420 with CNW — Study Finds That Adolescents Suffer More Severe Psychosis Symptoms if They Use Marijuana

A recent study by researchers from St. Louis’ Washington University has found that teenagers who use marijuana experience more signs of psychosis spectrum and higher levels of distress due to the symptoms. This suggests that both self-medication and shared vulnerability play a role in linking marijuana use to an increased risk of psychosis.

Previous research indicates that teenagers who use marijuana have a two to four times higher risk of developing psychosis than their non-user counterparts. Marijuana usage that starts in youth is frequently linked to more intense symptoms, a higher chance of relapse, and an earlier beginning of psychotic illnesses.

Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug among teenagers, and its usage has grown significantly over the last 20 years, doubling from 11 percent to 22 percent. During the same period, teenagers’ perception of the risks associated with marijuana use has declined. For example, the proportion of adolescents who view weekly marijuana use as harmful has dropped from 36.3 percent to 25 percent.

There is ongoing debate about the relationship between psychosis and adolescent marijuana use, with researchers proposing several hypotheses to explain this connection, including self-medication, contributing risk, and shared vulnerability theories.

The contributing risk theory suggests that marijuana disrupts brain development during adolescence, triggering psychosis and worsening its progression. The shared vulnerability theory argues that environmental, genetic, or prenatal factors may increase susceptibility to both psychosis and marijuana use, meaning these two phenomena stem from common origins. Lastly, the self-medication theory proposes that a person may use marijuana to relieve symptoms of psychosis, such as distress or discomfort.

Although previous studies have provided evidence for all three theories, more research on early adolescence is needed. A study in JAMA Psychiatry tracked 11,868 participants aged 9 to 10 and examined psychosis symptoms before and after marijuana use. It found no consistent evidence for the contributing risk theory, as marijuana use did not reliably increase psychosis symptoms.

However, teens who used marijuana at any point in the study reported more psychosis symptoms and greater distress than non-users, supporting the shared vulnerability theory. Additionally, researchers observed an increase in psychosis symptoms and related distress before the initiation of marijuana use, supporting the self-medication theory.

Overall, the recent study suggests that the relationship between psychosis and marijuana use is more likely explained by self-medication and shared vulnerability rather than marijuana being a direct cause of psychosis.

The creation of legal marijuana markets in different jurisdictions not only allows marijuana companies and allied businesses like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) to operate, it also creates safeguards like age restrictions that prevent adolescents from accessing marijuana products. Such measures can avert the risks that come from underage individuals using marijuana.

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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 — Nebraska AG Pledges That Ongoing Investigations Won’t Impact Cannabis Measure’s Certification

Mike Hilgers, Nebraska’s Attorney General, assured the public on Tuesday that his office’s current investigations into two medical marijuana ballot measures will not affect his decision to certify the election results. Speaking at a press conference on an unrelated lawsuit, Hilgers stated that the election certification process would proceed independently of the marijuana-related legal disputes or the timing of any court ruling.

Hilgers is one of five state constitutional officials who will convene on December 2 to decide if, or not to certify the election results from November 5. This includes the resounding support of two initiatives from voters: Measure 437, which aims to legalize medicinal marijuana with 71% of the vote, and Measure 438, which aims to regulate marijuana with 67% of the vote.

The Board of Nebraska State Canvassers includes Bob Evnen, the Secretary of State, who is being represented by Hilgers’ office in the legal case regarding the measures. Additionally, Governor Jim Pillen and State Auditor Mike Foley, both vocal critics of the medical marijuana initiatives, will participate. State Treasurer Tom Briese, another board member, has also opposed medical cannabis legalization, a stance he shared with Hilgers during their time as state senators in 2021.

Hilgers’s office is actively conducting a criminal investigation related to alleged misconduct in the petition process. This has led to criminal charges against a petition circulator, who entered a guilty plea on November 8, and a notary public, whose case is still pending.

Hilgers’ office has also joined former State Senator John Kuehn in contesting the validity of thousands of petition signatures, citing alleged fraud by circulators and notaries. They argue that such misconduct should have prevented the measures from being on the November ballot. Evnen initially certified the measures on September 13, based on available information.

