CannabisNewsBreaks — Alternative Products Expo Announces Largest Event for Counterculture, Vape Industries

Alternative Products Expo (Alt Pro Expo) has schedule an upcoming expo, slated for March 14–16, 2024, in Miami. Presented by ZJ Events, Alt Pro Expo’s Miami Expo 2024 will be an in-person event designed to be the world’s largest and most comprehensive event for the counterculture and vape industries. The event agenda features hundreds of top manufacturers, buyers, suppliers, innovators, vendors, researchers, aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned industry professionals. The Miami event follows a series of similar gatherings held throughout North and South America; these events have become recognized for offering a revolutionary business-networking atmosphere showcasing a diverse portfolio of cutting-edge products, including vape and hemp products, CBD, disposables, kratom, mushrooms, functional beverages, dietary supplements, nootropics, nicotine replacements, energy enhancers, mood changers and accessories. Presenters during the three-day event include C-suite executives and senior representatives from well-known companies such as Lightfire Group, Trinity Hemp, Happy Distro, fume by QRJOY and ZETA.

“The Alternative Products Expo stands as the preeminent platform in the counterculture industry, designed to drive market awareness, showcase innovation, and foster lasting professional connections,” said ZJ Event director of partnerships Sebastian Carmona in the press release. “As the premier expo for smoke shop professionals, we are delighted to return to Miami — a city steeped in strategic and historical ties to South America. This three-day event offers a unique opportunity for industry veterans, enthusiastic consumers and newcomers alike.”

To attend the event, visit https://cnw.fm/4K9op

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

About Alternative Products Expo

Alternative Products Expo, formerly USA CBD Expo, is a production of ZJ Events. Company founders were once exhibitors who, after attending countless trade show events, saw an opportunity to build upon their experience and create an event that combined the best they had seen, with their own notion of what was missing in these business gatherings. By bringing the alternative community together, the company seeks to provide industry professionals from all corners of the market with an immersive and unique opportunity for networking and business expansion. For more information about the company, visit www.AltProExpo.com.

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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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CannabisNewsBreaks – Zoned Properties Inc. (ZDPY) Moves to Grow Investment Portfolio with Strategic Acquisition, Lease Agreement for Arizona-Based Property

Zoned Properties (OTCQB: ZDPY), a leading real estate development firm for emerging and highly regulated industries, including legalized cannabis, today announced its receipt of final cannabis approvals related to an investment property in Surprise, Arizona. The company is under contract to acquire the property upon completion of initial site work by the selling developer. In addition, Zoned Properties has entered into a long-term, absolute-net lease agreement with a best-in-class Arizona cannabis company, Sunday Goods, to operate a retail dispensary. “Arizona’s cannabis market stands out as one of the most dynamic and consumer-driven in the United States. The strongest brands in the nation look to Arizona to create consumer market awareness. Following this acquisition, we expect to near $3 million in passive rental revenue annually. We continue implementing our plan to grow our investment portfolio by adding best-in-class operators and direct-to-consumer assets with attractive cap rates. This lease with Sunday Goods further diversifies our tenant roster with a cannabis brand that will establish the property’s highest and best use at this retail location,” said Zoned Properties CEO Bryan McLaren. “We are excited to strengthen our tenant roster with such a high-quality brand in Sunday Goods and look forward to expanding our relationship with their executive team.”

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/ncBB2

About Zoned Properties Inc.

