420 with CNW — Study Enumerates Therapeutic Effects, Quality of Life Benefits of Medical Cannabis

A recent publication in the “Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids Journal,” authored by LECOM in collaboration with AYR Wellness (AYR), delves into the effects of medically approved cannabis on patients’ mental, social and physical well-being. The study showed that patients experienced notable enhancements across these domains, including increased energy levels, within the initial 30 days of treatment with medical cannabis.

This study is the partnership’s first publication; four further studies examining the medical benefits of cannabis are in the works.

The 90-day cohort study involved 103 adults (18 years of age and older) and was designed to evaluate the effects of medically prescribed cannabis on their psychological, social and physical well-being. Every 30 days, participants were required to complete electronic surveys tracking their overall quality of life and cannabis usage.

Furthermore, participants were required to document any negative effects they attributed to cannabis use, such as rapid heart rate, anxiety, dizziness, hallucinations or cognitive impairments. Additionally, participants had to disclose whether they consumed tobacco or alcohol products regularly during at least one-half of the study duration, including within the initial 30 days.

Analysis of the survey data revealed a substantial improvement in participants’ overall well-being and a significant decrease in pain levels between the 30- and 60-day intervals. Notably, individuals who used medical cannabis once daily exhibited the most significant enhancement in general health compared to those who consumed it more frequently, although this finding requires further validation due to the limited sample size of once-daily consumers (n=8).

Participants also reported reductions in emotional constraints, pain and fatigue. Those who consumed alcohol within the initial 30 days reported using medical cannabis less frequently and felt less emotional and energetic compared to nondrinkers. However, the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption did not appear to influence these outcomes.

Individuals treating opioid addiction and PTSD with medical cannabis tended to use higher THC concentrations, whereas those managing anxiety and chronic pain opted for lower concentrations. Dry mouth, cough and increased appetite were the most commonly reported adverse effects, with no significant differences observed across frequency or modes of administration.

The authors noted that these findings contribute to destigmatizing medical cannabis use, highlighting its positive impact on patients’ lives over 90 days. They call for further research to comprehensively elucidate its medical efficacy and long-term effects.

This study goes on to confirm that patients accessing medical marijuana products from many of the licensed enterprises, such as Software Effective Solutions (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) are actually deriving benefits from those products, in contrast to what detractors would want to believe.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to Software Effective Solutions Corp. (d/b/a MedCana) (OTC: SFWJ) are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/SFWJ

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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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420 with CNW — Cannabis Taxes Are Underperforming Expectations in Several States

Approximately one-half of the U.S. population resides in states where recreational cannabis is legally accessible. Furthermore, 11 additional states, including Florida and Wisconsin, are contemplating legalization this year.

One of the primary arguments for the legalization of cannabis is the potential for increased state tax income. However, the amount of revenue generated depends on the regulatory decisions made by each state regarding the cannabis industry and the method of taxation employed.

Taxes on recreational cannabis typically revolve around factors such as potency, price, weight and quantity, similar to the taxation of other “sin products” such as alcohol and tobacco. Taxation of these goods is not merely a revenue-generating mechanism for the government but is also seen as a tool to influence public-health policies and mitigate the adverse effects associated with their consumption. These taxes are intentionally higher compared to taxes on other commodities.

The rationale behind aggressive taxation of such goods lies in the recognition that their usage imposes societal burdens such as increased healthcare costs and violence, termed as “negative externalities” by economists. Research has indicated potential health risks associated with cannabis, particularly among adolescents. Consequently, governments frequently structure cannabis taxes in a manner aimed at curbing its use.

Most states that have legalized cannabis implement a sales tax specific to marijuana. Some use weighted or quantity-based taxation techniques in addition to sales taxes. For example, a set of six cannabis brownies weighing a pound might be taxed based on their quantity or weight. Similar to the taxation of alcoholic beverages in many states, potency-based taxation is also utilized to regulate cannabis consumption. Spirits have significantly higher taxes than beer and wine. Similarly, cannabis can be taxed based on the level of THC.

Washington and Colorado became the first states to legalize cannabis for recreational use in 2012, with sales beginning in 2014. The states adopted an aggressive approach to cannabis taxation compared to others. Colorado, for instance, levies a marijuana sales tax of 15% for consumers and an additional 15% tax based on weight for retailers, in contrast to New Mexico’s 12% sales tax. Washington imposes an even higher tax rate of 37%.

