🌿Virginia's Cannabis Compromise: Bridging Gaps for Retail Legality 🌱

 

Unlocking the Green Door: Virginia's Path to Cannabis Legalization

Get ready, Virginia! The haze around cannabis legalization in the state might soon clear up with the emergence of a proposed compromise bill. Ahead of a pivotal negotiation session scheduled for Thursday, details are starting to bloom like freshly cultivated buds in a garden.

Picture this: a compromise offer, akin to an olive branch, aiming to bridge the gaps between two competing measures passed recently by the House and Senate. What's on the table? Well, it involves a bit of give and take. Let's break it down.

Closing the Gap: A Closer Look at the Compromise

Del. Paul Krizek, the lead sponsor of HB 698, spilled the beans to Marijuana Moment via email. According to him, the proposed compromise would tweak the timeline for Virginia's recreational cannabis market. Instead of a race to the finish line, the start date would be nudged slightly, with retailers potentially opening shop as soon as March 1 next year.

But wait, there's more. The compromise whispers also mention a hot topic: social equity. In the current House bill, there's talk of an accelerator program aimed at fueling equity-focused microbusinesses. While some see this as crucial, others worry it might not sit well with Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

Jason Blanchette, president of the Virginia Cannabis Association, voiced concerns, highlighting the need for crafting equity language that won't raise eyebrows at the governor's office.

Navigating the Legislative Landscape

Now, let's talk about Sen. Aaron Rouse's stance. He's not exactly nodding along with the proposed compromise, particularly when it comes to how funds flow from medical marijuana operators to micro-businesses.

Lobbyist Greg Habeeb chimed in, shedding light on the intricacies of the debate. It's a delicate dance between supporting small businesses and ensuring a level playing field.

But where does the governor stand in all this? Well, it's a bit of a mystery. While Gov. Youngkin hasn't explicitly said he'd veto a retail marijuana bill, his previous comments hint at a lukewarm reception.

Reading Between the Leaves: Key Differences in the Bills

Let's zoom in on the differences between the House and Senate bills. From priority licensing to tax rates, there's plenty to unpack. While both bills aim to regulate cannabis sales, the devil is in the details.

The Road Ahead: Crafting a Compromise

As negotiations unfold, the spotlight is on crafting a proposal that garners bipartisan support. JM Pedini from NORML emphasizes the need for a bill that won't raise red flags among GOP lawmakers.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the uncertainties, Del. Krizek remains resolute. If the governor hits the brakes on legalization, he's ready to hit the gas again next year.

Closing Thoughts

Virginia's journey towards cannabis legalization is fraught with twists and turns. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the road to compromise is paved with careful consideration and a dash of optimism.

So, Virginia, buckle up. The journey is far from over, but the destination? Well, that's up to us to shape together.

 

Sources:

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/details-on-virginia-marijuana-sales-compromise-offer-emerge-as-lawmakers-work-to-close-gaps-between-competing-bills/

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Pot Stocks Soar: Are You Ready to Light Up Your Portfolio?

Pot stocks are hotter than Snoop Dogg's mixtape! Join the green rush, but remember: this market's wilder than a Cheech & Chong movie, so buckle up!

The stock market has been on a tear in 2024, with the S&P 500 reaching new highs. While tech stocks have been a big part of the rally, investors shouldn't overlook another hot area: cannabis.

Pot stocks have been surging in value this year, as investors have warmed up to growth stocks in general. This is due to hopes that interest rates will come down, making it cheaper for companies to borrow money and grow their businesses.

The AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF (MSOS), which invests in multistate marijuana companies, has soared nearly 40% since the start of 2024. So, is this a sign that it's time to jump into pot stocks?

Are Pot Stocks Still Too Cheap?

While pot stocks have become more attractive due to their low valuations, they haven't exactly been great investments in recent years. Over the past three years, many pot stocks have seen their valuations decline by more than 60%.

However, there's still the expectation that the global pot market will experience significant growth. Researchers predict that the global cannabis industry will grow at a compound annual growth rate of more than 34% until 2030.