Zoned Properties is a technology driven property investment company focused on acquiring value-add real estate within the regulated cannabis industry in the United States. The company aspires to innovate within the real estate development sector, focusing on direct-to-consumer real estate that is leased to the best-in-class cannabis retailers. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Zoned Properties is redefining the approach to commercial real estate investment through its standardized investment process backed by its proprietary property technology. Zoned Properties has developed a national ecosystem of real estate services to support its real estate development process, including a commercial real estate brokerage and a real estate advisory practice. With a decade of national experience and a team of experts devoted to the emerging cannabis industry, Zoned Properties is addressing the specific needs of a modern market in highly regulated industries. The company targets commercial properties that face unique zoning or development challenges, identifies solutions that can potentially have a major impact on their commercial value, and then works to acquire the properties while securing long-term, absolute-net leases. Zoned Properties targets commercial properties that can be acquired and rezoned for specific purposes, including the regulated and legalized cannabis industry. It does not grow, harvest, sell or distribute cannabis or any substances regulated under United States law such as the Controlled Substance Act of 1970, as amended (the “CSA”). Zoned Properties corporate headquarters are located at 8360 E. Raintree Dr., Suite 230, Scottsdale, Arizona. For more information, call 877-360-8839 or visit 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 — Pennsylvania Bill Seeks to Allow Medical Cannabis Users to Own Guns

Pennsylvania’s Erie GOP Senator Dan Laughlin is initiating a measure to change the gun ownership laws, enabling medical cannabis users to possess firearms. Laughlin argues that Second Amendment rights shouldn’t be violated because medical marijuana is a legitimate treatment for symptoms. Laughlin notes that the amendment is aimed at defending constitutional rights and personal liberty.

However, changing state laws will not be enough because federal law forbids marijuana users from owning firearms. The senator, who is surprised by the federal government’s passivity, takes inspiration from a case filed by the district attorney of Warren County against federal limits.

Robert Greene, the district attorney for Warren County and a certified medical marijuana patient in Pennsylvania, filed a lawsuit against the government about the prohibition of gun ownership by cannabis consumers.

Pennsylvania Family Institute President Michael Geer opposes Laughlin’s effort, citing possible risks associated with combining marijuana and firearms. Without recommended amounts, he claims, users run the risk of misuse, especially when using high-THC cannabis products.

Nevertheless, Laughlin, who humorously acknowledges his role as a leading advocate for marijuana legalization within the GOP, remains undeterred. Last year, Laughlin wrote to Pennsylvania’s acting police commissioner, asking him to review a federal decision that declared the federal prohibition on cannabis users owning firearms to be unlawful.

The senator’s advocacy for medical marijuana patients’ gun rights comes as state officials contemplate the legalization of recreational cannabis. Recently, Governor Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal called on legislators to move forward with legalizing cannabis for recreational use, emphasizing the need to stay up-to-date with surrounding states.

There is a growing interest in legalizing recreational cannabis in both chambers, with Laughlin leading the legalization reforms in the senate. The House of Representatives, which is now controlled by Democrats, has had several hearings on the issue. A recent poll reveals substantial public support for recreational cannabis legalization in Pennsylvania, with approximately two-thirds of voters endorsing the policy change.

Meanwhile, federal and state laws that prohibit drug users from purchasing firearms have presented challenges for authorities and Second Amendment supporters as more jurisdictions legalize cannabis. Notably, federal law stipulates that it is illegal to purchase or carry a firearm if one uses cannabis or any other restricted narcotic.

However, the act that gave rise to that ban has recently been contested in several courts, with some ruling that the restriction is unconstitutional.

The DOJ has staunchly supported the policy, arguing that people who use cannabis present distinct risks to society that warrant denying them their Second Amendment rights.

This bill is likely to be of interest to many cannabis companies such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) as its outcome could set a precedent that many other jurisdictions with medical marijuana markets may try to emulate.

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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 — Why the Federal Government Is Not Acting Fast to Reform Cannabis Laws Despite Public Support

The legal status of cannabis remains complex in the United States, with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) playing a central role. For years, the agency has maintained that cannabis is a highly dangerous and addictive drug and lacks medical value, despite contrary evidence from public opinion, medical research and state laws.

This has led to a situation where marijuana is readily accessible in certain states, heavily penalized in others and federally illegal throughout the country. According to Carmel Shachar, a professor at Harvard School of Law, the U.S. courts or Congress could resolve this confusion, but so far, there’s been limited action.

