Hemp News, Laws & Product Updates

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https://hightimes.com/

DEA Allows Big Pharma Giant that Helped Fuel Opioid Crisis To Continue Operating

The DEA has rescinded a 2023 directive which previously ordered a pharmaceutical company to shutter operations after they were found to have helped perpetuate the nationwide opioid crisis. Morris & Dickson, a multi-billion dollar Big Pharma giant which has been in business since 1841 will be permitted to continue selling drugs to Americans as per the result of a settlement reached with the DEA on Wednesday. This comes just under a year after the pharmaceutical wholesaler had their license revoked for continuing to produce and distribute suspicious shipments of controlled substances for years after a judge recommended their license be revoked for “cavalier disregard” of controlled substance laws. They also failed to report thousands of shipments of hydrocodone and oxycodone to the DEA. “Of all the cases I handled as an administrative law judge for the DEA, Morris & Dickson’s violations were the most blatant and egregious,” Judge Charles Dorman told the Associated Press. “In addition, I saw no real acceptance of responsibility for their violations.” According to the DEA, Morris & Dickson will pay a $19 million fine and submit to heightened reporting requirements for five years as well as forfeit one of their two DEA Certificates of Registration, but they will be permitted to continue producing controlled substances from schedule two to five of the Controlled Substances Act. They also admitted all wrongdoing for their past actions. “Drug distributors like Morris & Dickson have a responsibility to protect the safety and health of customers and maintain effective controls against diversion of highly addictive controlled substances. At the height of the opioid crisis, Morris & Dickson failed to uphold that responsibility, and turned a blind eye as thousands of unusually large orders for hydrocodone and oxycodone went out the door,” said DEA spokesperson Katherine Pfaff. “Today, Morris & Dickson takes an important first step by admitting wrongdoing and paying for its misconduct, and today’s settlement will ensure that such irresponsible practices will not continue in the future.” Morris and Dickson’s legal wrongdoing came to light as the result of an Associated Press investigation in 2023 which not only found that the nation’s fourth largest drug distributor was playing it fast and loose with dangerous opioids, but also that the four-year delay in DEA action may have been the result of the so-to-speak “revolving door” between public entities and private companies which can lead to biased decision making at the government level. In the case of Morris and Dickson one such DEA employee, Louis Milione, spent 21 years working with the DEA in the Office of Diversion Control before retiring in 2017. After that, the Associated Press found that Milione became a consultant for the companies he was previously a regulator of, including Morris and Dickson, who hired him on a $3 million contract to essentially save their ability to produce and supply painkillers after the DEA accused the company of turning a blind eye to large suspicious orders of opioids. Milione advocated for Morris & Dickson in court to little or no avail as the judge presiding over the case wrote a long scathing 159-page report recommending Morris and Dickson have their license revoked. According to the Associated Press, it was not until four years later when the AP asked the DEA to comment on their investigation into Morris and Dickson that the DEA finally followed through on what the judge recommended and revoked their license, only to reinstate it with this recent order less than a year later. “If the DEA had issued its order in a timely manner, one could then credibly believe that its second-in-command was not involved despite an obvious conflict of interest,” said Craig Holman, an ethics expert at the watchdog group Public Citizen in Washington to the Associated Press in 2023. “The mere fact that its action has been delayed four years just raises red flags. It casts the entire process under grave suspicion.” Morris & Dickson released a brief statement on their website regarding the DEA’s decision to reverse the original license revocation, choosing to give a very general thank you to the DEA rather than going into specifics about the case. “Morris & Dickson wants to thank the DEA for their recognition of our extensive efforts over the past five years to expand and improve our compliance system for suspicious order monitoring. We appreciate the DEA’s collaboration with us on our shared commitment to patient safety, and we are pleased that the DEA’s actions acknowledge both our current state-of-the-art compliance program and our commitment to continued enhancements into the future,” Morris & Dickson said.

https://hightimes.com/

Iowa Lawmakers Approve Bill To Regulate Consumable Hemp Products

An Iowa legislative panel this week approved a bill that sets limits on consumable hemp products sold in the state. The measure, House Study Bill 665, was approved on Wednesday by the House Public Safety Subcommittee by a vote of 2-0. The bill, which was submitted to the state legislature by the Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS), gives the state Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the authority to regulate consumable hemp products. Under the measure, HHS can set cannabinoid potency limits on hemp products and set rules for their distribution and sale. The legislation also limits sales of consumable hemp products to adults aged 21 and older and sets criminal penalties for those who sell or give such products to minors. Hemp products were legalized federally by the 2018 Farm Bill, followed by the legalization of the crop in 2019 by the Iowa Hemp Act. But neither law sets quality standards for consumable hemp products or includes provisions to regulate their production, distribution and sale. The lack of regulation has led to a nationwide proliferation of hemp-derived products with intoxicating cannabinoids including Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC, among others. In Iowa, state lawmakers say they thought that such products were prohibited by the Farm Bill and the Iowa Hemp Act. “We thought we were dealing with the intoxicating aspect, only to find out that there are ways to get around that,” Rep. Steve Holt told The Gazette. “So it’s sort of the wild, wild west out there in a lot of ways, with THC-infused drinks being able to be served to minors, a lot of other things going on that are not acceptable.” Josie Wagler, the Department of Public Safety’s legislative liaison, said that the wide availability of intoxicating hemp products in Iowa made it necessary for the department to develop a regulatory proposal. “We’ve seen an emergence of high potency, high-THC products hit the market,” Wagler said. “And coupled with that, there are no age restrictions for purchasing these products. So really the purpose is to get at that, and to give HHS and law enforcement some additional tools to help regulate these highly intoxicating products.” The bill is supported by mental health advocates including Leslie Carpenter, the co-founder of Iowa Mental Health Advocacy, who told lawmakers that high-potency THC products pose the risk of serious mental consequences such as psychosis, especially when they are used by young people. “I fully support medical marijuana,” Carpenter said during a House subcommittee hearing on Wednesday, according to a report from Radio Iowa. “It’s the high potency THC products and that currently a child can walk into a store and purchase them that makes me very concerned.” Business owners in Iowa’s hemp industry oppose House Study Bill 665, saying the legislation goes too far. Scott Booher, the operator of Four Winds Farms, said that his business grows hemp for CBD and CBG, a cannabinoid that many people use to help with chronic pain, anxiety and sleep. He said he has many customers who buy these products for their children, but the bill advanced on Wednesday would make such use a criminal offense. “Let’s look at what needs to be taken care of instead of just sweeping everybody under the rug,” Booher told lawmakers at the hearing. “We have patients that are kids, we have parents that buy our hemp products for their children. For ADD, for behavioral problems.” Licensed hemp grower Tyson Allchin called out legislators for changing the standards regulating hemp and medical marijuana production. He believes he is the first Iowa grower to produce a hemp product that meets the standards for human consumption. “My flower was packaged and labeled as a food-grade ingredient, lessons on infusion and extraction for personal use had been planned out and promoted, and HHS approved it on January 31,” Allchin told Iowa Capitol Dispatch. “And six days later, this bill attempts to ban it. I’ve exceeded state requirements, requirements which exceed federal guidelines,” Allchin added. “I’ve done everything required of me, and the state (is) continuously changing my goal. How can small farms ever get established when the state keeps moving our goal line?” Booher said that he agrees that some hemp producers are selling intoxicating products that are not in line with the spirit of hemp legalization laws. But the bill advanced by lawmakers on Wednesday conflates businesses like his that produce non-psychoactive products with bad actors in the industry. “Some of these people who are creating high THC products need to be held accountable in a different way,” Booher said, “maybe not with people who have low THC products.” Representative Phil Thompson said he appreciates that many people are “willing to admit there are bad actors” and that he understands the frustration of business owners who are following the rules in place. “But this is an important conversation to advance,” Thompson said. “I appreciate DPS on working on this and bring forth some guidelines on regulating this.” The legislation has now been referred to the full House Committee on Public Safety for further consideration.

https://hightimes.com/

Bernie Sanders Slams Big Pharma for ‘Ripping Off’ Americans with Highest Drug Prices

