exceed it – Arizona, New Jersey, and Maryland. Will Florida follow suit? Amendment 3 makes no mention of expungement of prior cannabis records or social equity reform. Home growing is not allowed in this initiative either – which is one of the many factors in this bill that have many of us in the Sunshine State conflicted.  1) Trulieve’s Ticket Smart & Safe Florida is a campaign in full support of this initiative. The campaign believes cannabis legalization will bring more transparent regulations and improve quality control.  Over the past year, the campaign raked in $39.55 million solely from the biggest multi-state operator in the FL market: Trulieve. Since the legalization of medical cannabis in 2016, this mega-corporation has grown to have a huge influence on Florida’s market, despite Trulieve CEO Kim River and her husband’s scandalous way to the top (although Florida tends to wear political corruption with style).  With Trulieve fully funding and supporting the initiative, many consider the company’s support of Amendment 3 a step towards dominating the potential recreational market. 2) Ready to Go Recreational  Legalizing adult use of cannabis in Florida would turn the Sunshine State’s already billion-dollar medical program into one of the nation’s largest recreational markets. Many brands like Cookies, Jungle Boys, and Planet 13 have moved in as Florida medical dispensaries. Over the years, I’ve often seen someone walk into one of these more “cannabis-branded” stores without a medical card hoping to buy an eighth.  The state is ready to go recreational. Whether it will be a fair playing field is truly up to Florida lawmakers – who, in all honesty, don’t have a great track record for doing the right thing. Growing a legal market in Florida will require more than policymakers presuming what’s right for our industry. We need cultivators, processors, business owners, and consumers to speak out with a higher solution.  3) “No Home Grow, No Vote”  The Amendment’s prohibition of home grow has been a hot debate by many in the FL cannabis community. Many see this detail solely as an advantage to the already successful medical multi-state operators in the industry.  Florida stoners who are against the bill argue that waiting until the next election cycle to legalize will give more opportunity and time for smaller businesses to write their own counter-proposal, which can include home grow details. Around the same time Smart & Safe Florida was collecting signatures, the Home Cultivation for Medical Marijuana Initiative was campaigning for the right for adult patients to cultivate medical cannabis. This initiative was founded by Wise & Free Florida, a group advocating for patients’ freedom in growing medicine. When a representative from Trulieve was asked about their support of this initiative, their response was a “big thumbs up.”  4) A Disgusted DeSantis Since Amendment 3 was announced to hit the ballot this year, Florida’s Governor has not been shy about his dislike for psychoactive cannabis and all its potential. Governor Ron DeSantis openly discourages passing the bill, predicting that voters won’t surpass the 60% threshold.  Gov. DeSantis has made it clear on his feelings about recreational cannabis, calling the proposal “radical” and arguing that it will “reduce the quality of life” in the state – questioning why people would want to “smell it in the streets when taking your family to dinner.”  His complaints about the plant don’t end there though– the latest calculated move from his office threw a curveball that Florida’s industry did not see coming.  5) The Hemp Curveball  Florida Senate Bill 1698 is a proposed measure going after the Farm Bill loophole. It would ban hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC. This bill would restrict Delta-9 THC products to 5 milligrams per serving or 50 milligrams per package. It’s clear this bill would severely shake up Florida’s established hemp industry.  When SB 1698 was awaiting signature from Gov. DeSantis, it was hinted that his office would unexpectedly veto the bill under a leadership strategy akin to “the enemy of my enemy is my friend,” – hoping to pit the hemp industry against Amendment 3. Interesting.  Soon after the Governor vetoed the bill, claiming, “Small businesses are the cornerstone of Florida’s economy…the bill would impose debilitating regulatory burdens on small businesses and almost certainly fail to achieve its purposes.”  Right on, Ron – this veto saves hundreds of mom and pop shops and hemp cultivators. But I’m personally having trouble making sense of a Governor who is in such strong support of hemp but in bold opposition of cannabis. (Does somebody want to tell him both plants come from the same Cannabaceae family?) I don’t care whether you are someone who consumes consistently or just ‘know a guy’ you pick up from every once in a while. Whether you smoke or you don’t, understanding what Amendment 3 could mean for Florida is important for your future, our community, and the next generation.  If I’m being honest to myself (and publicly to you all), I’m extremely torn about my stance on Amendment 3. Of course, I want it to be legalized in the state for adult use. I would love to see all non-violent criminals and those previously charged for the plant be free with expunged records. It would be incredible to see a market expand and open up jobs and opportunities for others in the community, not just those funded with oversized pockets. Let’s see less shame in the consumer game so I can enjoy my happy hour joint instead of gin, or so my Dad could walk into a dispensary to buy pre-rolls “just for fun.” Let’s shift the negative stigma and focus on better-quality products and resources.  Given the complicated nature of cannabis and politics, is all of that really going to happen if this bill were to pass? Or will it only directly benefit corporate cannabis?  For many of us Floridians, this feels like our one shot at legalizing cannabis in the state. Is it better to have one foot in the door than to be locked out completely? We’ll see what November brings. 
https://hightimes.com/

High Five: Five Health Organizations that Support Cannabis Research

Cancer is a beast that comes in many forms and often requires multiple strategies to overcome, including medical cannabis. The American Cancer Society (ACS) has supported medical cannabis research since the 1990s. The organization officially supported California’s Senate Bill 535 in 1997, for instance, which focused on medical cannabis research. SB 535 was controversial but established a $1 million state research program at the University of California to determine the efficacy of medical cannabis for treating AIDS-related wasting syndrome, glaucoma, and cancer. Currently, the ACS does not take an official stance when it comes to cannabis legislation. In June 2003, the American Nurses Association (ANA) issued a resolution saying that the organization aims to “support the right of patients to have safe access to therapeutic marijuana/cannabis under appropriate prescriber supervision.” The organization added that the needless criminalization of cannabis creates a situation that makes it harder for patients who rely on medical cannabis. In 2006 the American Cannabis Nurses Association was created, and gradually helped the ANA warm up to the idea of medical cannabis. In 2023, the ANA went further and officially recognized cannabis nursing as a specialty nursing practice within the organization. The field of osteopathic medicine often involves many types of alternative therapies as they relate to our overall health and well-being. In 2011, the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) issued a resolution saying that the organization supports “well-controlled clinical studies on the use of marijuana and related cannabinoids for patients who have significant medical conditions.” As recently as 2018, the AOA reiterated its stance, announcing that it officially supports the review of the classification of cannabis at the federal level as it currently falls under Schedule I, in order to facilitate advancement research for health purposes. Health Canada, a federal institution relatively similar to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, has been involved in Canada’s medical cannabis industry for decades, showing support early on amid the country’s path to legalization. Former Health Canada spokesman Dann Michols told the Ottawa Citizen in 1997 that there is no difference between cannabis and other useful medicines such as morphine and aspirin, which were originally derived from plants. Health Canada has been heavily involved in regulating medical cannabis in Canada for over 20 years. For instance, Health Canada employs a rigorous tracking system in an attempt to thwart illegal cannabis operations. Researchers associated with the National Academy of Sciences Institute of Medicine (IOM) published a piece in the National Academy Press in 1999 called “Marijuana as Medicine: Assessing the Science Base.” In it, they wrote that “scientific data indicate the potential therapeutic value of cannabinoid drugs, primarily THC, for pain relief, control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation.” They also recognized the fewer harms of cannabis compared to drugs like opioids, writing that “the adverse effects of marijuana use are within the range of effects tolerated for other medications.” This article was originally published in the June 2024 issue of High Times Magazine.
https://hightimes.com/

