Author: CannabisNewsWire (CNW)

About CannabisNewsWire CannabisNewsWire (CNW) is an information service that provides (1) access to our news aggregation and syndication servers, (2) CannabisNewsBreaks that summarize corporate news and information, (3) enhanced press release services, (4) social media distribution and optimization services, and (5) a full array of corporate communication solutions. As a multifaceted financial news and content distribution company with an extensive team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that desire to reach a wide audience of investors, consumers, journalists and the general public. CNW has an ever-growing distribution network of more than 5,000 key syndication outlets across the country. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled visibility, recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where news, content and information converge. To receive SMS text alerts from CannabisNewsWire, text “CANNABIS” to 21000 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only) For more information please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: http://CNW.fm/Disclaimer

Software Effective Solutions Corp. (SFWJ) Dedicated to Becoming Leader in Growing Cannabis Sector

A recent report projects that the cannabis market, which totaled an estimated $27.7 billion in 2022, will reach $82.3 billion by 2027
The forecast includes businesses and enterprises involved in the cultivation, processing, distribution and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products
MedCana is building technology, laboratories, growing facilities and scientific teams to provide premium pharmaceutical-grade cannabis extracts to the world

With the worldwide cannabis market projected to see a compound annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 24.3% in the next three years, Software Effective Solutions (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) is committed to strengthening its foothold in the growing space. The company, which is committed to being a global force for better cannabis products, is determined to be the world’s premier resource for pharmaceutical cannabis products.

“The cannabis market is estimated at $27.7 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $82.3 billion by 2027, at a CAGR of 24.3%,” reported a MarketsandMarkets article earlier this year (https://cnw.fm/NorFm). “In recent years, the cannabis industry has experienced significant growth and expansion, driven by increasing legalization efforts in various parts of the world, shifting public attitudes towards cannabis use and recognition of its potential medicinal benefits. This growth has led to the emergence of a diverse range of companies, including large-scale producers, dispensaries, manufacturers of cannabis-derived pharmaceuticals, technology firms developing innovative cultivation and extraction methods, and ancillary businesses providing services such as packaging, branding, and legal support.”

Noting that the term “cannabis industry” refers to the collection of businesses and enterprises involved in the cultivation, processing, distribution and sale of cannabis and cannabis-related products, the article outlines several factors likely to contribute to the sector’s growth, including legalization efforts, product innovation, investment and M&A activity, and the regulatory landscape.

The article also noted that “the medical cannabis segment is expected to continue growing, driven by increasing recognition of cannabis’s therapeutic properties and its potential to treat various medical conditions. Pharmaceutical companies are also investing in cannabis-based medications, contributing to market expansion.” In addition, “The recreational cannabis market is [also] forecasted to see continued growth, particularly in regions where legalization has occurred or is expected. Changing attitudes towards cannabis use and increasing consumer acceptance are key drivers in this segment.”

These factors all point to a promising cannabis sector moving forward, with MedCana committed to doing the work necessary to become a leader in the space. The company is building the technology, laboratories, growing facilities and scientific teams needed to provide premium pharmaceutical-grade cannabis extracts to the world, all with absolute integrity, sustainability and social responsibility (https://cnw.fm/D4Au8).

MedCana is a global infrastructure and holding company in the cannabis industry. The company currently has five divisions focused on pharmaceutical cannabis production, as well a software division focused on managing processes for plant-to-patient operations. The recent acquisition of an irrigation and greenhouse technology division has rounded out MedCana’s portfolio of holdings.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.MedCana.net.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SFWJ are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/SFWJ

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

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420 with CNW — Thai Minister Reveals Government Will Draft Measure to Regulate Adult-Use Marijuana

Thailand’s government seems to be reconsidering its previous commitment to banning recreational cannabis, with a minister proposing a shift toward regulating the rapidly growing industry. Bhumjaithai Party leader and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated that Srettha Thavisin, the prime minister, had decided to look into the possibility of drafting a bill to regulate cannabis sales and use instead of outright banning it.