The ballot sponsors’ legal team has defended the petitions, asserting that allegations of fraud are being misinterpreted. They argue that isolated issues with notaries or circulators do not invalidate all signatures. In response, the Attorney General’s Office maintained that the evidence, including text messages presented in court, clearly indicates fraudulent activities.

Judge Susan Strong, presiding over the case, has received final arguments from both sides and can issue a ruling at any time. However, Hilgers clarified that the court’s timeline does not influence the election certification process.

Regardless of the outcome, many involved in the case, including Judge Strong, expect the matter to be appealed to the state supreme court.

Entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) and other businesses in the marijuana industry both within and outside the U.S. will be hoping that the will of the voters in Nebraska isn’t thwarted by technicalities as the state officials are alleging.

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420 with CNW — Key Lessons from the Marijuana Liberalization Journey of the US

The journey toward cannabis legalization in the United States has been significant, with nearly half of the states now allowing its recreational use. However, the topic remains contentious and divisive, frequently leveraged by politicians. Some invoke fears about potential harm to oppose legalization, while others emphasize benefits such as increased revenue and reduced violent crime to advocate for it.

Scientific research on marijuana-related harms is relatively comprehensive. Regular consumption of high-potency marijuana, especially when initiated at a young age, is linked to mental health issues, including schizophrenia. It may also lead to cognitive difficulties, reduced academic performance, and an elevated risk of marijuana use disorder.

Consuming marijuana before driving—particularly within an eight-hour window—significantly raises the likelihood of traffic accidents. Additionally, cannabis use while pregnant has been associated with complications at birth.

A key question in this debate is how legalization influences these risks. The potency of cannabis, which directly impacts its harmful effects, has been rising in states with legal markets. This trend toward high-potency products began during cannabis prohibition in both Europe and the U.S. Some evidence also suggests that legal dispensaries may overstate potency levels to attract customers.

Marijuana use appears higher in states where it is legal, though this does not necessarily mean that legalization causes increased use. Research paints a mixed picture. While adult usage rates tend to rise after legalization, most studies show little to no change in marijuana use among adolescents. One complicating factor is that marijuana use has been on the rise since 2000, well before legalization became a trend.

A concerning trend tied to legalization is a rise in ER visits related to marijuana-induced psychosis and unintentional poisoning in youngsters. These incidents are more common in areas with a high density of marijuana stores and are partly attributed to the popularity of edible products, often designed to look like candy.

The question of marijuana legalization is not black and white. Decisions about drug policy can significantly influence both the prevalence of use and the societal impact. Lessons can be drawn from Uruguay, which legalized marijuana in 2012 while implementing strict regulations. The country has not seen a notable increase in marijuana use, addiction rates, or perceived harm compared to its neighbors.

Additionally, discussions on legalization must weigh the drawbacks of prohibition. Criminal organizations often profit from the illicit drug trade, fueling violence and expanding their reach. Research shows that strict drug law enforcement does not effectively prevent marijuana use and may even exacerbate related harms.

Ultimately, there is no flawless approach to drug policy, and substances like marijuana are likely to remain a part of society. Policymakers should adopt an evidence-based and balanced approach, learning from global examples to create thoughtful marijuana regulations that minimize harm and prioritize public health.

This balanced approach is precisely what the cannabis industry, including leading players like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF), wish for every jurisdiction that is considering reforming its marijuana laws through voter initiatives or the legislature.

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420 with CNW — Australian Parliament to Vote on Cannabis Legalization This November

Australian legislators are preparing to vote on legislation that could pave the way for adult-use cannabis legalization across the nation. Senator David Shoebridge of the Greens Party, who has spearheaded the effort, announced on social media that the proposed bill is scheduled for a vote in Parliament on November 27.

The legislation seeks to establish a regulated cannabis market, complete with taxation and licensing. Central to the plan is the creation of the Cannabis Australia National Agency (CANA), which would oversee licensing and regulations and maintain a comprehensive register of cannabis strains. The bill also explicitly permits home growth for personal use and home edibles processing. Additionally, it proposes the establishment of marijuana cafes, providing spaces for social consumption.

