Chicago NORML Continues Push for Diversity in Pot Industry

 

As Illinois lawmakers continue to consider input from various stakeholders for legislation that would legalize the possession and use of marijuana for adults 21 and up in 2019, some advocates are feeling left out of the process. This is especially concerning because the majority reside in communities that have been devastated by marijuana prohibition. Are minorities already being excluded from the state’s blossoming marijuana industry? It appears so.

With members of Governor-elect J.B. Pritzker’s Restorative Justice and Public Safety Committee excluding prominent advocates from minority communities, some are starting to question the committee’s commitment to addressing minority inclusion altogether. The committee’s decision also seems to contradict statements made by Governor-elect Pritzker, who recently unveiled an equity program that would greatly benefit minority communities by offering technical assistance and subsidized loans for minority entrepreneurs.

When asked by the Chicago Sun Times about the committee’s decision, Edie Moore, executive director of Chicago NORML had this to say:

“If legislation is introduced that does not address our policy concerns, Chicago NORML, its supporters and community partners are prepared to push back until we are satisfied that every opportunity for advancement has been exhausted.”

Marijuana policy should be evidence based. Dispel the myths with NORML’s Fact Sheets! For more information follow Chicago NORML on Facebook and visit their website today.

Source: http://blog.norml.org/2018/12/30/chicago-norml-continues-push-for-diversity-in-pot-industry/

The blog post Chicago NORML Continues Push for Diversity in Pot Industry was first seen on Giggles N Dimples

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/30/chicago-norml-continues-push-for-diversity-in-pot-industry/

NORML Chapters Prioritize a Wide Range of Reforms for 2019

Looking back at 2018, it was another productive year for marijuana law reform advocates. In addition to advancing legislation in state houses around the country, NORML chapters played a significant role in passing marijuana law reform initiatives in Michigan and Missouri, and were instrumental in numerous municipal marijuana decriminalization victories.

With more and more local and state governments taking steps to reduce the arrest and incarceration of marijuana patients and consumers, many are predicting 2019 to be a watershed year for marijuana law reform legislation. That’s why dozens of NORML chapters are organizing citizen lobby days to advocate for the end of marijuana prohibition and other reforms ranging from depenalization and expungement, to workplace drug testing and social consumption.

Below is a preview of what to expect from NORML chapters in 2019.

Michigan

Following the passage of Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act last November, which legalized the possession, consumption and cultivation of marijuana for adults 21 and up, state lawmakers will be focused on implementing various aspects of the new law in 2019. This includes robust policy debates ranging from health and public safety, to the allocation of tax revenues and consumer protections. At the local level, several municipalities have already opted out of recreational marijuana sales resulting in members of Michigan NORML working overtime to defend the progress that has been made well in advance of next year’s legislative session.

“2018 was an historic year in Michigan marijuana law reform. Voters passed an initiative to legalize the cultivation, possession and use of cannabis by adults 21 and over,” said Attorney Matthew Abel, who also serves as the Executive Director of Michigan NORML. “In 2019, advocates hope to expedite the opening of retail stores and microgrow facilities, and begin opening clubs allowing for open social use.”

New York

For months state lawmakers and officials with Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office have been soliciting feedback and hosting roundtable discussions with various stakeholders with the hope of drafting legislation for next year’s legislative session. Most recently, Governor Cuomo outlined his agenda for 2019 which prioritizes the legalization of adult-use marijuana. Looking to capitalize on the Governor’s newfound support, NORML chapters across New York have organized a series of lobby days during next year’s legislative session.

“Empire State NORML continues to push not only on the advocacy and lobbying fronts by meeting with multiple cannabis centric organizations and state leaders, but also in providing critical direct input during the drafting of the legalization law that will soon be voted on by the legislature. We will continue in our mission to educate individuals and leaders about the opportunities and innovations that a legalized cannabis marketplace will bring to all of New York,” said David C.  Holland, Esq., Executive and Legal Director of Empire State NORML.

Members of Empire State NORML, Rochester NORML and Western New York NORML will be meeting with state lawmakers in Albany on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 and Wednesday, March 27, 2019.

Missouri

Missouri lawmakers will be considering numerous bills to implement Amendment 2, also known as Article XVI of the Missouri Constitution, which legalized medical marijuana for qualified patients and provided the framework for a patient registry. Working with a strict timeline, marijuana law reform advocates from across Missouri will be in be in Jefferson City to make sure lawmakers and officials with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services implements the new law in a way that respects the needs of future patients.

