420 with CNW — Bills Improving Medical Marijuana Oversight in Pennsylvania Advance Following Media Investigations

Pennsylvania lawmakers are stepping up their scrutiny of the state’s medical cannabis program following investigative reports by Spotlight PA.

A recent measure aimed at increasing oversight of doctors involved in the program gained strong bipartisan support in the state House, moving forward in March.

Additionally, state Senator Rosemary Brown cited the newsroom’s reports while questioning officials from the Shapiro administration. Brown raised concerns about medical cannabis prescribing practices during a budget hearing in February, asking what measures were in place to prevent potential abuses.

Her concerns align with investigations revealing that some doctors approve a disproportionately high number of medical cannabis certifications. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Health Department has rarely barred physicians from joining the medical cannabis program, even when they had prior disciplinary issues.

State Representative Tim Twardzik used the Spotlight PA reports to advocate for stronger oversight powers for the state’s health department. He argued that clear authority is needed to ensure patients receive proper care.

Pennsylvania’s medical cannabis law requires patients to obtain a doctor’s certification to access marijuana from dispensaries. Doctors must complete a training course and register with the state to issue these approvals.

Twardzik’s measure would give the state’s health department greater control over participating doctors. In addition to limiting the number of certificates a physician can grant, the agency may enforce reporting requirements, impose probation, and demand supervision by another medical practitioner. The department would also have the authority to introduce additional regulations as needed to protect patient safety.

State Representative Arvind Venkat, a physician who doesn’t issue medical cannabis certifications, voiced support for the measure, emphasizing the need for better oversight. He acknowledged that addressing these concerns may be difficult for doctors, but necessary.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the House Health Committee as an amendment to a bill focused on cannabis lab testing, sponsored by state Representative Dan Frankel.

Frankel highlighted that while laboratories are required to test cannabis products, the health department currently lacks the power to oversee their operations and verify results. The amended bill was approved by the House and is now under review by the Senate Law and Justice Committee.

State Senate leaders have expressed interest in amending the state medical cannabis program. Joe Pittman, the Senate Majority Leader, acknowledged the need for a detailed review of the bill but noted that action on the measure is possible within the current legislative session.

Minority Leader Jay Costa voiced his caucus’s support, stating that stronger oversight would protect patients from unethical practices and contaminated products. Costa also reaffirmed his ultimate goal of legalizing recreational marijuana.

Governor Josh Shapiro has included recreational marijuana legalization in his budget proposal, despite previous efforts to pass such legislation having stalled.

It is important to ensure that legal marijuana markets adhere to all the set rules and that observed loopholes are addressed by the authorities. Firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) operating in other regulated markets are therefore likely to applaud the increased oversight envisioned in the bills being considered in Pennsylvania.

About CNW420

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

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Texas Senators Consider an Outright THC Ban

A Senate committee in Texas recently reviewed a proposed measure that seeks to prohibit all types of THC. SB 3, supported by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, addresses concerns over illegal THC products being sold statewide.

Patrick argues that businesses are taking advantage of a legal loophole to sell potentially harmful substances. In 2019, Texas legalized the production and sale of hemp through the Hemp Farming Act, which allowed for cannabis plants with no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC.

Some business owners acknowledge the need for stricter regulations, such as age restrictions, but believe an outright ban is excessive. According to Jazmin Torres, proprietor of Zenblendz, a smoke shop that sells THC products, a large portion of her clientele consists of elderly folks and veterans who use the products for wellness purposes rather than for recreational purposes. She worries a comprehensive ban would kill the sector.

Hometown Hero, a marijuana wholesaler based in Austin, also voiced concerns. A company representative emphasized that their products offer a safer alternative to alcohol and warned that banning hemp-derived THC could drive sales underground, making regulation even more difficult. The company hopes to collaborate with lawmakers to ensure adult consumers and veterans can continue accessing these products responsibly.

A recent survey by the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston examined public opinion on cannabis policies in Texas. While medical cannabis enjoys the most widespread support, there is also significant backing for more relaxed recreational use laws.