New York Cannabis Agency Announces Cultivation Rules, License Updates

The New York Cannabis Control Board (CCB) has officially approved rules that allow adults over 21 to cultivate cannabis at home, as of June 11. Now adults can care for a maximum of six plants, with three immature plants and three mature. Residences with more than one adult can have up to 12 plants (six immature and six mature). Additionally, new rules take place for possession in regard to a person’s crops. “You can have up to five (5) pounds of trimmed cannabis and the equivalent weight in concentrates in or on the grounds of their private residence,” the Office of Cannabis Management wrote in its law breakdown. “Individuals can carry and transport up to three (3) ounces of cannabis and 24 grams of concentrates within the state.” Cannabis can be grown anywhere that a person owns or rents such as a “room, home, apartment, mobile home, co-op, or other residential spaces.” Landlords cannot refuse to rent a space to a person, or penalize a tenant, unless they are at risk of losing federal funding or benefits. The rules also cover how residents can legally obtain cannabis plants. Seeds will now be available at commercial retailers, but immature plants can also be purchased by numerous licensed cannabis businesses as well. The OCM warned of the responsibilities of the grower, specifically when it comes to processing their flower into other cannabis products. “If you’re making at home products with cannabis, like tinctures or butters, the use of flammable materials is prohibited because they are not safe for home use,” the OCM stated. “Consider alternative extraction methods such as heat, water or fermentation.” The OCM also mentioned the need to reduce cannabis odors. “You must take reasonable measures to prevent cannabis odor from becoming a nuisance to neighboring residents such as co-planting items like lavender in an outdoor garden or using a carbon filter for indoor cultivation,” the information document continued. Lastly, the agency warned growers to cultivate away from the public eye, either by installing fences or tall, busy plants to add privacy to outdoor property. In the realm of safety, the OCM suggested that growers choose LED lights to reduce power usage and risk of electric overload and recommended that growers seek expertise from an electrician about the setup. It also stressed the importance of proper ventilation to ensure that cannabis does not become moldy. These rules were originally approved in February 2024, which was followed by a 60-day public comment period. The CCB voted on final regulations for cultivation on June 11. Also on June 11, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that the CCB has approved another 105 adult-use cannabis licenses. “New York is building a robust and equitable legal market that is driving significant economic growth within our communities,” said Hochul. “The issuance of 105 additional adult-use licenses is just the next step in developing the nation-leading industry New Yorkers expect and deserve.” This includes 25 cultivator licenses, 22 distributor licenses, 22 microbusiness licenses, 19 processor licenses, and 17 dispensary licenses. Additionally, 45 out of these 105 licenses are transitioning adult-use conditional cultivators (AUCC) or adult-use conditional processors (AUCP). During the meeting, the CCB also denied licenses to 100 applicants that weren’t eligible or had already received a license from a different application. CCB chair Tremaine Wright said in a statement that progress continues to push New York’s cannabis industry forward. “We continue to prioritize our market’s expansion, and commitment to our nation-leading cannabis market, by providing New Yorkers with a wide range of choice and opportunity to participate,” Wright said. “Today’s license approvals, and the introduction of home cultivation brings us one step closer to setting a new standard that centers growth, equity, and safety.” So far in 2024, the CCB has approved a total of 654 cannabis licenses, while there are currently 132 adult-use cannabis dispensaries operating in the state. Meanwhile, cannabis sales continue to increase in the state as well. The governor and OCM confirmed that in May, cannabis sales reached $4.4 million (for a total of $46.2 million). They project that by early June the state will have collected more than $200 million in sales. The governor’s office attributes the success of its Social and Economic Equity (SEE) program as one of the reasons why the industry is thriving. The press release stated that 57 of the 105 new applicants (about 54%), are SEE applicants, which breaks down into “five Community Development Initiative participants, seven distressed farmers, 22 minority-owned businesses, seven service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, and 16 women-owned businesses.” In May, the governor’s office stated that OCM executive director Chris Alexander would be stepping down this September following Hochul’s reevaluation of the agency and its leadership. The office described Hochul’s action as “an operational overhaul” which “follows the release of a 30-day assessment conducted by a team of individuals under the leadership of the Commissioner of the Office of General Services Jeanette Moy, that identified significant structural limitations to the Office of Cannabis Management that have affected the agency’s ability to fulfill its mandate to efficiently establish New York State’s cannabis marketplace.”
https://hightimes.com/

Florida Governor Launches PAC To Fund Campaign Against Legalizing Weed

Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis on Monday announced the establishment of a new political action committee to fund a campaign to defeat a ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana in the state. Dubbed the Florida Freedom Fund, the new PAC will also raise money to help defeat a separate initiative to protect abortion rights that will appear on the ballot for the November general election. The political committee was formed in late May, Politico reported on Monday. The group is chaired by James Uthmeier, the governor’s chief of staff who also served as campaign manager for DeSantis’ failed bid for the presidency. The move comes as the governor works to reestablish his leadership over the Florida Republican Party after his failed presidential bid caused his influence to wane. The Florida Freedom Fund was formed to raise money for the campaign against Amendment 3, which would amend the Florida Constitution to legalize the possession and use of cannabis for adults. The political committee also has set its sights on Amendment 4, which would firmly establish the right to abortion in the Florida Constitution. More than one million voters signed petitions to place Amendment 3 on the ballot for the 2024 general election. If passed, the constitutional amendment initiative would allow the state’s current providers of medical marijuana, which was legalized in Florida in 2016, to begin selling cannabis to all adults aged 21 and up. Adults would be allowed to purchase up to three ounces of marijuana at a time, including no more than five grams of cannabis concentrates. The bill does not include provisions to expunge past cannabis convictions or the home cultivation of marijuana, which activists feared would lead the Supreme Court to block the measure based on state laws that limit ballot initiatives to a single subject. The proposed constitutional amendment also allows state lawmakers to authorize additional adult-use cannabis business licenses, although there is no requirement for the legislature to do so. The initiative retains Florida’s current vertically integrated business structure, which requires operators to control the production and marketing of marijuana from seed to sale. A source familiar with the governor’s plans but not authorized to speak about them said that in addition to the marijuana and abortion initiatives, the Florida Freedom Fund would support other races on the ballot, including seats for local school board elections. A spokesperson for the fund confirmed to Politico that the committee would target races other than Amendments 3 and 4. “As Gov. Ron DeSantis continues to lead our great state, the Florida Freedom Fund will be championing issues and candidates committed to preserving Floridians’ freedom,” said Taryn Fenske, a spokesperson for the governor, according to a report from Politico. “From up and down ballot races to critical amendments, we’re steadfast in our mission to keep Florida free.” After the launch of the political committee was announced, a spokesperson for Smart & Safe Florida, the group backing the marijuana legalization initiative, noted that the funds raised by the Florida Freedom Fund will be split between the two amendment initiatives and other races throughout the state. By contrast, the Smart & Safe Florida campaign has already raised more than $60 million, according to state data, with over $13 million cash on hand and a $5 million ad buy currently engaging with voters across the state. “We are proud of the campaign we are building and the broad support we have across the political spectrum throughout Florida,” Morgan Hill, spokesperson for Smart & Safe Florida, wrote in a statement emailed to High Times. “Just last week, a new Fox News poll showed a large majority of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents support Amendment 3. It’s clear Floridians are more ready than ever to legalize recreational adult-use marijuana.”
https://hightimes.com/

Psilocybin Therapy Pilot Program Bill Introduced in California

A psilocybin treatment bill was recently introduced on June 6 by California Sen. Brian W. Jones and Sen. Josh Becker, which if passed would create a pilot program for psilocybin therapy. Senate Bill 803, also called the Heal Our Heroes Act, was attached as an amendment to an unrelated bill last week. If passed, it would allow San Francisco County, Santa Cruz County, and San Diego County to conduct a pilot program for veterans and first responders to use psilocybin or psilocyn. Those counties would be in charge of approving various facilitators, including “licensed physician or surgeon, clinical psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, licensed professional clinical counselor, or a naturopathic doctor.” The program would last for three years, with data set to be compiled and reported starting after the beginning of the second year. In a press release that introduces the bill on June 6, Jones stressed the importance of providing the opportunity for veterans to benefit from psilocybin treatments. “As a dedicated advocate for veterans and first responders, I firmly believe it is our duty to support and heal the brave individuals who served our country and communities,” Jones said. “To be clear, I’m not calling for the widespread legalization of psychedelic drugs. Rather, I’m championing a targeted medical treatment aimed specifically at aiding veterans and first responders in their recovery. The Heal Our Heroes Act is a thoughtful and balanced measure designed to rigorously study the effectiveness of these treatments with the hope of providing much-needed relief to those patients who need it most.”   Becker followed up with high expectations to support veterans and first responders. “SB 803 is an entirely new and innovative effort that is the result of comprehensive discussions on how the state can best support our veterans and first responders with a viable treatment for work-induced post-traumatic stress disorder,” Becker said. “We have a responsibility to do everything possible to provide quality care to these heroes, and I am proud to joint author this bipartisan effort that will have a real impact on the people who serve our state and country.” The Heal Our Heroes Act is sponsored by two veterans organizations: the Heroic Hearts Project and Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS). A representative from the Heroic Hearts Project, Jason Moore Brown, is also a sponsor of the measure. In a press statement, he explained that he has personally struggled with PTSD and mental health as a decorated combat veteran, and approved of Jones and Becker’s bill. “We have lost over 130,000 Veterans to suicide since the Global War on Terror began in 2001,” Moore said. “I know first hand that psilocybin, when used responsibly and with support, has the potential to save the lives of California’s Veterans. This pilot program is the responsible first step to reducing, and hopefully ending, the Veteran suicide epidemic.” In fall 2023, the legislature passed Senate Bill 58 (sponsored by Sen. Scott Wiener and Assemblymember Marie Waldron) but was vetoed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. “Both peer-reviewed science and powerful personal anecdotes lead me to support new opportunities to address mental health through psychedelic medicines like those addressed in this bill,” Newsom said. “Psychedelics have proven to relieve people suffering from certain conditions such as depression, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other addictive personality traits. This is an exciting frontier and California will be on the front-end of leading it. . . . I urge the legislature to send me legislation next year that includes therapeutic guidelines.” Recently in May, a different psychedelic bill that also sought to pass treatment centers recently ended its run in the Senate Appropriations Committee. Called the “Regulated Therapeutic Access to Psychedelics Act,” Senate Bill 1012 would have created dedicated psychedelic service centers to allow patients legal access to psilocybin, DMT, mescaline, and MDMA in a regulated setting. SB-1012, also sponsored by Weiner, described the bill as a “direct response to the Governor’s request” in April. Following the rejection of SB-1012 in May, numerous advocate organizations condemned the decision to terminate the bill. “We are deeply disappointed that the Legislature has missed this opportunity after four years of debate to enact a policy that would create a responsible program and promote the safer use of psychedelics in California and create a model policy for the rest of the country,” said Alliance for Safer Use of Psychedelics (ASUP) campaign director Jared Moffat. “Californians will continue to seek out psychedelics for all sorts of reasons, including to help alleviate mental health challenges like PTSD, depression and anxiety. Many will do so without guided support and use psychedelics on their own, which increases risks. Veterans and others will continue to leave the country or go underground to seek unregulated services that may be unsafe.” These bills failed to pass, but advocates are pushing for a potential ballot initiative in 2026 that would legalize psychedelic substances such as psilocybin and MDMA. After Weiner’s bill was killed, he told KQED that he will keep trying to push for access to psychedelics. “We are not giving up, whether that means introducing a new bill or ballot measure, this issue is not going away,” he said. “We know these substances are helping people turn their lives around.”
https://hightimes.com/