“With the recent passage of New Approach Missouri’s Amendment 2, that legalized medical marijuana for qualified patients, it’s as important as ever to make sure our voices are heard in 2019,” said Jamie Kacz, Secretary of Missouri NORML. “We need to ensure the implementation process is executed in a timely manner that best serves the needs of patients in Missouri.”

Click Here to Protect the Privacy of Missouri Medical Marijuana Patients

Texas

During a debate leading up to the 2018 midterm elections, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who was once considered to be one of the biggest obstacles facing marijuana law reform efforts in the Lone Star State, expressed his support for reducing criminal penalties for low-level marijuana possession. Since then, NORML chapters across Texas have been busy organizing activist trainings and hosting town hall style meetings as they prepare for next year’s legislative session.

With the Texas State Legislature convening every two years, Jax Finkel, executive Director of Texas NORML has adopted an aggressive strategy to take advantage of the small window of opportunity for legislative action.

“Texas will start out 2019 with the kickoff of our 86th Legislative Session. With a dozen bills filed and more expected, it will be an action packed 140 days. If there is ONE day to mark your calendar for and make sure you can be in Austin, it is our Citizen Lobby Day on Thursday, February 7th, 2019,” said Finkle. “We are planning this event in conjunction with our coalition partners. Last session, we had several hundred activists at the Capitol working to elevate the conversations surrounding cannabis in Texas. Let’s make this year even bigger!”

Click Here to Support Access to Medical Marijuana for Texans

Kentucky

Members of Kentucky NORML, led by Executive Director Matthew Bratcher, will be focusing on legislation to establish a medical marijuana program that will allow physicians to recommend the use of medical marijuana to treat or alleviate symptoms of any diagnosed condition.

“We have a great opportunity to pass a meaningful medical marijuana bill in 2019. Representative Jason Nemes H-33 (R) is sponsoring a “let doctors decide” bill that will allow physicians to recommend cannabis therapy to any patient based on their condition instead of relying on a predetermined list of qualifying conditions,” said Bratcher. “It’s well past time for lawmakers in Kentucky to do the right thing for our patients and our veterans. The time to pass a comprehensive medical marijuana bill is now.”

Consumer Advocacy

In states where medical and adult-use marijuana have been legalized, such as Washington, California, Oregon, Colorado and Massachusetts, advocates are pushing for reforms that will address the needs of patients and consumers. For example, social consumption, which has created confusion surrounding the dos and don’ts when it comes to consuming a product that’s readily available to adults 21 and up in almost a dozen states. Longtime NORML Board Member and outspoken social consumption advocate, Madeline Martinez shared her thoughts.

“In Oregon it rains at least seven months out of the year and the most vulnerable patients are expected to find a private space outside where they can consume in the shadows, this practice is inhumane,” said Martinez. “Also in Oregon there are not a lot of safe spaces to consume cannabis, especially for low income people living in federally subsidized housing and renters, this disproportionately affects people of color and poor. The insidious Oregon Indoor Clean Air Act must be corrected by removing all mention of cannabinoids.”

There’s also the issue of workplace drug testing. A discriminatory practice that’s putting millions of law-abiding and responsible adults at risk of losing their employment due to a THC-positive drug test. That’s why NORML chapters in several states are focusing their attention on legislation that will protect honest, hardworking marijuana consumers from antiquated workplace drug-testing practices, in particular the use of random, suspicionless urine testing.

“About every six weeks or so I get a call from someone who lost their job or was denied an employment opportunity because of a positive urine test based on past cannabis use,” said Attorney Lee Berger, who’s also a member of NORML’s Legal Committee. “It’s been three years since Oregon voters legalized the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. The time to address these discriminatory practices is long overdue.”