The study found that 69% of Texans favor decriminalizing cannabis possession, and 62% support legalizing recreational use and sales. Although opinions differ across political lines, a majority in both major parties back legalization, with 53% of Republicans and 71% of Democrats in favor.

Support for medical cannabis is even higher, with 79% of Texans believing it should be available with a prescription. Among Republicans, 75% endorse medical cannabis, while 86% of Democrats share this view.

Despite widespread backing for cannabis reform, more than 50% of Texans agree with the governor’s proposed ban on THC-infused consumables, which remain unregulated. The level of support varies across different groups: 61% of Republicans, 70% of Gen Z, 48% of Democrats, and 46% of baby boomers are in favor of restricting these products.

As lawmakers consider the economic and consumer impact of this proposal, the Senate State Affairs Committee will continue to assess the potential consequences of banning THC products in Texas.

The marijuana industry, including leading brands like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) in other jurisdictions recognize that regulation is important, but lawmakers also need to find ways to regulate marijuana without stifling business.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Colorado Springs Residents Sue City Over Vote to Repeal Recreational Marijuana

Two residents of Colorado Springs have taken legal action against the city over an upcoming ballot initiative in April that seeks to overturn a voter-approved policy permitting recreational cannabis sales.

The case was submitted on Friday on behalf of Adam Gillard, El Paso County Progressive Veterans’ executive director, and Renze Waddington, a medical cannabis dispensary owner. It claims that the City Council disregarded Colorado’s Amendment 64, which states that any local ballot initiative that seeks to outlaw the sale of marijuana for recreational purposes must be on the ballot for a general election in an even-numbered year.

“This council’s attempt to undo what voters have already decided is not only shocking but also unconstitutional,” stated Tom Scudder, head of the Colorado Springs Marijuana Association. “We expect the courts to uphold the will of the people and make it clear to the Council that they don’t hold unchecked power over the community.”

In November, voters passed Question 300 by a margin of roughly 22,000 votes, allowing existing medical cannabis dispensaries to sell recreational cannabis. At the same time, a competing measure aimed at banning recreational sales was rejected. Additionally, Question 300 included a provision imposing a 5 percent recreational sales tax to fund public safety initiatives, mental health programs, and veterans’ PTSD treatment.

However, on January 28, the council voted to place the measure back on the ballot. Some council members argued that the presence of two cannabis-related measures on the November ballot may have caused voter confusion.

The lawsuit contends that such a question is not legally allowed to appear on a ballot during this type of election.

According to the legal challenge, the referred initiative essentially seeks to reverse Question 300, which is equivalent to banning recreational cannabis sales. The state constitution clearly states that any proposal to prohibit retail cannabis shops must be placed on a general election ballot held in an even-numbered year.

Additionally, the complaint argues that the ballot proposal is deceptive since it fails to disclose to voters that Question 300’s repeal would also prevent new recreational sales tax money from being collected. The plaintiffs are requesting that the court either block the repeal measure from appearing on the ballot or mandate a revision to the ballot title.

The city is required to send out ballots to military personnel and overseas voters 45 days before elections by February 14. Industry actors like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) will be following the events in Colorado Springs and will hope that the will of the voters isn’t thwarted.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Arkansas Governor Says Medical Cannabis Taxes Will Help Feed Children

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas recently highlighted the advantages of medical cannabis tax revenue in her last week’s State of the State address, announcing a significant plan.

The state approved medical cannabis through a voter-supported amendment in 2016, but it wasn’t made available to qualifying patients until May 2019. Since then, the program has seen significant growth, with nearly 109,000 active medical cannabis ID cardholders recorded at the end of 2024.

In Arkansas, medical cannabis purchases are subject to a 4 percent privilege tax and a 6.5 percent state sales tax. The revenue collected through the sales tax contributes to important public services, such as addressing food insecurity and supporting public schools. In 2024 alone, these taxes brought in $28.5 million, increasing the medical cannabis program’s total revenue to approximately $150 million since its inception.

During her address, Sanders highlighted how the funding will be utilized. She stated:

“This year, Arkansas will join the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program. Today, I’m sharing plans to allocate medical cannabis funds to ensure financial stability for the Summer EBT program and to sustain our free breakfast and lunch initiatives in the long term. Additionally, these funds will allow us to offer free school breakfasts throughout the state of Arkansas.”