Tuesday, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) issued a report slamming the U.S. prices of drugs and executive pay of three major drug manufacturers—Johnson & Johnson (J&J), Merck, and Bristol Myers Squibb—just before a Feb. 8 hearing. Thursday the CEO’s of all three drug manufacturers had to appear before a hearing to be grilled by Sanders, prepared by staff associated with the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP Committee). The New York Times reports that they testified on their behalf Feb. 8, telling their side of the story. Americans, hands down, pay the most for life-saving drugs compared to other countries, the senator’s report summarized. In some cases, Americans are paying nearly 10 times the price as what Germans pay. Sanders’ detailed report outlines how the three companies are spending more on executive pay and stock buybacks than drug research and development (R&D). “The United States pays, by far, the highest prices in the world for prescription drugs,” the report reads, written by staff and headed by Sanders as Chair. “At a time when one out of four Americans cannot afford the medicine their doctors prescribe, ten large pharmaceutical companies made over $112 billion in profits in 2022 while paying their chief executives exorbitant compensation packages and spending billions of dollars on stock buybacks and dividends to make their wealthy stockholders even richer.” If you’re an American on the life-saving cancer drug Keytruda, you’re paying more than twice the amount that citizens in Germany—a highly industrialized nation—pay out of pocket. Merck began selling Keytruda in 2015 at an annual cost of $147,000 in the U.S. and $132,000 in Germany. Keytruda now costs $89,000 annually in Germany, but $191,000 in the U.S. In Japan, Ketruda costs $44,000 annually, which is less than one-fourth of what Americans pay. The drug Eliquis, which prevents strokes, costs $770 annually in Germany but $7,100 in the U.S.—nearly 10 times as much. “The current industry business model is based on ripping off the American people,” the report reads. “For some of their most popular drugs, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, and Bristol Myers Squibb made more money in the U.S. than the rest of the world combined. The report includes a few key findings: In 2022, Johnson & Johnson made $17.9 billion in profits and its CEO received $27.6 million in compensation. J&J spent $17.8 billion that same year on stock buybacks, dividends, and executive compensation, compared to just $14.6 billion on R&D). “In other words, the company spent $3.2 billion more enriching executives and stockholders than finding new cures,” the report reads. In 2022, Bristol Myers Squibb made $6.3 billion in profits and its former CEO made $41.4 million in compensation. Bristol Myers Squibb spent $12.7 billion the same year on stock buybacks, dividends, and executive compensation, compared to just $9.5 billion on R&D. “Just like Johnson & Johnson, Bristol Myers Squibb spent $3.2 billion more enriching executives and stockholders than finding new cures,” the report reads. In 2022, Merck made $14.5 billion in profits and its CEO made $52.5 million in compensation. That year, the company spent over $7 billion on dividends and executive compensation, and $13.6 billion on R&D. “If Merck’s cancer drug Keytruda was its own company, its 2022 sales would rival McDonald’s annual revenue, and exceed the revenue of the hotel chain Marriott,” it reads. Senators have introduced bills to hold pharmaceutical drug companies accountable for pricing as well as other related practices. One angle to lower the cost of drugs has been bills that aim to reduce the cost incentive for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to prioritize more expensive drugs because they receive higher payouts for higher priced drugs. In September 2023 Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden, (D-Oregon), and Ranking Member Mike Crapo, (R-Idaho) introduced the Modernizing and Ensuring PBM Accountability (MEPA) Act, a bill to brings more transparency, accountability and competition to pharmacy benefit manager practices in the pharmaceutical supply . Sen. Menendez (D-New Jersey), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, said the Modernizing and Ensuring PBM Accountability (MEPA) Act includes his own inclusion, the Patients Before Middlemen (PBM) Act. HIV drugmaker Gilead Sciences was slammed for its PBM Express Scripts because it jacked up the prices of its lifesaving hepatitis C cures Sovaldi and Harvoni. But Gilead later changed its tune and joined a chorus of drugmakers—turning on PBMs. With the committee hearing Thursday, Sen. Bernie hopes to hold accountable the companies spending the least on drug development and the most on executive kickbacks.

https://hightimes.com/

Cannabeginners: What is Myrcene?

Found in both hops and cannabis, myrcene plays a huge role in the terpene profiles of the most popular cannabis cultivars and IPAs. Beyond contributing a funky, earthy, herbal aroma, this terpene has numerous well-documented medical benefits. Myrcene gets its name from Myrcia sphaerocarpa, a shrub from Brazil that contains lots of it and has long been used as a folk remedy for hypertension, diabetes, and diarrhea. Myrcene is a monoterpene, the smallest and simplest of the terpenes, and is found in high amounts in sweet basil, hops, mangos and cannabis. Myrcene is described as having an earthy, musky, herbal, clove-like aroma, but can be very pungent in higher concentrations, as in heavily hopped beers. Not surprisingly, hops and cannabis are both members of the family Cannabaceae. A 1997 Swiss study analyzed various cannabis cultivars for 16 terpenes and found myrcene to be the most abundant terpene out of those studied (others included pinene, limonene, carene, humulene, bergamotene, terpinolene, and caryophyllene). The myrcene content varied between 29.4% and 65.8% of the total terpenes depending on the cultivar. The next most abundant terpene, trans-caryophyllene, was just 3.8% to 37.5% of the total terpenes. While that study is nearly thirty years old, it is still widely cited and widely accepted as accurate. One reason why myrcene could be so commonly found in cannabis is because some research suggests it could allow more absorption of cannabinoids across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This effect of myrcene has been speculated about for years and long ago spawned a rumor that eating a ripe mango before smoking would get you higher. Despite a lot of hype about mangos and THC, research is very limited. Many sources online cite this study as evidence mangos get you higher, but when reading the study, the researchers are quite clear that “there is limited robust data supporting this claim,” and only have one source to support it. While a 2023 study notes, “myrcene’s potential to improve the transportation of delta-9-THC across the blood–brain barrier presents a promising avenue for developing centrally penetrant AD therapeutics;” unfortunately, the source cited to support that claim doesn’t mention myrcene and is actually focused on the flavonoid quercetin. Yet another study looking at cannabinoids and the BBB did not mention myrcene, indicative that it has no impact on the BBB. So while the effects of myrcene on the BBB may be a topic of hot debate, let’s get into the medical effects of myrcene that we are more certain of. Myrcene has a range of reported medical properties, including “antipsychotic, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, sedative, muscle relaxant, and anticarcinogenic properties,” as well as anti-anxiety and anti-ageing effects. Over 30 years of research has shown myrcene has strong analgesic (pain relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects, both topically and internally, and suggested it be used for a new class of “aspirin-like drugs.” Over the years, hypotheses for these pain relieving effects have included the alpha 2-adrenoceptor (a major receptor for caffeine) and the TRPV1 capsaicin/vanilloid ion channel (involved in regulating pain and a receptor site for CBD). A 2022 study is the first to note that topical myrcene has “no synergistic effect with CBD.” Some of the earliest research on the analgesic effects of myrcene also showed it to be a sedative, which has only been supported by more recent research. In 2002, high doses of myrcene were found to potentiate the effects of the narcotic phenobarbital, as well as having powerful sedating and motor relaxant effects of its own. In a 2016 interview, cannabis researcher, Dr. Ethan Russo, noted that “sedation in most common Cannabis strains is attributable to their myrcene content, a monoterpene with a strongly sedative couch-lock effect.” In 2010, the National Toxicology Program found “equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of beta-myrcene,” meaning myrcene was shown to cause cancer. Five years later, The California EPA listed beta-myrcene as a cancer causing compound. While this 2020 study does note those potential cancerous effects of myrcene it also notes it could have anti-carcinogenic effects. One final piece of less-than-positive news about myrcene is that a 2023 study found it “was associated with statistically significant reductions in speed control and increased errors on a divided attention task.” This was the first study to look at myrcene’s impact on drivers and it appears to contribute to cannabis’ effects on driving-impairment. In 2014, a team of French researchers were looking at hash samples from Morocco and discovered a totally new terpene, which they named hashishene. They also uncovered the mysterious origins of this terpene, that it was in fact a mutated form of myrcene, created by photo-oxidation, exposure to UV light and oxygen during the sun drying process. As hashishene is a mutant form of myrcene, it is also a monoterpene and has the exact same atoms in a different arrangement. Myrcene has been used as a folk remedy to treat a wide range of diseases, and this terpene has been heavily researched, showing many promising medical effects, though some potential risk of cancer. Despite some rumors about myrcene causing THC to have stronger psychoactive effects, research to support those claims is very limited.

