{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/legalization/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2928-markdown","title":"Challenges Continue for Legal Cannabis in California","slug":"challenges-continue-for-legal-cannabis-in-california","content":"After years of wrangling, some portions of California’s cannabis community are breathing a little easier. The final [338 page-version of the state’s complex and controversial regulations](https://www.bcc.ca.gov/law_regs/cannabis_order_of_adoption.pdf) governing all aspects of cannabis have been approved.\n\nNow, marijuana businesses, investors and advocates can move forward working under a regulatory template. This is despite the fact that nearly all sides feel the rules either go too far or fail to address concerns voiced by many, including stakeholders, small businesses, farmers and consumers. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nSome advocates define California’s Proposition 64 as the approval of “regulated” cannabis, as opposed to “legalized” cannabis. \n\n### Most Parts of CA Have Limited or No Access to Cannabis\n\nHuge swaths of the state are still against having any form of cannabis in their communities. You can check out this [city search](https://www.thecannifornian.com/cannabis-business/database-see-cannabis-laws-support-differ-among-california-cities/) to see how your local government is regulating cannabis in your town. What’s immediately clear is that there’s a profound lack of cannabis availability up and down the state.\n\n### Marijuana Business Licensing Falls Short of State Projections \n\nCannabis advocates such as members of California’s chapter of NORML don’t mince words when they discuss what they see as the [failure of state regulators to address some of the most important components of cannabis legalization](https://www.latimes.com/politics/la-pol-ca-marijuana-year-anniversary-review-20181227-story.html). \n\nOne of these failures is licensing. With just 89 of 482 California cities allowing retail cannabis, it became imperative for the state to quickly license as many qualified retailers as possible. This hasn’t happened. \n\nTo date, the state’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC) has issued just 547 temporary and annual licenses to retailers—a staggering miscalculation of the state’s own estimate that 6,000 dispensaries would be licensed in the first year following legalization. \n\nAnd Angelinos seeking legal, tested cannabis still have to travel some distance to find a dispensary. In Los Angeles County, 82 of 88 cities aren’t allowing retail cannabis sales.\n\n### Want Your Cannabis Delivered? You’re in Luck—for Now \n\nOne of the winners in the hotly contested regulatory battle between cannabis businesses and state regulators is the companies providing delivery services. Last month, the state determined that [marijuana deliveries will be permitted throughout California](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/Pot-Deliveries-California-502237782.html). The ruling has generated a concerted pushback from law enforcement and other statewide organizations, who’ve vowed to fight on to quash the state’s decision. \n\nFor now, this is a big win for cannabis consumers who find traveling to dispensaries challenging or inconvenient. But because this ruling enables deliveries into jurisdictions where cannabis hasn’t been locally approved, it’s anticipated that anti-cannabis cities will join existing opponents to challenge the state’s decision. \n\n### Cooperatives & Collective Are Now Part of Marijuana History\n\nYears ago, cannabis collectives and cooperatives were the go-to structure that paved the way for legalization. Though the BCC hasn’t tracked the number of nonprofit collectives operating in 2018, it’s estimated that hundreds of collectives and cooperatives had been growing vast amounts of cannabis—primarily for medical marijuana patients. \n\nNow, these organizations must close or transition to meeting state regulations. Those that don’t will be subject to both [civil and criminal penalties](http://www.canorml.org/California_Cannabis_Collective_Law_to_Sunset_on_January_9_2019). \n\nThe long-term impact of these changes is unknown. But collective operators are concerned that this will negatively affect the most vulnerable members of the medical marijuana community, as many collectives don’t have sufficient resources to transition to a regulated business.\n\n### Mandatory Testing Ensures Safety, but Reveals Contamination Issue\n\nOne of the upsides of legalization is the ability for folks to consume lab-tested cannabis products. Recently, testing revealed that a very small percentage of vape cartridges contained a measurable percentage of lead. Even “high-end” cartridges were shown to contain traces of the heavy metal, which has no safe level of exposure, according to the Centers for Disease Control. \n\nOne theory is that the acidic oils in marijuana are helping to release the lead, pulling it out of the metals that make up cartridge tanks. But labs are also testing the empty cartridges themselves to determine their lead content prior to having contact with cannabis oil. \n\nFortunately, as of Jan. 1, 2019, vape cartridges sold in California will now be tested for lead, other heavy metals and mold—something that can only be considered a win for everyone in the cannabis community. \n\nOne of the questions raised by cannabis farmers and manufacturers is how many of California’s 52 licensed labs are ready and able to offer this new level of testing. To meet the new testing standards, labs must buy additional equipment and chemical compounds, plus train employees. \n\nMarijuana consumers deserve to have faith in the safety of the products they purchase, but the downside of the latest regulations is that additional testing costs, which farmers and manufacturers currently absorb, will most likely be passed onto consumers. \n\n### Terpenes Are Now Subject to Testing\n\nAnother legalization victory for consumers consists of standardizing the reporting requirements for terpenes. Manufacturers who declare the presence of terpenes in their products must now [back up these claims with testing](https://cannabisnewsbox.com/6657/social-cannabis/californias-next-phase-of-testing-costs-may-create-another-enormous-burden-for-licensed-cultivators/).\n\nTests will verify that the types of terpenes in cannabis products are consistent with what’s stated on package labels. Tests will also confirm that the terpenes fall within 10% of the terpene content listed on packaging.\n\nRELATED: [TERPENES PACK A THERAPEUTIC PUNCH](https://ondello.myshopify.com/blogs/articles/cannabis-terpenes-pack-a-therapeutic-punch/)\n\n### Some Legal Cannabis Rules Just Don’t Make Sense\n\nCannabis farmers and businesses have done their best to fight against regulatory requirements that didn’t appear to be sensible or practical. But a few of these rules remain on the books, resulting in ongoing industry challenges.\n\nFor example, when vape cartridges are tested, [labs must use a brand-new cartridge from a distributor](https://www.laweekly.com/news/cannabis-labs-were-thrilled-to-say-farewell-to-the-challenges-of-2018-10129681). The cartridge must be in its retail packaging, including a battery, if sold together. The cartridges are broken to extract cannabis oil for testing, and the remainder of the cartridge must be disposed of via hazmat or a cannabis waste management company, adding yet another unintended cost and consequence to legalization. \n\n### A Brown Bag Solution to a Non-Problem\n\nIf you were one of the frustrated consumers struggling with opening infuriatingly complex marijuana exit bags, it’s time to celebrate. Mandatory cannabis exit bags were roundly viewed as environmentally insensitive, difficult to open and simply put, over the top. They were particularly denounced when compared to the much more lenient packaging rules for the alcohol and pharmaceutical industries. \n\nBeginning next year, [cannabis retailers will forego exit bags and place your purchases into a simple, opaque bag] http://www.sfweekly.com/news/california-issues-final-cannabis-regulations/). Activists pushed hard to put a stop to this needless requirement and happily, they succeeded.\n\n### Cannabis Legalization by the Numbers\n\nA little over a year since Proposition 64 changed the face of marijuana in California, the numbers are beginning to tell the story of legalization in the Golden State:\n\n* Legal cannabis is selling for about [$500 per pound](https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Death-by-a-thousand-cuts-California-s-13494193.php).\n* Though cannabis tax revenues increased every quarter in 2018, the $234.2 million collected by the state for cultivation, excise and sales taxes fell far short of the state’s estimate of $630 million in projected tax revenues.\n* For the next fiscal year, Governor Gavin Newsom proposes a [51% increase in California’s cannabis budget](https://www.ocregister.com/2019/01/10/newsoms-proposed-state-budget-includes-more-money-for-cannabis-regulation/), which would bring state cannabis spending to $201 million—providing that cannabis revenues meet the state’s projections.\n* Retailers estimate that about 40% of the cost of marijuana goods is taxes.\n* Only about 10% of grower applications have been approved and licensed by the state.\n* A proposed way to help legal cannabis businesses move away from a cash-only system was to create a bank expressly for the legal marijuana industry. State Treasurer John Chiang determined that launching a state bank would take [$1 billion in capital investments and wouldn’t become profitable for 25 to 30 years](https://mjbizdaily.com/california-bank-for-marijuana-businesses/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=mjbiz_daily&utm_campaign=MJD_20181228_NEWS_Daily_12282018&elqTrackId=F720A8CE33D73A505B70D91FAE14C27A&elq=60aff5d3c04446bc9d1d3d0de94515b7&elqaid=917&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=617). So, it looks like this won’t be happening any time soon. \n* A Sacramento-based testing lab [falsified 700–800 certificates of analysis of cannabis products](https://mjbizdaily.com/falsified-california-testing-lab-data-may-result-in-major-marijuana-product-recall/), likely prompting the state’s largest product recall since legalization.\n* Cannabis farmers currently pay the state a whopping [$148 per pound in cultivation taxes](https://apnews.com/2a022328c0a04356be4cbc7c5a8a9f64). Assembly Bill 286, sponsored by California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, would eliminate the farmer cultivation tax for three years, along with temporarily reducing the state tax paid by retailers from 15% to 11%. If passed, the bill would provide some much-needed relief to farmers and retailers still struggling to meet local and state regulatory requirements.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Valmir Dzivielevski Junior](https://unsplash.com/@valmirdjr)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/tag/cannabis-101/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers//) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/14b42/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/f836f/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/2244e/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/14b42/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 800w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/47498/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/0e329/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/3f1f6/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.jpg 3689w","srcWebp":"/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/58556/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/61e93/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 200w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/1f5c5/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 400w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/58556/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 800w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/99238/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 1200w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/7c22d/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 1600w,\n/static/1d87e71a6edb289763efb9de71e71377/66b96/35e1204eb8e8e87d5228e059d8481eb2.webp 3689w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2857-markdown","title":"6 Ways to Support Cannabis Legalization ","slug":"6-ways-to-support-cannabis-legalization","content":"With the midterm elections just around the corner, supporters of legal cannabis are gearing up for pitched battles in several states. Although some voters will have the opportunity to weigh in directly on cannabis legalization or increased access for medical marijuana patients, cannabis initiatives aren’t on the ballot in every state. And many cannabis patients and recreational consumers are still unable to grow, buy or consume cannabis in their communities.\n\nChad Rea, a longtime cannabis activist and award-winning Mendocino County-based cannabis farmer told HelloMD, “Every time a person like me becomes a medical marijuana patient, another cannabis activist is born.” \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nLike nearly all political movements, [cannabis activism started at the grassroots level](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/25/us/politics/colorado-cannabis-governor.html). Many cannabis-consuming citizens became involved in politics for the first time—often because of restriction to their access to medical cannabis or because a friend, parent or loved one was behind bars simply for possessing a little marijuana. \n\nVoting is the end-result of our governmental system—an opportunity for each of us to choose laws providing safer, regulated access to cannabis. But there’s more we can do—today and every day to:\n\n* Increase our understanding of cannabis prohibition\n* Educate our families and elected officials\n* Support organizations striving for smart cannabis policies \n\nHere are six ways—besides voting—you can help support legal cannabis in the U.S.\n\n### 1. Learn Your Marijuana History, Stay Informed & Share Why You Think Cannabis Should Be Legal\n\nWith the holidays coming, opportunities will abound to discuss cannabis legalization with family and friends. Being an informed advocate is the best way to talk about what can be a controversial issue. \n\n[The history of cannabis prohibition](https://hightimes.com/news/legalization/cannabis-became-illegal/) is a fascinating story that continues to have day-to-day ramifications for millions of Americans. Many people still don’t know why cannabis was made illegal in the first place. Once they’re informed, some folks are able to take a more measured stance on their opposition to marijuana.\n\n[Patients Out of Time is an organization focused on the promotion of cannabis science and education](http://www.medicalcannabis.com/about/), with many links to scholarly journals, patient testimonials and archived video conferences. There are many resources and citations that will help you become a well-versed medical cannabis activist.\n\nFor over 16 years, [Americans for Safe Access (ASA)](https://www.safeaccessnow.org has focused on the goal of safe cannabis access for all. Cannabis activists regularly visit ASA’s portal to stay abreast of everything from its excellent patient resources to its certification program for medical professionals.  \n\nThe Marijuana Policy Project has created an at-a-glance sheet that delineates the [top 10 reasons to end cannabis prohibition](https://www.mpp.org/issues/legalization/top-ten-reasons-to-end-marijuana-prohibition/). Even if you don’t memorize all 10, find two or three reasons for legalization that resonate with you.