Click Here to Protect Marijuana Consumers from Employment Discrimination

The following NORML Chapter Lobby Days have been scheduled for 2019:

Delaware NORML – 1/10/2019

Virginia NORML – 1/14/2019

NoVA NORML – 1/14/2019

Harrisonburg NORML – 1/14/2019

Jefferson Area NORML – 1/14/2019

RVA NORML – 1/14/2019

Winchester NORML – 1/14/2019

Western New York NORML – 1/15/2019

NORML Women of Washington – 1/21/2019

NORML Tallahassee – 1/22/2019

NORML Appalachia of Ohio – 1/23/2019

Denver NORML – 1/23/2019

Kansas City NORML – 1/30/2019

Missouri NORML – 1/30/2019

Illinois NORML – 1/30/2019

Chicago NORML – 1/30/2019

Mid Missouri NORML – 1/30/2019

Greater St Louis NORML – 1/30/2019

Nevada NORML – 2/1/2019

North Carolina NORML – 2/4/2019

NORML of Catawba Valley – 2/4/2019

Charlotte NORML – 2/4/2019

NC NORML of the Triad – 2/4/2019

NC NORML of the Triangle – 2/4/2019

Maryland NORML – 2/4/2019

Texas NORML – 2/7/2019

DFW NORML – 2/7/2019

Arizona NORML – 2/7/2019

Peachtree NORML – 2/7/2019

Madison NORML – 2/21/2019

Kentucky NORML – 2/26/2019

Empire State NORML – 3/27/2019

Rochester NORML – 3/27/2019

California NORML – 5/6/2019

To support these efforts, we’ve created several resources like NORML’s Citizen Lobby Guide (http://norml.org/pdf_files/NORML_CitizenLobbyGuide.pdf) and Fact Sheets (https://norml.org/marijuana/fact-sheets). We’re also working with chapter leadership to develop policy one-pagers, FAQs, and other resources specific to their needs. And of course there’s NORML’s Action Center (http://norml.org/act) that supporters of marijuana law reforms can use to urge their lawmakers to support pending legislation.

For more than 45 years NORML chapters have been the driving force behind marijuana law reforms on the local and state level. Have you connected with your local NORML chapter? If there isn’t one in your community, please reach out to Chapters@NORML.org for help starting your own!

Ready to start a NORML chapter in your hometown? Click here to find out how!

Marijuana policy should be evidence based. Dispel the myths with the NORML Fact Sheets. For more Information follow NORML on Facebook and Twitter and visit our website!

Source: http://blog.norml.org/2018/12/28/norml-chapters-prioritize-a-wide-range-of-reforms-for-2019/

The article NORML Chapters Prioritize a Wide Range of Reforms for 2019 See more on: gigglesndimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/29/norml-chapters-prioritize-a-wide-range-of-reforms-for-2019/

Four Recreational Cannabis Stores Open in Massachusetts

Update: Two years after Massachusetts voters approved Question 4 legalizing the recreational use and sale of marijuana, two stores opened on Nov. 20 – Cultivate in Leicester and New England Treatment Access (NETA) in Northampton. At Cultivate, pot patrons paid from $19 to $420 for flower products.

In Northampton, Mayor David Narcewicz was first on line at NETA; he purchased an infused chocolate bar for $20. “It’s just a historic moment for the commonwealth and for the city,” he crowed. “I’m glad to be a part of it.”

Update: Two more stores have opened since then: Alternative Therapies Group (ATG) in Salem and Veralife in Wareham.

Back in June, the Massachusetts’ Cannabis Control Commission (CCC), tasked by the legislature and governor to draft and implement the establishment of a retail cannabis industry, publicly indicated that their self-directed date to open non-medical cannabis retail outlets, July 1, would not be realized.

The Commission’s intent was to avoid mistake-laden employee background checks, consumer chaos and confusion and product inventory problems that occurred in the six previous states that created commercial cannabis markets (Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Nevada and California).

NORTHAMPTON MAYOR DAVID NARCEWICZ: “It’s just a historic moment for the commonwealth and for the city. I’m glad to be a part of it.”

At a meeting on June 15, the CCC acknowledged that nearly 1,100 applications for cannabis-related businesses had been received by the state since the application process officially began on June 1. However, only 53 applications had been fully completed at the time; most of the first 28 applicants were, predictably, retail medical cannabis companies already operating in Massachusetts.

CCC director Steve Hoffman said the Commission wanted to maximize efforts to have safe, compliant and uniformly regulated cannabis retail shops across the entire state. “We’re going to do this right,” he stated. “If that means we have few or no stores on July 1 and it takes a few more weeks, I hope and expect that everybody in the state believes that’s the right thing to do. We certainly believe that’s the right thing to do.”