Currently, the DEA classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, alongside ecstasy, heroin and LSD. This classification indicates that the substances have a high addiction and abuse potential with no recognized medical benefits. Shachar points out the irony of cannabis being more restricted than substances such as morphine and cocaine, which are classified as Schedule II and acknowledged to have medical uses.

Marijuana’s Schedule I classification presents significant barriers to research into its potential medical benefits, creating a cycle where its value cannot be proven due to federal restrictions. Cannabis has remained under this classification since 1971, when it was initially added to the list under President Richard Nixon. According to experts, Nixon’s decision was influenced more by political motives than scientific evidence.

At the moment, the next potential development involves the DEA considering reclassifying cannabis to a lower schedule, though this wouldn’t federally legalize the substance. Advocates view this as a symbolic step in the right direction while also recognizing that it falls short of meaningful change.

Reclassification to Schedule III would allow for medical prescriptions but wouldn’t resolve the conflict between federal and state laws. To fully address this conflict, though still distant, cannabis would need to be removed from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) altogether, according to experts. This means cannabis would be regulated in the same way as tobacco and alcohol.

National polls indicate that public support for cannabis legalization is high, with 70% of U.S. citizens in favor, according to a Gallup survey. Additionally, only 10% of people, according to a 2022 Pew Research Center poll, think the substance should be outlawed. By contrast, 30% favor legalization for only medical purposes, while 59% favor legalization for recreational and medical purposes.

Despite the overwhelming support, legalization progress is slow because of several factors, including differing opinions among legislators and concerns about potential health risks. As advocates note, while rescheduling is a positive step, it’s insufficient, and there’s no justification for marijuana to remain under federal regulation.

The cannabis industry, including entities such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), is focused on operating within the existing regulatory frameworks at state and federal level as it advocates for further reforms to be enacted.

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Astrotech Corp. (NASDAQ: ASTC) Reports 512% Jump in YTD Revenue

Astrotech reported financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2023, recording year-to-date revenue of $1,540,000
The company attributed the growth to the successful fulfillment of two significant purchase orders for the TRACER 1000(TM), the world’s first mass spectrometer-based explosive trace detectors (“ETD”), to customers in Romania
Astrotech is focused on commercializing its innovative platform mass spectrometry technology through its wholly owned subsidiaries 1st Detect Corp., AgLAB Inc., Pro-Control Inc., and BreathTech Corp.
The company and its subsidiaries are positioned to capitalize on burgeoning markets, including the global mass spectrometry market, expected to grow from an estimated $6.77 billion in 2024 to $9.17 billion by 2029

Astrotech (NASDAQ: ASTC), a science and technology development and commercialization company, focused on commercializing its innovative platform mass spectrometry technology through its wholly owned subsidiaries, recently released financial results for the three months ended December 31, 2023 (“Q2 2024”).

The company recorded a 512% jump in its year-to-date (“YTD”) revenue to $1,540,000 from $301,000 in the comparative period a year before. Astrotech attributed this growth primarily to two significant purchase orders for the TRACER 1000(TM) explosive trace detectors (“ETDs”) to customers in Romania, which the company, through 1st Detect Corp., successfully delivered on (https://cnw.fm/bDHtl).

The subsidiary 1st Detect develops, manufactures, and sells mass-spectrometer-based trace detectors – including the TRACER 1000(TM), the world’s first mass spectrometer-based ETD – for use in the security and detection markets. It is one of Astrotech’s wholly owned subsidiaries formed to explore and capitalize on opportunities in disparate markets. The other subsidiaries include Astrotech Technologies Inc, AgLAB Inc., Pro-Control Inc., and BreathTech Corp.