This long-term potential could entice investors to take a chance on some of these stocks, especially as other growth stocks may be overvalued.

Why Are Cannabis Investors Feeling Bullish?

There are a few reasons why cannabis investors are feeling more optimistic these days. First, there's speculation that marijuana reform could be on the horizon. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is considering rescheduling cannabis, which could make it easier for businesses to operate in the legal marijuana industry.

Additionally, Florida may have the opportunity to vote on legalizing marijuana for recreational use in November. This could be a big boost for Trulieve, a cannabis company with a large presence in Florida.

However, it's important to remember that neither of these developments is guaranteed to happen. The DEA may not reschedule cannabis, and Florida may not legalize recreational marijuana.

Should You Invest in Cannabis Stocks?

Pot stocks haven't been great investments in recent years, but there is undoubtedly a lot of growth potential in the industry. If you're willing to take on the risk and uncertainty, there could be an opportunity to generate some promising gains from pot stocks.

Investing in a fund like the AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis ETF can be a good way to gain exposure to the U.S. cannabis market. However, investors should be careful not to assume that the current rally will last or that significant reform at the federal level will take place in the near future.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to invest in pot stocks is up to you. Consider your risk tolerance and investment goals before making any decisions.

Key Takeaways:

• Pot stocks are on fire! They've surged in 2024, fueled by hopes of lower interest rates and potential reform (rescheduling by DEA, Florida legalization).
  
  
• They're still cheap, but that doesn't mean they're risk-free. Their valuations have been declining and past reforms haven't always panned out.
  
  
• Long-term growth potential is promising, with estimates suggesting a 34%+ annual growth rate for the global market.
  
  
• Consider ETFs (like MSOS) for diversified exposure, but don't bank on immediate federal legalization or guaranteed gains.
  
  
• Think carefully before investing. It's a volatile market with high highs and low lows.
  
  
• Don't invest more than you can afford to lose.

Bonus takeaway: Buckle up for a wild ride! This market is like a Cheech & Chong movie – fun, unpredictable, and potentially rewarding for the bold.

 

Disclaimer:

I am not a financial advisor and this is not financial advice. Please do your own research before investing in any stocks.

 

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Sources:

https://misfithustle.com/why-i-am-involved-in-cryptocurrency/

https://www.fool.com/investing/2024/02/17/this-cannabis-etf-is-already-up-nearly-50-in-2024/

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South Carolina Senate Advances Medical Cannabis Bill

South Carolina Compassionate Care Act: What You Need to Know

Exciting news for cannabis supporters in South Carolina! A new bill aims to legalize medical cannabis products, offering relief for patients in need. Here's a rundown of the key points:

1. Medical Cannabis Sales: The bill proposes adding Article 20 to Chapter 53, Title 44 of the South Carolina Code, allowing for the sale of medical cannabis products under specified conditions. This could mean access to much-needed treatment options for those suffering from various conditions.

2. Driving Regulations: Section 56-5-3910 would make it illegal for drivers to vaporize cannabis products while operating a motor vehicle. Penalties for violations would be enforced to ensure road safety.

3. Therapeutic Research Repeal: The bill also includes the repeal of Article 4, Chapter 53, Title 44, which pertains to controlled substances therapeutic research.

This proposed legislation aims to provide compassionate care for patients while addressing safety concerns on the road. Stay tuned for updates on this promising development!

 

South Carolina Senate Passes Compassionate Care Act: What's Next?

Exciting news for South Carolina! The Compassionate Care Act, aiming to legalize medical cannabis, passed a key Senate vote. Here's what you need to know:

Senate Approval: On Feb. 14, the Senate voted 24-19 to approve the Compassionate Care Act, moving it to the House for consideration. This follows a positive 26-17 vote the previous day, marking progress towards ending the state's prohibition on medical cannabis.