Anutin thanked the prime minister for taking up the matter and choosing to pass legislation. His party played a significant role in the decriminalization of marijuana in 2022. He also noted that the administration will allow different political parties to submit their draft laws to parliament in addition to Bhumjaithai’s legislation.

While the details of the proposed bill remain unspecified, this move appears to delay Srettha’s contentious plan to ban cannabis, only two years after Thailand became the first southeast Asian country to legalize it.

This month, a Ministry of Public Health drug control committee approved a proposal to categorize marijuana as a narcotic. The proposal was scheduled for review by the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), but discussions between Anutin, Somsak and Srettha preempted the meeting. Had it been approved, the ban would have started on Jan. 1, 2025.

Srettha’s contentious agenda has caused a rift within his fragile coalition government. Throughout the 2019 election campaign, Bhumjaithai — the coalition’s second-biggest party — prioritized marijuana decriminalization, with Anutin being a major driving force on the issue.

However, the decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand took place in the absence of any legal restrictions on its production or distribution. Bhumjaithai later drafted a measure for regulation, but it did not reach a vote before last year’s general election.

Decriminalization led to a booming recreational cannabis market with numerous shops offering various products, including joints and edibles. Amid a moral panic over rising drug use, especially among the youth, Srettha’s party, Pheu Thai, took a tough stance on cannabis, promising during the election campaign to reinstate controls.

Srettha ordered in May for authorities to reschedule marijuana as a category five drug, which will prohibit its production, possession or use. This change is anticipated to take effect by the start of 2025.

Anutin recently stated that he was perplexed by the return to harsh measures and promised to use his position on the ONCB to resist the recriminalization. While Bhumjaithai never completely endorsed recreational use — Anutin’s main objective was to create a business around medical marijuana — he emphasized the importance of conducting additional research before reaching snap judgments.

The recent move by the government to return to a regulated approach is intended to ease the political strain between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, its main coalition partner. This change is likely to be cautiously welcomed by the country’s marijuana businesses and activists, who have been protesting daily outside Government House in Bangkok.

For companies that have their eye on the international market, such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), the reported change of heart by the Thai government regarding the country’s marijuana policy direction could set the stage for some attractive market opportunities.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – 420 Expo Engages IBN, CNW to Drive Visibility to High-Interest Target Audiences

420 Expo, New Jersey’s first-ever BYOC (Bring Your Own Cannabis) consumer expo, has once again selected CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”), a specialized communications platform for the cannabis sector and one of the 60+ brands within the InvestorBrandNetwork (“IBN”), to serve as a media sponsor and the Official Newswire for the convention. Presented by Wakit Grinders, the event is scheduled for September 13-15, 2024, at the New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, New Jersey. As one of the premier cannabis events in the United States, the Expo is expected to host 100+ vendors in the 100,000-square-foot venue with an estimated incredible footfall of 20,000+ attendees and devotees. In addition to scheduled seminars, the Expo’s main stage will feature an eclectic variety of live music and performances, interactive shows, and Q&A sessions with celebrities, contests and more. IBN and CNW will leverage their extensive corporate communications solutions to heighten recognition for the conference and participants by enhancing visibility among investors, journalists, consumers, and the broader public through article syndication via 5,000+ digital outlets. CNW will also feature conference updates on dedicated event pages. “At 420 Expo, we are proud to showcase the latest in cutting-edge technology around cannabis products and associated services, throughout the entire value chain. IBN and CNW have a well-established track record of providing a marked and invaluable thrust to the brand recognition of invited speakers, exhibitors, and the conference as a whole, as well as driving social media presence to high-interest target audiences. Last year’s success with over 20,000 attendees reflected this, and we are confident that this year, we will attract even more interest. IBN and CNW’s unique capabilities have been greatly beneficial to our visibility, and we look forward to collaborating with them well into the future,” said Dan Davis, co-founder of the 420 Expo.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/Kq5qY