Gov. Sanders’s proposal is particularly noteworthy given her history of opposing broader marijuana reforms, including her stance against a measure that sought to expand the state’s cannabis program. Despite her prior resistance to recreational cannabis legalization, the governor appears committed to preserving and enhancing the existing framework. The governor even signed legislation in 2023 allowing medical cannabis patients to obtain licenses for carrying firearms.

The National School Lunch Program, a federally supported initiative, provides assistance to almost 100,000 public and not-for-profit private schools, as well as residential childcare facilities across the United States. The program offers free meals to children from households earning less than 130% of the federal poverty level. Families with incomes between 130% and 185% of the federal poverty level can access reduced-cost meals, while those above this range pay the full price but still receive some subsidies.

Despite these efforts, many children lose access to these meals during summer breaks. The Summer EBT program, introduced in 2023 by Congress, addresses this issue by offering food assistance to low-income households during the summer months when school-provided meals are unavailable.

Marijuana enterprises like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) will be pleased that different communities in different jurisdictions are reaping the benefits of legalizing marijuana and allowing licensed companies to impact not just patients but other sections of the population as well.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Governor Wants Wisconsin Voters to Legalize Marijuana as GOP Lawmakers Block Reform Efforts

Wisconsin governor Tony Evers has proposed granting voters the power to introduce binding questions directly on the ballot to enact new laws. He cited widespread bipartisan support for issues like cannabis legalization, which the Republican-led legislature has consistently refused to address.

During a recent press conference, Evers announced his intention to include a proposal in the 2025/27 biennial budget allowing citizens to initiate ballot measures for constitutional or statutory changes, provided they receive majority approval.

Evers specifically highlighted popular issues such as the legalization and taxation of cannabis akin to alcohol, gun safety, abortion rights, and more financing for civic education. He accused GOP legislators of ignoring the will of Wisconsin’s residents despite public backing.

In 2022, the governor issued an executive order calling for a special legislative session to grant citizens the right to propose ballot initiatives. This move raised hopes among campaigners that voters could decide on marijuana legalization directly. However, the Republican-controlled legislature rejected the proposal.

Whether lawmakers support the governor’s upcoming budget request remains uncertain. Historically, they have declined to approve Evers’ past proposals, including his repeated calls to legalize medical and recreational marijuana.

Last month, Evers reaffirmed cannabis reform as a top priority for the 2025 legislative session, urging action amidst a budget surplus. A recent poll revealed that nearly 65% of rural voters in Wisconsin support legalizing marijuana, reflecting growing public approval.

In May, the governor expressed optimism that the 2024 elections might lead to Democratic legislative control, potentially paving the way for legalization. However, Republican legislators have consistently removed cannabis-related provisions from Evers’ budget requests.

Even modest attempts at marijuana reform have faced obstacles. Last year, a Democratic lawmaker attempted to introduce a medical cannabis compromise as an amendment to a kratom measure. The proposal was pulled from the agenda, allegedly to avoid a contentious debate.

Further complicating matters, a Republican-sponsored medical cannabis measure proposed in January was criticized for its restrictive nature, including a plan for state-controlled dispensaries. This drew opposition from within the Republican Party itself, with one senator arguing it contradicted free-market principles.

The Senate president recently expressed a willingness to discuss medical cannabis legalization in 2025, but the Assembly speaker remains a significant barrier.

Meanwhile, a fiscal analysis from the Revenue Department projected that legalization could generate an annual tax income of $170 million. A separate report estimated that Wisconsin citizens spent over $121 million on marijuana in neighboring Illinois in 2022, generating $36 million in tax income for the state.

Evers and fellow Democrats have reiterated their willingness to support a limited medical cannabis program as a starting point, even as they advocate for broader reforms.