In developing the bill, the Greens Party consulted extensively with the public. Feedback revealed widespread support for keeping marijuana production and sales free from heavy corporate influence. There was also consensus that industries like pharmaceuticals, tobacco, and alcohol should not dominate the cannabis market.

The proposal report by the Greens highlighted that globally, many nations are moving away from criminalization in favor of regulated legalization. The party warned that Australia could fall behind if it relies solely on state and territory-level reforms rather than adopting a unified national approach.

Despite its bold vision, the proposal has encountered resistance within Parliament. Earlier this year, the Senate Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee recommended rejecting the bill, citing concerns about potential risks associated with legal cannabis.

Further, a report authored by Paul Scarr of the Liberal Party cautioned that legalizing cannabis could lead to a significant increase in consumption, potentially introducing new public health challenges. The document cited survey data suggesting that more than a million Australians might try marijuana if it became legal, raising concerns about the societal and health impacts of such a shift.

The legislative report accompanying the proposal projected that taxing cannabis at rates of 15% or 25% could generate between $28.2 billion and $36.8 billion in government revenue over a decade. Proponents argue that this revenue could redirect profits away from organized crime, instead fostering a legitimate market driven by local businesses and entrepreneurs producing high-quality and safe products.

The Greens are optimistic about the legislation’s prospects, describing the current political climate as the most favorable opportunity yet to advance marijuana reform. “We have a chance for meaningful change,” the party declared on its website, pointing to their influence in the Senate as a critical factor.

Currently, marijuana is federally illegal in Australia, apart from a restrictive medical program. However, certain regions, such as the Australian Capital Territory, have adopted local reforms. The territory decriminalized small amounts of illegal substances in 2023, building on an earlier policy that eased restrictions on cannabis possession.

Meanwhile, at the federal level, the government recently shifted policies on other substances, allowing therapeutic access to psychedelics like MDMA and psilocybin for patients with PTSD and resistant depression. The drugs are classified under Schedule 8 for medical use but remain prohibited for non-authorized purposes under Schedule 9.

Entities like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) that have an interest in the international market for marijuana are likely to take an interest in the goings-on in Australia to see if any business opportunities avail themselves once legalization is launched.

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420 with CNW — New Report Says Millennials Lead Other Generations in Buying Marijuana Pre-Rolls

Millennials, the largest generational group in the U.S., are shaping spending habits across industries, including marijuana. According to a recent survey, this age group, ranging from 28 to 43 years old, has become a dominant force in the joint market, making up 45% of the $3 billion industry.

Harrison Bard, the CEO and co-founder of Custom Cones U.S., noted that millennials occupy a unique position. “They have more disposable income and greater freedom compared to younger generations,” Bard explained, adding that the generation grew up during a time when cannabis was becoming more normalized.

The study, conducted by Custom Cones U.S. in collaboration with the marijuana analytics company Headset, involved survey data from over 900 marijuana users across the country. It provided detailed insights into purchasing habits and preferences within the pre-roll market.

Headset’s analysis revealed that the average price of a pre-roll is $6.44 for a gram—a figure that has steadily declined over recent years, dropping from $8.13 in Sep. 2022.

Millennials remain the dominant spenders on pre-rolls at $103.9 million, making up 44.6% of total expenditures. Generation X accounts for $56.7 million (24.3%), Gen Z at $43.2 million (18.5%), while baby Boomers spend about $29.2 million, or 12.5%.

While vape pens are favored by Gen Z, they are less popular among older buyers who often opt for edibles. Pre-rolls, however, appear to transcend these generational divides. For users purchasing flower, rolling it remains the most popular way to consume it. Other methods include using a vaporizer, bong, or bowl.

The pre-roll market has seen remarkable growth, with 82% of users purchasing them and sales increasing by over 450% in the past five years. Retailers report that full-size, 1-gram pre-rolls outsell smaller, half-gram options typically sold in multipacks. Bard suggests that these larger pre-rolls are often bought for immediate use. “People seem to pick up a pre-roll along with their main purchase to enjoy right away,” he said.