\n\nDon’t be afraid to practice articulating your ideas with a sympathetic friend or family member. And always remember: Losing your cool is never a good way to win over someone with opposing views.\n\n### 2. Find Common Ground With Those Opposed to Legal Cannabis \n\nOne of the most complex issues surrounding cannabis legalization is the understandable concern around public safety. The [Law Enforcement Action Partnership](https://lawenforcementactionpartnership.org/about-us/mission-and-vision/) comprises:\n\n* Active and retired judges\n* Police chiefs\n* U.S. attorneys \n* Sheriffs from the U.S. and other nations\n\nThe group is committed to ending the War on Drugs, improving relations with law enforcement and improving the criminal justice system. Pointing cannabis legalization opponents to this group can show people that you can be concerned about public safety and still support legal marijuana—and hopefully dispel the myth that those in favor of legal cannabis don’t care about the safety of the public at large. \n\nDid you know that Pat Robertson, founder of the Christian Broadcasting Network supports cannabis being treated like alcohol? The [Marijuana Majority](https://www.marijuanamajority.com) has aggregated an impressive list of big-name supporters of medical or recreational cannabis. Though it may not be surprising to see Rihanna’s quotes on this site, have some fun quoting President Trump’s stance on medical cannabis, or conservative firebrand and musician Ted Nugent on “taking a toke.” \n\nThe list also includes pro-cannabis quotes from:\n\n * U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley\n * The American Medical Association\n * Author Stephen King\n * The International Federation of the Red Cross\n * Fox News Pundit Tucker Carlson \n * Syndicated conservative columnist Laura Ingraham\n\nThough the hundreds of celebrities listed on the site don’t all share full-throated support for legalization, they agree that cannabis laws must be addressed, with many supporting the legalization of medical marijuana.\n\n### 3. Tell Your Cannabis Story \n\nAre you a medical marijuana patient? Have you told your story about how cannabis improved your life?\n\nOne of the most compelling aspects of the cannabis movement is the positive impact the plant has on people’s physical and emotional health. But sometimes it’s hard to explain medical cannabis therapy, particularly to someone who may be skeptical. \n\nThere are few things more convincing to non-cannabis consumers than someone who can clearly associate improved health with the use of medical marijuana. [Pamela Hadfield, co-founder of HelloMD, is an inspiring example of a person who once dismissed medical cannabis](https://www.forbes.com/sites/heathercabot/2018/08/13/how-this-techie-became-an-advocate-for-marijuana/amp/ of) until she discovered it helped provide tremendous relief from excruciating migraines, changing her life, her career and her health in the process.  \n\nTelling your cannabis story or the stories of others you know is one of the most effective ways to open people’s hearts and minds, and one of the best resources in an activist’s tool kit. Write letters to your local newspaper, tell your story at church, or at the office of your local congressperson or city council representative.\n\n### 4. Find Your Cannabis Community \n\nThese days, you don’t have to live in a state with legal recreational marijuana to find cannabis kindred spirits. There are many organizations you can join or whose events you can attend.\n\n* If you’re a student, check out [Students for Sensible Drug Policy](https://ssdp.org/chapters/). It’s a grassroots, international organization dedicated to ending the War on Drugs. If there isn’t a chapter near your school, you can start your own. \n \n* Almost every state has an organization similar to the [Georgia Care Project](http://www.gacareproject.com), which provides legislative advocacy on cannabis issues at the local and state level. \n\n*And even a music festival like Texas’ [SXSW](https://schedule.sxsw.com/2019/events/track/Cannabusiness) assembles impressive cannabis lecture sessions, with about two dozen cannabusiness topics on its schedule. \n\nRELATED: [DR. PERRY SOLOMON: MY CANNABIS EXPERIENCE AT SXSW 2017](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58d2bfbd5606015edcfe1411/dr-perry-solomon-my-cannabis-experience-at-sxsw-2017)\n\n*The [Minority Cannabis Business Association](https://minoritycannabis.org) has been working to increase visibility, accessibility and representation for minorities in the cannabis community. \n\n*Similarly, [Supernova Women](https://supernovawomen.wordpress.com) focuses on creating local, state and national cannabis education, skills acquisition and empowerment opportunities for women of color. \n\n### 5. Track Cannabis Legalization \n\n“I smoke pot and I vote” is the motto of the [Cannabis Voter Project](https://www.cannabisvoter.info), which has sought to register as many cannabis-friendly voters as possible. The organization used the summer festival season to reach out to potential voters, and its website makes it simple to find out where your elected official stands on cannabis issues.\n\nA good place to keep track of cannabis votes around the country is through[NORML](http://norml.org/states), the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws. NORML is arguably the country’s most well-known cannabis legalization organization], with numerous state and regional chapters throughout the country. It has a handy state-by-state menu that outlines legalization initiatives, candidate endorsements and even an extensive section of legal briefs.\n\nFor over 20 years, the [Marijuana Policy Project (MPP)](https://www.mpp.org) has worked to influence the political landscape and bring sensible legislation to voters. Unlike NORMAL, the MPP is based in Washington and focuses primarily on identifying supportive members of Congress and reducing punitive state marijuana laws.\n\n[Ballotpedia](https://ballotpedia.org/Marijuana_on_the_ballot) provides cannabis policy wonks with an extensive, state-by-state history of cannabis ballot measures. You can search ballot measures by state and by year; it’s a great resource.\n\n### 6. Donate Your Time, Dollars or Skills to Local Cannabis Groups\n\nThere are so many ways to be a cannabis activist. Some people aren’t interested in attending meetings. Others are too busy to add one more thing to their complicated lives. But almost everyone can find a way to send a few dollars to an organization that aligns with their beliefs about cannabis.\n\nEven though today’s cannabis space seems overrun with investment capital, grassroots activists, many of them medical marijuana patients, still form the foundation for cannabis change in your community. \n\nArtists, musicians and writers are always needed to donate their skills to local cannabis organizations. Tech-types can often help a fledgling cannabis site with web-related support or upgrades. Bringing snacks to a meeting, making phone calls, driving a frail patient to a cannabis event or asking a question at a candidate forum—there are no limits on the ways you can help create a stronger cannabis community and support marijuana legalization. \n\nPhoto credit: [Roberto Valdivia](https://unsplash.com/@torovaldivia)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/14b42/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/f836f/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 200w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/2244e/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 400w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/14b42/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 800w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/47498/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/0e329/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/7d219/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.jpg 2923w","srcWebp":"/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/58556/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/61e93/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 200w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/1f5c5/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 400w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/58556/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 800w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/99238/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 1200w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/7c22d/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 1600w,\n/static/bf5d11ba8beaeb9ede1375d7f0221262/e8ea7/ccbf9b42fbac828b3100c724ee2ef97f.webp 2923w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2851-markdown","title":"Cannabis Contested in the 2018 Midterm Elections","slug":"cannabis-contested-in-the-2018-midterm-elections","content":"In just a few weeks, Americans will be casting their ballots in the midterm elections. And in four key states, voters will have an opportunity to speak out on the future of marijuana in their region. \n\n[Cannabis activists are hoping for a “Midwest Miracle”](https://apnews.com/d70d6c75857a4ec997656af5a9d05230) as Michigan and North Dakota grapple with whether to legalize cannabis for adult use. \n\nMeanwhile, two other states, Utah and Missouri, look to legalize medical marijuana in other hotly contested initiatives. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Utah Voters Get Ready for a Historic Vote on Medical Cannabis\n\nUtah voters are deciding on [Proposition 2, the Medical Marijuana Initiative](https://elections.utah.gov/Media/Default/2018%20Election/Issues%20on%20the%20Ballot/Postings/Proposition%202.pdf). If passed, Prop 2 would legalize medical marijuana in the state. \n\nProp 2 would create a state-run distribution system that would grow and distribute cannabis for qualified patients. But there would be restrictions, such as prohibiting people from smoking the plant. \n\nDespite the proposition’s extremely conservative approach to medical marijuana, and in spite of Prop 2’s early, enthusiastic support, [recent polls show a substantial dip in approval for the medical marijuana initiative](https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2018/10/16/new-poll-finds-approval/). A last-minute compromise between supporters and opponents of Prop 2, coordinated by Governor Gary Herbert, has taken the wind out of the sails of the initiative. The governor’s compromise deal promises patients some form of a medical cannabis program, regardless of whether Prop 2 passes, which has resulted in some degree of pullback in support.\n\nBut [cannabis advocates have many questions about the governor’s last-ditch efforts](https://cannabisnow.com/is-the-utah-medical-marijuana-compromise-a-scam-or-legitimate-deal/). Of particular interest is whether his compromise program, which would be instigated through a special session of the state legislature, will be designed to serve patients. Or was it merely dangled last minute as a device to shave off support for Proposition 2 on Election Day. \n\nRegardless of how it arrives, medical marijuana is coming to Utah. But it’s voters who will decide how they want cannabis to be regulated: by a proposition they can read and weigh whether to vote for, or to place their trust in the state legislature to craft a medical program that will meet their needs.\n\n#### Utah Proposition 2 at a Glance\n\nA yes vote on Proposition 2 will:\t\n\n* Allow patients with qualifying medical conditions to obtain medical marijuana cards from doctors.\n* Recognize those diagnosed with chronic or debilitating pain as potential qualified patients.\n* Enable medical marijuana cardholders to buy and possess up to 2 oz of unprocessed marijuana or products containing no more than 10 g of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD).\n* Limit purchases to once in a 14-day period.\n* Prohibit cannabis smoking of any combustion process over 750 degrees F.\n* Ban doctors from recommending specific cannabis dosages or to work in dispensaries. \n* Change how state law enforcement officials conduct cannabis arrests or seizures, which appear to comply with state medical cannabis laws.\n* Limit dispensaries to one per county, except in large cities.\n* Create guidelines for marijuana growing, testing, transporting, packaging and selling.\n\n### Missouri Headed for a Possible Split Vote on 3 Medical Marijuana Initiatives\n\nVoters in the Show-Me State are about to show America how they feel about medical marijuana. [Three separate cannabis initiatives](https://themissouritimes.com/52951/missourians-will-have-three-options-for-legalizing-medical-marijuana-on-november-ballot/) are on next month’s ballot: \n\n* Amendment 2, the Medical Marijuana and Veteran Healthcare Services Initiative\n* Amendment 3, the Medical Marijuana and Biomedical Research and Drug Development Institute Initiative\n* Proposition C, the Medical Marijuana and Veterans Healthcare Services, Education, Drug Treatment and Public Safety Initiative\n\nWithout getting too technical on these three competing initiatives, Missourians should note that two of the three measures, Amendment 2 and Amendment 3, are constitutional amendments. If they pass, like all bills, any future changes to the legislation would have to be voted on by the public.\n\nThe third measure, Proposition C, was drafted as a statutory change. This means that if passed, legislators could alter Prop C at a future date. \n\n#### Missouri Amendment 2 at a Glance\n\nAmendment 2, known as [New Approach Missouri](http://www.newapproachmissouri.com), has engendered high-profile support from organizations including the NAACP, Missouri’s Chapter of NORML and the St. Louis American Newspaper. \n\nA yes vote on Amendment 2 vote would create a state program to grow, license and regulate medical marijuana and would:\n\n* Allow patients to register with the state to grow marijuana.\n* Levy a 4% sales tax on medical marijuana products.\n* Use those tax dollars to fund state licensing programs and help veteran’s programs.\n* Cost the state an estimated $7 million a year, but make $18 million annually, with $6 million of that earmarked for local governments.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Missouri Amendment 3 at a Glance\n\nAmendment 3, backed by [Find the Cures](https://www.findthecures.com), also known as the Bradshaw Amendment, is funded almost solely by Dr. Brad Bradshaw, a Missouri lawyer and physician. Dr. Bradshaw made headlines for unsuccessfully filing lawsuits to attempt to remove the other two marijuana initiatives from the ballot. \n\nA yes vote on Amendment 3 would allow for medical marijuana and create a medical marijuana research center headed by Dr. Bradshaw. Amendment 3 would:\n\n* Not let medical marijuana patients grow their own cannabis.\n* Introduce a sales tax of 15% on marijuana products.\n* Use the sales tax revenue to fund Dr. Bradshaw’s medical marijuana research center.\n* Cost the state an estimated $500,000 a year.\n* Raise an estimated $66 million a year. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n#### Missouri Proposition C at a Glance\n\nProposition C, known as The Missouri Patient Care Act, is sponsored by [Missourians for Patient Care](https://www.missouripetition.com). It would allow state lawmakers, as opposed to voters, to change the program. Supporters of Prop C feel it would provide flexibility and quicker response to change.\n\nA yes vote on Proposition C would allow the Missouri Department of Health to regulate medical marijuana alongside the Department of Public Safety’s Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. It would also:\n\n* Prohibit medical marijuana patients from cultivating their own cannabis.