Legislative Journey: Sponsored by Sen. Tom Davis, the bill faces further steps before becoming law. It must pass a final reading in the Senate and then navigate the House, where a previous version faltered due to procedural issues in 2022.

Path to Legalization: If signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster, South Carolina would join 38 other states with legalized medical cannabis programs. This move reflects shifting attitudes towards cannabis as a viable medical treatment.

Support and Concerns: Supporters highlight cannabis's potential to alleviate suffering, citing stories like former Sen. Scott Richardson's wife finding relief from chronic pain. However, opponents express concerns about abuse, roadside safety, and gateway effects.

Crafting the Legislation: Sen. Davis has spent a decade advocating for medical cannabis, refining the bill to address various concerns. The proposed program would be one of the nation's most restrictive, with stringent regulations on patient access and product distribution.

Pharmacy Dispensation: Under the bill, medical cannabis would be dispensed through specialized therapeutic cannabis pharmacies, ensuring proper oversight and access to trained professionals.

Next Steps: The bill includes provisions for regulatory oversight by the Department of Health and Environmental Control, alongside licensing for cultivation, processing, transportation, and testing facilities.

Empowering Doctors: Sen. Davis emphasizes the importance of empowering doctors to make informed treatment decisions, particularly for patients with chronic conditions resistant to traditional pharmaceuticals.

Final Thoughts: The Compassionate Care Act represents a significant step towards providing relief for patients in need while addressing concerns about safety and regulation. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving legislation!

 

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New York's Cannabis Boom: 109 Licenses & New Grow Laws

 

New York's Cannabis Industry Gets a Boost with 109 New Licenses

Exciting news for New York's cannabis scene! Last Friday, the state issued 109 new marijuana business licenses, including 38 for retail dispensaries. This marks a significant step forward for the industry, which has faced its fair share of challenges in recent times.

The approval of these licenses comes after a bit of a hiccup last month when a meeting of the Cannabis Control Board was unexpectedly canceled due to a lawsuit alleging discrimination against white men in the licensing process. While the lawsuit is still ongoing, the board has moved forward with granting licenses, with a focus on promoting social and economic equity in the industry.

According to state officials, the majority of licenses issued on Friday went to applicants from social and economic equity backgrounds, including minority- and women-owned businesses. This commitment to equity is further demonstrated by the board's plan to continue approving licenses in the coming months.

The demand for licenses was overwhelming, with nearly 7,000 applications submitted before the December deadline. This shows the immense interest and potential within the cannabis industry in New York.

Home Grow Laws Change

In addition to the business licenses, the board also approved proposed regulations for home-grow, allowing New Yorkers to cultivate up to 12 cannabis plants and possess five pounds of marijuana per household. However, these regulations will undergo a 60-day public comment period before final approval.

As for retail dispensaries, there are currently 70 adult-use cannabis retailers in New York, and officials anticipate that at least 25 more will open soon as part of the recent license approvals. Additionally, microbusiness cannabis licenses were approved, allowing licensees to handle everything from cultivation to distribution under one license.

With 45% of the new licenses allocated to New York City and the remaining 55% spread across the rest of the state, the cannabis industry's growth is poised to benefit communities statewide. For more information on the businesses granted licenses, you can visit the Cannabis Control Board website at cannabis.ny.gov.

It's worth noting that the board's commitment to social equity is evident in the distribution of licenses. Of the 109 licenses approved, two-thirds went to social and economic equity-owned businesses. This breakdown includes 35% for women-owned businesses, 32% for minority-owned businesses, and 10% for minority-women owned businesses.

Overall, these developments signal a promising future for New York's cannabis industry, with a focus on inclusivity and opportunity for all stakeholders.

References:

https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2024/02/16/ny-approves-109-additional-weed-licenses-expands-home-growing-allowance/72631185007/

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Virginia Advances Bills for Public Sector Medical Cannabis Use.

Virginia Cannabis Medical use

WriteUp

Virginia Lawmakers Champion Bills to Protect Public Sector Employees' Medical Cannabis Use

Exciting news from Richmond! State legislators are pushing forward bills to safeguard public sector workers' right to use medical cannabis without risking their jobs.