7 Cannabinoids In One Gummy? Damn!

If you’re a fan of full spectrum cannabis cannabinoids, there’s one line you don’t want to miss: the Super 7 line from the fan favorite brand Binoid.  For several years now, Binoid has been at the forefront of developing legal psychoactive cannabis products infused with the latest and greatest discoveries, from rare cannabinoids to powerful live resin extracts. This includes THC-P and THCA recently.  With their Super 7 line, they’ve taken things to the next level, offering up a whopping 7 cannabinoids in one, in the form of either mouthwatering, vegan gummies, or potent, convenient tinctures.  These Super 7 gummies have racked up over 700 five star reviews (that’s a lot!) from Binoid, who is one of the best brands in the THC game right now. Let’s take a closer look at what this line entails. And the best part, you can use the code HIGHTIMES25 for 25% off with fast and free shipping to try these insane Super 7 gummies for yourself.  Binoid’s Super 7 Line has brought us two standout formulas: the Super 7 Gummies and the Super 7 Tincture.  As always, Binoid has made sure to check all of the boxes when it comes to quality, with ultra-pure distillates extracted using the most advanced and cleanest methods.  Now, let’s get into the details. As the name implies, the Super 7 products contain a combination of 7 cannabinoids: Now, as you can imagine, consuming 7 cannabinoids at once means that the high is going to be totally one of a kind.  Binoid has spent a lot of time developing this unique combo, and the result is a high that feels unbelievably balanced.   It’s never too stimulating nor too sedating, and despite the exceptionally high potency of many of the cannabinoids, it feels grounded thanks to the presence of cannabinoids that can work together synergistically to keep you nice and calm for the duration of the experience. The Super 7 line comes in two product types: gummies and a tincture.  The gummies contain a staggering 350mg of this cannabinoid combo per piece, with 20 gummies total in every container.  The tincture contains 7000mg total, or 233.33mg per dropper.  Needless to say, both are phenomenally potent, so you’ll want to dose accordingly.   At the same time, Binoid is known for their unbelievably pure cannabinoid distillates, which average around 99%, which means that you’ll get your money’s worth in more ways than one.  The gummies contain live resin, which is a really nice addition to the experience. And the tincture has just hemp extract and MCT Oil, so no bs fillers or other ingredients if you are sensitive. Binoid’s formulas have a reputation for being “clean,” meaning that they’re not loaded with additives and fillers that detract from the quality.  The gummies are 100% vegan, and use as many plant-based ingredients as possible.  Meanwhile, the tincture formula contains just cannabinoid distillates, full-spectrum hemp extract, and MCT oil – a derivative of coconut oil – to offer a minimal formula that you can totally trust.   Keep in mind that both products are full-spectrum.  This means that in addition to the 7 cannabinoids that they contain, they also have full-spectrum hemp extract, a pure extract that contains the full chemical composition of the hemp plant, complete with 100+ cannabinoids, terpenes, nutrients, and flavonoids.   Not only does this give you a more well-balanced type of high, but it also offers the entourage effect, which is the synergistic benefit of consuming all of these beneficial compounds at the same time, as nature intended. And if you love them, you can get a Super 7 gummy bundle for an amazing deal.  Binoid doesn’t mess around when it comes to quality.  You’ll be pleased to find that both products come with comprehensive third-party lab reports, which are easy to access on their website.  These lab reports break down every chemical compound present in the product, as well as the purity of the distillates, their potency, the safety of the product, and whether or not it complies with federal law.   Not only that, but Binoid’s products are known for containing hemp extracts derived from only organically grown hemp material, meaning that the formulas are pesticide-free – not to mention non-GMO, which is always something that’s important.  The hemp is sourced locally, which is important because it means it’s grown under the very strict standards of the USDA, and that because it doesn’t have to travel far, you can count on it being totally fresh.  Binoid’s Super 7 products are certain to be some of the most in-demand cannabinoid blend formulas of 2024.  Between the delectable Super 7 Gummies and the potent Super 7 Tincture, you’ll have no trouble finding the powerful high you crave, while feeling a sense of balanced bliss for hours on end.   We encourage you to check out both of these formulas, which are brand new to Binoid’s catalog, and know you’re in for something truly special, thanks to the incredible mastery that Binoid has demonstrated over the years. Explore Binoid’s Super 7 Line today, and enjoy being treated to some of the best prices and quality around and don’t forget to use the code HIGHTIMES25 for 25% off while being treated to fast shipping so that you can take advantage of this Super 7 Line. To buy Binoid’s Super 7 Line, Click Here
https://hightimes.com/

Vermont Gov. Phil Scott Allows Cannabis Bill To Pass Without Signature

On Monday, Vermont Gov. Phil Scott signed several bills related to animal welfare, diversity in courts, and addiction recovery support, and allowed a cannabis bill to pass into law without signature. The bill is designed to improve regulations surrounding cannabis and hemp-derived products. Scott also allowed H.612 to pass into law without his signature. The bill creates a series of changes to Vermont’s laws on cannabis, most notably, banning psychoactive hemp-derived products. Scott said there are pros and cons, and that the bill takes “some steps forward, and some steps back” in terms of regulations to keep products safe.  Among the pros include a loophole related to hemp products that are infused with THC. The law “ensures individuals with significant, documented medical needs continue to have access to medical cannabis,” he wrote. It “makes progress toward safeguards” for people under 21 who want access to “more potent medical products,” and the bill is “responsive to municipal concerns regarding setbacks for outdoor cannabis cultivators.” On the other hand, Scott wrote that he is concerned about “warnings from healthcare providers that the availability of high potency medical cannabis products in more retail stores will increase use among those who do not have a valid medical prescription.” The bill will codify rules the Vermont Cannabis Control Board already adopted last year, limiting the sale of intoxicating hemp-derived products in the state and regulate them as cannabis products if they contain more than 0.3% of total THC.  The Brattleboro Reformer reported last May that the bill cleared the Senate. “We finally got it down,” Cannabis Control Board Chairman James Pepper told the Reformer. “The Senate made some changes then the House concurred with the Senate.”  H.612 passed “very late in the day Friday,” Pepper said at the time. The bill loosened up advertising restrictions slightly from earlier versions and added some working groups and more requirements regarding a patient-provider relationship for people under the age of 21.  The bill provides a path for municipalities to establish preferred cultivation districts and have some power over where cannabis can be grown. It also creates several more changes. A medical use endorsement option will allow adult-use retailers to serve patients with the same authorizations as medical dispensaries such as curbside delivery pickup and tax-exempt sales to patients. On top of the $10,000 fee retailers pay for their license will be a $250 charge for the endorsement.  Under the bill, retailers with a medical endorsement will be allowed to sell products that exceed potency caps to medical patients. Sales to medical patients will be exempt from taxes.  Added to the list of conditions to qualify a person for the medical registry is ulcerative colitis. Renewal terms for patients will extend from one to three years.  Fees for medical dispensaries would be cheaper, with applications costing $1,000 instead of $2,500, and the annual charge would go from $25,000 to $5,000. An initial $20,000 fee is eliminated by the bill.  Geoffrey Pizzutillo, executive director of Vermont Growers Association, counted more than a dozen sections in the legislation. “We have yet to see the final version of the bill,” he said. “We have an idea of what’s in the bill.”  “Though we didn’t manage to stop the cultivation districts, we feel like a compromise was arrived at,” he said of language on zoning. “There’s not going to be immediate setbacks. There’s going to be a working group. We’re part of the working group to assess the outdoor siting issue for next year’s General Assembly.”  Local leaders also applauded its ban on hemp-derived psychoactive products like those containing delta-8 THC and similar compounds. “Importantly, H.612 will ban synthetic hemp derived intoxicating products with psychoactive THC that are currently unregulated and appear in gas stations and convenience stores, taking advantage of a federal loophole,” Rep. Matthew Birong, D-Addison-3, said from the floor in March before the bill headed to the Senate. “Another major theme will be adopting the medical cannabis statutes to preserve access to products for patients, as the current model for medical dispensaries is becoming economically unviable alongside adult use retail cannabis stores.” Current state law caps the THC percentage in smokable cannabis flower products at 30%—which is high but exceeded in certain varieties—and the amount of THC in solid or liquid concentrated cannabis at 60%. Vermont also imposes a 5 mg serving size/dose cap on edibles and 100 mg cap on entire packaged edibles. The edible dosages align with what you’d see in most other states. The governor wrote that the bill’s pros outweigh the cons as he allowed it to pass into law.
https://hightimes.com/