\n* Set the sales tax on cannabis products at 2%.\n* Earmark the sales tax revenue for organizations supporting veterans, drug treatment, early childhood education and public safety.\n* Cost the state an estimated $10 million annually\n* Estimate that the state could make back that $10 million, with $162,000 going to local governments.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo make matters more confusing, Missourians may vote for more than one of the measures. If Prop C and either one of the Amendments passes, prepare to head to the courts to determine which measure will become law. Senator Clare McCaskill is endorsing both Proposition C and Amendment 2.\n\n### Will Michigan Be State Number 10 to Legalize Adult-Use Cannabis? \n\nMichiganders are about to cast a very significant vote, which could have resounding impacts on the cannabis industry nationwide. If passed, [Proposal 1, the Marijuana Legalization Initiative](https://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2018/08/heres_the_proposed_recreationa.html) would make Michigan the 10th state to legalize recreational cannabis. \n\n#### Michigan Proposal 1 at a Glance\n\nA yes vote on Proposal 1 would:\n\n* Allow adults to buy, possess and consume marijuana and marijuana-infused edibles.\n* Allow adults to grow up to 12 cannabis plants for personal consumption. \n* Impose a 10 oz limit for marijuana stored at home, with applicable storage rules.\n* Create a state licensing system, allowing municipalities to ban or restrict cannabis businesses. \n* Tax retail cannabis sales at 10%.  \n* Use tax revenues to fund implementation costs, clinical trials, schools, roads and municipalities where marijuana businesses are located. \n* Change several current marijuana violations from crimes to civil infractions.\n\nRELATED: [CA CANNABIS RETAILERS BRACING FOR NEXT PHASE OF LEGALIZATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b2fbeb9bf4c4d000a0e74e3/ca-cannabis-retailers-bracing-for-next-phase-of-legalization)\n\n### North Dakota Will Vote on Legalizing Cannabis & Expunging Past Marijuana Convictions\n\nNorth Dakota residents will be voting on one issue: [Measure 3, the Marijuana Legalization and Automatic Expungement Initiative](https://www.potnetwork.com/news/north-dakota-goes-bare-bones-its-recreational-cannabis-measure). This atypical measure, sponsored by [Legalize ND](http://www.legalizend.com/the-measure.html) has created a stir in the state. This is in part because if the measure passes, along with legalizing cannabis, prior marijuana-related convictions would be expunged. Future marijuana convictions would resemble sentences for alcohol-related offenses. \n\nThe supporters of Measure 3 have raised just a few thousand dollars, while the opponents of Measure 3 are dipping into a war chest of over $100,000. But it appears the success of this measure will be based on getting young people to the polls. Recent online polling by the _Bismarck Tribune_ estimates that 82% of young people polled in North Dakota support the initiative.\n\n#### North Dakota Measure 3 at a Glance\n\nIf passed, Measure 3 would:\n\n* End cannabis prohibition in North Dakota.\n* Remove criminal and civil penalties for adults over 21 to possess, privately consume and privately cultivate cannabis for personal use.\n* Allow for future industrial cannabis growing.\n* Green-light cannabis sales in the future.\n* Legalize all forms of cannabis products including hash and cannabis oils. \n* Allow for lawmakers to enact specific regulatory measures for licensing and taxation of cannabis in the future.\n\nPhoto credit: [Parker Johnson](https://unsplash.com/@pkrippermachine)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/14b42/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/f836f/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 200w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/2244e/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 400w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/14b42/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 800w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/47498/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/0e329/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/f39a8/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.jpg 2611w","srcWebp":"/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/58556/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/61e93/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 200w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/1f5c5/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 400w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/58556/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 800w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/99238/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 1200w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/7c22d/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 1600w,\n/static/f1bac4182d070a8755ff6edc40c0d42e/f2c8e/904ed13b00ca4141bd7292d5f9bc9bc8.webp 2611w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2841-markdown","title":"Will Legal Cannabis States Clear Past Marijuana Convictions?","slug":"will-legal-cannabis-states-clear-past-marijuana-convictions","content":"If suffering lies at the core of all great tragedy, then those convicted of marijuana offenses have realized more than their share, facing such humiliations as having trouble getting jobs, housing and loans. But what’s happening in states where cannabis is now legal? Are people with cannabis convictions still penalized by marijuana laws that no longer exist? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Vermonters Can Clear Their Cannabis Records—But They Have to Initiate the Process\n\nIn Vermont, for example, 31-year-old lighting designer Joshua Rowe claims that two past misdemeanor convictions have prevented him from taking jobs in Canada, because of his well-founded fear that he may be denied entry.\n\nHe says: “There are jobs I don’t even want to attempt to take, because it will look bad on my record if I get denied going into Canada for a job. [These old [cannabis] charges are holding me back](https://www.boston.com/news/politics/2018/06/22/marijuana-legalization-convictions).”\n\nOn July 1, Vermont became the ninth state to legalize recreational marijuana. Vermont now allows adults to possess an ounce of marijuana, two mature plants and four immature plants. More and more people such as Joshua who are living in cannabis-friendly states are seeking forgiveness for past marijuana misdemeanor convictions, so they can stop living their lives under a cloud.\n\n### Some Folks Aren’t Aware of or Can’t Afford Cannabis Forgiveness \n\nThese nine states are moving towards—or already have mechanisms in place—allowing people to apply to have their records expunged. Last year, Colorado approved a bill that enables people convicted of misdemeanor marijuana possession before Dec. 10, 2012, to petition to have their convictions sealed. This means that convictions wouldn’t be accessible to the public or they’d be destroyed. \n\nIn Maryland, people can also petition for expungement. Meanwhile in Oregon, judges are now directed to take the current law into account—stating that possessing and selling marijuana is legal—when they’re deciding whether to change a person’s criminal record.\n\nThe trouble is that minorities and low-income people are disproportionately arrested for drug offenses. In California, for example, [police arrested African Americans for marijuana offenses at more than twice the rate of Latinos in 2015, and more than triple the rate of Caucasians](https://www.sacbee.com/news/politics-government/capitol-alert/article197967114.html). \n\nOften these police targets haven’t heard about the possibility of getting clemency, or if they have, they often can’t afford the money, time and legal headaches required to make those petitions. \n\nRELATED: [KEY NY PLAYERS PUSH FOR CANNABIS DECRIMINIALIZATION & LEGALIZATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aecfde9b869a6000796590c/key-ny-players-push-for-cannabis-decriminalization-and-legalization)\n\n### California Leads the Way in Forgiving Marijuana Convictions\n\nNot surprisingly, California leads the way in forgiveness of past cannabis offenses. Assembly Bill 1793 is currently waiting for Governor Jerry Brown’s signature to be passed into law. Assembly member Rob Bonta, D-Oakland, introduced the bill as a response to 2016’s Proposition 64, legalizing recreational marijuana use for those 21 and older.\n\nWhile the proposition allows for “resentencing and destruction of records for prior marijuana convictions,” it doesn’t specify a process of how to do this. So, enter Bill 1793, placing the responsibility of reviewing and expunging convictions on the state—not those convicted.\n\nWith a deadline of July 1, 2019, the state department of justice must search its database for eligible cases from 1975 to 2016, sending them to district attorneys for review. District attorneys then have exactly one year to challenge any case that they don’t agree is eligible for resentencing. Cases unchallenged or surviving the review process would automatically have their sentences expunged or reduced. \n\n“Long after paying their debt to society, [people shouldn’t continue to face the collateral consequences](http://www.dailycal.org/2018/08/26/california-bill-provides-process-erase-reduce-sentences-marijuana-possession/), like being denied a job or housing, because they have an outdated [marijuana] conviction on their record,” Bonta said in a press release.\n\n### San Francisco Starts Its Cannabis Pardons Early\n\nSan Francisco wasn’t content to wait for the passage of Bill 1793. Last winter, District Attorney George Gascon announced that the city would immediately dismiss all cannabis misdemeanor convictions dating back to 1975.\n\nThe city also said it would review marijuana felony convictions for the period, and in appropriate cases resentence them to misdemeanor offenses.\n\n“We want to address the wrongs that were caused by the failures of the war on drugs for many years in this country and [begin to fix some of the harm that was done not only to the entire nation but specifically to communities of color](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/marijuana-san-francisco-cannabis-convictions-wiped-1975-california-drugs-recreational-weed-prejudice-a8188676.html),” said Gascon at a news conference.\n\nHe estimated that more than 3,000 misdemeanors will automatically be dismissed, and almost 5,000 felonies will be reviewed.\n\n### Delaware Decriminalized Marijuana Possession, But There’s no Cannabis Crimes Amnesty\n\nIn Delaware, wider amnesty didn’t pass in the state’s general assembly earlier this year. However, in July, the state—which decriminalized possession of less than an ounce of marijuana three years ago—passed a bill that will [automatically expunge the records of nearly 1,300 people with a single conviction of marijuana possession or use](https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-guarantees-expungement-for-one-pot-conviction/).\n\n“As a supporter of criminal justice reform, this is [common sense legislation to provide equity for those previously convicted of offenses that are no longer illegal](https://delawarestatenews.net/government/carney-signs-bill-expunging-some-pot-convictions/),” says Delaware Senate Minority Whip Greg Lavelle, the bill’s main sponsor. “The narrow scope of this legislation provides relief specifically to those with no other criminal convictions. This will expedite these expungements without overburdening the system,” he continued.\n\nWith the cloud of past marijuana convictions removed, more people will be able to enjoy lives free of black marks and unfair restraints.\n\nPhoto credit: [Sebastian Pichler](https://unsplash.com/@pichler_sebastian)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/14b42/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/f836f/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/2244e/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 400w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/14b42/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 800w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/47498/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/0e329/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/cc054/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.jpg 3679w","srcWebp":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/58556/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/61e93/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/1f5c5/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 400w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/58556/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 800w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/99238/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 1200w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/7c22d/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 1600w,\n/static/e80e522495e8694321990aaaf036e638/7c017/ea98eeeba1e165fdc3d624cf1c6caf6f.webp 3679w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2802-markdown","title":"Ups & Downs in Legal Cannabis in the First Half of 2018","slug":"ups-and-downs-in-legal-cannabis-in-the-first-half-of-2018","content":"Late summer is always an exciting and busy season for cannabis farmers. Millions of plants are flowering and cannabis consumers across the state are beginning to anticipate new and exciting strains that will soon make their fall debut.\n\nBut this year, lawmakers, law enforcement officials and law-abiding cannabis businesses are struggling with California’s legal marijuana industry. And what’s being anticipated is far different from previous growing seasons. From the perspective of most marijuana business owners and producers, those hopeful, happy photos of excited customers eager to be the first legal cannabis consumers on Jan. 1 seem like they were taken decades ago. \n\nSteep taxes on cannabis products have taken a toll on consumers—particularly medical cannabis patients who may not be able to afford Medical Marijuana Identification Cards that would help eliminate some taxes. \n\nAnd challenges with lab testing continue to plague an industry struggling to compete with the black market, all while complying with stringent regulations. Let’s take a look at where legal cannabis in California stands today.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Taxes: Too High for Consumers, Too Low for CA\n\nAccording to the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, the excise tax on cannabis generated $32 million in revenue for the first quarter of 2018. The cultivation tax generated $1.6 million and the sales tax generated $27.3 million in tax revenues. This all makes for a grand total of just over $60 million. \n\nThis may sound like a hefty haul, but [$60 million falls far short of the $175 million in marijuana tax revenues](https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Cannabis-tax-revenue-in-California-falls-far-12902556.php) predicted by the state’s legislative office for the first six months of the year.