The study also explored the disconnect between what marijuana businesses assume consumers want and what buyers prioritize. While businesses often view price as the primary factor, consumers tend to focus on potency. This preference explains the growing popularity of infused joints, known for their higher THC content.

Over the last two years, California-based Jeeter has led the market, accounting for 8.8% of pre-roll sales and generating $504.2 million in revenue. Other top brands include Stiizy, with $320.9 million in sales from over 43.4 million joints, and Dogwalkers, which pioneered mini pre-rolls, achieving $141.6 million in sales with 6.1 million units.

While men are responsible for the majority of the purchases across all generations, this does not necessarily mean they are the sole consumers. Bard suggests that men often take on the role of purchasing marijuana on behalf of households, even though women typically make the majority of everyday purchasing decisions.

These findings could give industry actors like Verano Holdings Corp. (CSE: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF) valuable insights to consider when planning how to deepen their reach within the markets in which they operate.

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420 with CNW — New Study Explores the Health Conditions for Which Individuals Use Medical Cannabis

A recently released analysis of numerous medical cannabis patients within the United States reveals that PTSD, pain, and anxiety are the most common conditions qualifying individuals for medical marijuana programs.

The study indicates that 58.6% of patients reported managing more than one medical condition with cannabis. Among those dealing with multiple conditions, chronic pain and anxiety were the most frequently cited, followed by issues such as PTSD, insomnia, and muscle spasms.

The research was conducted by Leafwell, a specialized platform that facilitates access to medical cannabis cards, in collaboration with San Diego University’s Center for Marijuana Research and Duke University Medical School. Their findings, which were published in the journal Population Medicine Journal, were based on data anonymized from over 81,000 users of Leafwell in 32 states.

The analysis revealed a nearly equal gender distribution among patients using medical cannabis, with 51.1% identifying as male and 48.9% as female. Regarding racial demographics, 71.5% of patients identified themselves as white non-Hispanic, followed by non-Hispanic blacks (10.4%), Hispanic (8.4%), and other racial groups (7.1%).

Age-wise, 65% of the study subjects were 21-49 years old, with 25.4% aged 50 or more, and 8.3% under the age of 21. The median age of participants was 40.

The study also highlighted a shift in the conditions for which cannabis is used. While PTSD, pain, and anxiety remain the most prevalent reasons, earlier research pointed to cancer and multiple sclerosis as more common qualifying conditions in the past. This shift may reflect evolving medical cannabis regulations that now include additional qualifying conditions.

The study’s authors said the findings represent a further step towards understanding the complex co-occurring medical conditions associated with the initiation of medical cannabis treatment. The study concludes that understanding patients’ self-reported conditions provides valuable insights into how they perceive their health issues and the contribution of cannabis in their treatment.

A Leafwell blog post on the findings emphasized several critical implications for policy and healthcare, including the value of personalized treatments, the expanding role of cannabis in mental health care, and the necessity for alternative approaches to managing chronic pain.

Meanwhile, a report published in September by Leafwell estimated that nationwide legalization of medical cannabis could save nearly $29 billion in costs related to healthcare. That study found that states with medical cannabis programs experienced a 3.4% reduction in healthcare insurance premiums, translating to an average savings of $238 per employee annually.

Such studies highlight how the medical cannabis products manufactured by various enterprises like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) are helping the patients that opt to include marijuana in their management of the symptoms afflicting them.

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420 with CNW — Trump’s Pick for AG Triggers Hope Within the Marijuana Community

Donald Trump’s choice of Florida Representative Matt Gaetz as the next Attorney General has sparked controversy across party lines. Gaetz’s resignation from his congressional seat followed shortly after the announcement, just days before the House Ethics Committee was expected to address an ongoing investigation into allegations against him. These accusations, which Gaetz has denied, include claims of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use.

The nomination raises uncertainty about Senate approval, but it has already ignited significant interest within the cannabis industry. According to David Culver, senior vice president of public affairs at the U.S. Marijuana Council, Gaetz is among the most cannabis-friendly Republican lawmakers in Washington.