FDA Flags Infused Chocolate Bars, Says They Cause Seizures

Not all edibles hit the same. Diamond Shruumz chocolate bars are infused with hemp-derived CBD and delta-8, but whatever they’re putting in them is making people sick, according to an alert from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA issued an alert on June 7, warning people not to eat the chocolate bars. The FDA claims that eight people reported getting ill and six were hospitalized after eating the bars. The reported illnesses took place in Arizona, Indiana, Nevada, and Pennsylvania. Since the bars’ main ingredients were hemp-derived, they can be bought in nearly any state. The reported illnesses were not life-threatening. “People who became ill after eating Diamond Shruumz-brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars reported a variety of severe symptoms including seizures, central nervous system depression (loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness), agitation, abnormal heart rates, hyper/hypotension, nausea, and vomiting.” It’s possible that the reported symptoms were simply delta-8 THC, but those types of products generally don’t lead to hospital visits. The alert sent shockwaves throughout the media, with reports focusing on the danger of such products on platforms such as Daily Caller. Fox News reports that the chocolate bars contain a blend of nootropic ingredients including hemp-derived compounds. “Diamond Shruumz- brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars can be purchased online and in person at a variety of retail locations nationwide including smoke/vape shops, and at retailers that sell hemp-derived products such as cannabidiol (CBD) or delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8 THC),” the alert reads. “The full list of retailers is currently unknown, and FDA recommends that people do not purchase or consume any flavor of Diamond Shruumz-brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars from any retail or online locations at this time.” One microdose chocolate bar, Birthday Cake flavor, is marketed to be “energetic, chillaxed, and euphoric.” However the bars don’t contain any psilocybin or amanita mushroom ingredients. “There is no presence of psilocybin, amanita or any scheduled drugs, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience,” the chocolate bar product description reads. “Rest assured, our treats are not only free from psychedelic substances but our carefully crafted ingredients still offer an experience. This allows you to indulge in a uniquely crafted blend designed for your pleasure and peace of mind.” But the product description also seems to suggest psychedelic, or at least psychoactive effects. “Individuals can typically anticipate the onset of effects within an average timeframe of 30 minutes to 1 hour after consumption,” the product description reads. “However, it’s crucial to note that this duration can vary based on unique factors, including the person’s body size and metabolism.” Products that appeal to children are the ones targeted the fastest by the FDA. It’s not clear whether the reported adverse effects from the Diamond Shruumz bars are linked to simply delta-8 THC or another ingredient.  “This product may appeal to children and teenagers as it is marketed as a candy. Parents and caregivers should consider discussing the information in this advisory with their children and take extra care to avoid this product being consumed by younger people,” the report reads. “Retailers should not sell or distribute Diamond Shruumz-brand Microdosing Chocolate Bars and should hold the product in a secure location until additional instructions can be provided on how to return or safely dispose of the product.” The FDA has gone after edible makers simply for allegedly marketing products to children. On May 13, 2022, the FDA issued a warning, sounding the alarm about lookalike products that mimic candy and more recently—children’s cereal. Copycat products that were highlighted in the warning mimic Cap’n Crunch, Cocoa Pebbles, Cocoa Puffs, Froot Loops, Fruity Pebbles, Nerds Ropes, Starbursts, Sour Patch Kids, and Trix, among others. There are two reasons not to support gray area cannabis products like these: the potential appeal to children being one, and the other being the ethical violation of blatantly ripping off the intellectual property of mainstream food companies. But the FDA was mainly concerned about the physical symptoms that could occur in children. “The FDA is aware of multiple media reports describing children and adults who accidentally consumed copycat edible products containing THC and experienced adverse events,” the organization wrote. “Additionally, from January 2021 through April 24, 2022, the FDA received over 100 adverse event reports related to children and adults who consumed edible products containing THC.” Symptoms to look out for include “hallucinations” and “vomiting.” “Some individuals who ate these edible products reportedly experienced adverse events such as hallucinations, increased heart rate and vomiting, and many required medical intervention or hospital admission,” the warning continues. “Seven of the reports specifically mention the edible product to be a copycat of popular foods, such as Cocoa Pebbles, Nerds Rope, Skittles, Sour Patch Kids, and Starburst.”
https://hightimes.com/

Cannabis MSO Green Thumb Seeks Merger with Sam Adams Brewer

The CEO of cannabis multistate operator Green Thumb Industries is pitching a merger between his company and Boston Beer Co., the manufacturer of the Samuel Adams family of brews. Green Thumb CEO Ben Kovler proposed the merger idea in a letter dated June 2 to Boston Beer chairman and founder Jim Koch, saying the move would benefit both companies. On June 4 Kovler shared the letter on the social media platform X, saying in his post that Green Thumb is a “better buyer” for the company compared to other proposals. Boston Beer Co. has a market capitalization of about $3.6 billion, while Green Thumb is worth about $2.8 billion. Kovler wrote in his letter to Koch, who has 100% of the voting rights of the company’s Class B stock, that the two companies were a good fit, noting that the cannabis industry continues to grow as more states legalize weed. Alcohol consumption is declining, however, with young adults drinking less than previous generations. “As we look at a future where this consumer trend continues to gain traction, I believe we have to be proactive versus reactive,” Kovler wrote in the letter. Kovler published his letter on social media after the Wall Street Journal reported on June 4 that Japanese whisky maker Suntory Holdings was in early negotiations to buy Boston Beer, saying that a deal with Green Thumb Industries would be able to make a “superior and more valuable offer” for the brewing company.  After the Wall Street Journal report, Boston Beer said that is “fully focused” on running the brewing operation as an independent company. Suntory also disputed the reports that it was at the bargaining table with the American brewer. “There is no fact that we are in any negotiations with Boston Beer,” Suntory said in a statement, according to a report from the beverage industry trade publication The Drinks Business. In his letter to Koch, Kovler said that the proposed merger between Green Thumb and Boston Beer would allow both companies to launch new products, mentioning possibilities such as pre-rolls, beverages, edibles, vapes, concentrates and topicals. Stock market analyst Aaron Grey, CEO of Alliance Global Partners, said on Monday that the proposed merger would allow Boston Beer Co. to enter new markets as alcohol sales continue to decline. “The merger could provide exposure [for Boston Beer] to one of the leading companies in the growing cannabis space,” said Grey, according to a report from Morningstar. He added that a Green Thumb merger with Boston Beer would give the cannabis company a listing on the New York Stock Exchange, making its shares available to a wider base of shareholders. The firm’s stock is currently listed on the less popular Canadian Securities Exchange and can be acquired through over-the-counter transactions. “This would likely help increase institutional ownership and custody issues that continue to plague the industry,” Grey said. In his letter, Kovler drew parallels with the alcohol industry, referring to national weed policy as Prohibition 2.0. He concluded his letter to Koch by acknowledging his success with Boston Beer and teasing the potential for similar success as laws banning marijuana continue to fall by the wayside. “We think the combination of SAM and Green Thumb is a powerhouse of brands designed to serve the future U.S. consumer,” Kovler said. “Your namesake brand, Samuel Adams, is not lost on us– it is clear you ushered in the craft beer and hard seltzer revolutions in our country. Now it’s time to do it all again and play a leading role in the decades following Prohibition 2.0 ensuring U.S. cannabis consumers can choose great American brands from great American companies. This combination is the next great American growth story.” Although the letter Kovler posted to X was written on Green Thumb letterhead, the company declined to comment on the Wall Street Journal article, saying in a statement that the company’s “policy is not to comment on market rumors.” Boston Beer Co. also declined to comment on the report when contacted by Reuters, according to a report from the New York Post.
https://hightimes.com/