To many observers of the state’s cannabis industry, the delay in issuing licenses was neither a surprise nor an unexpected burden as the CCC commissioners at their public hearings around the state for the last year consistently reminded the public that the July 1 date was more inspirational than a necessity.

“Other states that rushed to hit an arbitrary deadline ended up with no inventory in some cases, with no licenses in place and no background checks and online inventory being done,” Hoffman added. “We’re not going to do that.”

Related Articles

How Massachusetts Became a Leader in Regulating Marijuana  

Vermont’s Legalization Lite: No Model for Other States

New Jersey’s Path to Legalization

Maine Governor Vetoes Marijuana Regulations

If you enjoyed this Freedom Leaf article, subscribe to the magazine here

The post Four Recreational Cannabis Stores Open in Massachusetts appeared first on Freedom Leaf.

Source: https://www.freedomleaf.com/massachusetts-cannabis-delay/

The blog post Four Recreational Cannabis Stores Open in Massachusetts See more on: https://gigglesndimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/28/four-recreational-cannabis-stores-open-in-massachusetts/

The Top Ten Medical Cannabis Developments of 2018

It has been an exciting year in the world of cannabis reform. From studies that underscore the therapeutic potential of cannabis to political changes that bode well for patients and consumers, there is much to celebrate. Before we close the books on 2018, let’s take a look back at ten of the most significant developments over the past year from ASA’s perspective and consider their impact.

Source: http://www.safeaccessnow.org/the_top_ten_medical_cannabis_developments_of_2018

The article The Top Ten Medical Cannabis Developments of 2018 was initially published on https://gigglesndimples.com/

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/28/the-top-ten-medical-cannabis-developments-of-2018/

Freedom Leaf’s Top 25 Cannabis Stories of 2018

It was a year filled with surprising cannabis developments in the Trump era. Canada went legal as did two more U.S. states recreationally and three more medically. Jeff Sessions bellowed about marijuana, but was kicked out of the Cabinet like so many others. Among the Midterms winners, many are cannabis supporters. Sen. Mitch McConnell led the Republican flank on marijuana, adding hemp legalization to the Farm Bill, while drug warriors like former House Leader John Boehner dove headfirst into the industry. Stocks climbed, especially in Canada, where deals were made with pharma, tobacco and alcohol giants. CBD was the buzz term of the year – everyone wanted to try the new cannabis cure-all. Several pioneers passed away, reminding us how important it is to remember those who laid the path to legalization.

Here are our top 25 stories of the year:

Marijuana Legalization Initiatives Pass in Michigan, Missouri and Utah; Fails in North Dakota

Big Tobacco Makes Major Move into Canadian Cannabis Market

Jeff and Pete Sessions Get Booted Out of Washington

Oklahoma Legalizes Medical Marijuana, Rescinds Ban on Smoking

Vermont: The First State to Legalize Through Legislation

Pro-Cannabis Candidates Head the Midterms Ballot

Rep. Rohrabacher Accepted Donations from Manafort, Had Meetings with Assange and Butina

The Epidiolex Effect: Will Other CBD Drugs Receive DEA and FDA Approval?

They Say It’s an Evolution: On John Boehner’s Cannabis Switcheroo

Pounds Selling for $900 Wholesale in Oregon, Not $50

What You Need to Know About High Times’ Public Offering

Hemp to the Future: U.S. and Canada Industrial Crops on the Rise

Michigan Poised to Become the 10th State to Legalize It

Advocates and Legislators Reach Compromise on Controversial Marijuana Initiative in Utah

Dueling Medical Marijuana Initiatives in Missouri

How Massachusetts Became a Leader in Regulating Marijuana

Coachella Promoter Donated to Anti-Pot Groups

CBD Helps Musician Recover from Brain Cancer

Vicente Fox’s Global Vision: Legalize All Drugs

Welcome to Baja California

Eaze Delivers: California Firm Brings Weed to Your Doorstep

Freedom Leaf Dives into the Hemp-CBD Market

The View from Vancouver: Canada’s Legalization Challenge

Israel’s Tikun Olam Expanding to the U.S. and Canada

RIP: California Medical-Marijuana Pioneer Dennis Peron

If you enjoyed this Freedom Leaf article, subscribe to the magazine here

The post Freedom Leaf’s Top 25 Cannabis Stories of 2018 appeared first on Freedom Leaf.