https://hightimes.com/

Product Review: Gard’nClean Liquid Ultra-Pure Chlorine Dioxide

We have all seen our fair share of products promising to revolutionize cannabis cultivation. But every so often, something comes along that genuinely deserves the hype. Enter Gard’nClean Liquid, an ultra-pure chlorine dioxide solution that’s turning heads in the cannabis community for all the right reasons. Let’s cut to the chase – growing cannabis isn’t a walk in the park. Between keeping your plants healthy and navigating the maze of industry regulations, cultivators have their work cut out for them. This is where Gard’nClean Liquid steps in, offering a practical and efficient solution to one of the biggest headaches in cultivation: Pathogens. Powdery Mildew, Botrytis, Aspergillus, Fusarium, and many other molds, bacteria, fungi, and viruses are the unseen enemies of any grower. They can ambush your crops, leading to reduced yields or in the worst-case scenario, total crop failure. Traditional methods of dealing with these bad boys often involve harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good to people, plants and equipment. Gard’nClean Liquid flips the script with its ultra-pure chlorine dioxide formulation, effectively tackling these pathogens without leaving harmful residues, damaging surfaces or irritating skin. Ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the user. But what does this mean for your plants? In my experience, using Gard’nClean Liquid can be a game-changer for improving environments. Reducing pathogen loads leads to increased overall plant health. Healthier plants mean better growth, less loss, and you guessed it, bigger yields. And let’s face it, at the end of the day, increasing yields is what counts. As long as you can get it to market. One of the most impressive aspects of Gard’nClean Liquid is its ease of use. This isn’t some complex, high-tech gadgetry that requires a PhD to operate. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense solution that integrates seamlessly into your existing cultivation routine. This ease of use is a big win, especially for cultivators who can’t afford to waste time or resources on complicated procedures. Now, let’s talk about compliance. The cannabis industry is under the microscope, with regulations that can be as tricky as growing the perfect strain. Gard’nClean shines here, too. Its ability to effectively eliminate pathogens means it helps growers not only meet but often exceed regulatory standards. This peace of mind is invaluable in an industry where compliance is as important as quality. User testimonials further solidify Gard’nClean’s reputation. Numerous cultivators report significant improvements in plant health and noticeable reductions in pathogen-related issues since incorporating Gard’nClean Liquid into their practices. These success stories are a testament to the product’s effectiveness and its potential to transform cultivation operations. To sum it up, Gard’nClean Liquid strikes me as the kind of product that comes from understanding the real-world challenges of cannabis cultivation. It addresses a critical need with a solution that is effective, safe, and user-friendly. Whether you’re a small-scale indoor grower or running a large commercial operation, Gard’nClean offers a practical approach to plant health and regulatory compliance. In the ever-evolving landscape of cannabis cultivation, staying ahead means embracing solutions that are innovative yet practical. Gard’nClean Liquid fits this bill perfectly. It’s not just solving problems – it’s enhancing the entire cultivation process. For cultivators aiming to optimize their environmental health and keep their plants thriving, Gard’nClean Liquid is definitely worth considering. In a market flooded with products and promises, Gard’nClean stands out as a true ally for growers.

https://hightimes.com/

Killer Mike Says Government Should Give Weed Industry to Black People

Killer Mike just made massive headlines when he was arrested and detained at the Grammys, but speaking out on this incident hasn’t been the only time he’s made the news in the past month. He also spoke up about the government giving the marijuana industry to Black people. Killer Mike was detained and subsequently released by the Los Angeles Police Department on the heels of his three wins at the 2024 Grammy Awards this past Sunday. Mike, aka Michael Render, was handcuffed and escorted out by the police. Naturally, viral social media videos and coverage by The Hollywood Reporter came out right after the incident happened. At the Grammys, Mike won for best rap song, best rap performance for “Scientists & Engineers,” and best rap album for Michael. The single features Andre 3000, Future, and Eryn Allen Kane. During his win, he gave a gracious speech about accepting his awards. “We are incredibly proud and are basking in this moment,” he says. The LAPD initially only shared that Mike was arrested and booked for “misdemeanor battery” at the awards show, but then, more information started to come to light. According to Killer Mike, an “overzealous” security guard forced him into the altercation that happened after his wins. “I do want to note that last night, my team and I fielded a number of calls from concerned fans and colleagues wanting to know if I was OK. As you can imagine, there was a lot going on, and there was some confusion around which door my team and I should enter,” he says in an official statement. “We experienced an overzealous security guard, but my team and I have the utmost confidence that I will ultimately be cleared of all wrongdoing.” A source in Killer Mike’s team adds: “We hit a speed bump in that Mike was detained and charged with a misdemeanor after collecting his awards. On the way into the venue, there was considerable confusion around where to go. He encountered an overzealous security guard and continued moving towards his destination. The situation has been overblown, but we are confident that the facts of the case, when laid bare, will show that Mike did not commit the alleged offense, and he will be exonerated.” The security guard claims she was injured by Mike at her assigned door entrance when she asked for his tickets and directed him to a security checkpoint. He then allegedly pushed past her, injuring her and causing her to call for help and alert the authorities. She signed a citizen’s arrest for misdemeanor battery, received medical treatment, and was photographed by law enforcement. The Friday before the grammys, Killer Mike was already in the spotlight for his comments on HBO’s Real Time With Bill Maher. Always an outspoken activist for both Black rights and cannabis, Killer Mike was not shy with his statements. He claimed that if Black folks had control over the U.S. cannabis industry, racial equity would be better. Mike says, “With Native Americans, we gave them the casino industry. What about, you know, supermarkets?”“Could Black people have the marijuana industry?” he adds. “Give us marijuana. Multibillion-dollar industry. It’s still fresh, it’s still growing.” These comments are not surprising given Killer Mike’s radical yet valid view that, while people of color largely contributed to the world of legal cannabis, they are still disproportionately being incarcerated while white people are getting rich and running million-dollar companies. In the past, he has spoken out against inequality for Black people, and he avidly supported Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign. He also hosted the Netflix show Trigger Warning with Killer Mike in 2019, a documentary series about issues facing Black people. He has also spoken about the Black community at rallies and protests. With this history of activism and speaking up for Black folks, it is no surprise that he is scrutinizing the cannabis industry today. As the recent years highlight, cannabis is becoming more and more normalized, with most U.S. states at least legalizing medical cannabis, and CBD and THC both taking a more front-and-center role in community discourse. And it’s certainly true that if more people of color were in positions of power in the industry, there would be more equity. Ironically, his first Grammy win since 2003, when he won best rap performance by a duo or a group for “The Whole World” is not tainted by an incident that paints him as a criminal. At the time, he called out, “Sweep! Atlanta, it’s a sweep!” This was for his work with Run the Jewels, a group he performed in alongside producer El-P. It was a sweep once again, but not one without the very conflict that he speaks out against daily in his activism. Hopefully, he and his friends and family will still be able to enjoy the win.

https://hightimes.com/

Gallup: 17% of American Adults Smoke Pot

Seventeen percent of Americans aged 18 and older reported smoking pot in 2023. That is largely unchanged from Gallup’s most recent findings on the matter. In 2022, 16% of American adults said they smoke marijuana. But the 17% figure represents a marked increase since 2013, when Gallup first added the question to its annual survey measuring Americans’ consumption habits. That year, a mere seven percent of American adults identified as marijuana smokers. “Age is a significant driver of the likelihood of smoking marijuana. About a quarter of young adults, those aged 18 to 34, say they smoke marijuana (26%), but reported use falls to 18% among adults aged 35 to 54 and is even lower, 11%, among adults aged 55 and older,” Gallup said in its analysis. Gallup noted other divides in the responses along gender, education level and party identification. “Men (19%) are more likely than women (14%) to use marijuana,” the pollster explained. “College graduates (9%) are about half as likely as those without a college degree (21%) to smoke marijuana. Democrats (22%) are more likely than Republicans (12%) to report smoking marijuana, with independents’ rate (17%) falling between them.” The survey also included a separate question concerning previous marijuana use. On this, half of American adults––50%––said they have tried cannabis. “Gallup’s much longer trend on ever having tried marijuana shows that experimentation increased sharply in the first decade after the initial measure. Between 1969 and 1977, it jumped 20 percentage points, from 4% to 24%. It rose another nine points by 1985, to 33%, but thereafter stalled at under 40% until 2015, when it ticked up to 44%. It remained at about that level through 2019 but then rose to 49% in 2021, roughly where it is today,” Gallup said. Gallup’s polling on Americans’ attitudes toward marijuana has captured a country undergoing a seachange when it comes to drug policy. In November, Gallup published a poll revealing that seven in 10 Americans believe marijuana use should be legal, which was “the highest level yet after holding steady at 68% for three years.” Gallup explained that only 12% of Americans supported legalization when it asked about it in 1969. But ever since states took the lead and ended pot prohibition nearly 12 years ago, public opinion has shifted dramatically. “Support cracked the 50% threshold in 2013, jumping 10 percentage points to 58% after Colorado and Washington became the first states to legalize the recreational use of marijuana,” Gallup said in its analysis. “Support has since increased by another 12 points, paralleling the rise in Americans’ self-reported use of the drug. According to Gallup’s July Consumption Habits survey, the percentage saying they personally smoke marijuana has risen 10 points to 17% since 2013, and the percentage who have ever tried it has increased 12 points to 50%.” The poll also marked the second consecutive year in which “majority support for legalization is found among all major subgroups, including by age, political party and ideology,” Gallup said. “Self-identified conservatives were the last major subgroup to express majority support, reaching 51% in 2022. Republicans first gave marijuana majority-level backing in 2017. As of today, support for legal marijuana use is highest among self-identified liberals (91%) and Democrats (87%) and lowest among conservatives (52%) and Republicans (55%). Support is inversely correlated with age, reaching 79% among 18- to 34-year-olds. However, even among the oldest age group, nearly two-thirds (64%) are in favor,” Gallup reported. “There are no significant differences in support by gender, race or education. While most of the regional differences seen this year are also not statistically significant, the lower support for legalization in the East than in the West and Midwest is consistent with the recent trend.” But another finding released by Gallup around that same time showed that, for the first time, “a majority of U.S. adults, 52%, say the U.S. has lost ground in coping with the illegal drug problem, while a record-low 24% say it has made progress.” Those findings, per Gallup, “mark a sharp reversal from the prior reading in 2019.” “At that time, more Americans were optimistic that progress was being made (41%) than believed the U.S. was losing ground (30%) in the effort. For most other recent readings, Americans were divided as to whether things were improving or getting worse,” Gallup said. “The public was most optimistic about the nation’s coping with illegal drugs in 1999 and 2000, when an average of 47% believed the U.S. was making progress on the issue.”