\n\nProp 64 designated that [revenue from sales taxes would be transferred to the general fund](https://cannabiswire.com/2018/08/08/cannabis-taxes-state-by-state-what-we-know-so-far/). During the first quarter, about $16 million was dedicated to youth drug prevention and education, and about $5.4 million was earmarked for local law enforcement. The balance of tax revenues is divided into moneys supporting\n\n* Environmental restoration and preservation\n* Funding for the California Highway Patrol\n* Other research and community grants \n\nOn the consumer side of legalization, taxes are one of the main reasons shoppers continue to rely on the black market for their cannabis supply. A recent survey found that in the past three months, [one in five Californians bought marijuana from the unregulated market](https://www.investors.com/news/californias-legal-marijuana-business/). \n\nMore troubling for legal cannabis businesses is the fact that the survey found that 84% of these same customers are \"highly likely\" to continue purchasing from the black market because of \"the illicit market having cheaper products and no tax.”\n\n### Contaminated Cannabis Continues: Wasn’t Legalization Supposed to Fix This? \n\nOne of the most compelling arguments for legalization was that mandatory lab testing would guarantee that products were safe to consume and free from harmful materials. But so far, the industry has experienced some serious bumps in this road. \n\nAccording to the state’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC), since mandatory lab testing was rolled out in July, [one in five batches of cannabis has failed testing](https://www.ocregister.com/2018/07/26/first-tests-are-in-and-one-in-five-marijuana-samples-in-ca-isnt-making-grade/). \n\nBloom is one of the state’s most visible cannabis brands, selling products in nearly 100 retail locations throughout California. In July, the company announced a voluntary recall of some of its products when it [tested positive for a dangerous pesticide called Myclobutanil](https://mjbizdaily.com/california-vape-cartridge-maker-issues-voluntary-marijuana-product-recall/). This pesticide is used on inorganically farmed apples and grapes, but once combusted by a flame or in a vape pen, it morphs into dangerous hydrogen cyanide. \n\nYet another company, [Lowell Herb, which provides pre-rolls to about 74 retailers, initiated a voluntary recall](https://mjbizdaily.com/second-voluntary-cannabis-product-recall-issued-in-california/) only days after Bloom’s announcement. The company provided its product to one lab, where it initially passed testing. But the same products failed a second test at the same lab. Lowell Herb then had the product tested at a different facility, where the product passed, but decided to go ahead with its recall.\n\nAre companies the victims of overly aggressive state-sanctioned testing procedures, as some farmers alledge? Are companies working with unscrupulous farmers? Could labs be using inconsistent testing standards? Because mandatory testing is the newest part of the state’s legalization rollout, it will take time to determine where the confusion lies.\n\nAnd what happens to all of that noncompliant cannabis? It must be destroyed, according to the BCC. And its destruction must be logged with the agency. Just prior to the July 1 rollout of mandatory testing, one estimate suggested that over [$350 million worth of noncompliant cannabis could be headed to the incinerator](https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/jun/29/california-cannabis-laws-product-destroyed). \n\n### What’s in the Bag? Pricey Cannabis in an Even Pricier Package \n\nAnother challenge to marijuana producers has been the transition to compliant packaging. The process of changing over to packages that meet new regulations is complex and very expensive. What makes up a compliant package? A lengthy list of no less than [a dozen packaging rules that include everything from font size to the manufacturing date](http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2018/7/20/what-package-designers-need-to-know-about-californias-new-cannabis-regulations) and much more.\n\nEven more troubling is a requirement from the California Department of Public Health regarding packaging. Currently, it requires that the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in all products be stated in milligrams—something absolutely impossible for cannabis flower manufacturers to comply with.\n\nAnd for cannabis product manufacturers, perhaps the most confusing aspect of packaging is the fact that package designs aren’t approved prior to—but only after—the product is on the shelves. This leaves a business vulnerable to citations for improper package design and costly redesigns. \n\nRELATED: [CA CANNABIS RETAILERS BRACING FOR THE NEXT PHASE OF LEGALIZATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b2fbeb9bf4c4d000a0e74e3/ca-cannabis-retailers-bracing-for-next-phase-of-legalization)\n\nPackages that cost a cartridge manufacturer seven cents per unit prior to legalization are now costing 55 cents per unit. The costs for these and other new legalization requirements are being borne in large part by the farmers and the end consumers.\n\n### Back to Black? How Can Legal Entrepreneurs Stay Afloat? \n\nCannabis startups now require up to several million dollars and more to launch. And when marijuana startups with virtually no public track record must locate investors, even those who are great at what they do have a hard time finding funding. \n\nSome companies that have been in business prior to legalization may not have enough capital to stay afloat. One analyst even predicts that [thousands of existing cannabis operators may face closing their businesses](https://mjbizdaily.com/why-financing-is-a-key-hurdle-for-california-cannabis-companies-and-forcing-some-to-the-black-market/).\n\nAlternately, cannabis companies may be forced to relocate to a different jurisdiction where their type of business is allowed. Or businesses may even throw in the towel and return to the unregulated market.\n\nEven [industry giants like Oakland dispensary Harborside have laid off workers](https://www.ganjapreneur.com/california-cannabis-market-growing-pains/) due to increased business costs and underperforming retail sales.\n\n### Can CA Create a Regulatory Framework That’s Good for Everyone? \n\nThough California’s legal adult-use cannabis rollout has been rocky, this has generally been the case for all states that have legalized recreational cannabis. California’s domination as a producer state has created additional challenges. Other problems are rooted in the state’s large geography. \n\nAs Los Angeles gets closer to the conclusion of its complex three-pronged licensing period, some hiccups in the area that arguably houses the state’s largest concentration of cannabis consumers will begin to ease up. As cannabis farmers, breeders and retailers report what works and doesn’t work with the state’s testing and track and trace system, more changes will gradually result in improvements to regulations that better fit the reality of the industry. \n\nAnd as consumers continue to bring their voices to the table—demanding a wider array of products that represent their needs, perhaps those in Sacramento will begin to feel that they can revisit some of the most unreasonable, unworkable aspects of Prop 64. Hopefully lawmakers are willing to revamp regulations to reflect a more inclusive and sensible approach to marijuana legalization.\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/14b42/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg","srcSet":"/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/f836f/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 200w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/2244e/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 400w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/14b42/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 800w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/47498/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 1200w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/0e329/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 1600w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/40669/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.jpg 3979w","srcWebp":"/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/58556/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/61e93/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 200w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/1f5c5/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 400w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/58556/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 800w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/99238/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 1200w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/7c22d/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 1600w,\n/static/55eee50773b11ebc35561a066493314d/f0629/f838697d617f1b3d9e7ad4d8642a90ab.webp 3979w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2792-markdown","title":"HelloMD’s Pamela Hadfield Talks Trends at Wine & Weed","slug":"hellomds-pamela-hadfield-talks-trends-at-wine-and-weed","content":"HelloMD’s co-founder [Pamela Hadfield](https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-hadfield-19a986?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F) joined a lively roster of industry insiders at the [Wine & Weed Symposium](http://wine-weed.com/nc/), held in Santa Rosa, CA last week. Pamela gave her take on the latest cannabis trends that she’s seen crop up over the past year or more.\n\nIntroduced by [David Downs](https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidrdowns), the new California bureau chief at [Leafly](https://www.leafly.com/), Pamela got rolling with some of the biggest trends such as cannabis going mainstream, what with politicians on both sides of the aisle identifying as pro-cannabis. And she shared personal stories along the way—including how her own decades-long pain as a migraine sufferer got her to see cannabis in a new light.\n\nFollowing are excerpts from her walk through the **top 10 emerging trends in cannabis**:\n\n![Hello1-min (31).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_31_9aec95fc52.png)\n\n### Trend #1: Cannabis Goes Mainstream\n\n“Some might say that cannabis has been mainstream for some time. I would argue that 2018 and 2019 are where we're going to see the tipping point in terms of the conversation around cannabis, the destigmatization of it … We have 30 medically legal states and Washington, D.C. And we have nine recreationally legal states. What this is doing is it's forcing the conversation across the country.\n\n“We also see that mainstream media is accepting cannabis. When we look at O magazine, and it does a large spread on cannabis, or we look at _Goop_, **Gwyneth Paltrow's** platform, and they're talking about cannabis so readily, it changes the conversation across the nation. … When you look at the _New York Times_, when you look at _Vogue_, when you look at _Forbes_ and their willingness to accept this and write about cannabis, that's going to change how we all accept it, because we're shaped by the media around us.”\n\n![Hello4-min (22).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_22_6ff20480bb.png)\n\n### Trend #2: Cannabis for Health & Wellness\n\n“Most people who come to HelloMD, I would qualify them either as having compromised health or as a lifestyle consumer. What's interesting is, if you start out as a lifestyle consumer, say somebody in their mid-30s who comes back to cannabis after not trying it since college, this lifestyle consumer maybe somebody who just wants to relax on a Friday night. That person will often cycle into using it more than for health and wellness concerns like insomnia or anxiety, and somebody like myself who wasn't truly medical but had compromised health would never have considered being a lifestyle consumer before.\n\n“But after cannabis solves some of my health issues, I now may consume it to feel a little bit better on a Friday night. If you end up taking some cannabis to decrease stress, that's for your health, that's for your own wellness. So people are starting to look at cannabis in a very different way—as a tool for wellness—and that's something I'm really excited about because I believe that this should be accessible to everyone for that reason.”\n\n![Hello6-min (7).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_7_74b6aad113.png)\n\n### Trend #3: Cannabis as the Exit Drug for the Opioid Epidemic\n\n“Seventy thousand people across North America are dying every year from opioid overdoses. HelloMD did one of the largest studies on chronic pain, cannabis, and opioids; 3,000 patients were surveyed about introducing cannabis into their treatment protocol. The fascinating thing was once they started to use cannabis, it actually increased the efficacy of the opioids, and they decreased their consumption. Ninety-seven percent of people indicated they decreased or eliminated use of opioids altogether. That's an amazing statistic.\n\n“And there's a lot of new research out there that's mimicking exactly what we found. The biggest hurdle I see in terms of the widespread adoption of cannabis as an exit drug to the opioid epidemic is not general consumers. It's the general practitioners who continue to not look at the research, to not accept cannabis as a valuable treatment. So I urge everyone in this room to talk to your doctor.”\n\n![Hello1-min (13).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_13_54fd85da01.png)\n\n### Trend #4: Big Pharma’s Move Into Cannabis\n\n“I see a lot of undercurrents of what's happening with Big Pharma in the cannabis industry. And my prediction is that within two to five years, assuming that federal law changes and cannabis goes out of Schedule 1 status, is that Big Pharma will swoop in. \n\n“The big pharmaceutical company that's betting on cannabis right now is GW Pharma, based in the U.K. The FDA just approved its antiseizure medication, Epidiolex. And I think the unique thing about that medication is that it’s actually using whole plants. The reason I mention that is because Big Pharma’s tendency is much more to go towards synthetic cannabinoids, developing synthetics out of barley, yeast, different things like that.”\n \n“Meanwhile, what’s feeding into Big Pharma is biotech companies that are creating these synthetic cannabinoids. For example, there's a company up in Canada that's been very successful at creating THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) out of, I believe it's a yeast. And so they’re going to be poised for acquisition by Big Pharma.”\n\n![Hello3-min (25).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_25_dbe4baa854.png)\n\n### Trend #5: One Size Does Not Fit All\n\n“When I walked into dispensaries about five years ago, what I noticed was that all of the products pretty much seemed the same. A lot of them would be almost entirely all flower and very, very high THC content. I would ask, ‘Do you have anything lower in THC? And they would actually laugh at me and say, ‘Nobody wants that.’ And I was like, ‘Well, I kind of need and want that.’ \n \n“Demand is now pushing innovation. We’re in a culture where we have one of the best product arrays available on the planet. We have incredibly innovative new products coming out all of the time, and a lot of them are lower in THC and high in CBD (cannabidiol), which is the non-psychoactive portion of the plant.”\n\n![Hello6-min (8).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_8_fe2e21717c.png)\n\n### Trend #6: Over-Regulation With Adult-Use Legalization in CA\n\n“I've heard from a lot of people who come from Canada and say, ‘We come down to California to look at your product selection. We come down to look and see what you guys are making.’ Since Prop 64 passed and since January 1, the cannabis industry has basically been decimated by overregulation. We went from having probably 1,500 dispensaries operating legally to about 300 in the state. We went from having over 1,000 brands to having just 150 or so compliant legal brands in the state today.