Washington and Colorado anticipated substantial tax revenues from their burgeoning cannabis industries due to the high tax rates imposed. However, these predictions were based on estimates of illegal cannabis usage, leading to an overestimation of legal consumption, which is typically more expensive than illicit drugs.

Former Colorado governor John Hickenlooper predicted that cannabis taxes would bring in more than $130 million during the first year of sales in 2014. However, the actual revenue fell short, amounting to approximately $88 million. Washington faced a similar situation, with tax revenue significantly below projections. Furthermore, both states experienced a decline in tax revenue from tobacco and alcohol products, attributed to a shift in consumer preferences toward marijuana consumption. This led to a reduction in revenue from these sin goods, although overall tax revenue increased postlegalization, albeit not to the extent anticipated by policymakers.

Additionally, states such as Colorado, California and Oregon have witnessed a slowdown or decline in cannabis sales and revenue due to market maturation, leading to a drop in average cannabis prices and subsequent reductions in tax revenues.

Potency-based taxation appears resistant to falling prices, assuming consistent cannabis sales volumes. However, its effectiveness hinges on consumer preferences for products with high potency, which may not align with market realities. Moreover, suppliers could manipulate THC potency to avoid taxes, potentially leading to unintended consequences such as the proliferation of low-potency products.

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all tax structure capable of guaranteeing a steady stream of cannabis tax revenue. While they have an impact on market dynamics, tax laws are not able to completely counteract demand swings. State tax collections are likely to continue declining or at least remain stagnant as the cannabis industry matures and becomes more competitive as additional states legalize its use.

Licensed companies that are bearing the heavy taxes imposed by the states in which they operate, such as Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF), likely long for a time when favorable tax reforms will be enacted so that the regulated market can outcompete the illicit marijuana actors.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – Software Effective Solutions Corp.’s (SFWJ) Eko2o S.A.S. Marks Significant Step in Strategy to Increase Global Footprint

Eko2o S.A.S., a pioneering force in agricultural technology and infrastructure and a majority-controlled subsidiary of Software Effective Solutions (OTC: SFWJ) (d/b/a MedCana), today announced its continued growth and expansion as a key infrastructure supplier for some of Colombia’s largest flower producers. In addition, the company announced it is enhancing its support and sales operations with international partnerships, notably with Danziger International, one of the flower industry’s most respected names. According to the announcement, the expanding partnership with Danziger International marks a significant step in Eko2o’s strategy to increase its global footprint and is expected to boost Eko2o’s visibility on the international stage as well as foster new opportunities globally. “Our solutions stand out in the market, and we are delighted to witness our company’s growth as we expand our reach both domestically and internationally,” said Juan Ricardo Velez, Eko2o’s CEO.

To view the full article, visit https://cnw.fm/kztH7

About Software Effective Solutions Corp.

Software Effective Solutions/MedCana is a holding company focused on developing companies in the agricultural technology and cannabis industries. As MedCana moves forward with its expansion plans, the company remains committed to delivering on its promise of building a solid foundation for the future growth of its 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

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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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Zoned Properties Inc. (ZDPY) Advancing Initiatives Through the Cannabis Sector

The cannabis industry supports communities through job creation, tax revenue generation, social equity programs, and community outreach initiatives
ZDPY focuses on seizing direct-to-consumer real estate opportunities in the regulated cannabis market while enabling businesses to support the communities where they operate
ZDPY’s portfolio includes properties leased to licensed cannabis operators in Arizona, Illinois, and Michigan with 100% occupancy and a weighted average lease term of 10+ years
ZDPY anticipates more than $2.5 million from its property investment portfolio in 2024

The cannabis industry supports the community through job creation, tax revenue generation for essential services, social equity programs, philanthropic efforts, and community outreach initiatives. Additionally, it stimulates economic growth by attracting investment and revitalizing properties, ultimately contributing to community development and enhanced infrastructure.

Zoned Properties (OTCQB: ZDPY), a technology-driven property investment company, focuses on acquiring direct-to-consumer real estate opportunities in the regulated cannabis market while enabling businesses to support the communities they serve.