https://hightimes.com/

‘Old Smoker’ Star Discovered Lurking in Milky Way Galaxy

A strange new type of star referred to by scientists as an “old smoker” has been discovered after a years-long astronomical study. According to four different studies recently published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, these recently discovered stellar objects are essentially really large and very old stars that emit puffs of what appears to be smoke and dust after many decades of inactivity. These stars were discovered using a powerful giant telescope located deep in the mountains of Chile. Lead author of one study and co-author of the other three, Phillip Lucas, said that thus far, scientists are not completely sure what creates this effect in the old smoker stars. “Everything we have been able to learn about them suggests that this is a case of stars throwing off puffs of smoke—for reasons that we don’t fully understand,” Lucas said. “We weren’t sure if these stars were protostars starting an eruption, or recovering from a dip in brightness caused by a disc or shell of dust in front of the star — or if they were older giant stars throwing off matter in the late stages of their life,” Lucas said Originally the studies were focused at finding newborn stars, oftentimes surrounded by dust and gasses making them hard to see. This is why the VISTA (Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope) in Chile, capable of seeing infrared light, was used to scan the skies for the stars other telescopes would not be able to see. As Dr. Zhen Guo, Fondecyt Postdoc Fellow at the University of Valparaiso in Chile and lead author of two studies explained, these newborn stars often help to form new solar systems over time. “Our main aim was to find rarely-seen newborn stars, also called protostars, while they are undergoing a great outburst that can last for months, years, or even decades,” Guo said. “These outbursts happen in the slowly spinning disc of matter that is forming a new solar system. They help the newborn star in the middle to grow, but make it harder for planets to form. We don’t yet understand why the discs become unstable like this,” Guo said. The old smoker stars are a kind of red giant. Red giants are stars which have essentially expired, that is, they’ve run out of hydrogen fuel and have “died” in a sense. This often causes violent energy outbursts from the star for a while. Our own sun will go through this one day in the far off future, swallowing several of the inner planets in the course of its death according to NASA, though the fate of the Earth remains relatively unclear when this happens. Luckily, it’ll be several billion years before this occurs so it will more than likely be somebody else’s problem by then. The team of scientists involved with these studies found several red giants, 21 to be exact, that appeared to be a bit different than those found in the past. They chose seven of these stars to focus on and noticed unusual characteristics that puzzled them, most noticeably the smoke and dust they appeared to exert which is how they received the moniker ‘old smoker.’ “These elderly stars sit quietly for years or decades and then puff out clouds of smoke in a totally unexpected way,” said Dante Minniti, a professor in the department of physics at Andrés Bello University in Chile and coauthor on three of the studies, in a press release “They look very dim and red for several years, to the point that sometimes we can’t see them at all.” Most of the stars the team studied were found near the center or the nucleus if you will of the Milky Way Galaxy, known as the innermost nuclear disc. Lucas explained that these newly discovered stars could potentially play a role in the way elements are distributed across the galaxies. “Matter ejected from old stars plays a key role in the life cycle of the elements, helping to form the next generation of stars and planets,” Lucas said. “This was thought to occur mainly in a well-studied type of star called a Mira variable. However, the discovery of a new type of star that throws off matter could have wider significance for the spread of heavy elements in the Nuclear Disc and metal-rich regions of other galaxies.”

https://hightimes.com/

Sen. Elizabeth Warren Advocates for Cannabis Descheduling on ‘The Late Show’

This year is shaping up to potentially be one of the most historic when it comes to cannabis, as U.S. advocates and consumers alike await the final decision from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on whether it will reschedule cannabis from a Schedule I to Schedule III controlled substance. After the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) made its recommendation to the DEA in December 2023, the collective excitement for a final decision is palpable. There has even been a recent wave of rumors that the White House could make an announcement about the pending review in the coming days, though a Biden administration official denied any pending announcements for the upcoming week. As the wait continues, a number of advocates and legislators are arguing that simply moving cannabis to another category is not enough and pushing to deschedule cannabis entirely. Among those leaders is Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), who appeared on The Late Show earlier this week to discuss her stance. After a segment focusing on the economy and inflation, host Stephen Colbert pivoted to address a letter from last week led by Warren and Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA), along with nine other Democrats including U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) among others. The letter urges the DEA and Biden administration to deschedule cannabis altogether, recognizing that rescheduling to Schedule III would be a “significant step forward” but would not resolve the “worst harms of the current system.” “Thus, the DEA should deschedule marijuana altogether. Marijuana’s placement in the CSA has had a devastating impact on our communities and is increasingly out of step with state law and public opinion,” the legislators said in the letter dated Jan. 30. “Last week you, Sen. Fetterman, Sen. Schumer and Sen. Sanders sent a letter to the DEA asking for marijuana to be descheduled. How is that different?” Colbert posed. “Two part question — How is that different from legalization, and are you high right now?” After laughs from the audience, Warren said that cannabis legalization would be possible with a “functional Congress,” adding that this is “not the world we live in.” Descheduling, she argued, is an alternative that doesn’t require Congressional approval. “Right now marijuana is scheduled, it’s called, as a drug by the DEA at the same risk as heroin,” Warren said. “And that means not only is it illegal, you can’t even do research on it. It’s, so no — and what we’re saying in this letter is, ‘Guys get with it,’ at the DEA. It’s not 1954. More than half of all states have legalized marijuana.” Research on cannabis is still possible with its current scheduling, though it has historically come with a number of obstacles that have been long criticized as barriers to opening up more cannabis-related studies. Descheduling cannabis would effectively remove its status as a controlled substance, thereby removing criminal penalties and essentially legalizing it. Congress would still be needed to establish a regulatory framework, and it would likely be treated similar to alcohol, with states allowed to form their own cannabis laws. Federal law and regulation could also play a part to some degree. Rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III would keep it as a controlled substance, and it would not federally legalize cannabis or allow states to facilitate their own markets. It would, however, remove research barriers and allow cannabis businesses licensed by the state to take federal tax deductions, which is currently not allowed. While rescheduling alone would not enable the shift, many have also expressed concern that moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III would open the door for Big Pharma to seize the market. “The idea is to say, at the federal level, instead of creating this conflict, which is causing all kinds of problems—we’ve got problems with banking laws and problems in tax laws—you just say deschedule,” Warren said. “And look, we need some restrictions. Of course, let’s treat it like alcohol. We need to deschedule it, join the 21st century and let’s make marijuana legal. It shouldn’t be that hard.” The declaration was met with applause, followed by Colbert’s jest, “I want to point out you didn’t answer my second question.” Warren exchanged a grin back to the host as Colbert ended the segment. The full clip can be viewed here.