\n\n“We also have what I think is the biggest travesty of overregulation, which is Californians were basically voting to have a legal system so that everyone could have access because that was the dream. That's what they were sold, but the reality is that 70% of the state right now is practically dry—70%.\n\n“Now, when you think about a patient, I think about myself. If I couldn't get access to medication, it would probably drive me to the black market. But when you look at all of these medical patients across California and patients who actually need access, they’re not given access because local municipalities have deemed it unsafe to have cannabis dispensaries or delivery within their jurisdiction.”\n\n![Hello4-min (24).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_24_8240521b5f.png)\n\n### Trend #7: Microdosing Cannabis\n\n“This has been on the rise for quite some time. Microdosing is the idea that you take the minimum amount of cannabis or any other substance to create the maximum overall beneficial effect. I like to compare microdosing to wine. If you drink a whole bottle of wine, most people won't feel very good. \n\n“Most people, when they start with cannabis, they have that macro-dose experience, and it scares them off of trying cannabis again. So, when you talk about microdosing and on-ramping people, this is like giving them that sort of half glass of wine, right? And just allowing them to try cannabis and try it safely and to titrate up.\n\n“So we're seeing an enormous amount of products by a variety of brands right now that offer very low-dose microdosed cannabis products.”\n\n![Hello2-min (31).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_31_35e907dddd.png)\n\n### Trend #8: Weight Management With Cannabis\n\n“The reality is cannabis consumers tend to have a lower BMI (body mass index) and a lower or a smaller waist size than non-cannabis consumers do. Now you could say that’s sort of negligible, but THC has many different components within it that actually changes your gut microbiome; it actually can help speed up your metabolism.\n\n“The other interesting thing is that CBD has been found in new research to also boost metabolism, but it will also convert white fat cells to brown fat cells. And brown fat cells actually burn energy.”\n\n![Hello1-min (19).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_19_7ffdcd5854.png)\n\n### Trend #9: Other Cannabinoids\n\n“There are now new cannabinoids—other than CBD and THC—that you can select on dispensary shelves and have delivered to your door. For example, CBG (cannabigerol), which promotes bone growth and is anti-spasmodic. And when you take the whole plant together, they have tremendous therapeutic value.”\n\n![Hello3-min (26).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello3_min_26_d232153610.png)\n\n### Trend #10: Terpenes\n\n“Terpenes are amazing. They’re part of the cannabis plant that creates that aromatic smell and have been shown to have incredible therapeutic value. Terpenes aren’t just in cannabis but are in many different plants.\n\n“You'll start to see people talking about terpenes in addition to cannabinoids when you buy products. A certain product will have linalool, and these are the effects. And this is the smell pinene, which is the smell of pine, and so on.”\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/ee604/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.png","srcSet":"/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/69585/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.png 200w,\n/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/497c6/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.png 400w,\n/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/ee604/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.png 800w","srcWebp":"/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/58556/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/61e93/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.webp 200w,\n/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/1f5c5/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.webp 400w,\n/static/36435f2b99f7e9168ad889462df2f9ce/58556/c1e008e41ea6b82f821d4cc1015603b6.webp 800w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2764-markdown","title":"Top Trends in Cannabis Post Adult-Use Legalization in CA","slug":"top-trends-in-cannabis-post-adult-use-legalization-in-ca","content":"Starting a company in the cannabis industry in California has given me a bird’s-eye view into emerging trends. Some trends come on quickly and have staying power, while others blow up, then seemingly evaporate overnight.\n\nEvery few months, I report on what I see, the latest trends that emerge and come to the fore, whether they be statewide, nationwide or global. Here’s what I’ve been seeing and thinking about lately.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### 1. Restricted Access to Cannabis Despite Adult-Use Legalization\n\nThis may sound like an oxymoron. With legalization, aren’t we gaining easy access to cannabis? It depends. In California, we had a functional legal medical marijuana system for 20 years, where gaining access to medication was fairly easy. You have a doctor’s consultation, you get a medical recommendation, and typically you could have cannabis delivered to your door within hours. If you lived in a rural area, there was even a possibility of shopping online and receiving statewide delivery. \n\nNow, post legalization, we’re living in an era of over-regulation. Retail and delivery licenses are expensive and often hard to come by. Many municipalities have banned cannabis altogether, creating large dry counties and corridors throughout the state.\n\nOver-reaching regulations have burdened manufacturers to the point where many have decided they can’t afford to do business, or it’s too difficult to understand or keep up with newly emerging regulations. For instance, prior to legalization, there were 1,500 different cannabis brands to select product from; today there are around 150.\n\n\nIn other states, what I call fear-of-cannabis by state regulators creates unnecessary barriers for patients. In some instances, there’s a requirement to not only get a medical recommendation but to register with the state as well. For a substance that’s still federally illegal, this is too much to ask. In other states, the condition list is so restricted that you must be critically ill in order to access medical marijuana.\n\nCannabis has been shown to be a better alternative to opioids for chronic pain; it’s a natural alternative to many other pharmaceuticals that have horrible side effects. New statistics on legal states have shown there has been very little downside in the legalization of cannabis, and the best part, no one dies from consuming cannabis.\n\nYet fear of the plant and over-regulation have restricted legal access and in most cases lead to a thriving black market where no one, other than the dealer, wins.\n\n### 2. This Is No Longer a One-Size-Fits-All Cannabis Culture\n\n![Cannabis products sold in the HelloMD store](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-2d7fccb2-24f4-456b-b877-6628cb356aeb/original.jpg)\n\nA few years ago, if you went into a dispensary and asked for a microdosed cannabis product with small amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per dose, you might be laughed out the door. Invariably, the response was, “That’s not what people want. They just want to get high.”\n\nBy and large, dispensaries created menus based around the “people just want to get high” mantra and didn’t pay much attention to anything other than sales numbers. Often, you’d see a wide selection of flower with 17–23% THC and edibles such as the saran-wrapped brownie prominently displayed.\n\nToday, there’s a diversity of product types, professionally branded products and a new kind of consumer walking through the door. They’re often college educated, middle aged or older, and they’re interested not only in health and wellness, but in modulating the high. These folks want to go “low and slow”; they want to try a variety of products, including those high in cannabidiol (CBD). \n\nAs a result, retailers who want to survive and thrive have to respond to their customers’ needs and requests. This is standard in any other industry, but a relatively new concept in cannabis. The one-size-fits-all model no longer applies.\n\n### 3. CBD Goes Mainstream\n\nCannabidiol, or CBD, has been on a steady growth pattern for a while, but in the last year, it appears to have spiked. CBD is well known for being non-psychoactive as well as possessing many medicinal properties, including easing inflammation, pain, nausea and vomiting, seizures and muscle convulsion or spasms.\n\nCBD has also been found to promote healthy bone growth and can help reduce vascular tension and artery blockage. And it’s helpful in reducing anxiety. It also happens to be an excellent antidote to the high associated with its chemical cannabinoid cousin THC.\n\nNow that the word’s out on CBD, almost any marijuana dispensary or delivery service has a selection of CBD-rich or CBD-dominant products. This wasn’t the case even two years ago. Today, you’ll see CBD products, which include edibles, pre-rolls, flower, topical salves and more.\n\nIn legal states, some people erroneously believe that CBD is better or more effective than THC is from a medical standpoint, and many lawmakers advocate for CBD-only to be legalized. In fact, both CBD and THC have many medicinal properties, some of which may be the same and others that may vary from one another.\n\nThe perception of CBD’s medicinal value and the desire to obtain these effects has also led to an explosion of the hemp-derived CBD marketplace that’s now a nationwide, if not global phenomenon. Hemp-derived CBD is derived from the cannabis hemp plant, which is a different variety from the cannabis marijuana plant.\n\nIn some people’s minds, CBD derived from the hemp plant, which contains less than 0.03% of THC, is the redheaded stepsister to cannabis marijuana. It’s true that the hemp-derived CBD products lack the variety of other cannabinoids as well as terpenes present in most cannabis marijuana products, but for many people—especially for those who live in states where CBD from marijuana is illegal—the medicinal benefits may still apply.\n\nThere’s both an upside and downside to the availability of hemp-derived CBD product. On the one hand, it’s unregulated and therefore easy to gain access it, although still somewhat of a gray area. On the other hand, it’s unregulated and there are potential safety issues over plant sourcing and regulated testing requirements.\n\nIn addition, there’s a lot of confusion over the differences between cannabis hemp and cannabis marijuana as well as what to look for and expect. HelloMD has a number of [educational articles on hemp](https://www.hellomd.com/search?type=article&term=HEMP) and is a resource for those looking to learn more about CBD derived from hemp.\n\nThe real upside to hemp-derived CBD being available nationwide is that patients everywhere have the opportunity to see if a CBD product will work for their needs. In other words, this opens up accessibility for patients who may need it the most.\n\nPhoto credit: [Drew Saurus](https://unsplash.com/@drew_saurus)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/14b42/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/f836f/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 200w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/2244e/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 400w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/14b42/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 800w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/47498/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/0e329/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/2dd31/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.jpg 2014w","srcWebp":"/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/58556/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/61e93/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 200w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/1f5c5/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 400w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/58556/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 800w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/99238/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 1200w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/7c22d/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 1600w,\n/static/405c00e869c8ae0f43734e0f865a8090/4098a/6b8d8c1b9b4faceed87909a6c6a1b55c.webp 2014w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2755-markdown","title":"Is Hemp About to Become Legal in the US?","slug":"is-hemp-about-to-become-legal-in-the-us","content":"Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) initiated the latest push to legalize hemp in April. That’s when he introduced Senate Bill 2667, known as [The Hemp Farming Act of 2018](https://www.govtrack.us/congress/bills/115/s2667/summary). It was rolled into the Farm Bill, which [passed on June 28](https://www.upi.com/Senate-passes-bill-legalizing-hemp-as-agricultural-commodity/5531530229618/).\n\nSupporters say that making hemp legal will help bolster economies in agricultural states and pave the way for more research on the plant. It will also enable consumers to purchase hemp products without fear of governmental reprisal.\n\nThe bill, which needs to be merged with another House bill before it goes to the Oval Office for President Trump’s signature, would legalize hemp. It would remove its status as a controlled substance, enabling farmers to grow hemp and sell it as a commodity. States would have the ability to regulate hemp production, and hemp farmers would be eligible for crop insurance.\n\n\"It's time to figure it out and see where this market will take us,\" Sen. McConnell said to the Senate Agricultural Committee in June.\n\n\"I think it's an important new development in American agriculture. There's plenty of hemp around; it's just coming from other countries. Why in the world would we want a lot of it to not come from here?” he continued.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Is Hemp & How Is it Related to Cannabis? \n\nYou may already see a variety of hemp products in supermarkets and other retail stores, including: \n\n* Edible hemp seeds\n* Clothing \n* Personal care products \n* Cooking oil \n* Building materials \n\nThey’re manufactured from a species of cannabis known as _Cannabis sativa_ L. (Cannabaceae), a relative of the cannabis plant that’s used to create the psychoactive products sold at your local dispensary. This “industrial hemp” is related to _Cannabis sativa_, but has one significant difference: It contains only a tiny fraction of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—usually less than 0.3% and so isn’t psychoactive. \n\nFor many people, it would be very difficult to visually distinguish between what we’ll call hemp vs. cannabis. The italicized word _Cannabis_ is the actual biological name for both plants, and throughout the world, there are dozens more related species.\n\nCannabis cultivators wishing to emphasize the psychoactive effects of cannabis have focused on the production of plants rich in resinous cannabinoids like THC and cannabidiol (CBD). On the other hand, hemp farmers have bred their plants to produce tough fibers and plump, oil-filled seeds.