By investing in cannabis real estate projects and operating commercial properties leased to licensed cannabis operators, ZDPY indirectly contributes to job creation in its target areas. Further, ZDPY’s real estate development projects potentially lead to the revitalization of underutilized properties and the enhancement of local neighborhoods. By transforming properties to meet the needs of cannabis businesses, ZDPY potentially contributes to the overall improvement of community infrastructure and aesthetics.

ZDPY’s portfolio includes properties leased to licensed cannabis operators in Arizona, Illinois, and Michigan. Each project has 100% occupancy and a weighted average lease term of 10+ years, leading to estimates of more than $2.5 million in revenue for 2024.

Michigan has emerged as an example where the cannabis industry has made significant strides in community revitalization efforts. In 2023, the sector generated $87.1 million in excise tax revenue, leading to tangible improvements in public infrastructure (https://cnw.fm/ffXg6).

Municipalities are leveraging these funds for street enhancements and park rejuvenation projects, fueled by licensing fees that reflect the industry’s growth. “This period marks an unparalleled level of street advancement in half a century,” said Mike Burns, City Manager at Lowell, Michigan. With foliage not the only thing going green, the cannabis excise tax is hailed as a key contributor to this urban metamorphosis.”

Besides contributing to local infrastructure, many states have also integrated social equity programs within their cannabis regulations to address the historical injustices of the War on Drugs. With a focus on promoting diversity and inclusion, these programs provide support and resources to individuals from communities disproportionately affected by cannabis prohibition.

Social advocates can look forward to more progress as the industry expands. According to MJBizDaily, total sales of medical and recreational cannabis in the United States reached approximately $33.6 billion by year-end 2023 (https://cnw.fm/L8DMZ). Further estimates by the research group reveal that combined retail cannabis sales in the U.S. are poised to surpass $53.5 billion by year-end 2027, leading to unprecedented opportunities for real estate companies like ZDPY.

Based in Arizona, Zoned Properties is led by Chairman and CEO Bryan McLaren, whose expertise in sustainable community and real estate development spearheads the company’s unique strategy. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, ZDPY is strongly positioned to seize real estate prospects within the swiftly expanding retail cannabis market.

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

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

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420 with CNW — California Authorities Seize Illicit Cannabis Worth $53M

California authorities recently conducted a comprehensive operation aimed at dismantling illegal marijuana operations across the state, seizing more than $53 million worth of illicit cannabis between Jan. 1, 2024, and March 31, 2024. The crackdown spearheaded by the state’s governor’s office targeted search warrants in various counties, including eight in Orange, one in San Joaquin, two in Riverside, one in Los Angeles, two in Alameda, five in Kern and one in Fresno.

During the operation, law enforcement confiscated $53,620,600 worth of illegal marijuana along with 31,866 pounds of unlicensed product and 11 firearms. Additionally, approximately 54,137 unlicensed marijuana plants were eradicated during the multicounty effort.

Governor Gavin Newsom stressed the significance of combating illegal marijuana activities, noting that it not only undermined the regulated market but also posed risks to public health and the environment. He highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering a legal market while aggressively tackling illicit operations associated with human trafficking as well as organized crime.

Established in 2022 by Governor Newsom, the Unified Cannabis Enforcement Taskforce (UCETF) plays a pivotal role in coordinating enforcement efforts among federal, state and local agencies. Led by the state’s Fish & Wildlife Department (CDFW) and the Cannabis Control Department (DCC), with support from the Homeland Security Division of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), the task force comprises more than two dozen partners working collaboratively to disrupt illegal marijuana activities.

The Alcoholic Beverage Control, Cannabis Control, Employment Development, Fish & Wildlife, and Tax & Fee Administration departments, the California National Guard Counter Drug Task Force, the California Division of Occupational Safety & Health, and the California State Parks were among the state agencies and departments that took part in this year’s Q1 UCETF operations.

Since the task force’s establishment, 236 search warrants have been carried out, yielding the confiscation of illicit marijuana valued at $371,199,431. In addition, during enforcement actions, 139 guns and more than 401,458 illegal cannabis plants have been seized so far.

Nathaniel Arnold, CDFW’s acting chief, highlighted UCETF’s dedication to prioritizing high-impact targets and leveraging resources from partner agencies to enhance public safety, protect the environment and support the regulated marijuana market. In parallel efforts, California recently allocated $12 million in cannabis grants to 10 cities and counties statewide, aimed at supporting equity programs for communities disproportionately affected by past drug policies. The funds support programs that help applicants secure startup financing, comply with regulations and receive technical support.