https://hightimes.com/

Binoid’s Best THC Vapes of 2024

It’s safe to say that 2023 was the year of THC disposables, with top-selling brands being more creative than ever before, with a wide array of cannabinoid blends, technological features, supersized cartridges, and more. Now that we’ve entered a new year, we’re going to break down the 15 most exceptional THC disposable/rechargeable vapes you can get for your 2024 cannabinoid-related needs. The best part, you can try the best THC disposables of 2024 with code HIGHTIMES25 for 25% off with fast and free shipping here. These 15 THC vapes all offer reliable hardware, pure, additive-free hemp extracts, and strain selections that go above and beyond to keep every enthusiast out there totally satisfied. Let’s get to it, with our selection of the best THC disposable vapes for 2024. Binoid’s Delta 8 THC Rechargeable Disposable Vape has been a staple of their catalog since before 2023, but what’s impressive is how it remains a top seller throughout the industry to this day. Offering a gram of vape oil, this rechargeable all-in-one device offers delta 8 THC distillate combined with the terpene profiles of dreamy strains like Gelato, Lemon Haze, Blue Dream, and others, all of which are incredibly in demand. Offering a balanced blend of delta 11 THC and 11 HXY THC, this 2-gram vape can deliver particularly long-lasting psychoactive effects thanks to the use of 11 HXY THC, a metabolite that is produced when we eat edibles. It doesn’t hurt that it comes in two ultra-rare, sought-after strains: This Slapz and Cherry Bonkerz, both renowned for their delicious flavors. Delta 9P is the stronger and more potent version of THC-P, which is 33x stronger than Delta 9 THC already. Blazed Delta 9P vapes are 3 grams blended with THC-JD plus THCA liquid diamonds, acting as one of the strongest vapes on the market, period. The strain selection is surprisingly large, with enticing choices like Maui Mist, Unicorn Haze, Bully Kush, and more. The THC-P vape from Binoid contains 2 grams of vape oil, and actually contains a decent amount of delta 8 THC too, for good measure. It’s definitely on the more potent end of the spectrum, given the amount of THC-P that’s in there, and it comes in strains connoisseurs will love, like God’s Gift, Thai Chi, Aurora Indica, and many other prestigious cultivars. THCA was all the rage and the main attraction of the hemp market in 2023, and it’s not going anywhere as demand keeps on growing. This 1-gram THCA vape is the only pure 1 gram THCA vape on the market, and contains live rosin, a concentrated and deeply flavorful terpene extract with Space Cake, Strawberry Milk, Unicorn Berry, and other mouthwatering strains available. This awesome THCV Disposable comes in an Uplift and Unwind formula. With a unique blend of THCA, THCV, and CBG (Uplift) or THCA, THCV, and CBN (Unwind), this disposable is not one of the most potent on the market, and is more akin to a delta 9 high in terms of its strength, but slightly milder. And, it happens to contain a whopping 5 grams of vape oil, to boost its value. We love that it offers a unique twist on strains, coming in two options: Uplift (a sativa blend) and Unwind (an indica blend). A more innovative option in Binoid’s inventory, this vape combines THCA with THCM – a potentiator cannabinoid that can boost the effects of THCA for even more delta 9 satisfaction. It contains, again, a staggering 5 grams per disposable, and the 3 strains it comes in are virtually holy grail in their status: Vice City, Hot Lava, and Space Mountains. We’re simply obsessed with the new Active Flowers vapes from Binoid, which contain a duo of THCA and delta 9P distillates, paired with extracts of “active flowers,” which are botanicals (and mushrooms) that are known for their powerful positive effects. Explore the rare opportunity to vape blue lotus flower, passion flower, lavender, chamomile, and more to experience effects like euphoria, calm, and enhanced creativity. Binoid’s Epic Clouds vape is another totally unique option on the market, bringing together THCA, CBC, and HHC-B, again with CBC acting as a potentiator to boost the high of the other two cannabinoids. This 5-gram disposable is aesthetically on point, and offers delicious strains like Code Red, Cosmic Berry, and Sour Tropicana. Another 5-gram THCA disposable comes from the Exclusive Series, with a gorgeous combo of THCA, delta 9P, and HHC-P, acting as one of the most powerfully intoxicating vapes on the market. Its strain selection is also out of this world, with Hot Lava, Space Mountains, Alaskan Lights, and Tropical Zkittlez being fan favorites, all of which come in tasty live resin form. The Beast Mode vape really lives up to its name, with a blend of THC-B, HHC-P, and THC-H, to get you high beyond your wildest dreams. This duo is combined with powerful live resin for the ultimate vaping experience, and comes in some fascinating strains like Red and Blue Dragon, Green and Purple Dragon and more. The Knockout Blend Vape offers up 2 grams of THC-P, THC-H, and HHC-P, 3 outrageously powerful psychoactives, plus live resin. This is a cannabinoid blend that can, as the name implies, knock you out, so it’s best reserved for night time when you don’t have anything to do. It comes in two strains: Fire OG and Ice Breaker. The Power 9 Blend from Binoid delivers a trio of delta 9 THC, THC-JD, and THC-B, and it’s not as intoxicating as the other blends we’ve covered, but is, still, very potent, so be aware. The live resin amplifies the flavor, as well as the effects of strains like Kush Mints, Candy Apple, and Gas Berry. THCA, THC-P, and PHC are the superstars of the Master Blend 3 Gram THCA Vape, which consists of a generous 3 grams of vape oil, and combines these intoxicating cannabinoids with, again, live resin. King Kong and Godzilla are the strains you can choose from, and both are forces to be reckoned with in their own ways. Lastly, we’ve got the 7 Gram Blend Vape, which is a crowning achievement of Binoid’s catalog, with an unheard-of 7 grams of vape oil. With THCA, delta 9P, and delta 9H, it’s pretty much as powerful as they come in terms of its psychoactive strength, and the live resin is just the icing on the cake. Leakproof and clog-proof, it comes in absolutely astounding slushie-inspired strains that taste as good as they feel. The first 7 gram THCA vape from Binoid is next level for value and strength, and is a must try for those who use THC disposables in 2024. This was the best THC vapes of 2024. There’s nothing like vaping some delightful THC cannabinoids to enjoy a high in an effortless way – especially when they come in glorious strain options like the ones we’ve mentioned above. These 15 vapes are diverse, but what they all share in common is that they’re effective, clean, and ready to give you a psychoactive experience that’s nothing short of enchanting. If you’re ready to get your vape on, go through the selection of strains and get your hands on this exciting new development in the hemp industry today! The best part, you can try the best THC disposables of 2024 with code HIGHTIMES25 for 25% off with fast and free shipping here.

https://hightimes.com/

Pennsylvania Governor Calls On State Lawmakers To Legalize Weed

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro this week called on state lawmakers to legalize and regulate recreational marijuana, saying “It’s time to catch up” with neighboring states that have already taken the step. The governor made his plea on Tuesday during an annual budget address to unveil a $48.3 billion spending plan for the state. “I ask you to come together and send to my desk a bill that legalizes marijuana,” Shapiro told state lawmakers in his address. “But that bill should ensure the industry is regulated and taxed responsibly.” Although the Democratic governor’s budget proposal does not include a specific cannabis legalization plan, it does call on lawmakers to pass a 20% tax on recreational marijuana. The proposal assumes a January 2025 start date for adult-use cannabis sales and estimates that the state would bring in $14.8 million in tax revenue during the first year. Shapiro added that he expects Pennsylvania’s taxes on recreational marijuana to increase to approximately $250 million per year once the regulated industry is firmly established. “We’re losing out on an industry that, once fully implemented, would bring in more than $250 million in annual revenue,” Shapiro said. “And our failure to legalize and regulate this only fuels the black market and drains much-needed resources for law enforcement. It’s time to catch up.” In a written explanation of the $48.3 billion state budget, Shapiro administration officials wrote that some tax revenue from the regulated adult-use cannabis industry should be used for “restorative justice initiatives” to address decades of inequities in the enforcement of marijuana prohibition laws. Among the initiatives, the governor specifically called on lawmakers to pass legislation to expunge the records of those convicted of possession of small amounts of marijuana. Additional funds from the state’s adult-use cannabis program would go to the Department of Agriculture and the Pennsylvania State Police. The remaining revenue would be directed to the state’s general fund. In his address, the governor noted that legalizing adult-use cannabis is supported by a majority of Pennsylvania voters and that five out of six of the Keystone State’s neighbors have already ended the prohibition of marijuana for adults. “Last year, 57 percent of voters in Ohio supported an initiative to legalize recreational marijuana,” Shapiro said. “And now, Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland – practically all of our neighbors – have legalized marijuana.” Ben Kovler, Founder, CEO and chairman at Green Thumb Industries, a multistate cannabis company that operates 18 RISE medical marijuana dispensaries in Pennsylvania, praised Shapiro’s plan to legalize adult-use cannabis. “We applaud Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for prioritizing adult-use cannabis legalization this year, including a clear, definitive launch date for sales. This call for change signals continued progress in the Northeast toward ending Prohibition 2.0 and the devastating impact it has inflicted on communities,” Kovler said in a statement to High Times. “The team at Green Thumb is ready to support the people of Pennsylvania on their journey to well-being by providing access to safe, high-quality cannabis.” Pennsylvania legalized the medicinal use of cannabis in 2016 with the passage of the Medical Marijuana Act. Under the state program, patients with one or more specified serious medical conditions are allowed to purchase and use medical marijuana. Qualifying conditions for the use of medical marijuana in Pennsylvania include cancer, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, terminal illness and others. A total of 134 licensed medical marijuana dispensaries were in operation as of last year, according to state data. Since the program’s inception, more than 1.3 million patients have been certified as medical marijuana patients in Pennsylvania, Spotlight PA reported in December. Legalizing recreational marijuana is popular with some lawmakers in Pennsylvania, especially among Democrats. In December, Democratic Senator Sharif Street and Senator Camera Bartolotta, a Republican, introduced bipartisan legislation to legalize adult-use cannabis. Getting the bill through the Pennsylvania Senate, however, may prove difficult. Senator Kim Ward, the Senate majority leader, has said she will not support the legalization of recreational marijuana until the federal government ends cannabis prohibition, according to a report from PA Spotlight.