About 420 Expo

The 420 Expo is New Jersey’s first-ever BYOC (Bring Your Own Cannabis) consumer convention. As the largest BYOC consumer convention in the Northeast, the 420 Expo is open to all cannabis connoisseurs, budding entrepreneurs, and passionate enthusiasts. At the event, attendees can gain insights and acumen into a myriad of cannabis and CBD industries, as well as engage with renowned thought leaders while enjoying a blow-out weekend packed with all things related to weed. The event immerses attendees in a vibrant atmosphere filled with over 100 vendors, dedicated outdoor consumption areas, food trucks, celebrity appearances, live music and wild stage acts. This one-of-a-kind event is open to the public, providing a remarkable opportunity to celebrate cannabis culture. For more information about the 420 Expo, visit www.420Expo.com.

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420 with CNW — Laboratory Owners Reveal Unknown Compounds Found in Marijuana Samples

The regulated cannabis sector has been facing a significant challenge lately: lab-tested products containing pesticides. More alarmingly, some cannabis samples sent for testing now contain a mixture of unknown compounds not previously identified in cannabis.

According to lab executives, these enigmatic substances emerge during the conversion of hemp-derived cannabinoids into delta-8 and delta-9 THC. The issue is made worse by the fact that testing for cannabinoids, heavy metals and mold is required in most jurisdictions, but testing for these byproducts is not. As such, their impact on customers is still unknown.

Cannabis naturally includes trace levels of delta-8 THC. However, most delta-8 products are synthesized by converting nonpsychoactive CBD, potentially leaving behind dubious byproducts.

According to chemist Susan Audino, who consults with biological and chemical laboratories, these are side reactions of the chemical process. “It is impossible to produce one compound without also producing others,” she added.

According to Josh Swider, CEO and cofounder of Infinite Chemical Analysis Labs in San Diego, up to 60 unknown chemicals are frequently present in many delta-8 products made via chemical procedures. Many of them remain unidentified. This suggests that previously undiscovered cannabis chemicals are being digested and introduced, according to Swider.

ACT Laboratories CEO and chief scientific officer, Bob Miller, pointed out that unethical methods used in THC-potency testing are partially to blame for the paucity of investigation into these unidentified chemicals. “Potency testing creates an opportunity for unethical interactions between labs and grower-processors,” Miller said. “Higher potencies benefit everyone except the consumer because they mean more money for the tests and higher sales prices.”

Miller highlighted that his lab in Michigan has observed an increase in delta-8 THC entering the market, posing a significant issue. “Producers often claim they have hemp and sell it across state lines. In reality, it’s a mix of delta-9 and delta-8 THC,” he said. The conversion process from CBD to delta-9 and delta-8 is often imprecise, resulting in a mix of various compounds, many of which remain unidentified due to the lack of required testing.

Certain molecules that arise from these intricate combinations in lab settings have the potential to be more psychotropic than delta-9 THC. “If we detect significant levels of any compound, we inform our clients,” Miller explained. “Some clients are eager to understand, while others just want us to test for the legally required cannabinoids.”

The tests carried out are chosen by the lab’s clients, the manufacturers of the products. “Manufacturers usually don’t request specific tests if regulations don’t demand them,” said Audino, who also pointed out that the majority of state regulators are lawyers enforcing laws rather than scientists.

Miller drew attention to the fact that the influx of these unidentified substances was unintentionally facilitated by the 2018 Farm Bill, which authorized industrial hemp. “There’s a federal movement to change regulations to eliminate unknown chemistry and stabilize the supply chain,” he said.

Swider criticized the cannabis-lab industry for moving away from science. “Labs have become more cookie-cutter, focusing only on mandated tests and ignoring other potential issues,” he said. Swider believes the industry needs a reset, urging states to establish stricter mandates. “Many labs prioritize profit over safety, and about 70%–80% of them probably shouldn’t be operational.”

Making the needed changes will require the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, including established cannabis entities such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), so that only accepted compounds remain in the products that reach the market.