Del. Dan Helmer's House Bill 149, along with Sen. Stella Pekarsky's Senate Bill 391, have garnered widespread support across party lines.

Helmer, who championed a similar bill three years ago, noticed an oversight that excluded public sector employees from protection under medical cannabis laws. He emphasized the importance of extending these rights to all workers, including first responders.

These bills cover a range of cannabis products, from CBD to those containing up to 10 milligrams of THC per dose, as long as they're part of the regulated medical cannabis program.

Firefighters, police officers, and teachers, among others, stand to benefit from these measures, provided they're approved to use cannabis to manage their health conditions.

While Helmer's bill originally focused on cannabis oil, it was amended to encompass a broader range of cannabis products recommended for medical use.

Any necessary adjustments to existing policies will be accommodated within the resources of relevant departments, according to the bills' impact statements.

Testimonials from professionals like Joe Mirabile of Virginia’s Professional Firefighters highlight the positive effects of medical cannabis, including reduced reliance on alcohol and opioids and relief from pain.

Under current law, medical cannabis can only be purchased through approved state practitioners after a consultation.

Nurse practitioner Dawn Adams, who runs a medical cannabis clinic in Richmond, emphasizes the benefits of cannabis in treating conditions like PTSD and anxiety, which are common among public sector workers.

Employers retain the right to prohibit on-the-job cannabis use and take action against impaired employees, maintaining workplace safety.

While rapid tests for cannabis impairment are still in development, ongoing research aims to provide accurate detection methods.

Chelsea Higgs Wise, executive director of Marijuana Justice, supports the bills, advocating for the well-being of public sector employees.

With over 1,000 approved medical cannabis practitioners and nearly 100,000 patients benefitting from the state program in 2023, Virginia is making strides in cannabis legislation.

These bills now move to the other chamber, marking a significant step towards protecting the rights and health of public sector workers in the Commonwealth.

 

References:

https://starexponent.com/news/state-regional/bills-advance-to-protect-state-employees-who-access-medical-cannabis/article_926a7a04-cc04-11ee-b1d5-970aadd0638b.html

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Idaho Considers $420 Fine for Cannabis Possession

New Push in Idaho to Toughen Stance on Cannabis

Idaho Cannabis Laws

 

Big news from Idaho's legislative corridors! Lawmakers are mulling over a fresh proposal that could ramp up the state's already strict approach to cannabis. This new idea? Slapping a mandatory fine of $420 on folks caught with small amounts of the green stuff.

According to the Idaho Press, the initiative surfaced in the House State Affairs Committee, courtesy of Rep. Bruce Skaug (R). It zeroes in on cases involving possession of less than three ounces of cannabis.

Now, here's the kicker: Idaho stands firm alongside Kansas and Nebraska as one of the few states in the U.S. that hasn't budged an inch on its cannabis ban. No medical allowances, not even for minor possession. Quite the contrast to neighboring states like Washington, Oregon, Nevada, and Montana, where cannabis is totally legal. Even Canada, just a hop across Idaho's border, has given it the green light!

But wait, there's more! This bill proposing the $420 fine for minor possession cases has officially hit the committee floor, hinting at possible public hearings down the road.

And let's not forget the current Idaho Cannabis laws: Get caught with three ounces or less, and you're looking at a misdemeanor, with the chance of a year in the slammer or a hefty $1,000 fine. Bump it up to between three ounces and one pound? Now you're facing felony territory, with up to five years behind bars and a wallet-draining $10,000 fine. And don't even get me started on the penalties for trafficking felonies.

But hold on tight—there's another proposal in the mix. Idaho Cannabis Lawmakers are eyeing a crackdown on ads peddling illegal products. They're not pleased about seeing billboards and newspaper spreads hyping up cannabis from out-of-state sources.

So, there you have it—the latest buzz from Idaho's legislative buzzsaw. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates!