https://hightimes.com/

Mary Jones Cannabis Bringing Its Soda, Edibles to Canada

Canada’s THC-infused beverage market is about to get more crowded. Jones Soda, the beloved soft drink company known for its quirky flavors, said on Tuesday that the arm of its cannabis business, Mary Jones, “has been approved to operate in Ontario, Canada, with additional provinces to follow.” “Starting with their THC-infused beverages, the products are currently slated for Ontario availability in Q1 24,” the company said in a press release. Jones is eyeing an additional expansion into other cannabis categories within the Canadian market in collaboration with Tilray Brands, the Canadian cannabis company. The company said in the press release that Tilray handles its manufacturing and distribution in Canada. “Jones was originally founded in Vancouver, BC. Canada and Tilray are a natural fit for our first international expansion for Mary Jones following the incredible success we’ve had in our U.S. markets,” David Knight, CEO of Jones Soda, said in a statement on Tuesday. “Canada’s recreational cannabis sales increased $466.1M CAD in July, up 1.9 % from June this year. We’re looking forward to bringing Mary Jones to Canada’s THC retailers and consumers.” Blair MacNeil, President of Tilray Canada, said that the company is “excited to partner with Mary Jones and to produce their one of a kind beverages at our state-of-the-art London, Ontario facility.” “The Mary Jones brand has seen enormous success in the United States and we look forward to being a part of their rapid growth in Canada,” MacNeil said. Jones will “launch in Ontario with its 10MG THC-sodas in a variety of Famous Jones flavors, including Berry Lemonade, Boot Rear (Root Beer) And Col.Ahhhhh (Cola), uniquely labeled for Canadian cannabis packaging and naming requirements,” the press release said. “The sodas use the same pure cane sugar recipe as mainline Jones, adapted for cannabis. Cannabis consumers in Canada can enjoy Mary Jones THC-infused sodas alone, mixed in craft cocktails, floats and much more,” the press release continued. “Mary Jones is also exploring future expansion into other cannabis categories in the Canadian market, bringing the beverage flavors into other product formats.” The cannabis firm Green Hedge “will support sales and field marketing in Canada for Mary Jones,” according to the press release. “Infused Beverages are growing at a rapid pace in Canada and around the world, including an increasing number of consumers who are shifting to it over alcohol,” said Andrew von Teichman, CEO of Green Hedge. “It creates a highly lucrative opportunity specifically for Mary Jones craft sodas and syrups. Cannabis consumers in Canada are going to love Mary Jones!” For Tilray, Tuesday’s announcement marks another significant development within its beverage portfolio. Last year, Tilray acquired eight beer and beverage brands in a deal with Anheuser-Busch. Tilray CEO and chairman Irwin D. Simon said at the time that the deal with Anheuser-Busch “both solidifies our national leadership position and share in the U.S. craft brewing market and marks a major step forward in our diversification strategy.” “We are excited to work with the teams behind these iconic brands that command great consumer loyalty and have a history of delivering strong award-winning products with tremendous growth opportunities. Tilray is fully committed to invest in and champion the future of the U.S. craft beer industry by fueling new innovation that excites and further accelerates the growth of its consumer base,” Simon said in a statement. The deal gave Tilray a number of notable brands, including Shock Top, Breckenridge Brewery and Blue Point Brewing Company. It also included 10 Barrel Brewing Company, Redhook Brewery, Widmer Brothers Brewing, Square Mile Cider Company, and HiBall Energy. In his statement at the time, Simon said the move gave Tilray “national distribution to coveted markets across the U.S. and internationally.” “In a matter of three years, Tilray has solidified its leadership position in the craft beer industry, and we fully intend to be that change agent that reinvigorates the sector. Upon federal cannabis legalization, we expect to leverage our leadership position, wide distribution network and portfolio of beloved beverage and wellness brands to include THC-based products and maximize all commercial opportunities,” Simon said. In 2020, Tilray engineered a similar deal, acquiring craft beer company Montauk Brewing. “Tilray Brands continues to strengthen our U.S. footprint and operations through investments in and growing our portfolio of leading lifestyle CPG brands that resonate powerfully with consumers,” Simon said at the time. “Montauk Brewing is an iconic brand with leading market share and distribution in the northeast. Tilray Brands intends to leverage SweetWater’s existing nationwide infrastructure and Montauk Brewing’s northeast influence to significantly expand our distribution network and drive profitable growth in our beverage-alcohol segment. This distribution network is part of Tilray’s strategy to leverage our growing portfolio of U.S. CPG brands and ultimately to launch THC-based product adjacencies upon federal legalization in the U.S.”

https://hightimes.com/

Magic Mushrooms Busts Up Amid Renewed Interest in Psychedelics

Seizures of magic mushrooms have spiked over recent years as interest in the potential benefits of psychedelics including psilocybin rose, according to the results of a new study. The study, which was conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, New York City, and the University of Florida, Gainesville, was published this week by the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence. The study found that more than 1,800 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms were seized by law enforcement agencies across the nation in 2022, up from the nearly 500 pounds confiscated in 2017. The researchers found that the greatest number of seizures occurred in the Midwest (36.0%), followed by the West (33.5%). The West led with the most mushrooms seized by weight over the six years covered by the study, with 4,109 pounds or 42.6% of the total, followed closely by the South with 4,039 pounds or 41.8% of the shrooms confiscated. Seizures by weight peaked in 2021 when law enforcement agencies seized about 3,400 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms. The authors of the study, which was funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), believe the increase in seizures suggests that there has been a boost in the supply of psilocybin mushrooms nationwide. “What I think the results indicate is that shroom availability has likely been increasing,” Joseph Palamar, an epidemiologist at NYU Langone Health and the main author of the new study, told NPR. Nora D. Volkow, M.D., the director of NIDA, noted that the research was conducted at a time when the potential mental health benefits of psilocybin mushrooms had received significant attention. Numerous studies have shown that psilocybin may be an effective treatment for mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). “We are in the middle of a rapidly evolving cultural, media, and legal landscape when it comes to psychedelics, and we need data to help shape informed and appropriate public health strategies,” Volkow, who was not involved in the study, said in a statement from NIDA. “Moving forward, we must continue to track data on the availability of psychedelics, patterns in use, and associated health effects to guide efforts in promoting accurate education and reducing potential harms among people who do plan to use psychedelic drugs.” Although the research into the benefits of psilocybin is promising, the psychedelic drug has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Volkow is concerned that the progress in studying the drug will lead people to self-medicate with psilocybin. “Psychedelic drugs have been promoted as a potential cure for many health conditions without adequate research to support these claims,” Volkow said. “There are people who are very desperate for mental health care, and there are businesses that are very eager to make money by marketing substances as treatments or cures.” The authors of the new study believe that all the buzz about the research into psychedelics has resulted in changing attitudes surrounding psilocybin. “All of the positive coverage of psychedelics might be introducing the idea of using them to a new population that never really considered using them before,” Palamar told The New York Times. Dr. Joshua S. Siegel, a psychiatrist at Washington University in St. Louis who was not involved in the study, said that the new research is “an important part of the bigger picture of where we are headed as a nation” with psychedelics. “It’s important to understand what’s happening in terms of the health care side of things,” Siegel added. “It’s important to understand what’s happening recreationally and legally.” Although psilocybin mushrooms are still illegal at the federal level except for authorized research, the legal status of shrooms is changing at the state and local levels. Many municipalities across the country have adopted policies to effectively decriminalize magic mushrooms, and both Oregon and Colorado have passed legislation to decriminalize psilocybin and legalize supervised therapeutic use of the drug. “The greatest overall weight in seizures was out west,” Palamar said. “And I don’t think it’s coincidental that that’s where a lot of the more liberal policies are starting to take effect.” Although psilocybin therapy can have dramatic and long-lasting mental health benefits, there are risks associated with using the drug that should be considered. Siegel explained that while psychedelics are less deadly and have a lower risk of addiction than many other drugs, psilocybin can be destabilizing, particularly for people with serious mental health conditions. “People can partly or completely lose touch with reality and behave in irrational and potentially dangerous ways,” said Siegel. Officials note that the risk can be great, with the most dangerous cases potentially resulting in psychosis that can lead to impulsive behavior including suicide. “We need to be aware that the use of these drugs comes at a certain cost,” said Volkow.