The broader cannabis industry, including leading companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), will be hoping that all jurisdictions where marijuana is legal take firm action against the marijuana black market because it not only threatens the viability of the regulated market but also poses serious public health risks.

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420 with CNW — FDA Boss Says DEA Doesn’t Have Reason to Delay Cannabis Rescheduling

U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) director Robert Califf noted before a House committee on April 11, 2024, that there is no justification for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to postpone making the much-anticipated decision to move cannabis from Schedule I to III of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).

However, Califf suggested that the DEA might treat recreational cannabis differently from medical cannabis, a move that could significantly impact the American marijuana industry. Analysts have speculated on the implications of such a potential distinction, noting that it might result in tax advantages for medical cannabis enterprises over recreational ones.

Califf’s remarks were made during a comprehensive hearing convened by Representative James Comer (R), who chairs the Oversight and Accountability House Committee. Comer raised concerns about the FDA’s oversight of new tobacco products used for nicotine vaporization and its reluctance to regulate products derived from hemp, such as CBD. In response to Comer’s criticisms, Califf shifted the responsibility to Congress, asserting that the current regulatory frameworks are inadequate for CBD and advocating for the establishment of new regulatory measures.

Califf’s discussion on the potential reclassification of cannabis was prompted by a query from Representative Nancy Mace (R), a prominent advocate for cannabis reform. Mace sought updates on the DEA’s assessment of the FDA’s findings from last year, which acknowledged the medicinal value of marijuana and recommended its reclassification to Schedule III.

Califf refrained from providing specific details, noting that he wouldn’t tell even if he knew. However, he emphasized the absence of justification for any delay on the part of the DEA, stressing the need for consideration of existing regulations. He also emphasized the importance of congressional guidance in navigating the cannabis regulation issue.

Drawing a line between recreational and medical cannabis, Califf highlighted the distinction between their respective purposes and routes of validation. While acknowledging the medical benefits of cannabis when used for therapeutic purposes, he cast doubt on its utility for recreational use, suggesting that it lacks medicinal value in such contexts. It remains unclear whether Califf’s insights will affect how the DEA makes a decision.

According to a DEA official, the agency typically takes up to six months to evaluate recommendations from health authorities regarding scheduling changes. This timeframe aligns with the duration since the current assessment of cannabis began. These discussions occurred amid the Biden administration’s efforts to promote marijuana pardons and oversee the cannabis scheduling review.

The entire marijuana industry, including leading companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), will be waiting with bated breath to know what final decision the DEA makes regarding the rescheduling of marijuana under the CSA and the resultant implications for the trajectory of the industry.

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Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) Marks GLP-1 Study Milestone with Ethics Review Board Approval

Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, has received approval for its GLP-1 human pilot study #2 by an independent third-party ethics review board
GLP-1 drugs are utilized in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, a huge market, and are typically administered by painful and expensive injection, offering a major opportunity for Lexaria’s oral delivery platform
This approval sets the company up for dosing within 30 days or less, with tentative study completion dates for this summer
The study will comprise two study arms, the second study arm will investigate whether Lexaria’s patented DehydraTECH(TM)-enhanced semaglutide can effectively absorb into the sublingual/buccal tissues of the mouth with fewer side effects
For Lexaria, this milestone brings it closer to its objective of forging strategic partnerships with leading industry players, ultimately growing shareholder value

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, just announced approval for its GLP-1 human pilot study #2 by an independent third-party ethics review board. The potential use of Lexaria’s oral delivery platform for GLP-1 drugs, typically administered by injection or stomach-upsetting tablets, represents a massive market opportunity. This study approval marks a milestone for the company, with the first dosing set to begin within 30 days or less, and with tentative completion dates for this summer (https://cnw.fm/QDjNj).

The human pilot study will seek to explore Lexaria’s patented DehydraTECH(TM) technology and its overall effectiveness in the delivery of glucagon-like peptide-1 (“GLP-1”). It will involve up to 9 healthy volunteers and feature two study arms, each evaluating tolerability, blood absorption levels, and blood sugar control.