Established marijuana firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) in other jurisdictions hope that the people of Wisconsin one day get to enjoy the many benefits that medical and recreational users of cannabis in many other parts of the country are enjoying.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Elton John Thinks Marijuana Legalization in Canada, the US is a Grave Mistake

Elton John has been vocal about his stance on the legalization of cannabis, openly criticizing its approval in parts of the United States and Canada. The legendary musician expressed strong concerns about the drug, reflecting on his own experiences and observations during a Time magazine interview.

According to him, marijuana is undeniably addictive and often acts as a gateway to more dangerous substances. Recalling his own struggles, he admitted, “When you’re under the influence—and I’ve been there—you don’t think clearly or make rational choices.” He went on to describe the legalization of marijuana as one of the worst decisions ever made.

John’s opinions are rooted in his journey to sobriety, which he has maintained for many years. During this time, he has also become an advocate for others battling addiction, helping numerous artists along their recovery paths. Notably, he acted as a sponsor for rapper Eminem and encouraged British singer Robbie Williams to seek professional help by attending rehab.

Despite his efforts, there are regrets. One such regret involves the late George Michael, who passed suddenly in 2016 at the age of 53 from liver and heart problems after battling substance misuse.

In retrospect, John said of his efforts to assist Michael, “It’s really difficult to confront someone about their destructive behavior, and even more difficult to accept when you’re the one being confronted.”

John first encountered cocaine in the 1970s through his then-lover and manager, John Reid, which marked the beginning of a long battle with substance abuse.

Looking back, he acknowledges how those years of addiction led to poor decisions and damaging relationships. “When you’re using drugs, your judgment is clouded,” he admitted. “I was so desperate for love that I clung to people and didn’t give them space. It pains me to think about how many people I might have hurt during that time.”

Bernie Taupin, John’s longtime collaborator and lyricist, also reflected on the singer’s struggles during that era. Taupin described feeling immense fear for his friend, calling those years “horrible.”

He noted that John’s substance abuse affected not only their connection but also their creative work. “The projects we worked on during his worst periods weren’t a true reflection of our best abilities,” Taupin explained. “It wasn’t until Elton found his way back to himself that I could draw inspiration from our shared experiences and channel them into meaningful material.”

The sentiments expressed by Elton John aren’t new, and cannabis firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) have heard similar views expressed by those opposed to marijuana legalization. However, the reform movement continues to gain momentum around the world.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

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.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Finds That Not Everyone Can Improve Their Sleep by Using Marijuana

A recent study suggests that marijuana’s impact on sleep may differ depending on an individual’s mental health background.

The study, conducted by the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine, revealed that marijuana enhanced sleep for young adults with anxiety or depression. In contrast, those without any pre-existing mental health issues experienced more frequent sleep issues when using marijuana.

The study analyzed data from the university’s Happiness and Health Survey, which tracked the health, emotional well-being, and substance use habits of 3,300 Los Angeles public high school students from 2013 to 2023.

Researchers compared sleep issues in individuals who used marijuana frequently (at least 20 times every month) with those who had never used it. Marijuana use corresponded to an average 1.18-point reduction in sleep problems for those experiencing anxiety or depression. In contrast, participants without anxiety or depression saw their sleep problems increase by an average of 1.66 points when using cannabis compared to non-users.

While the authors said they were unsure why marijuana affects individuals with depression or anxiety differently, they speculated that it’s because THC could temporarily suppress symptoms of depression or anxiety, which symptoms can negatively impact sleep. However, they cautioned that using marijuana this way doesn’t necessarily address the root of these mental health conditions.

Peter Grinspoon, a Harvard Medical School lecturer and physician, offered additional insight noting that marijuana affects the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in sleep regulation. While scientists have yet to fully understand how marijuana interacts with this system to influence sleep, Grinspoon pointed out that people with pre-existing mental health issues like depression and anxiety may benefit more from marijuana for sleep because they often suffer from insomnia.

The study did not, however, examine marijuana dose or consumption method, which Grinspoon believes are crucial factors. He explained that individuals aiming to use marijuana as a sleep aid often opt for lower doses, as higher doses can be stimulating rather than sedating. He also suggested that some of the existing research may be skewed, as much of it was conducted with a focus on potential harms rather than benefits due to historical biases in marijuana research.