Source: https://www.freedomleaf.com/top-cannabis-stories-2018/

Freedom Leaf’s Top 25 Cannabis Stories of 2018 is courtesy of https://gigglesndimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/27/freedom-leafs-top-25-cannabis-stories-of-2018/

2018 Year In Review: NORML’s Top Ten Events In Marijuana Policy

Read the ten biggest stories that shaped marijuana policy in 2018.

#1: Public Support in Favor of Adult Use Legalization at Historic Highs
More adults than ever before believe that marijuana use by adults ought to be legal. An October poll conducted by Gallup reported that 66 percent of adults – including majorities of Democrats, Independents, Republicans, and those over the age of 55 – back legalization. The percentage is the highest level of support ever reported by the polling firm. A 2018 Pew poll similarly reported greater public support for legalization than ever before, while a June poll by the Center for American Progress reported that 68 percent of voters nationwide endorse legalization – the highest level of national support ever recorded in a scientific survey.

#2: Marijuana Initiatives Win at the Ballot Box
Voters in four states – Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Utah – passed voter initiated measures in 2018 regulating the use of marijuana. Missouri, Oklahoma, and Utah became the 31st, 32nd, and 33rd states to enact medical cannabis access laws, while Michigan became the tenth state to permit adult marijuana use. In January, Vermont legislatively enacted provisions permitting adults to grow and possess marijuana for their own personal use.

#3: Congress Amends CSA to Lift Ban on Commercial Hemp Production
Hemp-specific provisions included in the 2018 Farm Bill (aka The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018) for the first time amend the federal classification of marijuana to distinguish between cannabis and hemp. Under the new law, which takes effect on January 1, 2019, hemp plants containing no more than 0.3 percent THC are no longer classified as a schedule I controlled substance. The Act also broadens the definition of ‘hemp’ (Section 297A) to include “any part of the plant, including …. extracts [or] cannabinoids” that do not possess greater than 0.3 percent THC on a dry weight basis. The Act also for the first time in decades permits for the licensed commercial cultivation of hemp under a partnership of state and federal regulations.

#4 Canada Legalizes Adult Marijuana Use and Retail Sales
Canadian lawmakers this summer approved federal legislation permitting the use of marijuana by those ages 18 and older, and regulating adult use cannabis production and sales. Retailers began selling cannabis in compliance with the new law in October. In November, justices for Mexico’s Supreme Court also struck down the nation’s marijuana ban – finding that laws criminalizing the private use and cultivation of cannabis by adults are unconstitutional.

#5: Governors Campaign, Win On Marijuana Legalization Platforms
Candidates for Governor in numerous state races campaigned and won in 2018 on a pledge to legalize and regulate the adult use of cannabis. Specifically, incoming governors in Connecticut, Minnesota, and Illinois explicitly pledged to enact legalization. Re-elected Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo has also pledged to enact adult use legalization in early 2019, as has New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.

#6: Incoming House Rules Chair to Allow Floor Votes on Marijuana-Related Measures
Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Jim McGovern said in November that he will permit federal lawmakers to debate and vote on marijuana-related amendments when he assumes control of the House Rules Committee in 2019. Representative McGovern replaces outgoing Rules Chair Pete Sessions (R-TX), who lost his re-election bid. Representative Sessions used his position as Chairman of the House Rules Committee to block House floor members from voting on over three-dozen marijuana-related amendments during his leadership tenure. “Unlike my predecessor, I’m not going to block amendments for marijuana,” McGovern said. “Citizens are passing ballot initiatives, legislatures are passing laws, and we need to respect that. Federal laws and statutes are way behind.”

#7: Legal Marijuana Access is Associated with Reduced Opioid Abuse
Over a dozen peer-reviewed studies were published in 2018 finding that regulated marijuana access is associated with lower rates of opioid use, abuse, and mortality. Among patients enrolled in medical cannabis access programs, use of opioids frequently decreases or is eliminated altogether.

#8: FBI: Marijuana Arrests Spike for Second Straight Year
The total number of persons arrested in the United States for violating marijuana laws rose for the second consecutive year, according to data released in September by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report, police made 659,700 arrests for marijuana-related violations in 2017. As in previous years, marijuana possession arrests were least likely to occur in the western region of the United States, where possessing the plant has largely been either legalized or decriminalized. By contrast, in Midwestern states, marijuana-related arrests comprised over 53 percent of all drug arrests.