Culver noted that Trump’s decision to nominate Gaetz might indicate a serious commitment to advancing marijuana reform, a position the president-elect highlighted during his campaign.

Gaetz has consistently argued for marijuana reform, even though he rejected Amendment 3, a Florida initiative to legalize marijuana for recreational use that fell short of the necessary 60% voter approval. During his time as a state legislator, he sponsored Florida’s first bill to legalize medical cannabis.

After transitioning to Congress, he continued to push for change, supporting measures such as eliminating cannabis testing for the military. Notably, he was the only GOP co-sponsor of the MORE Act,which sought to expunge some convictions linked to marijuana and remove it from the federal restricted substances list, though the bill stalled in the Senate.

Even before Gaetz’s nomination, there was cautious optimism about how the Trump administration might handle marijuana policy. While Trump has not formally backed federal cannabis legalization, he supported Florida’s Amendment 3 and expressed interest in collaborating with Congress to provide marijuana companies access to banking systems.

He also indicated a willingness to continue efforts initiated under the Biden administration to reclassify cannabis from a Schedule I drug—considered to have no medical use—to a less restrictive Schedule III designation, grouping it with substances like anabolic steroids and ketamine.

Culver noted that Trump’s staffing decisions, including Gaetz, signal a positive outlook for federal marijuana reform. He also speculated that Gaetz could introduce updated guidelines for federal prosecutors to avoid interference in state-regulated markets.

Other marijuana advocates and industry leaders have also embraced the news. Boris Jordan, CEO of Curaleaf Holdings Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF), shared videos of Gaetz discussing marijuana regulation where the congressman pledged to support relaxed cannabis policies. Meanwhile, groups like NORML are calling for Gaetz to spearhead efforts to delist marijuana from the CSA entirely, drawing comparisons to alcohol regulation.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – Golden Triangle Ventures Inc. (GTVH) to Host Spaces Event, Share Comprehensive Update on Destino Ranch

Golden Triangle Ventures (OTC: GTVH) (“GTV”) today announced its plans to host a Spaces call at 1:30 p.m. PST on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024, on the company’s official X account, @GTV_Inc. Steffan Dalsgaard, president of Golden Triangle Ventures and CEO of Lavish Entertainment, alongside Marco Moreno, president of Lavish Entertainment, will lead the event and deliver a comprehensive update on the company’s transformative flagship project — Destino Ranch.

GTV’s wholly owned subsidiary Lavish Entertainment is spearheading the development of Destino Ranch, which is poised to become a world-renowned destination and premier experiential hospitality and entertainment venue, including immersive art installations, tourist attractions and activities. The project aims to set a new standard in experiential entertainment by merging large-scale festivals, interactive art and luxury tourism into a single iconic destination.

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

About Golden Triangle Ventures Inc. (“GTV”)

Golden Triangle Ventures is a multifaceted consulting company, which operates as the parent business pursuing ventures in the health, entertainment and technology sectors, along with others that provide synergistic value to these three core divisions. The company aims to purchase, acquire and/or joint venture with established entities within these areas of business. The goods and services represented are driven by innovators who have passion and commitment in these marketplaces. The company plans to utilize relationships and create a platform for new and existing businesses to strengthen their products and/or services. The three points of the Golden Triangle exclusively represent the three sectors in which this company aims to do business. Golden Triangle Ventures is highly focused on acquiring a well-diversified portfolio of companies under one umbrella, which are all managed and owned by the company. An amazing team of professionals supports each division and continues to help the company grow daily. Being a publicly traded company gives the ability to provide the support needed to help each subsidiary grow into the business that management believes it can and will become. For more information, visit the company’s website at www.GoldenTriangleInc.com.

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

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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 70+ 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 — Scientists Doubt Findings of Study Indicating Federally-Sourced Research Marijuana Doesn’t Differ from State-Legal Products

A recent study conducted by Mahmoud ElSohly, one of the few individuals authorized by the federal government to grow cannabis for research, has found that marijuana available in the U.S. market has a consistent cannabinoid profile, primarily shaped by genetics rather than regional factors.