A recent SNS Insider article (https://cnw.fm/4ermr) confirms that “the Explosive Trace Detection Market is witnessing significant growth driven by increasing security concerns, particularly in transportation, critical infrastructure, and public spaces”. Specifically, it indicates: “The Explosive Trace Detection Market, valued at USD 1137.50 million in 2022, is projected to achieve a significant milestone, reaching USD 2250.60 million by 2030.” This market is yet another fast-growing and important opportunity for 1st Detect and the superior mass spectrometry technology it offers. The article continues that “there is a growing demand for advanced ETD systems that offer higher sensitivity, faster detection times, and improved ease of use”, the very capabilities that 1^st Detect represents. In particular, 1st Detect holds an exclusive AMS Technology license from ATI for air passenger and cargo security applications.

For its part, AgLAB has developed a mass-spectrometer-based chemical analyzer, the AgLAB 1000 series, and the AgLAB Maximum Value Process(TM) (“AgLAB MVP for use in botanical distillation and specifically, the hemp and cannabis sectors. AgLAB uses its proprietary mass spectrometry instrumentation on the manufacturing floor to test and analyze distilled cannabidiol (“CBD”) and tetrahydrocannabinol (“THC”) oils quickly, easily, and continually, providing immediate information that not only maximizes potency but also improves the ending weight yields of every batch. According to AgLAB’s analysis, its mass spectrometers improve yields by an average of 34% (https://cnw.fm/2bp9w).

The U.S. cannabis market, which combines the recreational cannabis, medical cannabis, and therapeutic cannabis segments, is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, according to Statista, reaching a projected $39.85 billion in revenue in 2024 and $67.15 billion by the end of 2028. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 13.93% during this forecast period (https://cnw.fm/SApA8). Globally, the cannabis market is projected to reach revenue of $60.79 billion in 2024 and $102.90 billion by 2028, representing a CAGR of 14.06% (https://cnw.fm/AksQn).

Beyond the U.S. cannabis and cannabinoids markets, Astrotech is positioned to capitalize on and benefit from the growth in the global mass spectrometry market, which is expected to grow from an estimated $6.77 billion in 2024 to $9.17 billion by 2029, representing a CAGR of 6.25%. “One of the major driving factors for the growth of the mass spectrometry market is the technological advancements in mass spectrometer devices,” wrote Mordor Intelligence in its report (https://cnw.fm/ZARLT).

Pro-Control subsidiary is expected to benefit from the global industrial automation and control systems market that is valued at USD 172.26 billion in 2022 with a compound annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 10.5% from 2023 to 2030. The Pro-Control 1000(TM) mass spectrometer is designed to measure, test, and increase efficiencies in the chemical manufacturing processes.

Pro-Control MVP(TM) uses mass spectrometry instrumentation to monitor and control the fractional distillation of bulk chemicals using real-time in-process samples. “The Pro-Control subsidiary was launched late Q2 2024, and we look forward to introducing Pro-Control to chemical manufacturers who are using all types of distillation,” said Thomas B. Pickens, III, Astrotech’s Chairman, CEO, and CTO.

The BreathTech subsidiary is continuing its development of a breath analysis device that can provide early detection of lung diseases so that targeted antibiotics can be administered within minutes vs. days under current lab conditions. “The early BreathTech work was focused on COVID, but as vaccines were introduced and the effect of the disease outbreaks diminished, we have expanded our breath work to include other lung diseases that would benefit from early identification,” said Mr. Pickens.

The BreathTech subsidiary is continuing its development of a breath analysis device that can to provide early detection of lung diseases so that targeted antibiotics can be administered within seconds vs. days under current lab conditions. “The early BreathTest work was directed exclusively to COVID, but as the vaccines too effect and the disease outbreaks diminished, we have expanded our breath work to include other lung diseases that would benefit from early identification. The testing of these diseases is ongoing and we remain optimistic over our most recent results,” said Mr. Pickens.