North Dakota Woman Charged with First-Degree Felony Possession for Bong Water

Forty-three-year-old Jessica Beske from Fargo, North Dakota was pulled over by local police while traveling through Minnesota. Now she faces prison time for possessing bong water and other cannabis paraphernalia. According to a report from the Minnesota Informer, Beske was pulled over for speeding on May 8. When officers approached her vehicle, they smelled cannabis and searched her car. While they didn’t find any cannabis products, they did find a bong (with bong water), as well as a glass jar with a “crystal substance” inside, and an undefined number of pipes. A residue test revealed that the bong water, the paraphernalia, and the glass jar all contained traces of methamphetamine. Additionally, the bong weighted eight ounces, but the jar allegedly weighed 13.2 ounces “in total with the packaging.” According to Beske, the jar was the “packaging” and there wasn’t enough of what was inside for law enforcement to weigh on its own, so it had to be weighed along with the jar. She also claims that she had no drugs on her at the time of the incident. However, Beske has now been charged with first-degree felony possession specifically because of the bong water. State law equates eight ounces of bong water with eight ounces of methamphetamine.  Minnesota-based drug reform activist, Kurtis Hanna, told the Minnesota Informer that prosecuting Beske is an abuse of the law’s intent. “The legislative intent behind the weight-based thresholds is to approximate whether a person is an end user or a dealer,” Hanna said. “The fact that some county prosecutors are subverting that clear intent and are charging end users as though they are wholesalers, ruining their lives in the process, is shameful.” Law enforcement also proceeded to seize her car, and $2,400 in cash (which was verified as casino winnings from the night before the incident). State law allows police to permanently forfeit any vehicles used to transport drugs that are “intended for distribution or sale,” as well as the cash which police claim are “the proceeds of a controlled substance offense.” In an interview, Beske explained her frustration at the situation. “It’s against common sense. It’s against everybody’s common sense,” she said. In May 2023, Gov. Tim Walz signed a bill into law that decriminalized drug paraphernalia, which specifically states that the law applies even if there is leftover drug residue present. The outcome of a 2009 Supreme Court case, State vs. Peck, ruled that water in a pipe could be considered a “drug mixture.” A testimony from a Minnesota State Patrol officer stated that bong water can be saved “for future use…either drinking it or shooting it in the veins.” Out of a total of seven court justices, only three argued against the misinformation regarding bong water. “Treating bong water as a mixture capable of sustaining a first-degree felony controlled-substance charge does not meet the purposes, aims, or objectives of the legislature when it established the weight-based system. Bong water is not marketed or sold by dealers, large or small, nor is it purchased by consumers. It is not even ordinarily consumed,” the justices wrote. “Bong water is usually discarded when the smoker is finished with consumption of the smoke filtered through the bong water. A person is not more dangerous, or likely to wreak more havoc, based on the amount of bong water that person possesses.” In 2010, legislators in the Senate and House passed a bill to make bong water from the definition of a “mixture” if it contained less than four ounces. However, former Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed the bill, claiming that he did so on behalf of law enforcement. Another bill was introduced in 2011, which eventually led to the final four-ounce rule when it was signed by former Gov. Mark Dayton. Hanna commented on the passage of that law, which remains current today. “There doesn’t seem to be any good reason why 4 ounces is ok, but 5 is not,” Hanna said. Minnesota Informer obtained a statement from assistant county attorney Scott Buhler about the most recent charges against Beske. “I will not comment on any pending cases. The criminal complaint filed in Ms. Beske’s case speaks for itself,” he said, and concluded that the team “simply enforces the laws of this state as written.” Buhler was also responsible for forcing people to pay taxes on illegal drugs in 2014. “I simply charge it a lot because it leaves all options available regarding plea bargaining and sentencing,” Buhler said 10 years ago. Beske’s charges include a first-degree felony possession, which can lead to a $1 million fine and up to 30 years in prison. Additionally, she is also being charged with violating that very same illegal drug tax law, which can lead to a $14,000 fine and up to seven years in prison, and a charge for refusing a drug test when she was arrested. These charges are unnecessary when considering that legislators agree that over criminalizing drugs has never been beneficial. A report called the “Drug Policy State of the Evidence,” which was published in February 2024, which explored scientific evidence on current drug policy in Minnesota. “Arresting people for drug use does not deter future use, crime recidivism, arrest, or incarceration,” the report authors stated. “While the primary intent of imprisoning people is deterrence, there is no evidence that it is effective. Studies show that imprisonment does not impact rates of drug use or arrest. Critically, however, release from prison is positively associated with heightened overdose risk.” Beske said in a statement that she suffers from substance abuse problems that stemmed from an abusive ex. “The only thing I’m guilty of is using substances to lessen my mental suffering caused by a sick and abusive predator,” said Beske. “Addicts—women especially—are made to feel like public enemy number one, when in fact most of us have been victims of serious crime that will never be prosecuted.” She added that he she were to be sentenced to 30 years in prison, it would make her life worse and force her back into drug abuse. “That’s why people use drugs mostly, is to cope,” Beske said.
https://hightimes.com/

Leaders in Dallas, Texas Pursue Cannabis Decriminalization

The city of Dallas, Texas will soon discuss whether or not to add a measure on the November ballot that would decriminalize small amounts of cannabis. Recently in a news release, Dallas Councilmember Chad West announced that the Dallas Freedom Act will be proposed on June 26. “Voters in our city and across the country want to decriminalize marijuana,” said West. “Our already burdened police should focus their attention on serious crime, not arresting people with small amounts of marijuana. Bringing this to voters through a City Council-proposed Charter amendment instead of a petition will save the city time and resources.” The proposal was accelerated through a petition which collected more than 50,000 signatures through the help of Ground Game Texas. If passed into law, it would prevent police from giving tickets or arresting people for possessing less than four ounces of cannabis through Class A or Class B misdemeanors.  “Voters in our city and across the country want to decriminalize marijuana,” said West. “Our already burdened police should focus their attention on serious crime, not arresting people with small amounts of marijuana.” Ground Game Texas has assisted numerous other Texas cities in passing decriminalization, such as Austin, Denton, Killeen, and San Marcos. However, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton recently sued some of those cities (specifically Austin, Denton, Elgin, Killeen, and San Marcos) for passing decriminalization bills at the end of January. “I will not stand idly by as cities run by pro-crime extremists deliberately violate Texas law and promote the use of illicit drugs that harm our communities,” Paxton said. “This unconstitutional action by municipalities demonstrates why Texas must have a law to ‘follow the law.’ It’s quite simple: the legislature passes every law after a full debate on the issues, and we don’t allow cities the ability to create anarchy by picking and choosing the laws they enforce.” Former Ground Game Texas executive director, Julie Oliver, accused Paxton of fighting against the will of the people. “Ken Paxton’s lawsuits represent an anti-democratic assault on the constitutional authority of Texas Home Rule cities to set local law enforcement priorities,” said Oliver at the time. “In each of the cities sued, a supermajority of voters adopted a policy to deprioritize marijuana enforcement in order to reduce racially biased law enforcement outcomes and save scarce public resources for higher priority public safety needs.” The Dallas Observer asked West how he thinks Paxton would react if Dallas decriminalized cannabis. “I would hope the attorney general would support and respect the strong will of Dallas residents on this issue. However, based on past actions, I am not optimistic,” West said. Alongside West, councilmembers Adam Bazaldua, Jaime Resendez, and Zarin Gracey are also in support of decriminalization in Dallas. Bazaldua said in a recent press statement that it’s essential to give voters a chance to pass the bill. “For the past four years I have advocated for our council to implement this kind of initiative,” said Bazaldua. “Our jails are overfilled with predominantly Brown and Black males serving sentences for a substance that is making others millions of dollars in more than 30 states across the country. It’s past time we take action against this injustice.” Bazaldua initially proposed decriminalization in 2021, which led Dallas law enforcement to stop arresting people if they were in possession of less than two ounces of cannabis, however, the Dallas Police Department (DPD) has continued to make arrests, according to Resendez. “Despite the positive steps taken by the city and DPD in recent years, marijuana-related arrests continue, and racial disparities persist,” Resendez said. “Although marijuana use is comparable across racial lines, Black and Latino individuals are disproportionately arrested and punished. Decriminalization is the best way to address this disparity.” Gracey also added that decriminalizing is mainly about righting the wrongs of the War on Drugs. “Decriminalizing marijuana is not just about changing laws; it’s about rectifying decades of injustice and ensuring that our legal system is fair and equitable for all,” Gracey said. Oliver was replaced as Ground Game Texas executive director by Catina Voellinger in April, although no reason was presented by the organization. “We’ve built a very strong and mighty team that’s greater than the sum of its parts, right?” said Voellinger after she took the position. “So the main message is that Ground Game is a force, and we’re not going anywhere. None of our programs have ceased. We’re not going to back out on any of the things we’ve committed to. And we’re excited about the future and growing this movement.”  Recently there have been two ongoing lawsuits against the city of Killeen, which remain unaffected by the recent change in executive director position at Ground Game Texas. “I thoroughly enjoyed working with Julie and I’ll continue to work with her,” said Bell County Commissioner Louie Minor. “I don’t know what her plans are, but I know that she’s dedicated to bringing change to Bell County and all over the state. The impact of Julie and Ground Game has been statewide; but here in Bell County, they were instrumental in getting a more progressive voice in elected positions and giving residents a chance to vote on issues that they care about.”
https://hightimes.com/