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Software Effective Solutions Corp. (SFWJ) Takes Critical Steps Toward Achieving Global Production and Processing Vision

MedCana has identified Colombia’s Antioquia Valley as a perfect location to begin its initial rollout of technology and production
The company is working with five subsidiaries in the area, each of which has three licenses to produce, process and export cannabis
Equally important to MedCana is working closely with the people of the Antioquia Valley and maintaining its commitments to its investors

Cannabis legalization is not exclusive to North America. So far, more than 40 countries have legalized cannabis fully or partially for medical and/or adult use (https://cnw.fm/H7Jbq). With its focus on the global horizon, Software Effective Solutions (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) has a vision of building its partner companies into one of the world’s most advanced cannabinoid production and processing organizations.

MedCana has taken the first step in achieving that global mission. Recognizing that ideal climate conditions produce a better yield, the company announced that it has “searched the world over, and we believe the Antioquia Valley, near Medellin [Colombia], is the perfect location to begin our initial rollout of technology and production. We are partnering with companies [in the valley] to begin implementation of our technology and tools with our partners.

“The 6,900-foot elevation and latitude provide optimal spring-like weather year-round,” the announcement continued. “Natural rainfall and multiple artesian springs mean perfect, clean water. The soils are rich, and combined with the long days of sunshine, we can complete four complete growth cycles per year. This means access to highest-quality, inexpensive, certified materials in order to produce the highest-grade pharmaceutical extracts needed by the top pharmaceutical companies in the world” (https://cnw.fm/xCkap).

MedCana is working with five subsidiaries, each of which has three licenses to produce, process and export cannabis. Currently, the five companies are sharing 100 acres of some of the “finest land on earth” for development; the property includes fresh artesian springs, river frontage and majestic countryside.

On top of ideal outdoor growing conditions, MedCana companies are also building greenhouses to take full advantage of all the climate offers. The first phase of production includes an estimated seven acres of initial greenhouse space combined with state-of-the-art monitoring technology and highly trained staff.

“Because of excellent weather, long days and highly skilled, inexpensive labor, costs decrease dramatically,” the company reports. “An average of 12 hours of sunshine every day, perfect local soils, and plentiful rain and natural springs mean we’ll be able to grow up to four full seasons per year without the cost of expensive and power-hungry lighting.”

However, MedCana isn’t singularly focused on profit. Equally important to the company is working closely with the people of the Antioquia Valley and maintaining its commitments to its investors. “MedCana is out to prove you can do good and do well,” the company promises. “Our initial partnership in the Antioquia Valley operation will employ people from the local villages and pay some of the best salaries for agricultural trades in the country. In addition, MedCana will give back to the local communities to improve the lives of the residents. Schools, clinics, and civic projects will all benefit from our operation.

“And by doing good, we’ll do well,” the company continues. “Even with the high local salaries, our partner companies will be operating at costs far lower than in the United States, Europe and Asia. We estimate that all our efficiencies will result in a lower price of finished, top-quality, pharmaceutical grade CBD oil, [with costs] dramatically lower than production in the Northern Hemisphere.”

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.MedCana.net.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to SFWJ are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/SFWJ

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Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) Produces Notable Findings in Latest Weight Loss Study

Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has released interim results from its WEIGHT-A24-1 animal study
The study sought to explore the impact of its patented DehydraTECH technology on glucagon-like peptide-1 (“GLP-1”) drugs for the potential treatment of diabetes and weight loss, representing a major global market
The first 28 days of dosing yielded positive results that Lexaria’s management described as “noteworthy”
It also marked a significant milestone for the company and the first time it has used liraglutide in any of its GLP-1 studies

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery enhancement, just released interim results from its WEIGHT-A24-1 animal study. The study evaluated the company’s patented DehydraTECH technology and its potential to address diabetes and weight loss. The first four weeks of dosing was successful, with Lexaria’s management describing its findings as “noteworthy” (https://cnw.fm/nRqEL).

The first phase of this study involved eight study arms, four of which used varying compositions of DehydraTECH-processed CBD. Two of the arms used reformulated Rybelsus(R) composition, which included DehydraTECH and sodium salcaprozate (“SNAC”) technology. In contrast, the last two used pure GLP-1 drugs, primarily semaglutide and liraglutide, respectively, without SNAC inclusion. This marked the first time Lexaria has used liraglutide in any glucagon-like peptide-1 (“GLP-1”) study.