The research indicates that THC levels in cannabis samples seized or sourced from state-legal programs are similar, typically falling between 10 and 20% THC content.

The study, published in Frontiers in Public Health Journal, presents a possibly contentious claim: that cannabis available in state-legal dispensaries is chemically similar to the marijuana provided for research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) through its Drug Supply Program (DSP). This assertion might surprise some, as researchers have historically criticized the NIDA cannabis supply for being subpar in quality.

In 2017, researchers studying cannabis as a treatment for PTSD in veterans raised concerns over the NIDA-supplied cannabis, claiming it lacked quality. Sue Sisley, one of the researchers, noted that some samples didn’t have the requested potency, while others contained mold. At that time, Sisley remarked that the substance provided by NIDA “does not resemble marijuana” in smell or quality.

However, the NIDA DSP remains the only legal source of cannabis for federally funded clinical research in the United States. Cannabis for this program is cultivated at the University of Mississippi under the oversight of ElSohly.

Addressing the similarity between cannabis from state-legal markets and NIDA’s research supply, ElSohly suggested that past concerns about cannabis quality from NIDA were overstated. He mentioned that much of the criticism at the time came from advocates of cannabis legalization, who may have misunderstood the context and constraints surrounding federal research cannabis.

Historically, federal research marijuana offered by NIDA contained lower THC levels, typically capped at around 6%, which was closer to the THC potency found in illegal cannabis decades ago. This allowed research participants to consume a full joint without overwhelming effects.

However, as cannabis has become more potent in legal markets, researchers began seeking stronger samples. Today, NIDA’s program now offers higher-potency cannabis, with options of 10, 15, 20, and even 25% THC to better align with current demands.

ElSohly noted that despite initial tensions, many researchers are now satisfied with the cannabis provided by the NIDA program. He added that his relationship with Sisley, who had been vocal about the program’s shortcomings, has improved, indicating progress in NIDA’s approach to research-grade cannabis.

The entire marijuana industry, including leading entities like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) would be glad to see a time when any research conducted in the U.S. accurately reflects the impact that state-legal marijuana has on its users. Variations between commercially available cannabis and federally-sourced research cannabis don’t help to get the answers that researchers seek.

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420 with CNW — Advocates in Idaho File Ballot Measure to Legalize Marijuana in 2026

Public use would remain off-limits, ensuring that cannabis consumption is kept private and not visible in open areas. The measure specifically avoids creating a commercial cannabis market, unlike the recent ballot efforts in other states that sought to legalize the production and sale of marijuana.

Joe Evans, treasurer for Kind Idaho, highlighted this distinction in a statement back in September when the group first submitted the measure. He noted that the group’s approach is based on the belief that people should be allowed to manage their health and well-being privately, without interference from the state, as long as they’re acting responsibly.

Evans also mentioned that the straightforwardness of the measure might make it more appealing to Idaho voters as it does not include provisions for a state-managed medical cannabis program, which has been part of prior legalization efforts.

Kind Idaho has revised the proposal’s language following feedback from state officials, including the Idaho secretary of state and attorney general. The measure, titled “Decriminalize Marijuana Now,” has now entered the next phase of the state approval process.

The attorney general’s office has 10 days to finalize the ballot title and draft a summary for voters. Once this step is complete, Kind Idaho plans to start gathering signatures to place the measure on the 2026 ballot.

To qualify for the ballot, Kind Idaho needs to collect around 70,000 signatures from registered Idaho voters. This includes gathering support from at least 6% of voters across at least 18 of the state’s thirty-five legislative districts. The group has until April 2026 to submit these petitions for the proposal to be officially added to the ballot.

The decision to push for a more limited legalization measure in Idaho aligns with recent trends in cannabis legislation, particularly following the failure of broader legalization efforts in other states. In the 2024 election, similar ballot measures in North Dakota and Florida were rejected by voters. South Dakota also saw a failed attempt to legalize cannabis possession without authorizing commercial sales.

As the legalization movement spreads to more states across the U.S. and reforms are enacted, numerous business opportunities are likely to be opened up, such as those that take their inspiration from the operations of entities like Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR).

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