Woman Claims Dog Came Back From PetSmart High, Investigation Finds No Evidence

A woman in Pennsylvania took her dog to get groomed at PetSmart and she claimed her dog was high on THC upon return, however an investigation into the matter found no traces of THC in the dog’s system, and the pet store chain was cleared of any wrongdoing. Concerned dog parent Kelly Fowler said that when she picked up her dog Teddy on May 31 from the PetSmart in Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, he was lethargic and repeatedly fell over. He had been there for four hours. “He’s always good,” Fowler told Action News. “This was not normal behavior for him, and the vet did say for him to have THC in his system and for him to have a reaction the way he did, it would have been in a 30 to 90 minute window for him to start acting the way he was.”  According to a veterinarian’s report, the eight-pound dog’s urine was tested and came back negative for THC, but claimed there is a high false-negative rate of tests that are run on pets. Footage was available, and the dog also wasn’t seen eating anything that could have been an edible. The store’s corporate spokeswoman told Action News that after reviewing video footage from the grooming salon and the store, there is “no evidence whatsoever” that Teddy was exposed to THC while in PetSmart’s care. There are certainly other factors that could lead to strange behaviors from the dog. The local branch of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Bucks County SPCA, found no evidence of THC in the dog’s system and closed the investigation. After the SPCA closed the investigation, the woman released a statement Thursday. “This is the last post I am going to write about my pup,” the woman’s statement reads. The SPCA did not find evidence on the video. And I’m being called a liar all over the internet. Bottom line is I will never know what truly happened to him and I know it happened there. He was fine in the morning and was there for so long and half asleep, falling over when I picked him up. So many people have messaged me on similar situations with their pets at petsmart, even former employees! They never “find the evidence” in these cases. My lesson in life is to never take to social media for help! People will tear you down so quick! All I wanted to know is what happened! I’m so thankful he’s fully recovered! To all the positive people I am truly blessed you all backed me up! We are good people and I would never make up anything. They paid the vet bill and I’m still waiting for reimbursement for the grooming appt.” Groomers at PetSmart have have been accused of wrongdoing several incidents in the past. If you suspect your dog ate THC-infused edibles, dog owners are encouraged to immediately contact a veterinarian or animal poison control center. If possible, dog owners should provide details of the incident, including the type of edible, the quantity consumed, THC content, if you know it, and any symptoms. THC is generally considered to be poisonous to dogs. Concentrates are more of a big deal as they can reach 90% THC.  THC toxicity is usually reported when a dog accidentally eats an infused edible or oil. THC-infused products are not recommended for pets by most veterinarians and professionals, however CBD is another story. One study, for instance, found that CBD may benefit dogs dealing with travel anxiety. Dogs who enjoy a daily dose of CBD see “significant reductions” in stress and anxiety related to car travel, according to a recent study. Scientists at Waltham Petcare Science Institute in the United Kingdom looked at both the behavioral and physiological stress response in canines given CBD (THC-free cannabis) and a placebo group who did not ingest CBD. They studied the doggos before, during, and after car trips. For the study, researchers partnered with the pet food and vet company Mars Petcare. Twenty dogs participated in the study. And these weren’t dogs who jump at the chance to stick their head out the window of a car and eagerly wave their tongue into the wind. To qualify, they all showed symptoms of anxiety and stress regarding car trips. But when given CBD, in this case, two hours before the required drive, every man’s best friend given CBD showed “meaningful improvements” during the 24 weeks the study lasted.  Knowledge is power and keeping THC away from pets is just as important as keeping them away from children.
https://hightimes.com/

Government in Canada Proposes Amendments to Cannabis Law, Lifting Burdens

The Canadian government is proposing a series of amendments to federal cannabis regulations ranging from packaging to reporting requirements, all part of an effort to help ease the regulatory burden cannabis businesses in the country face. It would allow, among many other things, for producers to contain individual packages in bulk outer packaging. CTV News reports that a raft of changes are expected as a push to fix several problems burdening cannabis producers remains a priority. Health Canada indicated that the amendments are expected to return about $41 million in annualized net benefits in terms of administrative and compliance cost savings. The amendments remove problematic regulations that make it more difficult to market cannabis.  Changes to Canada’s Cannabis Act include an Order Amending Schedule 2 to the Cannabis Act, and a second Order Amending the Cannabis Tracking System Order (Cultivation Waste). Changes to the Cannabis Act and Food and Drugs Act included Regulations Amending Certain Regulations Concerning Cannabis (Streamlining of Requirements). “Health Canada recognizes that there may be regulatory measures that could be made more efficient and streamlined without compromising the public health and public safety objectives,” a representative of Health Canada said. Proposed amendments including packaging changes, such as allowing the lids and containers of cannabis products to display different colors, allowing cut-out windows or transparent packaging, and allowing QR codes on packaging so buyers are able to find more information. Producers would also be allowed to package multiple products together as long as the package is still under the 30-gram limit, and products inside also meet packaging requirements. The change would mean producers could sell higher quantities of edibles in one single, outer package. Images or information on the packaging would still not be allowed, for the most part, but images would be exempt if other statutes require it, such as the recycling icon. The changes mean that producers no longer have to provide paper copies of information sheets to retailers, wouldn’t have to submit a notice to the government on every new dried or fresh cannabis product they want to sell, and the sale and distribution of cannabis pollen would be allowed. Producers also wouldn’t be required to report annually on promotional efforts, and would no longer need to report on cultivation waste. The changes aim to ease some of the problems the industry is grappling with. This includes bankruptcies and market consolidation following legalization in 2018. The problems impacting the industry were identified earlier. Canada’s oversupply of cannabis led to $53.7 million unsold cannabis products last December. A group organized by the federal government to study Canada’s cannabis laws earlier this year made 54 recommendations. The updates that range from packaging and labeling rule changes to a review of the excise taxes imposed on cannabis producers. Cannabis and alcohol are highly regulated, and sales of the two impact one another. A study conducted in Canada and recently published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence shows that beer sales have declined since cannabis sales rolled out in the country in 2018. The study was conducted by researchers associated with the College Pharmacy at the University of Manitoba, School of Pharmacy at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Toronto. The study, which was published last February, shows that beer sales in Canada have dropped significantly. “Canada-wide beer sales fell by 96 hectoliters per 100,000 population immediately after non-medical cannabis legalization and by 4 hectoliters per 100,000 population each month thereafter for an average monthly reduction of 136 hectoliters per 100,000 population post-legalization,” authors wrote. A hectoliter is a unit of measurement frequently used in reference to wine, beer, grain, or other agricultural goods, and is the total of 100 liters (1 liter is approximately 0.26 liquid gallons). Researchers also explained that cannabis legalization did not impact spirit sales in the same way. Additionally, researchers believe that cannabis use could potentially lead to higher alcohol use in some people, specifically “those with greater sensation-seeking behaviors.” However, they also wrote that some consumers are substituting cannabis in the place of alcohol.  Data on beer and spirits sales in Canada were compiled by Beer Canada and Spirits Canada.  Beer Canada provided details about approximately 90% of total Canadian beer sales, while Spirits Canada showed sales in relation to whisky, rum, gin, tequila, liqueurs, and vodka but did not include ready-to-drink cocktails. Beer sales were reviewed between January 2012-February 2020, and spirits sales were examined between January 2016-February 2020. The new proposed changes to Canada’s Cannabis Act and Food and Drugs Act could propel these sales even more if producers are better equipped to handle it. 
https://hightimes.com/

New Documentary Details Murder of Cannabis Advocate Les Crane

Cannabis advocate Les Crane was murdered nearly 20 years ago, and a newly announced documentary tells the story and analyzes who might have killed him. On November 18, 2005, multiple gunshots were heard in Crane’s home in Laytonville, California. At first it was called a home invasion, but over the past two decades, Crane’s closest family and friends who remain believe it may have been law enforcement. “The documentary seeks to unravel the case by interviewing a number of people involved,” a press release published on Kym Kemp. “In addition, it will include footage of law enforcement and cannabis from the time to give the flavor of what was occurring.” The promotional teaser for Who Killed Les Crane? NorCal Cannabis Murder Mystery includes brief clips from different people who knew Crane, such as Sean Dirlam (the “only surviving witness to the murder of Les Crane”), Tim Blake (local cannabis advocate and founder of The Emerald Cup), Jeremiah Crane (Les Crane’s son), and Jennifer Crane (Les’ widow). According to Blake, the mid-2000s were a tumultuous time for the cannabis industry. “You had the DEA all over the place, they’re looking for everything, shutting down the indoors, coming after all of us, gauntlet on the road, it was intense,” Blake said. “And here comes this, you know, boisterous, loud guy from the east coast, [with] east coast accent, wanting to all these, you know, things. You know, they were going to take him out,” he said of Crane. An unnamed speaker in the trailer described Crane as being responsible for growing thousands of pounds of cannabis every season. Another interviewee, Patrick Duff, described Crane from his own point of view. “He was the one that tried to change the industry before anybody did,” Duff said in the trailer. “He was the one that tried to make the cops honest. His gonads were difficult to fit through a garage door.” Ever since Crane died, there has been much uncertainty revolving around his murder. Dirlam was in the house when Crane was killed, and described a large individual who entered his room and assaulted Dirlam with a baseball ball while he was still in bed. A 2013 news report from The Willits News stated that Crane was “shot in the back of his head, in the arm and his abdomen,” and that “Dirlam suffered facial injuries.”  However, both Jeremiah Crane and Jennifer Crane have their suspicions. “The whole thing of them even being alive was suspicious. You know, like, I’m sorry that’s just how it is,” said Jeremiah. Everyone has their assumptions about the unsolved case. Kym Kemp conducted interviews in November 2022, which marked 17 years after Les was killed. Les’ sister, Laura Smith, claims that he had more than one million dollars on him when he was killed. “From the understanding I had,” she told Kym Kemp at the time. “There was $1.2 million in the safe.” However, Dirlam explained that he handled Les’ money, and that he only had approximately $7,000 in his possession. Documentary producer Seth Ferranti posted on Instagram about the progress of Who Killed Les Crane? NorCal Cannabis Murder Mystery. “Who Killed Les Crane? will be out later this year from Outlaw Films and director Seth Ferranti. A harrowing trip into cannabis country, the Emerald Triangle, when the War on Drugs was raging, and bodies were dropping left and right. We investigate the murder of pot activist Les Crane, which remains unsolved to this day,” the post stated. The film is presented by Gorilla Convict and Outlaw Films, which is produced by Ferranti, the same person who wrote and produced the Netflix film White Boy (2017). At the height of his crimes, Ferranti said that he was on the Top 15 U.S. Marshal most wanted fugitive list. Ferranti received a 25-year sentence for trafficking LSD, and took advantage of his prison time to create new purposes for himself. “But despite the unjust sentence, Seth decided to rise above his past and focus on his future. He began building a writing and journalism career from inside the belly of the beast,” Ferranti’s website explained. “With unlimited access to criminals and their stories Ferranti started crafting raw portrayals of prison life and crack era gangsters. Discovering a passion and talent for writing Ferranti also studied the trade earning an associates, bachelors, and masters degree while in prison.” Ferranti wrote multiple books and published 500 blog entries before he was released from prison after serving his sentence for 21 years. Afterwards he took up freelancing for outlets such as Vice, Ozy, The Daily Beast, Dazed, Merry Jane, and many others, while also creating documentary films including Night Life (2023), Dope Men: America’s First Drug Cartel (2023), and more. Recently in May, Ferranti also teased the first episode of a documentary called Tangled Roots: The True Story of Humboldt County, which is a four-part series that is slated to release on Amazon sometime this summer. “The legacy of the pioneers of cannabis culture of the past half century has been deeply rooted in the hills and valleys of Northern California, and particularly Humboldt County- America’s Cannabis Heartland. The Napa Valley of the weed game,” he described.
https://hightimes.com/