#9: FDA Approves First Ever Plant-Derived Cannabis Medicine
Regulators at the US Food and Drug Administration in June for the first time granted market approval to a plant-derived cannabis medicine, Epidiolex. The medicine contains a standardized formulation of plant-derived cannabidiol for the explicit treatment of two rare forms of severe epilepsy: Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. In September, the US Drug Enforcement Administration classified Epidiolex to Schedule V — the lowest restriction categorization available under federal law.

#10: States, Localities Move to Expunge Past Marijuana Convictions
California became the first state to automatically review and expunge past marijuana-related convictions, under legislation enacted in October. Delaware enacted a similar law calling for the mandatory expungement of certain marijuana-related offenses, joining several other states that permit those with past records to petition to have those records sealed. Local officials in various cities in 2018, including Denver, Philadelphia, and Seattle, announced the facilitation of similar policies.

Source: http://blog.norml.org/2018/12/27/2018-year-in-review-normls-top-ten-events-in-marijuana-policy/

The following article 2018 Year In Review: NORML’s Top Ten Events In Marijuana Policy was originally published on GigglesNDimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/27/2018-year-in-review-normls-top-ten-events-in-marijuana-policy/

Best Games Fro Ganja Lovers Presented By StonerDays

Best Games Fro Ganja Lovers Presented By StonerDays Just as amazing as it sounds there are ways to make getting stoned even more interesting and upbeat. Keep scrolling to unveil some of the coolest Ganja Games perfect for any stoner gathering! Puff Puff Pass Yes, we realize this is the universal stoner code for smoking [...]

The post Best Games Fro Ganja Lovers Presented By StonerDays appeared first on Stoner | Pictures | Stoners Clothing | Blog | StonerDays.

from Stoner Blog – Stoner | Pictures | Stoners Clothing | Blog | StonerDays http://www.stonerdays.com/best-games-fro-ganja-lovers-presented-by-stonerdays/
via IFTTT

Best Games Fro Ganja Lovers Presented By StonerDays Find more on: https://gigglesndimples.com/

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/26/best-games-fro-ganja-lovers-presented-by-stonerdays/

Dr. Ethan Russo: ‘CBD Is Amazingly Therapeutic’

Dr. Ethan Russo: “CBD is an incredibly versatile and safe drug. It’s not a miracle, but it is amazingly therapeutic for a wide variety of conditions.”

An expert in neurology and psychopharmacology who specializes in cannabinoid research, we asked Dr. Ethan Russo to answer the following questions about CBD and THC.

What are the main therapeutic effects of CBD?

CBD has somewhere in the neighborhood of 30 mechanisms of action. Fortunately, all of these seem to be beneficial. The main ones are anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-anxiety, anti-psychotic, anticonvulsant, antibiotic and anti-cancer.

What are the differences between CBD and THC?

In low doses, THC is analgesic, a muscle relaxant, anti-emetic, promotes sleep and is mood elevating. In high doses, it’s intoxicating and produces anxiety, rapid heart rate and even paranoia and orthostatic hypotension. On the other hand, in low-to-moderate doses, CBD is stimulating and anti-inflammatory and reduces anxiety and psychotic symptoms. It lacks THC’s side effects. CBD is an incredibly versatile and safe drug. It’s not a miracle, but it is amazingly therapeutic for a wide variety of conditions.

Is THC bad and CBD good, as some would have us believe?

Hardly. THC is a unique therapeutic agent that does not deserve the hysterical response that it evokes in politicians.

What are the differences between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD?

Hemp and cannabis are the same species. I believe that CBD extractions should derive from flowers of plants bred for CBD content, not from hemp refuse.

The World Health Organization is performing a critical review of CBD. Do you think WHO will recommend descheduling in its final report?

They should. CBD is nonintoxicating, produces no reinforcement, no craving and no withdrawal. In no manner does it qualify as a scheduled drug. It’s merely a case of guilt by association.

Do you expect the DEA to change CBD scheduling like it did recently with the FDA-approved Epidiolex?

I predict that CBD will remain in Schedule I as a forbidden substance unless Congress acts. The DEA may clamp down on unapproved sources of CBD unless public opinion sways Congress to intervene.