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

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

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Lexaria Bioscience Corp. (NASDAQ: LEXX) Announces Closing of $3.6 Million Registered Direct Offering

Lexaria, a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, just announced $3.6 million in gross proceeds from its registered direct offering priced at the market
The proceeds will go to critical R&D studies, patent, and legal costs, as well as general working capital purposes
This is timely, given Lexaria’s resolve to double down on GLP-1 investigations for the 2024 calendar year

Lexaria Bioscience (NASDAQ: LEXX), a global innovator in drug delivery platforms, recently announced that the registered direct offering for the purchase and sale of 1,558,443 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.31 – at the market under Nasdaq rules – per share yielded approximately $3.6 million in gross proceeds. This was offered by the company pursuant to a “shelf” registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-262402), and it opens Lexaria to important new opportunities for the 2024 calendar year (https://cnw.fm/9CHup).

Most notably, Lexaria intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for research and development (“R&D”) studies, and the associated patent and legal costs. It also intends to use the funds for general working capital purposes, important for its current focus on GLP-1 clinical studies for the 2024 calendar year.

“Our R&D plans for 2024 are very tightly focused and will be concentrated mainly on GLP-1 investigations,” noted Chris Bunka, Lexaria’s CEO (https://cnw.fm/RIBhV).

In 2023, Lexaria laid down the groundwork for its GLP-1 clinical studies. The company achieved positive interim and final human pilot study results using a single semaglutide dose of a Rybelsus(R) tablet to a matching dose of Rybelsus that had been processed with DehydraTECH (TM) processing technology enhancements.

“Frankly, the results surprised us with their level of positivity,” noted Mr. Bunka.

“It was found that DehydraTECH processing: delivered a statistically-significant higher proportion of the semaglutide, and did so more quickly (very typical of results for our technology); reduced the quantity and severity of unwanted side effects; and had a statistically-significant impact on blood sugar in general and much more effectively after eating a meal, than did Rybelsus,” he added.

These results inspired the confidence of Lexaria’s team. In addition, the FDA’s recognition of GLP-1 drugs, having offered approvals as recently as 2021 and 2022 due to its health benefits, incentivized Lexaria to double down on this specific study. Consequently, the $3.6 million could not have come at a better time. Mr. Bunka and the rest of Lexaria’s management are optimistic that with this focus, the team’s hard work will prove its worth this year.

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 – Legal Opinion Asserts That Rescheduling Cannabis Won’t Violate US International Obligations

A recent legal opinion has challenged the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (“DEA”) stance, suggesting that international treaties related to drugs should not hinder cannabis rescheduling as recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (“HHS”). According to the opinion, doing so would be more in line with the country’s duties under international legislation to regulate marijuana in a manner that safeguards public safety and health.

Prepared by lawyers from Vicente LLP and Porter Wright LLP firms, the opinion aims to counter the DEA’s assertion in 2016, when it denied a previous request for a cannabis rescheduling. At the time, the agency maintained that cannabis could not be classified under a less stringent schedule than Schedule II because of international drug agreements.

The legal paper contends, however, that these treaties give countries enough latitude to create drug laws that put national welfare and health first, even if doing so means ending prohibition.

The Coalition for Cannabis Scheduling Reform, an advocacy group and association representing various marijuana-related groups and businesses, commissioned the paper, which has been shared among members and in private with key government figures.

While concerns have previously been raised by individuals such as Representative Andy Harris regarding treaty obligations, noting potential violations of the Single Convention of 1961, a group of senators has highlighted revisions to global marijuana scheduling laws, citing countries such as Canada, which have legalized and regulated cannabis without repercussions. The writers point to Canada and Uruguay in support of their reading that international drug treaties broadly support regulating drugs for safety, research and medical applications. Further, they note that the DEA has in the past rescheduled a cannabis-based medication, Epidiolex, after it received FDA approval, showing that there has been precedent for changing the categorization of cannabis.

The opinion not only refutes the notion that drug treaties forbid cannabis reclassification, but it also emphasizes the member nations’ latitude in upholding treaties even when doing so contradicts their internal constitutions.