\n\n### Hemp’s Long Strange Trip as an Agricultural Crop \n\nSen. McConnell wasn’t incorrect in advocating for the legalization of hemp. Its history as a diverse and useful crop is nearly as old as human history itself.\n\nOver thousands of years, hemp was cultivated from cannabis plants to encourage the growth of tall, fibrous stalks and the oily seeds. They were used to create rope, paper, oil and animal feed. It’s thought that hemp seeds travelled with early Asian civilizations, with records of Chinese cultivation dating back 8,500 years. \n\nIn the U.S., McConnell’s home state of Kentucky was the country’s leading hemp producer from the mid-1800s until about 1912. It was used as a source for rope and sail cloth. At that time, hemp was called “the king of fiber-bearing plants, the standard by which all other fibers are measured.” But by 1938, with the rollout of marijuana prohibition, the production of hemp in the U.S. disappeared.\n\n### Canada Takes the Lead in Hemp Production\n\nLast year, the U.S. imported $67 million in hemp—mostly seeds used to make other products—and Canada supplied 90% of it. Canada, which strictly regulates hemp farming, has allowed commercial licenses for hemp production since 1998.\n\nCanada had 140,000 acres in hemp cultivation in 2017 and has greatly simplified its regulations for farmers who want to grow hemp. It’s been legal to import hemp into the U.S. since 1998, which is one reason Canadian hemp products made such dramatic inroads into the U.S. market.\n\n### Hemp Can Thank CBD for Its Possible Legalization\n\nThere’s a compelling reason why Sen. McConnell powered his hemp proposal through Congress: the [growing popularity of cannabidiol (CBD)-infused products](https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/features/mitch-mcconnell-drug-warrior-cbd-champion-w522206). Although the Senator doesn’t publicly champion CBD, it should be noted that Kentucky, the state Sen. McConnell represents, grows industrial, low-THC hemp through university and agriculture pilot programs. \n\nThe positive shift in public perception regarding cannabis, combined with glowing reports of CBD’s effectiveness in treating certain types of seizure disorders, has resulted in staunch opponents of cannabis taking a more lenient approach to hemp-based CBD products. The hemp oil derivatives you may start to see in traditional retail outlets, if hemp is legalized, will be made from industrial hemp, and not cannabis.\n\n### I’m Confused—Are High-CBD Cannabis Strains Considered Hemp?  \n\nNo. Charlotte’s Web, the strain made famous by Colorado’s Stanley Brothers, was named for the young girl who was featured in Sanjay Gupta’s groundbreaking 2013 CNN documentary, “[Weed](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiShwotFJR8).” When Charlotte’s parents discovered that a low-THC, high-CBD cannabis strain massively curtailed her seizures, marijuana cultivators worked to develop more high-CBD strains. These strains include: \n\n* [ACDC](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cbe97d520d60009f4f4a5/acdc)\n* [Harlequin](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a9d9ad8fdb6dd00088d0cf1/harlequin)\n* [Cannatonic](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce5dcd520d60009f4f4bd/cannatonic)\n* [Sour Tsunami](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5b313d1e9755250007f2aeaa/sour-tsunami) \n* Ringo’s Gift\n\nBut all of these strains originate from THC-containing cannabis plants. \n\nBecause CBD is found in both industrial hemp and psychoactive forms of cannabis, manufacturers have created hemp-based CBD oils, which is why this issue can be confusing to the consumer.\n\n### Are All Hemp CBD Oils the Same?\n\nNo. Legalization advocates hope that hemp will fall into a regulatory process like psychoactive cannabis. Currently, there are far fewer regulations regarding the manufacturing and formulation of industrial hemp-based products. They’re regulated by the Food and Drug Administration as a dietary supplement.\n\nBut the market is already flooded with everything from excellent CBD products to the equivalent of snake oil—hemp products made with less than healthy additives from questionable sources. \n\nRELATED: [HEMP OIL VS. CBD OIL: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b16ba68bf4c4d000a0e742d/cbd-oil-vs-hemp-oil-whats-the-difference)\n\nIt takes a much larger amount of low-resin hemp plants to create an equivalent amount of CBD oil as its high-resin, cannabis sister. Some importers sell less-than-optimal hemp paste and powder to manufacturers, and many of the end results of these questionable products can be found online.\n\nThis sub-optimal hemp usually requires the addition of thinning agents if used in an item like a vape pen. Beware of any cannabis product that uses propylene glycol as a thinning agent. It’s often used in conjunction with unregulated “pure CBD oil” and is harmful to healthy cannabis consumers, and particularly unhealthy for medical marijuana patients.\n\n### Will Hemp CBD Work the Same for Me as Cannabis-Based CBD Products Will? \n\nLike all products used by patients for self-care and wellness, it’s important to consider the source of your medicine. Look carefully at the labels and note whether your hemp-based CBD product has been tested in the same way as your psychoactive cannabis has. A quality hemp product will be tested for pesticides, molds and cannabinoid profiles.\n\nThe best way to know if hemp-based CBD medicine works for you is to experiment. Some people have excellent results from hemp-based CBD medicine, and others respond better to CBD medicine from cannabis plants.\n\nAnd remember: Hemp is the source for an ever-growing list of excellent products like soaps, lotions and food items that are just plain good for the body and soul.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZOIBjVdeYc`\n\nSen. McConnell has done the right thing. With 17 states currently operating with CBD-only laws that only permit the use of high-CBD products, the next battle will be fought by hemp farmers. They understand the benefits of whole-plant cannabis derivatives that will make safer and more effective medicine for those who truly need it. Plus, an expanded agricultural sector makes economic sense, too. \n\nPhoto credit: [John Westrock](https://unsplash.com/@johnwestrock)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/14b42/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/f836f/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 200w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/2244e/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 400w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/14b42/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 800w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/47498/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/0e329/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/41766/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.jpg 3969w","srcWebp":"/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/58556/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/61e93/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 200w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/1f5c5/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 400w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/58556/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 800w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/99238/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 1200w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/7c22d/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 1600w,\n/static/8f8aa05c9f2983b6b5e26466c4e9551a/c2326/b4932ec997972eef89e14399b34eb1c4.webp 3969w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2730-markdown","title":"CA Cannabis Retailers Bracing for Next Phase of Legalization","slug":"ca-cannabis-retailers-bracing-for-next-phase-of-legalization","content":"Though Proposition 64 was staged as a multi-tiered rollout, most consumers assumed the bumps in the road would be smoothed over by the summer. Buckle up, because the rockiest part of the journey is just ahead.\n\nAs of July 1, all products sold at dispensaries must be part of the statewide track and trace system. All marijuana products, whether flowers or edibles, are [required to go through a distributor, must be lab tested and sold in compliant packaging](http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/article/NP/20180618/NEWS/180619905). Shops that don’t comply with the regulation rollout will be subject to fines and possible loss of license.\n\nFor weeks, many dispensaries have been deeply discounting products that won’t make the cut. According to state law, all noncompliant products must be destroyed by the July deadline. Those products are labelled as noncompliant, and licensed retailers are trying to recoup whatever they can before the July 1 deadline.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### A Long, Hot Summer May Await Cannabis Consumers\n\nOnce the clearance sales subside, cannabis industry experts expect to see the next wave of challenges affecting retailers. There may be product shortages and some items disappearing altogether, particularly any edibles sold in more than 100 mg amounts per package. \n\nThere may also be a backlog in the products that the state’s 31 licensed labs can push through to the 350-plus retailers up and down the state. With most labs able to test approximately [100–150 samples per day](https://mjbizdaily.com/california-testing-labs-expect-marijuana-bottleneck-july/), most retailers are anticipating a significant turnaround time for products to pass testing before they can be sold to consumers.\n\nThe cost to test individual batches of cannabis flowers is pricey. Fifty-pound lots are the most affordable option for distributors. This might mean that boutique cannabis growers cultivating a little of “this and that” may find it difficult to sell their product to distributors who must look out for their bottom line. Many labs are still waiting for state approval and aren’t prepared to take on the volume of work that will engulf the testing business from July forward.\n\nAt a recent gathering in the Mendocino redwoods, [Bureau of Cannabis Control Chief Lori Ajax suggested a few potential solutions](https://cannabisnow.com/meadowlands-mixes-california-legislators-with-public-consumption/) to the testing issues. These included donating non-tested cannabis to compassion programs, or the possibility of allowing distributors to test cannabis not already in the supply chain—something retailers are hoping will be implemented.\n\nRELATED: [PROP 64 UPDATE: 100 DAYS OF LEGAL RECRATIONAL MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ad112b38e85e50008ade432/prop-64-update-100-days-of-legal-recreational-marijuana)\n\n### The Upsides & Downsides of New Cannabis Packaging\n\nOne notable change that consumers can count on is accurate sourcing of their cannabis. Come July, if a product claims it’s from Mendocino County, 100% of the product must be from that county. Another upside to legalization is that all ingredients in your edible or topical medication will now be listed on packages. \n \nSome product manufacturers were still scrambling in June to devise childproof containers, and dispensaries are adapting to the stringent packaging requirements. If an edible comes in a childproof package, there’s no longer the need to place that item into an additional childproof exit bag—something that environmental activists believe is a win for Mother Earth.\n\nThe downside? Not all manufacturers have the capital or the human resources to transition to the new regulations. Some edibles manufacturers are already saying they’re closing their businesses. Others are scrambling to modify formulas and packaging. Though the state felt that six months was a long enough time to transition to the new requirements, for manufacturers, particularly smaller operators, the time frame just hasn’t been long enough.\n\n### Tracking & Tracing Marijuana\n\nThe state’s long-awaited track and trace system also goes into effect July 1. The [“METRC” system, short for marijuana enforcement tracking reporting compliance](http://www.sfweekly.com/news/who-will-survive-the-license-game/), will follow every cannabis item from seed to final sale. Every cannabis product, whether a gram of flower or your favorite single-serve edible, will receive a unique serial number. Items will be scanned with ID chips upon pickup and delivery. \n\nAlong with ensuring that your cannabis didn’t get to the unregulated market, track and trace will hold data on:\n\n* Taxes\n* The total inventory held by farmers and nurseries, including the strain type\n* Plant age\n* Proposed use for that plant \n* Where the plant is housed\n* Lab test results \n\nAnd the price for track and trace? Anywhere from $250 to $20,000 per month, plus staff training costs. Even plants that die must be weighed and given to a third-party disposal service that will verify the final resting place for the dead plant. Unfortunately, because of all these additional costs, consumers may see an increase in prices this summer.\n\n### The Challenges of Cannabis Distribution\n\nThere are currently between [50 to 100 large-scale distributors](https://mjbizdaily.com/nothing-going-smoothly-californias-regulated-marijuana-market/) selling regulated products to cannabis retail businesses. Distributors, not retailers, are on the hook for paying state taxes for the products they receive. Some experts feel that this regulation has been misunderstood by some distribution companies, and fear that these distributors will face steep, unexpected taxes at the end of the year.\n\nWith fewer products able to meet the strict regulatory hurdles, expect to see a reduction of all cannabis products on your retailer’s shelves for the time being. If you have concerns about what’s in your cannabis, be sure to familiarize yourself with the new packaging information. On what the Bureau of Cannabis Control calls the primary label—the portion of the label consumers usually see first—the following information must be included: \n* The identity of the product\n* The amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in the package\n* The California Department of Public Health-issued universal symbol\n* The net weight or volume\nPrimary paneling for edibles must also include the words “cannabis-infused” and note the amount of THC/CBD per serving.\n\nOn the package’s informational panel, the following must be included:\n* Manufacturer's name and contact information (website or phone number)\n* Date the product was manufactured\n* The government warning statement\n* Ingredients list\n* Instructions for use\n* Expiration date\n* Unique ID/batch number\n\nThe informational panel for edibles must also include allergy information, artificial food coloring information and basic nutrition information—like amounts of sodium, sugar, carbs and fat per serving. “For medicinal use only” must also appear on medicinal products.\n\nRemember: These regulations were designed to standardize dosages, educate the consumer, and protect you from harmful and unwanted additives to your cannabis products. Supporting businesses that are following these challenging new regulations is the best way to ensure safe, clean cannabis products from today onward.