Some advocates want to see cannabis removed entirely from the schedule of controlled substances and treated more like willow bark and other herbs with traditional healing properties. Do you think that’s a pipe dream or a reasonable goal?

My opinion is that the government will do what it wants irrespective of what science says.

Where do you think cannabis medicine—CBD as well as non-CBD—will be in another 10 years?

That totally depends on whether rational policies allow proper development of cannabis-based medicines.

More CBD Coverage

10 Questions with Project CBD’s Martin A. Lee

Freedom Leaf FAQ: 16 Questions About Hemp & CBD

Joy Beckerman: Hemp Industries Association Evangelist

Freedom Leaf Dives into the Hemp-CBD Market

U.S. Chemist Roger Adams Isolated CBD 75 Years Ago

This article appears in Issue 34. Subscribe to the magazine here.

The post Dr. Ethan Russo: ‘CBD Is Amazingly Therapeutic’ appeared first on Freedom Leaf.

Source: https://www.freedomleaf.com/ethan-russo-cbd-thc/

Dr. Ethan Russo: ‘CBD Is Amazingly Therapeutic’ See more on: gigglesndimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/24/dr-ethan-russo-cbd-is-amazingly-therapeutic/

Expert Edibles: Laurie Wolf’s Weed Ginger Tea and Cannabread Scones

Award-winning cannabis cookbook author dishes on her favourite edibles for a cozy night in. How can weed be used to cook food? Infused edibles and beverages are a smoke-free alternative to consuming pot. I find the effects are stronger and last longer than smoking cannabis, so it’s win-win situation! Weed butter and weed-alcohol tinctures can be made using an infusion machine, like The Magical Butter. Just put your ingredients inside The Magical Butter, choose the…

Source: https://www.cannabisculture.com/content/2018/12/23/expert-edibles-laurie-wolfs-weed-ginger-tea-and-cannabread-scones/

Expert Edibles: Laurie Wolf’s Weed Ginger Tea and Cannabread Scones is republished from Giggles N Dimples Blog

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/23/expert-edibles-laurie-wolfs-weed-ginger-tea-and-cannabread-scones/

Say Happy Birthday to NORML’s Founder

Today, 10 states and Washington, DC have legalized marijuana, 22 states have decriminalized marijuana, and 33 states have passed medical marijuana laws.

50 years ago, when Keith Stroup founded NORML, those numbers were all ZERO.

This Thursday is Keith’s birthday and the staff is planning a special surprise for him – a birthday card with YOUR SIGNATURE! Click here to sign the card.

For decades, he has been on the front line fighting for our freedoms and for the majority of that time, it has been an unpopular opinion. In late 1970, only 12% of the country supported legalizing marijuana; 88% were opposed to our goals. After decades of hard work by tens-of-thousands of committed supporters like you, together we have gradually won the hearts and minds of a majority of the public.

Today, some two out of three adults nationwide support ending marijuana prohibition and establishing a regulated market where consumers can obtain marijuana in a safe and secure setting.

We still have a long way to go but working together, we’ll get there.

Be sure to share the card with your friends and family so that Keith knows we’re all rooting for him this coming year. But remember—it’s a surprise!

Click here to sign the card now!

Thanks for all you do,

The NORML Team

Source: http://blog.norml.org/2018/12/22/say-happy-birthday-to-normls-founder/

Say Happy Birthday to NORML’s Founder See more on: The Giggles N Dimples Blog

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/22/say-happy-birthday-to-normls-founder/

Weekly Legislative Roundup 12/21/18

Welcome to the latest edition of NORML’s Weekly Legislative Roundup!

History has been made at the federal level this week! President Donald Trump signed The Farm Bill into law on Thursday that includes language lifting the United States’ decades-long prohibition on domestic, commercial hemp production. Specifically, the 2018 Act amends the federal Controlled Substances Act of 1970 so that hemp plants containing no more than 0.3 percent THC are no longer classified as a schedule I controlled substance under federal law.

On the other hand, Judiciary Committee Chairman Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) blocked lawmakers from considering an amendment on the floor of the U.S. Senate that sought to permanently remove the threat of federal intervention in states that regulate marijuana sales.