Two Exhibits in Colorado Feature Art Inspired by Mushrooms, Cannabis

Two new exhibits recently opened up in Denver, Colorado exploring themes surrounding magic mushrooms and cannabis. The first exhibit is “Mycolandia,” which opened at the Dateline Gallery in Denver, Colorado on June 7 and will remain open through June 23. “MYCOLANDIA celebrates Mycology in general exploring the evolution of edible fungi and its symbiotic relationship with humanity. In otherwords, It’s a show about mushrooms. 🤓✌🏼🍄,” the gallery said on social media. The show features works from 13 different artists, such as Noah Travis Phillips. According to an interview with Westword, Phillips explained his thought process behind the theme. “I definitely thought of the diverse array of mushrooms,” Phillips said. “All the ways fungus and mushrooms exist in the world, the different ways that humans interface with them—whether as food, or an intoxicating substance, or all of the bio remediation people are doing with mushrooms.” Attendees can view Phillips’ unique Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) AI images that he developed to represent mushrooms’ inherent psychedelic properties. “It’s much more colorful. They’re all rainbowy. They’re kind of melting. They’re kind of bulbous,” said Phillips. “I think they suggest interesting things about mushroom root networks—those mycorrhizae. Some of them look like they have spores drifting from them.” He added that he’s been an artist for 25 years, and has spent about six years working with GAN. “My relationship to the GANs is like a poetic visual synthesizer for producing improvisatory material to collage with,” he explains. “I’m engaging in a dialogue with that kind of cutting edge of technology and seeing what its creative potential is.” Phillips also cut out 45 images which are situated close to the floor, which forces viewers to look downward. “To me, setting them up that way makes it more reminiscent of mushroom foraging, or mushroom hunting, where people have to get low to go find them,” Phillips explained. The second exhibit is inspired by the “Science-Informed Art Model,” called “Grow Up,” also debuted on June 7 and will stay open through July 7. The art show “empowers young student classes from various Denver institutions to explore the effects of high-concentration cannabis through their own creative lens,” according to a press release. Teachers were chosen from four middle and high schools in Colorado, who then attended workshops presented by scientists and researchers at the University of Colorado School of Public Health. Then those teachers developed workshops for their students who created their own art inspired by “high-concentration cannabis.” The result is a varied selection of abstract art where students transformed scientific data into their own concepts. “The beautiful part about bringing science and art together is [figuring out] how we interpret information and communicate it with a community in ways that are much more relatable or understandable, or challenge people to question what they’re observing,” said PlatteForum Program Director Alejandra Calvo. Shaunie Berry, the curator for “Grow Up,” explained that this exhibit was an opportunity to promote healthy decision making. We really created a space in which they could be open and vulnerable,” said Berry. “We were just giving them a lot of information about the mental health aspect of it because they are young and their brains aren’t fully formed yet; their decision-making skills aren’t completely formed yet.” Both Calvo and Berry worked together to help students better comprehend cannabis and its effects from an artistic point of view. “I think kids just are naturally more creative,” said Berry. “The older you get, it becomes a little more stifled. And you have to pull more strings to get them to do it.” Meanwhile the state’s cannabis industry is making new discoveries about its products. A recent study released in March shows that 70% of THC potency levels on cannabis products in Colorado are at least 15% higher than lab tests show. “Among the 23 flower samples analyzed, 18 displayed lower THC levels than reported—with 16 falling below 15% of the stated value, 13 falling below 30% of the reported THC and three samples falling below half of the reported THC,” said a report written by University of Colorado Boulder professor Anna Schwabe. “THC levels averaged 9.75% back in 2009, based on testing of DEA-seized cannabis flower. Today, levels reportedly surpass 35%, though they’re not as common as consumers have been led to believe,” Schwabe continued. The Colorado cannabis industry is saturated with cannabis products and has seen a steady decline in sales recently. According to a report from Politico, Colorado cannabis sales reached a peak of $2.2 billion in 2020. Since legalization began in 2014, the state has generated more than $15 billion in total sales as well. However, data from 2022 shows that the state’s cannabis revenue decreased significantly ($1.7 billion), which also continued into 2023 ($1.5 billion). Recent legislation in Colorado has targeted positive praise of drugs on social media. While the Senate approved the bill in April, SB24-158 was sent to the House in May and has not received any further discussion. If passed, it would prevent language on social media that pertains to any black market or illicit drugs, although cannabis would technically be a safe topic if mentioned in a legal capacity.
https://hightimes.com/

Elevate Your Summer: Stigma Cannabis Pioneering The THC-Beverage Scene

It’s almost summertime; lazy, sunny, lake-filled days are almost upon us. The sound of cicadas fill the air, and everyone is reaching for a cold, refreshing beverage to enjoy as they sit back and relax. Let’s all agree; there is nothing better than a lemony, Arnold Palmer to quench our thirst. Oh wait, there is! Beverages like Stigma’s award-winning Lemonade Iced Tea is an elevated version of this classic blend, and if it isn’t at the top your list of summer must haves; it should be. Since the legalization of adult-use cannabis and hemp derived THC in Minnesota in 2022, the region has been instrumental in pioneering the newest niche – hemp THC beverages. Stigma’s CEO Josh Malowski explains, “Minnesota has become fertile ground for innovation in the federally legal hemp industry, and Stigma is excited to be a big part of that.” Maslowski’s journey in founding Stigma was deeply influenced by his mother-in-law’s battle with cancer. Through extensive research, he discovered Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), a cannabis extract renowned for its potential in fighting cancer. Inspired by Simpson’s own experience and the anecdotal evidence surrounding RSO’s efficacy, Maslowski and his brother-in-law embarked on crafting their own batch of RSO. Following his mother-in-law’s brain surgery, she started a RSO regiment that greatly contributed to her quality of life. “She lived 24 high quality months instead of the prognosis of 14 months on chemo and radiation. She even kayaked with her grandkids in the final weeks before her passing.” This transformative experience inspired and ignited Maslowski’s advocacy for cannabis and further motivated him. “I wanted to create this brand to destigmatize cannabis and help educate the people that have been misinformed the past 80 years.” Maslowki explains that the stigmatization of cannabis stemmed from a combination of economic interests, political agendas, and societal biases. Pharmaceutical companies were unable to patent cannabis. A smear campaign was launched against its therapeutic use, targeting prescribing doctors as “quacks”. Industries like cotton and timber lobbied against hemp production for their own agenda in paper and textiles. Politically-driven prohibitionist agendas also perpetuated the portrayal of cannabis as a dangerous drug through propaganda campaigns like “Reefer Madness.”  Cannabis also became associated with marginalized groups, leading to discriminatory practices such as for-profit jailing, while the term “marijuana” was used to evoke racial stereotypes and gain support from xenophobic voters. “Hence the name, Stigma.” Maslowki notes. “We are removing the stigma surrounding cannabis, and our key ingredient is a flower, and every flower has a stigma.”   Stigma has not only become Minnesota’s favorite cannabis brand, their Lemonade Iced Tea is the number one selling product in many liquor stores selling THC drinks today. “We were one of the first brands in this space in 2018. Fast forward, now we are a leading THC brand and have a top selling beverage reaching thousands of people every week.” Maslowski asserts, “Our drinks offer an option for people who want to feel better on a daily basis or don’t want to drink alcohol . Trends suggest that people of the older generation are opening up to THC, and people 30 and under are consuming less alcohol than previous generations. We offer a great alternative for someone who wants to feel good both at the end of the day and the next morning.” Stigma is set to expand its reach beyond Minnesota with plans to go nationwide this year (in accordance with state by state law). They have also added a THC-derived Club Soda to their list of products that can be mixed to make all kinds of summery cocktails. Maslowski notes that new beverage flavors are on the horizon as well including peach, berry and a line of functional waters. “We are so grateful for our success and ability to educate and inform so many people. We hear from people, multigenerational people, everyone from 21 to 91, who are benefitting from cannabis whether it is to help them with daily aches and pains, illness, anxiety, sleep or to just relax.”  While much needs to be done to remove the stigma and misinformation plaguing cannabis, companies like Stigma are leading the way towards acceptance and understanding. By offering innovative products, and championing education, Stigma has become not just a beverage brand or a cannabis brand but a catalyst for a positive paradigm shift surrounding cannabis and its many potential benefits. As consumers raise their glasses to a new era of cannabis consumption, Stigma raises its glass, honoring the past while shaping the future of summertime relaxation. Check out Stigma’s full list of products. 
https://hightimes.com/