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Grateful Dead Break Billboard Record Almost 30 Years After Disbanding

The Grateful Dead have made Billboard chart history despite not being a band for nearly 30 years, with the greatest number of top 40 albums to ever make the Billboard 200. According to Billboard, the release of Dave’s Picks, Volume 49: Frost Amphitheatre, Stanford U., Palo Alto, CA (4/27/85 & 4/28/85) debuted at number 25 on the charts making the total number of top 40 releases in the Dead’s repertoire at 59, surpassing both Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley who were previously tied for the record at 58. “Dave’s Picks” is a series of live recordings of old Grateful Dead shows put together by archivist David Lemiex, who will celebrate his 25’th year of working with the band this year. These albums are responsible for 41 of the 59 top 40 debuts and have all been released well after the 1995 death of Grateful Dead frontman Jerry Garcia in 1995. The latest release in this series sold 21,000 of the 25,000 printed album units which were all exclusively sold through Official Grateful Dead channels. “This could be the most unlikely and unexpected record in music history, and is a testament to a few things,” Lemieux said in a press release. “First and foremost is the exceptional and consistent quality of the Grateful Dead’s more than 2,000 live shows. On the heels of this is the loyalty and passion of the many Dead Heads who have made this record possible. And to top it off, the Grateful Dead have a partnership with Rhino that ensures these many album releases are produced with care, love, and respect for both the band’s music and legacy, and the Dead Heads themselves.” Even decades after disbanding the Grateful Dead has maintained a powerful presence among their fan base which seems to grow larger every day. Dead-themed merchandise and products stretch into every sector of the economy, especially among the emerging legal cannabis community. “Dead and Company,” a Grateful Dead cover/spin-off band formed by three former Dead members and others including John Mayer have been credited with spreading Grateful Dead music to a younger audience. Their tour last year saw over 840,000 attendees with over 120,000 at the final San Francisco show alone. “It’s an honor and privilege to work for this community, and our aim is to keep building on this record by delivering the quality of recordings Dead Heads have come to expect for many years ahead,” Lemieux said. “It is truly remarkable to witness the Grateful Dead’s enduring legacy and profound impact.” Mark Pinkus, President of Rhino, reinforced Lemieux’s sentiments in a statement, intimating that the success of these album releases is proof of the real, tangible influence the Dead perpetuated with their music. “Their music and culture transcend time, and this groundbreaking achievement is a testament to their ongoing influence. Rhino is honored to continue to share their meaningful and magical music with Dead Heads, both old and new,” Pinkus said. Bernie Cahill, Founding Partner of Activist Artists Management and manager of the Grateful Dead said in a statement that the release of Dave’s Picks Volume 49 was a reminder that the Grateful Dead reinvented the way live shows were performed and remembered, as is evidenced by the immense popularity of the live recordings among their fanbase. “This remarkable achievement speaks not only to the genius and vision of the Grateful Dead, it is also a reminder of their truly epic live shows that reinterpreted their great American songbook every single time they took the stage! Simply put, this is another incredible milestone for a band who has never compromised, and has always done everything on their own terms,” Cahill said. Dead and Company’s final tour was supposed to be in 2023 but they announced at the end of the tour they likely were not done, shortly thereafter announcing a string of 24 shows at the Las Vegas sphere (which currently boasts a giant deadhead image on its outer shell) from May 16 to July 16 of 2024. Dave’s Picks Vol. 50 (Palladium, New York City – 5/3/77) is slated for release in April.

https://hightimes.com/

New Jersey Introduces Digital MMJ Cards With No Registration, Renewal Fees

As New Jersey approaches the two-year anniversary of its recreational cannabis market launch this April and adult-use revenue continues to rise, regulators recently announced a new incentive for residents to secure their medical cards. The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ-CRC) announced last week that signup and renewal for its new digital medical cards will be free. According to the commission, the new digital cards will begin rolling out in a few weeks and were introduced to prioritize patient accessibility and convenience. The digital cards can be presented on a mobile device, eliminating the risk of losing or damaging a physical card while also enhancing accessibility, the commission says. Those who would still like a physical medical card are still in for a bargain, as the NJ-CRC also recently reduced its physical registration fees to $10 — they will not be required to pay again until renewal two years later, which is also a $10 fee. The entire announcement touches on a number of other topics related to New Jersey medical cannabis, with the last header hitting on “Satisfaction Among Program Participants.” It notes a recent survey, conducted by the commission, that found less than 9% of 1,000 surveyed patients said they were unsatisfied with the service they received after contacting Patient Services at the NJ-CRC. “While many respondents shared concerns about the health care provider fees, product prices, and product availability, more than half said they participate in the program to enjoy the lower price they get from regular patient discounts and not having to pay state taxes, and to have access to the strains and products available only to patients,” the commission states in the announcement. It also encourages readers to look out for dates for medical cannabis program registration clinics, which are set to be held across New Jersey in the coming months. Looking at New Jersey cannabis sales trends, the reduction in registration and renewal fees may not come as a shock. New York similarly waived its $50 medical cannabis fee in 2022, the year after it legalized recreational cannabis. And as New Jersey’s recreational cannabis market has continued to blossom, boosting overall sales numbers, its medical sales are gradually declining. In April 2022, when recreational sales launched in New Jersey, there were 128,548 total patients in the state. That number in January 2024 was only 88,670, approximately a 31% decrease in less than two years. While medical sales numbers for 2023 Q4 are not yet available, looking at year-over-year comparisons of Q3 also provides some context for just how stark this change is. Medical sales for 2022 Q3 came to about $61.1 million, while 2023 Q3 was less than half that amount at approximately $29.2 million. Conversely, recreational sales year-over-year for the same periods increased from approximately $177.7 million to $206.1 million, for 2022 and 2023’s third quarters respectively. While the NJ-CRC did not make any explicit mentions of sales trends and the decline of medical cannabis sales numbers, it’s likely that these moves were made in part to encourage more residents to take advantage of the state’s medical cannabis program. As regions introduce their own legal recreational cannabis markets, allowing access for anyone over 21 years old with a valid ID, consumers in legal cannabis states often wonder about the need for a medical card. One of the main perks for many is avoiding the taxes levied on recreational products, as mentioned by the commission in their announcement. In New Jersey, recreational cannabis products are subject to the standard 6.625% sales tax, along with the Social Equity Excise Fee which changes based on the average price of cannabis — as of Jan. 1, 2024, the fee was updated to $1.24 per ounce. Municipalities can also charge a 2% transfer fee on cannabis sales that occur within their borders. These taxes may not seem extreme given the additional taxes in some other states — Washington State has the highest cannabis taxes in the continental U.S. with its 37% excise tax, for example. While the tax rates may not be the highest, New Jersey infamously has some of the most expensive recreational cannabis in the country. Aside from the tax relief, medical programs tend to have cheaper pricing along with specialized products, higher dosage options and more. Whether these efforts will actually reverse New Jersey’s medical cannabis market trends remains to be seen; the decline in medical sales and program enrollment numbers tends to be a recurring theme in medical-only states that legalize recreational cannabis.

https://hightimes.com/

Cannabis Business Presence Increasing on the Colorado Tourism Office Website

A report from Westword pointed out that the Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) has recently begun to feature information regarding a few cannabis businesses on its website. Westword spoke with licensed cannabis party bus business owner, Sarah Woodson, confirming that the CTO contacted her last year about her The Cannabis Experience. According to CBS News, her business was the nation’s first licensed cannabis consumption bus as of February 2023. The CTO website features some of Colorado’s best places to visit and check out, from snow-related activities, white water rafting, hot springs, dining recommendations, and an updated calendar of events on the front page. As of Feb. 5, the front page doesn’t showcase any cannabis-related businesses or activities. A quick search yields just a few cannabis-related business profiles, which includes both The Cannabis Experience, Colorado Cannabis Tours, Speak Easy Vape Lounge & Cannabis Club, Ambers Alchemy, and a 420 friendly Bed and Breakfast called Arrowhead Manor. It also includes various advice articles about disposing of cannabis when leaving the state, tips for safe consumption, and more, in addition to a few older search results where the landing pages do not work or have been removed. The profiles don’t feature a date of publishing, so it’s unclear how long they’ve been up on the website. Westword points out that Speak Easy Vape Lounge & Cannabis Club opened with a temporary local permit that expired this year and is now closed. Arrowhead Manor does not hold a hospitality license, so it must conduct business as a private venue. As of July 2023, the CTO announced that in 2022, the state collected $27.7 billion in travel spending within the state from approximately 90 million tourists. This annual spending was a $5.6 billion increase, or 25% increase from revenue generated in 2021 ($22.1 billion), with an additional 5.8 million visitors more than those who visited in 2021. The press release included a variety of other facts and data regarding its growing tourism industry, which was shared from the Colorado Travel Impacts 2022 (Dean Runyan Associates) and Colorado Travel Year Report 2022 (Longwoods International). Neither of these reports mentioned cannabis. The CTO is a division under the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), that is managed by the Colorado Tourism Board, which includes 11 people appointed by both the governor and four Colorado legislators. As a government-run agency, cannabis-related hospitality opportunities and events might be tricky to advertise. Currently, public cannabis consumption is illegal, so tourists seeking legal cannabis-friendly tourism must do their own research to find private businesses that cater to that interest. One of the people who was formerly on the CTO board of directors, cannabis dispensary owner Wanda James, stated that the CTO began allowing certain cannabis businesses to advertise on the Colorado tourism website after a state hospitality law (which was passed in 2019) took effect on Jan. 1, 2020. James added that progress on including cannabis on the website decreased after former director Cathy Ritter was let go by OEDIT. Advertising a business on the Colorado tourism website is free, but interested business owners must apply on the website. “To get a free listing on Colorado.com, start by filling out the form below. Note: To appear on Colorado.com, listings must be tourism related and have a physical address in Colorado,” the application form states. Toward the bottom, it requires a short description of the business, “so that we can verify you are part of the tourism industry.” Westword obtained a statement from CTO spokesperson Hayes Norris, who explained that The Cannabis Experience is very much a welcome part of the industry worth advertising. “The Cannabis Experience is a great example of that, as they offer a range of immersive cannabis tours and experiences,” said Norris.”…there have not been any formal changes to colorado.com business rules regarding licensed hospitality businesses and cannabis.” While the CTO is not yet ready to begin the task of featuring more cannabis-themed venues and activities, organizations such as the Cannabis Travel Association International are more focused on putting the spotlight on cannabis-friendly destinations both in the U.S. and other international locations as well. While Colorado was the first to implement recreational cannabis legalization back in 2014, many other states are building up their cannabis consumption laws and business as well. In New Jersey, cannabis consumption lounges were only recently approved by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) last month. “New Jersey’s cannabis industry is well on its way to being a billion-dollar industry, and consumption areas will likely bolster that—fostering a communal experience for those 21 and older around cannabis in a regulated and secure space,” said CRC executive director Jeff Brown. In Nevada, the most batch of consumption lounge licenses was issued in November 2023, while a number of other license holders are eyeing 2024 for the year they hope they’ll satisfy all of the requirements to open. The Las Vegas, Nevada-based Planet 13 announced in November last year that it was eyeing an April 2024 opening, and in December 2023 it confirmed that the consumption lounge would also share a space with the Las Vegas SuperStore to Koolsville Tattoo Shop.