The first study arm will use a Rybelsus(R) composition processed with DehydraTECH and delivered within swallowed capsules. The second arm will explore an oral dissolvable tablet formulation with DehydraTECH-powered semaglutide from Rybelsus(R). This will mark the very first study design to investigate whether DehydraTECH-enhanced semaglutide can effectively absorb into the sublingual/buccal tissues of the mouth and throat with fewer side effects than from swallowed administration and with some adequate level of blood absorption.

Earlier in March, Lexaria announced having hired a contract research organization (“CRO”) to perform this specific study, described as a randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled investigation (https://cnw.fm/fq3mr). This ethics review board approval is a testament to the steady progress of the company. It also allows Lexaria to maintain its current momentum by meeting the study objectives and realizing the timelines set out at the beginning of the year. More importantly, these milestones inch the company closer to forging strategic partnerships with leading industry players, which would be integral in growing shareholder value.

“I am excited about this Study; the Lexaria scientific team believes that a dissolvable oral tablet that delivers an effective fraction of semaglutide along with reduced side effects could potentially offer valuable benefits to the pharmaceutical industry that might lead to a higher likelihood of favorable strategic partnering with leading industry players in GLP-1,” noted Chris Bunka, Lexaria’s CEO.

“Most GLP-1 drugs sold today are administered by painful and expensive injection devices. More effective and tolerable oral delivery of GLP-1 drugs could be extremely valuable to patients and to industry,” he added.

Previous studies have demonstrated DehydraTECH’s ability to improve the delivery of certain drugs destined for the bloodstream. Lexaria hopes to replicate these results in this study to usher in a new era in GLP-1 delivery without the need for painful injections or stomach-upsetting tablets. Its management is optimistic about the study results, and the ethics review board approval brings the company closer to realizing this objective.

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 — Report Shows the US Cannabis Industry Now Employs 440,000 Full-Time

A recent yearly report on marijuana sector employment in the United States reveals a nearly 5% increase in full-time cannabis jobs over the past year, marking a turnaround from the approximately 2% decline compared to 2022. Despite this increase, it represents the smallest annual growth since 2017.

According to the report by Vangst, a Colorado-based cannabis staffing company, and Whitney Economics, an analytics company, legal marijuana in the United States now supports more than 440,000 full-time workers. However, the report highlights that job growth was not evenly distributed across the country.

In states such as Michigan where cannabis sales have increased, significant job growth was observed: 11,000 jobs, representing a 39% increase compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, Missouri, in its first complete year of recreational sales, saw an addition of 10,735 jobs. Utah, Rhode Island, New Mexico, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and Maryland also experienced job growth.

However, more established markets such as Washington and Colorado saw job losses, with the two states reporting a 15% and 16% decline, respectively. California, despite its large market, saw a 6% decrease compared to the previous year. The report attributes these losses to various factors, including cannabis oversupply and a decline in cannabis-related tourism. For instance, the expansion of recreational sales to 20 states has reduced cannabis tourism in Colorado significantly.

Despite these challenges, the report remains optimistic about the industry’s future and predicts a recovery in the upcoming years. It anticipates losses in mature markets to decrease in 2024 and improve once more in 2025.

Looking ahead, the report projects that the legal marijuana industry in the United States will bring in $87 billion by 2035, more than tripling the $28.8 billion it brought in in 2023.

Apart from talking about employment figures, the report also provides insights into the wages of various positions within the cannabis industry. Retail directors make approximately $80,000 a year, whereas trimmers make between $14 to $27 per hour. On the other hand, cultivation directors get about $90,000, while budtenders make about $14 to $22 per hour.

Karson Humiston, CEO and founder of Vangst, noted the importance of their job-tracking initiative, especially considering the lack of federal government involvement in the cannabis industry. While the Vangst report does not delve into the impact of unionization on the industry, it acknowledges the varying trends in state cannabis revenue, noting that sales in new markets tend to grow rapidly. With more states expected to legalize marijuana in the future, the overall cannabis market in the U.S. is projected to continue expanding.

It would be interesting to see the findings of a similar analysis focused on how the marijuana industry is boosting other industries and verticals, such as the real estate niche in which companies such as Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) operate and serve marijuana businesses.