\n\nPhoto credit: [WeedPornDaily](https://www.flickr.com/people/weedporndaily/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/14b42/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/f836f/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.jpg 200w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/2244e/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.jpg 400w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/14b42/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.jpg 800w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/973fc/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.jpg 1158w","srcWebp":"/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/58556/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/61e93/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.webp 200w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/1f5c5/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.webp 400w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/58556/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.webp 800w,\n/static/2aac4633dfb02ddea1a3c71da6549dd3/53323/6165ab5bf88154baf08175345d6cbc91.webp 1158w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2714-markdown","title":"How LGBTQ Activists Brought Medical Marijuana to the Masses","slug":"how-lgbtq-activists-brought-medical-marijuana-to-the-masses","content":"While marijuana still remains illegal on the federal level, acceptance of the plant is on the rise: In October 2017, a Gallup poll indicated that 64% of Americans were in favor of legalizing marijuana—the highest number since the annual poll was first conducted in 1969. \n\nIt’s easy to forget in this modern, adult-use era of cannabis consumption that the right to use the plant was (and in some places, still is) hard fought, initially by some of the most marginalized members of society: the activists and leaders of the LGBTQ movement. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### The AIDS Epidemic Sweeps the Nation\n\nIn the late 1970s and early 1980s, doctors in New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco began noticing unusual illnesses among young men with same-sex partners. Researchers eventually concluded that the illnesses had to do with a breakdown of the immune system. They eventually gave the syndrome a name: acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), but they were still at a loss on how to treat it. \n\nThis, compounded by the government’s slow response to the crisis, meant that there were no specific drugs to address AIDS, and few available ones to deal with the consequences of immune system breakdown. As a result, the LGBTQ community suffered tremendously: From January 1981 to March 1982, there were [290 reported cases](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.3322/canjclin.32.6.330) of compromised immune systems in the U.S. (the terms HIV and AIDS didn’t exist yet), the majority of which occurred in men with same-sex partners. By 1989, [100,000 people in the U.S. were living with AIDS]( https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001442.htm). \n\nFaced with this epidemic, people with AIDS (PWA) and their allies, many of whom were also pioneers of the gay liberation movement, began to mobilize. “Almost overnight, gay rights activists became AIDS activists, fighting not for equality, but for existence,” writes Clinton A. Werner in his 2001 essay, “[Medical Marijuana and the AIDS Crisis](http://www.cannabis-med.org/iacm/data/pdf/2001-03-04-2.pdf).” \n\nPWA and their supporters began to research possible treatments in other countries, where guidelines weren’t as stringent as those set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). By 1987, the first “buyer’s clubs” for these treatments emerged in San Francisco and New York, giving people access to these alternative therapies. \n\nIn the same year, the FDA also approved a drug called azidothymidine (AZT). While it was effective and manageable for some patients, for others its side effects only seemed to worsen the already debilitating symptoms of AIDS, which included nausea, fatigue and cachexia. \n\n### LGBTQ Activists Turn to Illicit Marijuana to Help Those Suffering From AIDS \n\nMarijuana has been around for centuries, and many seem to be naturally attuned to the plant’s benefits. So, it should come as no surprise that cannabis’s anti-emetic and pain-relieving properties were quickly used throughout the AIDS community for symptom relief, according to the [autobiography of Dennis Peron](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009YBJSAO?ref_=kcr_store_sample), the late marijuana activist. However, cannabis was—unsurprisingly—one of the therapies that buyer’s clubs weren’t allowed to sell. \n\nDennis, who was a prominent figure in the San Francisco LGBTQ community at the time, watched many of his friends succumb to AIDS early on in the epidemic. He notes one incident in which an acquaintance was suffering in the hospital, unable to consume marijuana for fear of repercussion from the hospital’s staff. \n\nDennis and his friends paid him a visit, barred the doors to his room and sat with him all day, smoking cannabis and keeping him company. He recalls the incident as a turning point, in the way he and his friends viewed the plant. \n\n“Suddenly we realized that this oh-so-controversial weed wasn’t just a safer alternative to liquor and hard drugs as we had been using it, but was actually a real therapeutic medicine in its own right. … I saw that the AIDS crisis had made this obvious to anyone who thought about it for even two seconds,” he writes.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA’S STORIED HISTORY: FROM ANCIENT TIMES TO NOW](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ad6746f049b4f000a64e890/marijuanas-storied-history-from-ancient-times-to-now)\n\n### New Drug Program Allows AIDS Patients to Access Cannabis Legally\n\nDennis and his friends weren’t the only ones attuned to how cannabis could help people living with AIDS. Bob Randall, a glaucoma patient, wasn’t a part of the LGBTQ community, but he was a strong marijuana advocate and credited the plant with helping him keep his vision. \n\nBob became the first legal medical marijuana patient in the U.S. via the Compassionate Investigational New Drug (IND) program, which allowed the use of drugs not yet approved by the FDA under special circumstances. \n\nWhen the epidemic hit, a person with AIDS named Steve L. reached out to Bob; he wanted to gain admission into the Compassionate IND program for cannabis, with his doctor as a sponsor. The process took months, but Steve was approved and received his cannabis on Jan. 25, 1990—just 18 days before he would succumb to the disease.\n\nBob wrote an obituary for Steve in _High Times_ magazine; it was noticed by Barbara and Kenny Jenks, a young couple with AIDS. Kenny was a hemophiliac who contracted HIV from a blood transfusion and then subsequently transmitted it on to his wife. They were low-income with few health-care resources. They’d been using cannabis to help with their symptoms until their trailer was raided, and Kenneth was sent to jail. \n\nIn Bob’s eyes, Barbara and Kenny were the perfect spokespeople for promoting the use of medical marijuana for AIDS. They were a young heterosexual, monogamous couple that the majority of society could empathize with.  \n\nTogether with Bob, the couple was approved for the Compassionate IND program, and as a group they started the Marijuana/AIDS Research Service (MARS), an organization that was specifically dedicated to helping AIDS patients navigate the Compassionate IND program’s complicated application process. \n\nMARS was met with enthusiasm in the AIDS community, and the FDA began to receive many applications. However, in 1991, the Compassionate IND program was closed—inciting furor in the public and helping fuel support for Dennis Peron’s next steps. \n\n### Dennis Peron Drafts the Nation’s First Medical Marijuana Initiative: Proposition P \n\nThe AIDS epidemic pushed the concept of medical cannabis into the public’s consciousness. While Bob and the Jenkses fought for medical marijuana access via the federal government, Dennis’s partner Jonathan West was in the late stages of AIDS and using cannabis to manage his symptoms. The police received a tip that Dennis was selling cannabis and proceeded to raid the couple’s home.\n\nDennis was arrested, and at his trial, Jonathan testified that the cannabis found in their home was his, and that he was using it for medical purposes. Based on this testimony, Dennis was released. Sadly, however, Jonathan passed away two weeks later. \n\nThe whole ordeal inspired Dennis to fiercely advocate for medical marijuana access and legalization. Soon after his release from prison, Dennis drafted Proposition P, which he describes as “a eulogy to my Jonathan and to all the young gay men lost to this epidemic.” \n\n[Proposition P](http://www.marijuanalibrary.org/Proposition_P_Nov_1991.html) was the nation’s first medical marijuana initiative. It urged the city of San Francisco to make enforcing cannabis laws the lowest priority. It also urged the state of California to restore “hemp medical preparations” to the list of available medicines in California and listed a broad category of symptoms for which cannabis could be used.\n\nProposition P passed with 80% of the vote. \n\n### The Nation’s First Medical Marijuana Dispensary Is Born in Dennis Peron’s Garage\n\nNow out of jail, Dennis and a few collaborators were making runs around San Francisco, delivering cannabis to PWA. Overwhelmed by demand, they saw a need for a distribution center. \n\nThinking about the buyers’ clubs that already existed for alternative therapies, Dennis wondered if one could be created specifically with the idea of providing marijuana to PWA. Even with the passing of Proposition P, such a concept was still illegal; but he wondered, what if he did it anyway, got arrested and subsequently filed a court case arguing that selling cannabis was a [medical necessity](http://norml.org/marijuana/medical/item/medical-necessity-defense)? \n\nIf Dennis and his collaborators won—and he believed they had a decent chance, they would set a new precedent that would legalize the distribution of cannabis to PWA. Gutsy as ever, and riding the wave of their recent success, Dennis and his team set out to do just that. \n\nThey set up a store in his garage and invited a media outlet to film their first sale. The story was aired on public television.\n\nThey waited for the police to arrive—except the cops never did. Instead, what they got was PWA contacting the news station to find out where the club was and how they could buy cannabis.\n\nAnd just like that, the Cannabis Buyers’ Club, the nation’s first medical marijuana dispensary, was born.\n\n### Public Support Turns Proposition 215 Into Law, Making Medical Marijuana Legal\n\nAccording to Dennis’ memoirs, once the group realized that the San Francisco police weren’t coming to get them, they set out to provide medical marijuana as well as use the Cannabis Buyers’ Club to shape public opinion. \n\nThe dispensary was a press magnet, and the activists gave the media everything they needed to cover a good story: freedom to film, good visuals and most importantly, many PWA who had stories about how the plant was helping them. \n\n“This ongoing series of reports helped synchronize public opinion with the needs of the AIDS patient community directly. These interviews reinforced the crucial message that marijuana is medicine,” writes Dennis.\n\nDennis knew that if there was ever any hope for legalizing medical marijuana in California, he’d need the public’s approval. \n\nThe Cannabis Buyers’ Club eventually grew too big to be contained in Dennis’ little apartment. The club moved to a larger location in San Francisco, where Dennis could cater to more patients and foster a community of like-minded activists. \n\nIt was here, through a network of patients, activists and cannabis suppliers, that Proposition 215, a California law that legalized medical marijuana, would come into fruition. On Nov. 5, 1996, California voters approved the law with 55.6% of the vote. Oregon, Alaska and Washington would do the same two years later. \n\nBy garnering public support and cleverly using their networks, LGBTQ activists led by Dennis Peron were able to change the public’s perception and bring medical marijuana to the masses. These folks were willing to go to great means—facing jail time and even death threats—to ensure that patients could access the medicine they needed. It’s a struggle that we easily forget today, but one that we should remember and honor, especially as we navigate this new era of cannabis consumption. \n\nPhoto credit: [Cannabis Reports](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cannabisreports/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/14b42/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/f836f/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 200w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/2244e/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 400w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/14b42/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 800w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/47498/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/0e329/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 1600w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/470b3/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.jpg 1858w","srcWebp":"/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/58556/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/61e93/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 200w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/1f5c5/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 400w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/58556/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 800w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/99238/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 1200w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/7c22d/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 1600w,\n/static/7855bc34d78216e28225d4a36414f1ca/0be64/2d028ebf57c76921fa9b989e8b2dbeee.webp 1858w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2695-markdown","title":"Why Are Some Cannabis Products  No Longer Available?  ","slug":"why-are-some-cannabis-products-no-longer-available","content":"Have you noticed anything different at your local cannabis retailer since adult-use marijuana became legal in California? Most dispensaries have experienced a sharp reduction in the variety of products they’re currently able to offer consumers.\n\nLet’s take a look at what’s happening with California’s marijuana supply chain to see why certain cannabis products are no longer available.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) &\n[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Paying to Play in the Legal Cannabis Industry\n\nThe cost to become a legal, regulated cannabis business—whether a dispensary, a distributor or a permitted farm— is exorbitant. In Sacramento, for example, [an indoor cannabis farmer will now pay between $9,000 and $28,000 for a city-issued permit](http://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/california-weed/article137258763.html).\n\nThe cost of the city permit is piled on top of state licensing fees, taxes, other local permits and standard start-up business expenses. This entire bundle comes at a steep price. And it’s at the heart of the troubling exodus of mom-and-pop cannabis farmers and producers, who haven’t been able to scale up to meet the rigorous—and expensive—legal benchmarks required to continue their operations. \n\n### Is There Room in Legal Cannabis for Small Cultivators & Businesses?\n\nDuring the heated discussions that led up to the adoption of Proposition 64, cannabis activists told regulators that it was imperative for small cultivators and manufacturers to be protected from the advent of “Big Cannabis.” Historically, the bulk of the nation’s cannabis has been grown and produced by small-scale Emerald Triangle farmers.