“This is the first time that DehydraTECH processing was applied to the GLP-1 drug liraglutide, and it is encouraging to witness its relative outperformance,” noted Lexaria’s official reporting on the findings.

Over the course of the study, unlimited food and water were provided to the animals. In the initial acclimation phase, 34 days before the beginning of dosing, the animals gained 10.9% body weight on average. During the subsequent 28 days of dosing, all animals showed either a noticeable decrease in the rate of body weight gain or the beginning of weight reduction. Most notably, DehydraTECH-liraglutide and DehydraTECH-CBD produced the most significant weight loss results at -1.58% and -1.50%, respectively.

For Lexaria, this marks a significant milestone, not just with using liraglutide in its studies but also in closing the first eight study arms and evaluating results from the first 28 days of dosing. An additional 56 days of dosing remains across all treatment groups. Its management is optimistic about upcoming results, with the confidence that the progress achieved will be integral in shaping the outcome of future studies.

Dosing for Cohort 2 of the study has already begun and is expected to be completed in mid-October. This Cohort will feature four study arms, including a positive control arm, a placebo arm, a combined DehydraTECH-semaglutide with DehydraTECH-CBD arm, and a combined DehydraTECH-liraglutide with DehydraTECH-CBD.

This study affirms the company’s focus on both medium-term and longer-term strategies. Its management is optimistic about this undertaking and looks to follow through with it within its set timelines.

For more information, visit the company’s website at www.LexariaBioscience.com.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to LEXX are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/LEXX

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420 with CNW — Oklahoma Court Says It Isn’t Illegal for Pregnant Women to Use Medical Cannabis

The Court of Criminal Appeals in Oklahoma recently made a ruling that women who hold state medical cards and use cannabis during pregnancy cannot be charged with child neglect. This ruling marks an important victory for Amanda Aguilar, who has been waiting almost four years for this outcome.

In 2020, Aguilar was charged with felony child neglect in Kay County following her newborn son’s positive test results for cannabis at birth. This legal dispute has created significant stress for the single parent of five children and limited her employment options.

After learning of the court’s ruling, Aguilar said, “I might have given up if it were about something else, but since it was related to my children, I knew I had to keep fighting.”

Aguilar’s story was first highlighted in the Frontier and the Marshall Project in 2022. During her pregnancy, she used medical cannabis to alleviate severe morning sickness, and she had a doctor’s authorization for its use. Despite her son being born healthy, the hospital reported her to child welfare officials, who then shared the baby’s drug test results with law enforcement.

The recent ruling establishes a new legal standard in the state, where an increasing number of women — even those with valid medical licenses — have been charged with child neglect for using cannabis when pregnant.

According to reports published earlier this year by the Frontier and the Marshall Project, many women who are charged in these types of instances frequently cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Therefore, rather than contesting the charges in court, the majority of them choose to accept plea agreements that result in probation.

The court’s decision made it apparent that although they do not support pregnant women using marijuana, Oklahoma nonetheless permits cannabis use. The court has also urged the state legislature to reevaluate the laws that are now in place regarding this matter, implying that new legislation may be required to address potential criminal charges against marijuana-using pregnant women.

Two judges, however, dissented from the decision, noting that Aguilar’s unborn child lacked a separate medicinal marijuana license. They argued that neither politicians nor voters intended for unborn children to be exposed to medical cannabis when they enacted legislation.

At least five cases similar to Aguilar’s have been dismissed by judges in Kay County in the last year on the grounds that the use of medical cannabis is legal in Oklahoma and that no crimes were committed. Brian Hermanson, the district attorney for Kay County, has filed child neglect charges against many women in the area for drug use during pregnancy, with many of the cases involving medical cannabis. He has filed an appeal in Aguilar’s case as well as one similar to it, arguing that the mothers broke the law by not having their unborn children’s medical cannabis permits.

As these issues are resolved by the courts of law, cannabis companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) will have more clarity regarding the regulatory nuances that exist within the different marijuana markets in the country.