At the state level, Vermont’s Marijuana Advisory Commission delivered its final report to Governor Scott, which outlines recommendations on how a legal adult use market should be implemented. Recommendations include a 26% tax on cannabis sales, and that a consistent way to test for impairment among drivers is needed before the state moves forward.

At a more local level, Mayor DeBlasio of New York City officially announced his support for legalization; this came soon after Governor Cuomo also endorsed legalizing adult use marijuana. Also, prosecutors in Brooklyn, NY began to expunge records for minor marijuana offenses.

Following are the bills that we’ve tracked this week and as always, check http://norml.org/act for legislation pending in your state.

Don’t forget to sign up for our email list and we will keep you posted as these bills and more move through your home state legislature and at the federal level. Another great way to stay up to date is Marijuana Moment’s daily newsletter, which you can subscribe to here.

Your Highness,
Carly

Priority Alerts

Federal

Penalize States that Maintain Criminalization: The Marijuana Justice Act would (1) remove marijuana from the US Controlled Substances Act, thereby ending the federal criminalization of cannabis; (2) incentivize states to mitigate existing and ongoing racial disparities in state-level marijuana arrests; (3) expunge federal convictions specific to marijuana possession; (4) allow individuals currently serving time in federal prison for marijuana-related violations to petition the court for resentencing; (5) and create a community reinvestment fund to invest in communities most impacted by the failed War on Drugs.

Click here to email your federal lawmakers and urge them to support this important legislation

Indiana

Legislation has been pre-filed by Senator Tallian (D), Senate Bill 213, to allow adults to possess up to two ounces of marijuana.

IN resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of depenalization

State Senator Karen Tallian also plans to introduce a bill in 2019 that would allow qualified patients to use and possess physician-authorized medical marijuana.

IN resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of medical marijuana access

North Dakota

Rep. Shannon Roers Jones (R) plans to introduce legislation during the 2019 legislative session to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana.

The measure would impose a civil penalty of $200 for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, as well as for the cultivation of up to two marijuana plants.

ND resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of decriminalization

South Carolina

Legislation is pending, H. 3276, to decriminalize the possession of certain controlled substances, including marijuana.

The measure would impose a civil penalty for the possession of up to one ounce of marijuana, resulting in a fine only, between $100-$200 for the first offense, and between $200-$1,000 for the second offense.

SC resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of decriminalization

Legislation has been pre-filed to permit physician-authorized access to medical marijuana for qualified patients.

H. 3272: The Put Patients First Act allows registered patients to use, possess, and cultivate specified quantities of medical marijuana.

A separate measure, H. 3081: The Medical Use of Marijuana Act, also seeks to regulate medical cannabis distribution and access, but does not permit patients to home-cultivate the plant.

SC resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of medical marijuana access

Other Actions to Take

Missouri

Two pieces of legislation are pending that would allow Missourians with certain prior cannabis convictions to get their records expunged.

House Bill 292 requires the court to expunge the records for those previously convicted of the possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana possession.

House Bill 341 would allow registered medical marijuana patients to have their records expunged if they were convicted of a possession offense that occurred prior to their participation in the state’s cannabis access program.

MO resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of expungement

Oregon

Legislation is pending, LC 2152, to protect responsible adult cannabis consumers from employment discrimination.

The measure would prohibit employers from discriminating against employees who legally consume marijuana off-the-job in accordance with state law.

OR resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of employment protections for consumers

Maryland

Legislation has been pre-filed, HB 33, to permit physicians to recommend cannabis therapy to those struggling with opioid abuse or dependence.

MD resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of cannabis as an alternative to opioids

Virginia

Delegate Chris Hurst has filed HB 1720, which seeks to permit any student who is a registered Virginia medical cannabis patient to possess and use Virginia-allowed medical cannabis oil on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored activity.

If passed, this bill would prohibit a school board from suspending or expelling from school attendance any such student who possesses or uses Virginia-allowed medical cannabis oil on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored activity.

VA resident? Click here to email your lawmakers in support of protections for student patients

That’s all for this week, happy holidays everyone!

Source: http://blog.norml.org/2018/12/21/weekly-legislative-roundup-12-21-18/

Weekly Legislative Roundup 12/21/18 was initially published on GigglesNDimples.com

source https://gigglesndimples.com/2018/12/21/weekly-legislative-roundup-12-21-18/