\n\nBut today, a significant percentage of these farmers can’t afford to make the transition to legal cannabis producers. Their crops aren’t large enough to justify the tens, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars necessary to go legal.\n\nCustomers are already seeing what Hezekiah Allen, director of the California Growers Association, characterized as just one of the many “unintended consequences” of legalization: a startling reduction in the range of cannabis products on dispensary shelves.\n\nRELATED: [OUTDOOR CANNABIS FARMERS FACING UNPRECEDENTED CRISIS IN CA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ac53a5ff24d1300077ccbbb/outdoor-cannabis-farmers-facing-unprecedented-crisis-in-ca)\n\nThis issue is most visible when it comes to cannabis edible products. As investors eye opportunities in the cannabis realm, the world of edibles looms large. More and more people are turning to marijuana edibles as an alternative to smoking or vaping, creating excitement with venture capitalists and large-scale, gourmet food businesses. Conversely, others see the advent of large-scale edibles manufacturers as an [extinction-level event for small producers](https://www.motherjones.com/food/2018/03/the-edibles-market-is-exploding-you-can-bet-big-corporations-are-watching/).\n\n### Marijuana Dispensaries Must Buy From Compliant Cannabis Companies\n\nRussell Green, owner of Kure Wellness, a dispensary in Mendocino County, is one of the only dispensary owners in the region who was born and raised in the Emerald Triangle. A third-generation county resident, Russell’s family grew a little marijuana to supplement the family income.\n\nRussell, who grew cannabis for a living, saw the handwriting on the wall and opened his dispensary three years ago. Today, like everyone else in the industry, he’s trying to put a thick thread into a thin needle. \n\n“Prior to legalization, when a farmer came to me to try and sell his flowers, it was a somewhat laissez faire situation. As a farmer myself, I could easily evaluate which flowers would do well on my shelves. Today, the first thing we have to look at is if the producer has a state license, a certificate of insurance and if their packaging is compliant,” Russell explains. “Right now, you have to be a big enterprise to put out a compliant edible, so customers have seen a shift in the brands dispensaries are currently able to offer.”\n\n### The High Cost of Cannabis Testing \n\nCannabis must be stored in optimal conditions to keep it from degrading. Because of that, dispensaries must purchase only as much flower as they can sell in a short period of time. New regulations require cannabis to be lab tested, and for dispensaries like Kure, the costs of testing are creating additional challenges.\n\n“If I buy three pounds from a farm, it’s hard on the margins. To compete in today’s market, you need to procure 50-pound lots to make testing more affordable. But if I take 50 pounds from a farmer and get it tested, I have to keep the entire 50 pounds,” Russell says. \n\nFor single dispensaries who wish to offer customers a wide selection of flowers, storing hundreds or even thousands of pounds of inventory is unrealistic. This is another reason you may be seeing a reduction in the number of marijuana strains available at your dispensary.\n\n### Well-Established, Small, Cannabis Edibles Companies Having Trouble Going Legal \n\nPrior to legalization, hundreds—perhaps thousands—of cottage-industry cannabis product manufacturers were cooking up a storm, offering up products from the sublime to the ridiculous. Regulators point to the adoption of safe health practices as part of the upside of legalization.\n\nIronically, California’s Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) has allowed for the production of cottage food operations for many years. The bill enables home cooks to prepare and sell a wide array of foods, including baked goods, toffee, jams, nut butters and other items not containing perishable ingredients.\n\nBut AB1616 doesn’t allow for cannabis to be added to these state-approved, homemade products. AB1616 has no crossover with the state’s cannabis regulations, making it even harder for small marijuana edibles companies to become legally compliant.\n\nIf California goes the way of Colorado, in a few years, only a handful of companies will be producing all of the edibles available on dispensary shelves. Even celebrated brands like [Golden Goddess, HigherVeda and Auntie Dolores](http://www.greenstate.com/news/california-marijuana-edibles-makers-are-going-extinct/) are having significant challenges licensing and operating their edibles businesses. Finding a community that approves commercial cannabis kitchens is nearly impossible, even for these well-known producers. \n\nIf licensing fees, taxes and locations to create your product aren’t enough challenges, edibles recipes had to be modified too. To comply with the state’s new regulations, cannabis edibles must be limited to 100 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per packaged item. A few exceptions are being made for a very limited number of items produced solely for medical marijuana patients—such as tinctures—but this costly do-over was yet another unintended consequence of legalization.\n\n### Cannabis Product Packaging Comes at a Price\n\nEdibles manufacturers must also now have compliant packaging. In addition to standard labeling requirements found on any foods—ingredients, allergens and use-by dates— packaging must comply with stringent childproof regulations.\n\nYour cannabidiol (CBD) chocolates or cannabis candies must be sold in a tamper-evident, opaque package. And if they contain more than one serving, the items must be packaged in a container that can be re-sealed to remain childproof. \n\nSome patients with physical limitations have complained that their new edibles packaging and the additional exit bags dispensaries are required to use are extremely challenging for them to open. While everyone welcomes safety, some industry experts wonder if cannabis packaging regulations have gone too far. Some ask how it’s fair that cannabis products are subject to such strict regulations while over-the-counter medications can be packaged in barely childproof containers and sold at grocers or retailers to virtually anyone of any age.\n\n“This is just another example of the continuance of a prohibition mentality prettied up and thrust into today’s legal framework,” grumbled one cannabis producer, who’s currently searching for investment money to re-start their edibles business.\n\n### Legalization Opens Marijuana Manufacturers Up to Crime \n\nAnother area where legalization has raised costs is security. The names of every legal cannabis business are posted on the state’s cannabis website. And with no clear pathway to banking, marijuana manufacturers have nowhere to stash their cash, making them [extremely vulnerable targets for burglary](https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/features/new-marijuana-laws-put-pot-producers-at-risk-w518203). This is compelling business owners to invest in additional security services. Every one of these costly requirements acts as another nail in the coffin of cottage-industry manufacturers. \n\n### Is Anything Being Done to Address the Burden Put on Small Canna-Businesses?\n\nCalifornia continues to remain open to changes in current regulations. Lawmakers and activists are still pressuring regulators to maintain their commitment to supporting small cannabis farms and not just Big Cannabis. \n\nDispensary owners like Russell hope to expand their operations in the future. Russell is committed to supporting local mom-and-pop producers, who are also his neighbors, friends and colleagues—some of the very same folks who helped birth the California cannabis revolution. \n\n“As time goes on, I’m hoping to put up money for shared licenses,” Russell says. “This will provide access for small, boutique producers who would be able cook out of our commercial kitchen, or hash artists who could use a rosin press in our manufacturing facility. This may create an on-ramp allowing our small-batch, artisan producers to competitively return to the market, and a way we can support an essential part of the cannabis community.”\n\nPhoto credit: [Bob Doran](https://www.flickr.com/people/humblog/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/14b42/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/f836f/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 200w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/2244e/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 400w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/14b42/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 800w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/47498/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/0e329/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 1600w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/c4dfe/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.jpg 3034w","srcWebp":"/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/58556/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/61e93/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 200w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/1f5c5/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 400w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/58556/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 800w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/99238/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 1200w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/7c22d/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 1600w,\n/static/cd2402ecdee530eaa8f30fc786a954b4/d9ac8/1816574f6a4bec02cf847b9bb3961b1d.webp 3034w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2686-markdown","title":"Key NY Players Push for Cannabis Decriminalization & Legalization","slug":"key-ny-players-push-for-cannabis-decriminalization-and-legalization","content":"April 20 (aka 420) was an exceptionally fine day this year. Not because folks far and wide came together to celebrate all things cannabis—though we can agree this is a good thing. What set this day apart from past 420s was New York Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer’s introduction of a bill proposing the decriminalization of marijuana on the federal level.\n\nWhat’s essentially an about-face for Senate Minority Leader Schumer, who once advocated for federal drug prohibition, this key piece of legislation would remove marijuana from the [list of scheduled substances](https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml) that classifies cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug on the same level as LSD and heroin.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nSchumer’s bill would also set up funding for women- and minority-owned marijuana businesses and allow for more research on the impact that legalized cannabis consumption will have on the general public. And similar to regulations made in the tobacco and alcohol industries, it would ensure the federal government’s authority to regulate commercial advertising of the plant.\n\nIn an interview with _Vice News_, Schumer said, “This legislation is long overdue. [Criminalizing marijuana] affects communities of color disproportionately and unfairly. And ultimately, [decriminalizing cannabis is] the right thing to do. … Let each state decide on its own, and that’s what this bill allows.”\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spi23-6Cw_k`\n\nWhen asked in the same interview why he’d changed his mind, Schumer replied, “I’ve studied the issue, and we now have some evidence—state of Washington, other states—where [legalized marijuana] has done lots of good and no harm. … Crime did not spike any place. There’s no evidence that young people are using drugs of any type more. The [gateway] issue hasn’t proven to be true, so it all makes sense. So when you get evidence, act on it.”\n\n### Gov. Cuomo Not Yet Fully on Board With Recreational Cannabis Legalization\n\nMeanwhile, at the state level, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo recently released details on [what his adult-use marijuana legalization study will focus on](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/regulated_marijuana/). Key steps will include analysis of:\n\n* Peer-reviewed literature on regulated marijuana\n* The state’s experience with illicit marijuana use\n* The impact of regulated cannabis in other states\n\nNo timeline has been given as to when the study will start and end. But perhaps New York gubernatorial challenger Cynthia Nixon will put the fire to Gov. Cuomo’s feet, getting the governor to push the Department of Health to complete this study with all due speed. Nixon has been vocal about making the legalization of adult-use marijuana a key pillar of her platform. \n\nRELATED: [NY PROPOSES CANNABIS AS A SOLUTION TO THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a7a004ef24d1300077ccb32/ny-proposes-cannabis-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-epidemic)\n\nIf New York Public Advocate Letitia James has her way, recreational marijuana will be legalized by year’s end. She’s vowed to [work with Gov. Cuomo to achieve this goal](https://nypost.com/2018/04/17/letitia-james-supports-legalizing-marijuana-by-end-of-year/).\n\nJames told the _New York Post_: “I don’t see how you can call yourself someone progressive, a leader of the city of New York, and not come out or at least consider the prospect of legalizing marijuana given the adverse impact on communities of color.”\n\nWith 64% of all Americans now in favor of marijuana’s legalization, according to an October 2017 Gallup poll, it would make sense for Gov. Cuomo to finally come around on his opposition to cannabis. If he doesn’t, it could cost him his bid for re-election this year. \n\nPhoto credit: [Kazuend](https://unsplash.com/@kazuend)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/14b42/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg","srcSet":"/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/f836f/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 200w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/2244e/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 400w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/14b42/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 800w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/47498/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 1200w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/0e329/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 1600w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/733d7/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.jpg 3620w","srcWebp":"/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/58556/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/61e93/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 200w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/1f5c5/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 400w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/58556/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 800w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/99238/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 1200w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/7c22d/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 1600w,\n/static/68e2b4f2fbf23538d965d87f5666f013/156fb/1e9a87e18a0476a36c398ca2d0d11b00.webp 3620w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":5,"currentPage":1,"id":5436,"name":"Legalization","slug":"legalization","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}