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420 with CNW — Senator Introduces Legislation to Remove Cannabis Use as Barrier to Federal Jobs

A new piece of legislation has been introduced by Senator Gary Peters (D) that aims to alter the way federal agencies evaluate prior cannabis use when determining eligibility for security clearances and employment. The bill, titled the Dismantling Outdated Obstacles & Barriers to Individual Employment (DOOBIE) Act, was proposed on July 11, 2024.

The measure is designed to ensure that previous cannabis use does not negatively impact a person’s eligibility for federal jobs. Currently, federal law still prohibits cannabis users from federal employment and denies them security clearances because cannabis use and possession are still considered crimes at the federal level.

Despite cannabis being legal for medical use in 38 states and for adult use in 24 states, federal restrictions remain strict. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is currently going through public comments on a proposal to reschedule marijuana as a Schedule 3 substance, which would lessen federal restrictions compared to its current Schedule 1 status, where it is grouped with substances such as cocaine and heroin.

The proposed legislation would prohibit the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) together with executive offices from basing employment appropriateness judgments on an individual’s prior cannabis use. Additionally, it would amend current legislation to ensure that previous cannabis use does not prevent one from obtaining security clearances or credentials for personal identification verification.

The bill explicitly modifies guidelines and definitions to conform to modern perspectives and the legal status of cannabis. It makes changes to the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 Section 3002, eliminating marijuana’s classification as a “controlled substance” for security clearance purposes. Consequently, previous cannabis use would not constitute grounds for federal agencies to refuse security clearances or employment eligibility.

The Director of National Intelligence’s (ODNI) Office and OPM are tasked with assisting agencies in implementing these changes and making sure their rules conform with the act. The measure seeks to eliminate barriers to government employment for individuals with a history of cannabis use and lessen the stigma attached to its use.

There have long been initiatives to lessen prohibitions on marijuana users applying for federal jobs. Last year, a bipartisan House measure called the CURE Act, coauthored by Nancy Mace (R) and Jamie Raskin (D), proposed amendments to federal law to remove prior cannabis use as a disqualifying factor for federal employment candidates. The CURE Act also sought to ensure that cannabis use would not be a basis for depriving prospective federal employees of security clearances.

A few federal agencies have already started to implement the changes proposed in Peters’ bill. The OPM released guidelines in 2021 that said an applicant for a federal job cannot be denied solely based on prior cannabis use. The ODNI also revised its guidelines to make sure that government workers and contractors cannot have their security clearance denied based solely on prior cannabis use.

The wider cannabis industry, including leading entities such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), hopes that these different reform measures eventually yield tangible changes to the current marijuana policies at the federal level beyond the anticipated reclassification.

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420 with CNW — New Study Reports Patients Say Marijuana More Helpful for Musculoskeletal Pain Than Conventional Medications

A recent study highlights that more than 20% of patients visiting orthopedic surgeons for chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain have turned to marijuana for relief. Among these individuals, nearly two-thirds found marijuana to be somewhat effective, and more than 90% reported at least slight effectiveness.

The study indicates that 57% of patients considered cannabis more effective than other pain medications, with 40% reducing their use of other analgesics since starting cannabis. However, only 26% had cannabis recommended by a physician for their MSK pain.

The most frequently used cannabinoid among the patients was CBD, with 39% favoring it. Another 20% preferred a mix of various cannabinoids, while 23% were unsure about the composition of their marijuana. Interestingly, among nonusers, about 65% expressed interest in trying cannabis for pain management but faced obstacles such as lack of access, knowledge and evidence.

The study, featured in the “Cannabis Research Journal,” did not aim to definitively prove the effectiveness of cannabis in managing MSK pain. Instead, it focused on usage patterns, self-reported effectiveness and barriers to use among nonusers. The cohort consisted of 629 adult patients (18 years of age and older) with chronic MSK pain who visited Toronto Western Hospital for the first time to see an orthopedic surgeon.