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420 with CNW — Why the UK Needs to Consider Decriminalizing Cannabis As Germany Just Did

Germany recently passed a new law that decriminalizes marijuana possession and cultivation for personal use, permitting individuals over the age of 18 to possess up to 25 grams of marijuana and cultivate up to three plants for personal use. Beginning in July 2024, German citizens can also join cannabis grower’s associations or not-for-profit social clubs that focus on the collective cultivation of cannabis for members’ benefit.

In contrast to Germany’s progressive stance, the UK government maintains its support for cannabis prohibition, which sets it apart from several nations, including certain U.S. states, Canada and Malta.

One of the primary arguments put forth by UK authorities in favor of prohibition is the concern over the potential negative impact of marijuana on mental health. While research has extensively explored the relationship between marijuana usage and mental-health issues such as psychosis, it has been difficult to demonstrate a clear causal association because of ethical concerns.

However, studies have shown a notable correlation between psychosis and marijuana use, suggesting that certain individuals may be more susceptible to developing psychotic symptoms due to marijuana consumption. Research indicates that the incidence of psychosis among marijuana users remains relatively low compared to the overall number of individuals using the substance. For instance, one study estimated that preventing one case of psychosis would require deterring about 40,000 cannabis users.

Decriminalizing marijuana could yield various public health advantages in the United Kingdom, particularly concerning tobacco use. Many marijuana users in the UK use it together with tobacco, inadvertently exposing themselves to the well-known health risks associated with tobacco, including cancer, stroke and heart disease.

However, the illegality of marijuana in the UK complicates efforts by public-health organizations to intervene effectively. Germany, on the other hand, has a thorough public-health education campaign that aims to educate people about the dangers of cannabis usage. This contrasts with the lack of quality control and information in illicit markets where cannabis remains prohibited.

Notably, political parties such as the Conservatives and Labor have demonstrated little willingness to decriminalize marijuana despite the substance being widely used in the region. Surveys showing public support for current policies may have an impact on this hesitation.

Moving beyond decriminalization to legalization could offer substantial financial benefits. Estimates suggest that legalizing marijuana in Germany could generate annual tax revenue of approximately $4 billion, similar to the regulated market in Canada. Given the financial strain on public services, particularly the NHS, persisting with marijuana prohibition in the UK represents a missed opportunity for public health and is a costly policy choice.

The step that Germany has taken in decriminalizing marijuana could trigger a domino effect round the bloc and create a robust international market for companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), which may be interested in growing their footprint outside their primary North American market.

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InvestorNewsBreaks – Diamond Lake Minerals Inc. (DLMI), BOXABL Partner to Make ‘Quite the Impact’ in Affordable Housing Market

Diamond Lake Minerals (OTC: DLMI), a forward-thinking multi-strategy operating company specializing in digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens, today announced the beginning of its long-term real estate vision and working relationship with Boxabl, Inc. (“BOXABL”), a revolutionary modular home building company. According to the announcement, the partnership with DLMI “further expands the use cases of BOXABL where together they can identify, design and develop beautiful communities, known as BOXABL Villages.” The announcement further noted that DLMI’s leadership and position on the future of finance through security tokens, combined with all traditional means, will create additional unique opportunities for these villages to thrive and scale. Brian J. Esposito, CEO of Diamond Lakes Minerals, said, “I am also very excited to share this monumental day with our loyal and growing DLMI shareholders. DLMI and BOXABL working together to develop not only the BOXABL Village Concept, but also utilizing the large reach and influence we have created here at DLMI to provide solutions to affordable housing. The crisis that the housing market industry is experiencing is in desperate need of a realistic, attainable fix. I truly believe that BOXABL is the first modular home company to crack the code on this, and together we intend on making quite the impact.”

To view the full press release, visit https://ibn.fm/7xR5c

About Diamond Lake Minerals Inc.

Founded in Utah in 1954, Diamond Lake Minerals is a multi-strategy operating company that specializes in the development and support of digital assets and SEC-registered security tokens. Its goal is to responsibly innovate and develop valuable traditional businesses and successfully combine them with the future of money and digital assets. The company’s mission is to bring back to the public markets timeless business principles that are focused on healthy sustainable growth and strong earnings that generate yields combined in a modern digital world creating value for its stakeholders. DLMI is positioning itself as an industry-agnostic leader in the digital asset and security token space. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.DiamondLakeMinerals.com.

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

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