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South Carolina Senate Advances Compassionate Care Act: Medical Marijuana Bill Progresses

 

South Carolina Cannabis Laws

 

 South Carolina Senate Advances Medical Marijuana Bill: What You Need to Know

In a significant move, the South Carolina Senate has once again given its approval to the Compassionate Care Act, a bill aimed at legalizing medical marijuana within the state. While the bill's fate in the House remains uncertain, its passage through the Senate marks a pivotal step forward in the ongoing debate surrounding medical cannabis in South Carolina.

The Compassionate Care Act, championed by State Senator Tom Davis of Beaufort, seeks to establish a framework for the sale and regulated use of medical cannabis products under strict guidelines. If enacted, the bill would permit the sale of medical cannabis for therapeutic purposes, including oral medications, ointments, and creams, under the supervision of a licensed physician.

However, it's important to note that smoking marijuana would not be permitted under the proposed legislation—a point of contention that has been subject to debate in previous legislative sessions.

The bill's journey through the Senate has not been without its challenges. Senators engaged in hours of debate before ultimately passing the bill with a vote of 26-17. While a third reading is still pending—a procedural step expected to occur Wednesday—momentum is building for the Compassionate Care Act to move forward.

Notably, this isn't the first time such legislation has been proposed in South Carolina. A similar measure made its way through the Senate in 2022 but ultimately faltered in the House, necessitating a fresh start in the current legislative session.

Senator Davis, the bill's sponsor, expressed optimism regarding its prospects in the House, citing adjustments aimed at addressing concerns raised during previous debates. One significant change involves tightening restrictions on the dispensing of medical cannabis, placing greater emphasis on the role of physicians as gatekeepers in the process.

"This is anything but rolling the dice," Senator Davis remarked during last week's debate. "It is making the physician the gatekeeper."

The South Carolina Senate's endorsement of the Compassionate Care Act reflects broader shifts in attitudes toward medical marijuana across the United States. Currently, 37 other states have enacted measures permitting some form of medical cannabis use, underscoring the growing recognition of its therapeutic potential.

However, the road ahead remains uncertain as the bill makes its way to the House for further consideration. Its fate will hinge on the deliberations and decisions of House lawmakers in the coming weeks.

In tandem with legislative efforts, public discourse surrounding medical marijuana continues to evolve, with advocates and stakeholders alike emphasizing the importance of compassionate care and patient access to alternative treatments.

As South Carolina navigates this complex terrain, the Compassionate Care Act represents a pivotal opportunity to address the healthcare needs of residents while ensuring rigorous safeguards are in place.

Legislative Framework: The South Carolina Compassionate Care Act

The South Carolina Compassionate Care Act aims to amend the state's existing laws to permit the sale of medical cannabis products under regulated conditions. Key provisions of the legislation include:

• Establishing guidelines for the sale and use of medical cannabis products for therapeutic purposes.
• Requiring that medical cannabis be dispensed under the supervision of a licensed physician, who serves as the gatekeeper in determining patient eligibility and safety considerations.
• Prohibiting the smoking of marijuana for medical purposes.
• Introducing penalties for drivers who vaporize cannabis products while operating a motor vehicle, as outlined in Section 56-5-3910 of the South Carolina Code.

Furthermore, the legislation seeks to repeal Article 4, Chapter 53, Title 44 of the South Carolina Code, which pertains to controlled substances therapeutic research, while defining necessary terms to facilitate implementation and enforcement.

Through these measures, the South Carolina Compassionate Care Act endeavors to strike a balance between promoting patient well-being and safeguarding public health and safety within the state. As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders and community members will play a crucial role in shaping the future of medical marijuana policy in South Carolina.

 

References:

SCSTATEHOUSE LAW: https://www.scstatehouse.gov//sess125_2023-2024/prever/423_20240212.htm

WLTX Article : https://www.wltx.com/article/news/politics/medical-marijuana-bill-south-carolina/101-cdaea775-3812-4218-8479-34a42845728c

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