According to the report, 72% of those who had previously used marijuana as a pain reliever still did so as part of their treatment plan. The preferred methods of consumption were oils (57%), smoking (36%) and vaporizing (32%). Common side effects reported were dry mouth (43%), lack of motivation (15%) and fatigue (23%), while 39% experienced no side effects. Additionally, many users found cannabis effective for other symptoms, such as headaches (18%), sleep disturbances (44%) and anxiety (26%), although 43% reported no relief for these symptoms.

Patients obtained the products from various sources, including compassion clubs or dispensaries (43%), licensed providers (34%), and relatives and friends (33%). Despite the relief reported, the study found that users often experienced more pain and a broader range of other health issues. However, the researchers did not attribute these conditions to marijuana use, suggesting that those with more severe conditions might seek marijuana as an alternative or additional relief.

In comparison to nonusers, the study found that marijuana users frequently had more comorbid conditions, such as greater rates of depression, more painful body parts and more frequent trips to pain specialists. This implies that the use of cannabis may be a reaction to more intense pain and discontentment with conventional therapies. Additionally, those who used cannabis also frequently took a broader variety of drugs, including opioids, muscle relaxants and antidepressants. This could mean that people looked to cannabis as a backup therapy when other therapies weren’t working.

Chronic pain syndrome was found to be one of the most reliable indicators of cannabis usage, suggesting that individuals with chronic MSK pain frequently feel unsatisfied with traditional therapies and turn to alternative pain-management techniques. But the largest predictor, which more than tenfold increased the risk of utilizing cannabis for pain management, was prior recreational marijuana use.

The authors called for more double-blind, placebo-controlled trials to better understand the effectiveness of cannabis for pain management, acknowledging the potential for a placebo effect.

These views expressed by marijuana users could give medical cannabis companies such as Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) some additional pointers on how to better position their products to serve the needs of these categories of patients.

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420 with CNW — Kentucky Governor Writes to DEA Admin Supporting Federal Marijuana Reform

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear recently wrote to Anne Milgram, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) administrator, to voice his backing of the Department of Health and Human Services’ proposal to relax cannabis restrictions. The proposal advocates for moving marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

Governor Beshear highlighted that this reclassification would offer patients a safer alternative to harmful opioids, ensuring continued access to reliable products. He also noted that such a move would aid communities in reducing illegal drug use and crime. Additionally, it would level the economic playing field for marijuana businesses and open doors for substantial research opportunities on medical cannabis.

“As a governor, my priority is advancing our state,” Beshear remarked. “Reclassifying cannabis to Schedule 3 is a sensible and crucial step forward for all Kentucky residents, particularly those suffering from serious medical conditions.”

Currently, cannabis is classified as a Schedule 1 substance, which includes substances such as LSD and heroin that are considered to have no recognized medical value. This classification deems marijuana more hazardous than Schedule 2 substances such as Vicodin, fentanyl, methadone, oxycodone and methamphetamine.

“However, the evidence is clear: cannabis has medical benefits and is already being used for medical treatments,” Beshear noted in his letter. “This is a widely acknowledged fact, supported by both parties. For instance, I signed a medical cannabis measure into law, which passed with bipartisan support from a Democratic governor and GOP legislative supermajorities.”

The medical cannabis legislation — State Bill 47 — is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. Currently, the state is processing grower, producer and dispensary licensing applications in preparation for this change. Previously, only residents who met certain requirements could use small quantities of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

In addition, Beshear highlighted his initiatives to address the opioid issue, which he spearheaded while serving as the state’s attorney general. Compared to previous attorneys general, he filed the most individual opioid claims, which helped the state obtain nearly $900 million from businesses that took advantage of Kentucky communities.

The letter further pointed out that in 2022, opioid use resulted in 80,000 deaths across the United States, while marijuana use caused none. This striking disparity, according to Beshear, is the reason Kentucky’s Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Office of Drug Control Policy all support the reclassification of cannabis.

This endorsement of federal marijuana policy reform by Beshear is likely to be welcomed by the broader cannabis industry and its leading actors, such as Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), since it is a step in the right direction of ending prohibition.

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