This becomes especially important in the case of the adult-use cannabis markets that are already operating and have been approved by state legislation. The opinion argues that closing state markets on treaty grounds would violate states’ fundamental constitutional rights and highlights the existence of treaty exceptions when constitutional constraints are in effect. Moreover, the opinion underscores the legal discrepancy between the final rule and final order in DEA rescheduling proceedings, suggesting that treaty obligations could enable the agency to bypass the rulemaking process.

The legal opinion above could help shape the final decision that the DEA makes, although industry actors such as Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) are only awaiting a communication from the federal agency so that they can assess how their strategic plans could evolve based on the changed regulatory climate in the United States.

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First Marijuana Consumption Lounge in Nevada Set to Open by Month’s End

Earlier this month, the Nevada Cannabis Control Board announced that it had awarded its first marijuana consumption lounge license. This announcement comes after the board approved a handful of these licenses over the last couple months.

The first to receive a lounge license was Thrive Cannabis Marketplace. Mitch Britten, CEO and managing partner of Thrive, stated that the company was honored to be at the forefront of the marijuana industry in Nevada through the official launch of the first regulated marijuana lounge in the state.

Britten revealed that the company had created a unique destination for marijuana enthusiasts to enjoy an assorted range of premium products in an engaging atmosphere. The lounge, dubbed Smoke and Mirrors, will provide a curated selection of premium marijuana products, including infused beverages.

It is important to keep in mind that alcohol will not be offered on the premises in accordance with state law. The compliance board also issued a statement about the company, noting that it was the first lounge that was inspected by its agents and adhered to the stipulated regulations.

A conditional license was issued to Thrive in June of last year. The zoning commission from Clark County then issued the company a special use permit in September. The lounge was then inspected in February of this year, which enabled Thrive to obtain its operation license.

In addition, the Nevada Cannabis Control Board revealed that 19 lounges had received approval for conditional licenses thus far. Of this number, five are independently situated and 14 are attached to dispensaries. The first independently located consumption lounge to receive a license was LA Lounge LLC.

Thrive’s lounge will operate in what was once a strip club and may be launched by the end of February, if all goes well.

Tyler Klimas, former executive director of the cannabis control board, recently discussed marijuana consumption lounges on a Weed Wonks podcast. He talked about how this was an unknown space and noted that many businesses would be launched in the near future.

The other consumption lounge that received a conditional license, Planet 13, issued a statement on a possible date for its launch. Larry Scheffler, Planet 13 co-CEO, stated that the company’s objective was to create an extraordinary space for marijuana connoisseurs, novices, locals and tourists to enjoy marijuana while experiencing world-class entertainment. The Planet 13 lounge will have bong chandeliers, VIP booths and marijuana cocktails.

The third conditional license was granted to SoL Cannabis.

The launch of these consumption lounges is likely to be watched closely by cannabis companies such as TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) since their success is likely to be copied in other jurisdictions where legal sales of adult-use marijuana exist.

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420 with CNW – Medical Cannabis Could Be Legalized in Spain, But Not Everyone Is Thrilled

Spain is making strides toward legalizing marijuana for medical use, with the Health Ministry initiating the introduction of new legislation to sanction its therapeutic application across various conditions. Reports from the Spanish media indicate that the proposed law is currently undergoing a phase of consultation and discussion. Residents, professionals and experts are asked to contact the ministry via email during this period to express their views on the subject.

Recently, Spain health secretary Javier Padilla had talks with scientific societies and professional associations after holding conversations with the EU Observatory of Marijuana Consumption and Cultivation. Further consultations are planned with the Spanish OECM.

The ministry noted that the upcoming bill is a well-thought-out policy based on recent scientific findings. Additionally, it said that the effectiveness of marijuana as a therapy alternative will be regularly assessed, with an emphasis on patient safety and product quality.