Feds Charge 47 Linked to Sinaloa Cartel

Dozens of individuals allegedly linked to the most powerful cartel in Mexico were arrested and charged by federal agents in California and elsewhere in the western United States, the Department of Justice announced this week.  The DOJ said that 14 “indictments were unsealed [on Wednesday] charging 47 alleged members of an Imperial Valley, California-based, Sinaloa Cartel-linked fentanyl-and-methamphetamine distribution network with drug trafficking, firearms, and money laundering offenses.” The Sinaloa Cartel is one of the biggest crime syndicates in the world, and has increasingly been the focus of law enforcement in the U.S. It is perhaps best known as the cartel that had long been run by Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán, who is currently serving a lifetime sentence at a maximum security prison in Colorao. Describing it as a “coordinated takedown” executed on Wednesday morning, the Justice Department said that “more than 400 federal, state, and local law enforcement officials arrested 36 defendants and executed 25 search warrants in Imperial County; San Diego; Fresno, California; Los Angeles; Phoenix; and Salem, Oregon.” The agency said that, as of Wednesday afternoon, the search remained ongoing for 11 fugitives. Court records show that, in June of 2021, “agents seized two pounds of methamphetamine and a cache of ghost guns and ammunition, including: 15 lower receivers, three upper receivers, multiple barrels and stocks, 18 magazines, 40 Luger 9mm rounds, and approximately 400 rounds of .223 Red Army ammunition, which are made in Russia,” the Justice Department said in the announcement on Wednesday.“ None of the firearms or firearm parts had any identifying serial numbers or markings. They were all ghost guns. Wiretap intercepts showed that defendant Cory Gershen supplied other members of the organization with ghost guns in exchange for methamphetamine. The investigation also revealed the assault rifles (depicted below) were destined for the organization’s source of supply in Mexico,” the announcement said. On that same day in June of 2021, “agents seized additional ghost guns, ammunition, and methamphetamine from another member of the same drug trafficking organization,” according to the Justice Department, which added that “agents seized two AR-style ghost guns and a Colt .380 semiautomatic handgun, and additional Russian rifle ammunition from defendant Guadalupe Molina-Flores, one of the alleged members of the trafficking organization.”  “According to a search warrant, after seizing the firearms, agents searched Molina-Flores’ residence and found 309.4 grams (0.68 pounds) of methamphetamine,” Wednesday’s announcement said. The DOJ also noted that its investigation “revealed that the price per fentanyl pill has plummeted.”  “For example, in June 2021, targets of the investigation were obtaining fentanyl pills in Imperial Valley at approximately $1.65 to $1.75 per pill. By December 2021, the prices being discussed had dropped to approximately $1.25 per pill. By May, the same pills were being sold at only 45 cents per pill — less than one-third of the price three years earlier. The precipitous drop in price reflects the increased supply and availability of fentanyl being smuggled into the United States and the close ties between targets of this investigation and their Sinaloa Cartel supplier of fentanyl pills,” the announcement said. More from the DOJ’s announcement: “Including seizures today and throughout the long-term investigation, authorities have confiscated more than four kilograms of fentanyl, which amounts to about two million potentially fatal doses; more than 324 kilograms (over 714 pounds) of methamphetamine; significant quantities of cocaine and heroin; and 52 firearms, including handguns and rifles. The investigation also resulted in the arrest of Alexander Grindley for alleged methamphetamine trafficking while employed as a U.S. Border Patrol agent and multiple spin-off investigations in this district and others. Crimes charged in the indictments include drug trafficking, money laundering, and gun-related offenses. Court documents indicated the defendants were operating throughout the Imperial Valley — in Brawley, El Centro, Westmoreland, Imperial, Calexico, Niland, Holtville, Calipatria — and in Mexicali, Mexico.” Attorney General Merrick Garland said that the takedown means the Justice Department has “dealt yet another blow to the Sinaloa Cartel and its associates.” “I am grateful to the more than 400 law enforcement officers whose work in this operation resulted in dozens of arrests, charges against 47 defendants, and the seizure of firearms, meth, cocaine, heroin, and two million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl. We will continue to be relentless in our fight to protect American communities from the cartels,” Garland said in a statement on Wednesday. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said that his department “and our federal, state, and local partners are unrelenting in our work to keep deadly fentanyl off our streets and bring those who traffic in it to justice.”  “The indictments unsealed today are the direct result of our multipronged and coordinated law enforcement approach — one that utilizes all of our government’s resources and capabilities. Together, we are preventing fentanyl and other deadly drugs from being produced, distributed, or consumed, and saving countless lives,” Mayorkas said.
https://hightimes.com/

Advocates in Nebraska Still Need Signatures for Medical Cannabis Initiative

The deadline for ballot initiatives to submit valid signatures is rapidly approaching, and the advocacy group Nebraska for Medical Marijuana (NMM) is requesting help from supporters to obtain the signatures for their initiative to pass. NMM campaign manager Crista Eggers recently sent out an email asking for help on June 6.  “There is no doubt we are farther ahead than in past petition drives, but still have a tremendous push to gather over 30,000 signatures on each petition over the next 27 days to assure we are successful,” Eggers said. Eggers has spent numerous years advocating for medical cannabis legalization. Her son has suffered from epileptic seizures since he was two years old, and she saw the relief and benefits that medical cannabis offered to him in comparison to pharmaceutical medicines. “There is no doubt Nebraskans want to see this on the ballot, so we need them to step up and help make that happen,” Eggers said. “My personal ask, not as a campaign manager, but as a mother, is that people would react as if their child’s life depends on it and go sign; because for many of us, our child’s life really does depend on it.” By July 3, NMM’s initiative must be submitted with signatures from 7% of voters. Additionally, the signatures must be collected from voters in at least 38 counties throughout the state (which has a total of 93 counties).  “We made the counties our main focus because they require a great deal of time and resources that cannot wait until the last minute,” Eggers said. “We have the counties, but we have an urgent need to collect bulk signatures.” At least 87,000 signatures would need to be verified by the Nebraska Secretary of State’s Office before being approved to appear on the ballot. NMM recently shared on social media that one of its volunteers is watching their child suffer from a condition that could be treated with medical cannabis. “There’s a parent sitting in the hospital right now, exhausted and desperate for help for their suffering child who lay in the bed before them,” the post stated. “With nothing left to try, they cling onto the hope that medical cannabis may someday bring relief to this hell they are living. With only 29 days until signature turn in, and thousands of signatures to still be collected, this parent, and patients across this state are begging for help. Be a part of something today, that may change someone’s life tomorrow. #getinvolved #cannabisismedicine”. This year’s ballot initiative marks the third time that advocates have worked to get medical cannabis legalized. The first was in 2020, which did not make it onto the ballot because the Nebraska Supreme Court ruled that it violated the state’s single-subject rule. Another attempt was made in 2022, but it also didn’t make it onto the ballot because NMM didn’t collect signatures from voters in at least 38 counties. Medical cannabis isn’t the only hot-button topic aiming for ballot consideration includes an amendment that would eliminate property tax, income tax, sales tax, and inheritance tax, a law that would require employers to provide paid sick leave for workers, and three separate amendments to either permit or ban abortions. Nebraska is one of few states that haven’t legalized medical cannabis yet, including Idaho, Kansas, Wyoming, North Carolina and South Carolina. This year’s voting opportunities include four primary cannabis-related ballots. In Idaho, which doesn’t allow any form of cannabis use, a group called Kind Idaho was working to collect signatures for the Idaho Medical Marijuana Initiative. Although it will not appear on this year’s ballot, it would have allowed patients with chronic conditions or who are terminally ill to use cannabis to treat their symptoms. It would also have included protections for those patients so they wouldn’t have to worry about prosecution for cannabis use. In South Dakota, Measure 29 (or The South Dakota Marijuana Legalization Initiative) is officially on the ballot, which would legalize adult-use cannabis consumption, possession, and distribution. Technically both medical and recreational cannabis were legalized by voters back in 2020 but in 2021 the recreational initiative was found to be unconstitutional. Voters also rejected another attempt to legalize adult-use cannabis in 2022. Meanwhile, there has been strong support for adult-use cannabis legalization in Florida. According to a recent poll, 66% of Florida voters plan to support the initiative. By party, 76% of Democrats support the initiative, alongside 71% of Independents and 57% of Republicans. The likelihood of legalization is strong, considering that a constitutional amendment requires 60% or more of votes on the ballot in order to pass. “Floridians want and deserve the same right to consume recreational marijuana that more than half the country already enjoys,” said Smart & Safe Florida campaign manager Morgan Hill. “This poll reflects what we at Smart & Safe Florida know to be true: legalizing recreational adult-use marijuana is good for Floridians’ health, safety, and individual freedom.”

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