https://hightimes.com/

Announcing the High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2024

Are you ready for the heat that will define Southern California in 2024? The High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition is back in town, and the offerings of cannabis flower and products are set to redefine the selection. It’s an adult-use competition celebrating some of the best cannabis products in the region—one of the largest cannabis markets of its kind on the planet. Product submissions will be accepted from cannabis retailers and businesses beginning April 1-3. Judge Kits go on-sale beginning on April 8. Judges will have nearly two months to let the Once that takes place, Judges will be expected to narrow down the winners by June 2. Judges fill out scorecards, indicating how each submission measured up. Judges assess how each strain looks, tastes, smells, effects, and burnability on a scale of one to 10. An email is automatically sent to confirm each time a strain or product review is submitted. The emails also serve as a placement point to know which strains have already been completed. These scorecards ultimately determine who wins. Finally, the winners of this highly-anticipated event will be announced via a livestream on June 16. The original High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal was first introduced as an in-person event that was held between 2015-2019. The pandemic changed things up, shifting a move into People’s Choice events which put the power in the hands of the people, in this case, the fine people of Southern California. This High Times Cannabis Cup event offers consumers the unique opportunity to experience the finest cannabis available to consumers—relative to the specific market of Southern California. For retailers, this is more than just a competition—it’s a chance to elevate products on a For cannabis brands that wish to submit products for this year’s competition, please refer to the following rules to bring your product to a global stage and compete for the esteemed High Times Cannabis Cup. Please also adhere to the following entry requirements. Flower submissions will be 1-gram samples. We will not accept any 3.5-gram entries. Pre-Rolls and infused pre-roll samples will also have the following requirements. Pre-Rolls will be capped at 2 grams of flower-only each; Infused pre-rolls will be capped at 3-gram flower equivalency or 1 gram concentrate equivalency each. For concentrates and vape pens, we will accept 5-gram samples. We will not accept any 1-gram entries—and keep in mind that batteries are required for carts. Edibles) samples will have a 100 mg THC maximum amount. Sublinguals, capsules, tinctures and topical samples will be capped with a 500mg THC max. Competitors should note the entry fees are dependent upon how many products they submit. While one entry is $250, and two entries will be priced at $100 per entry, both non-refundable, and submissions of three or more entries is a $100 refundable deposit per entry held, which is refunded when all entries are successfully submitted. Potential sponsors for this year’s High Times Cannabis Cup SoCal: People’s Choice Edition 2024 will have all entry fees waived. We also offer multiple tiers of sponsorship, including General, Bronze, Silver, and Presenting Sponsorships. That sums up the details of our event this year but check out our High Times Cannabis Cup website to view all of the details. For a sense of what to expect, check out who shined and who took home awards at the past several years of SoCal Cannabis Cup events. Last year’s winners highlighted known and respected brands including Fig Farms, Team Elite Genetics, Papa’s Select, Top Shelf Cultivation, Maven Genetics. In 2022, we were also amazed with what we saw at the 2022 SoCal: People’s Choice Edition. That year, winners such as Top Shelf Cultivation’s Whoa Si Whoa, Sense’s Pink Certz Flower, Wizard Trees’s Studio 54, and Team Elite Genetics’s Pearadise Flower took home many titles. You can expect to see more surprises this year. Cannabis Cups were first conceived in 1987 by former High Times editor Steven Hager, and slowly spread out from The Netherlands to legal jurisdiction across the world. Join the ranks of the elite and put your product to the ultimate test. May the best brands prevail!

https://hightimes.com/

DEA Celebrates War on Drugs in Cringey Post During Black History Month

On Feb. 1, the official X account of The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) posted a photo of former President Richard Nixon and a caption meant to celebrate the legacy of the War on Drugs, but the comment section didn’t go as planned. Making things worse, the DEA posted it on the first day of Black History Month, which is especially ironic given that cannabis laws were unfairly enforced mostly on Black and brown Americans. “On Dec. 14, 1970, at the White House, the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers’ Association presented President Nixon with a ‘certificate of special honor’ in recognition of the outstanding loyalty and contribution to support narcotic law enforcement,” the post reads. The post was marked with a tag for Throwback Thursday, #TBT. A chorus of rebuttals swiftly followed as people asked essentially the same question: Is the drug war something we should be celebrating? People like Cat Packer—the director of drug markets and legal regulation at the Drug Policy Alliance and former executive director of Los Angeles’ Department of Cannabis Regulation—immediately explained why the post is fundamentally wrong on multiple levels. “On the first day of Black History Month 2024 the Biden Administration’s DEA is celebrating President Nixon—this is the same agency responsible for marijuana scheduling,” Packer wrote. Black Americans are arrested for violating cannabis possession laws at nearly four times the rates of white Americans, even though both demographics consume pot at relatively the same rates, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) notes. This racial disparity in cannabis arrests is much worse in certain areas. For instance in New York, a 2021 analysis of cannabis-related arrests in New York City’s five boroughs during 2020 reported that people of color made up 94 percent of people who were arrested. If laws cannot be enforced equally on the people, after decades of attempts, then why enforce them at all? “It is an incredible affront to do Nixon today. You should remove this post. Nixon did more to harm the black community than any other President in the 20th century. And he did it with the War On Drugs,” Erik Radle, CEO of The Miller Ad Agency wrote in response. Nixon’s own administration now admits that the War on Drugs—particularly the war on cannabis—was intentionally used as a weapon to target Black Americans and anti-Vietnam War demonstrators. John Ehrlichman, who worked under Nixon and was a Watergate co-conspirator, blew the whistle in Harper’s Magazine in 2016—fully admitting the racist intentions of the Nixon administration in launching the War on Drugs. “You want to know what this was really all about?” Ehrlichman asked. “The Nixon campaign in 1968, and the Nixon White House after that, had two enemies: the antiwar left and black people. You understand what I’m saying? We knew we couldn’t make it illegal to be either against the war or black, but by getting the public to associate the hippies with marijuana and blacks with heroin, and then criminalizing both heavily, we could disrupt those communities. We could arrest their leaders, raid their homes, break up their meetings, and vilify them night after night on the evening news. Did we know we were lying about the drugs? Of course we did.” Nixon unceremoniously resigned from office under Section 1 of the 25th Amendment on August 9, 1974 when his impeachment materialized and became imminent. Throughout the history of America, only Andrew Jackson, Bill Clinton, and Donald Trump (two times) were impeached in the House, however only Nixon was completely removed from office. Other presidents may have picked up in Nixon’s footsteps. The Atlantic ran an expose in 2019 on recently uncovered audio, captured in October 1971, alleging that then-California Governor Ronald Reagan held a damning conversation with Nixon before ascending to the Oval Office. The audio transcript shows how Reagan singled out and disparaged Black Americans before his presidency. Famously, Reagan was the president who launched the War on Drugs 2.0 along with First Lady Nancy Reagan, the “Just Say No” era when the federal government ramped up attacks on cannabis consumers and drug users. The recent post on Feb. 1 shows the level of denial in the DEA about the success of the War on Drugs and how out of touch they are with the public. It wasn’t a success: Overdose deaths continue to hit all-time highs, billions of dollars are wasted, and the drug laws aren’t enforced fairly on Black and brown Americans.

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