The regulatory framework aims to remain adaptable, rapidly integrating new evidence on marijuana’s medical benefits as it emerges.

However, there are dissenting voices, particularly regarding the exclusion of cannabis buds and home cultivation, which many patients advocate for. Initial provisions suggest that authorized medical cannabis products will primarily comprise oils, prescribed solely by SNS-approved doctors rather than private entities. Furthermore, only hospital pharmacists will be able to dispense the medications, which will restrict accessibility in comparison to the widely available corner dispensaries.

Currently, eligible patients include those undergoing chemotherapy for managing symptoms such as refractory pain, seizures, vomiting and nausea. The list of qualifying conditions is expected to expand in the future, according to sources.

Spain’s move toward medical marijuana legalization aligns with similar efforts in other European nations, including Portugal and Norway. The decision also reflects the growing demand for medical marijuana, with Spain projecting a significant increase in production to meet patient needs.

The Health Ministry anticipates producing 36 tons of medical marijuana this year, which is a 12.5-ton increase from last year. The increase is in line with a significant upward trend in medical marijuana output in the nation that began in 2022.

Approximately 400 kilograms were produced in 2018, according to the AEMPS, with an estimated 600 kilograms produced in 2021. This amount, however, increased dramatically to six tons in 2022 and then further quadrupled to 24 tons in 2023. More than 80% of this amount was exported for use as medical marijuana, with less than 20% reserved for research.

The numbers indicate that Spain has surpassed Portugal, which is frequently regarded as the center of Europe’s medical marijuana export industry and is predicted to generate 32 tons this year.

The growing wave of cannabis law reform around the world could open many international markets for established cannabis companies such as Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) that have gained immense experience in the North American market where they currently operate.

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420 with CNW – Prohibitionist States See Nearly Double Search Traffic for Delta-8 THC as Legal States

A recent study on the online search behavior concerning delta-8 THC says that the cannabinoid seems to be substantially more common in states where cannabis is still prohibited, based on information obtained from Google Trends. According to an analysis by CBD Nationwide, delta-8 THC online searches were almost twice as common in states where recreational marijuana is still illegal. This indicates that there has been a notable movement toward other cannabinoids in reaction to marijuana prohibitions.

A contributing factor to the popularity of delta-8 in these states is its extensive availability, both online and in physical stores such as gas stations, smoke shops and convenience stores. The cannabinoid, which is usually derived from hemp or synthesized from different parts of the plant, is legal in the United States.

According to the company, the difference in interest in the substance between states with differing cannabis laws was statistically significant, and the results were unlikely to have been caused by random chance, as evidenced by the very low p-value.

Google searches for the cannabinoid have increased dramatically in recent years, the study noted, with an 850% spike in the year 2021 alone. According to a 2023 AMA study, states that prohibit cannabis use may unintentionally promote the use of delta-8 items, a trend likely aggravated by hemp being federally legalized under the Farm Bill 2018.

The CBD Nationwide study indicated that there is more interest in delta-9 THC in states where cannabis is illegal, albeit to a lesser extent. To validate the results, the analysis used statistical tests such as Tukey’s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA).

The study, however, did not delve into the specific context of these searches, leaving it unclear if individuals in states where cannabis is illegal were seeking cannabinoid products or simply researching related laws and scientific information. Legislators, activists and business interests all have different opinions about how to regulate newly discovered cannabinoids. Certain states have chosen to prohibit or limit the sale of the substances, while others support updated federal regulations that treat intoxication cannabinoids apart from CBD.

State cannabis authorities have asked Congress to take into account laws that cover a wider range of newly discovered cannabinoids rather than only CBD.

Congress is expected to discuss the issue during the upcoming Farm Bill negotiations, which have been delayed due to a short-term extension of the existing legislation.

The analysis of search traffic shows that ending prohibition and letting cannabis companies such as Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) to operate within a regulated marketplace facilitates public health because residents will not be pushed to try alternatives sourced from gray- or black-market actors.

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