Using cannabis for sleep is not without risks. Like most sleep aids, marijuana can lead to dependence, and individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop its use. Additionally, researchers warn that marijuana use might reduce time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, leading to fewer dreams.

As more studies are conducted on which particular people are more likely to benefit from medical marijuana for different symptoms, enterprises like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) are likely to tweak their products in order to address the specific needs of their customers.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Fighters in Nevada Are No Longer Prohibited from Using Marijuana

The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) recently removed marijuana from its list of prohibited substances. This change means that fighters in the state who possess, use, or consume marijuana products will no longer face penalties for violating anti-doping rules.

For years, cannabis was classified as a banned substance, and fighters were often penalized if it was detected in their system. UFC fighters such as Trevin Jones, for example, have seen their victories overturned, changing their records to no-contests due to positive tests for marijuana.

Additionally, in 2015 popular fighter Nick Diaz received a severe penalty for marijuana use: a five-year suspension and a fine of $165,000. The NSAC explained that the severe punishment was due to Diaz’s perceived disregard for the commission’s rules, not solely for the marijuana use itself.

Many fans saw this penalty as excessive, especially since Diaz was at the peak of his career following a high-profile match against Anderson Silva. The suspension effectively sidelined him for six years, frustrating fans who believed he was unfairly targeted over a minor infraction.

Now, at age 41, Diaz continues to fight, though many fans feel he should retire due to his health and age. Cannabis, however, is no longer a barrier to his participation, as it is now fully permitted for MMA fighters in the state.

The policy shift is particularly relevant in Las Vegas, where the majority of UFC events are hosted, including Diaz’s forthcoming match at UFC 310 against Vicente Luque. Fighters beyond the Diaz brothers have also been open about their cannabis use, often citing its therapeutic benefits for managing pain and physical strain caused by their demanding sport.

There are still steps ahead before the policy is officially enacted, as the revised guidelines need another review by the state’s Legislative Counsel Bureau (LCB) to confirm they meet legal standards. After this, the state legislative commission, composed of six assembly members and six senators, will review the proposal and decide on its official adoption.

Other professional sports organizations at various levels have been reevaluating and updating their policies regarding marijuana in response to broader legalization efforts at the state level. For instance, the NCAA recently removed cannabis from its list of banned substances for Division I athletes.

Similarly, the UFC announced in December that it would formally remove cannabis from its updated list of banned substances, building upon previous reforms in this area.

The easing of restrictions against the use of marijuana by fighters and other athletes is a development that the wider marijuana industry, including entities like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON), will be pleased about.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Arkansas Supreme Court Says Cannabis Amendment Ballots in November Will Not Count

The Arkansas Supreme Court decided in a narrow 4-3 ruling that votes in favor of and against a plan to broaden the state’s medical cannabis program would not be taken into account. Protect Arkansas Kids, a nonprofit that joined the legal fight against the amendment—Issue 3, filed a case that resulted in this decision. The votes cast on Issue 3 will be ignored, even though it will still be on the ballot in November.

The amendment sought to introduce several modifications to the state’s medical cannabis system, which was initially approved in 2016. It sought to ease licensing rules, widen the range of qualifying illnesses and medical professionals authorized to prescribe cannabis as well as permit patients to grow their marijuana at home.

However, in its decision, the court rejected Secretary of State John Thurston’s initial complaint. The main argument of the complaint focused on paid canvassers’ training requirements. Thurston contended that the group supporting the proposal, Arkansans for Patient Access, did not reach the required 90,704 valid signatures to qualify for the ballot due to non-compliance with state laws related to canvassers’ training.

In his majority opinion, Justice Shawn Womack supported a second legal complaint that argued the proposal’s ballot title and popular name were inadequate. Justice Womack also objected to a clause in Issue 3 that would have permitted the holding of up to one ounce of cannabis if it were to be legalized federally. He argued that this provision was misleading, as it would apply even to those without a medical cannabis prescription, contradicting the popular name, which solely references medical cannabis.

Womack was joined in the majority opinion by Justices Bilenda Harris-Ritter, Barbara Womack Webb, and Don Curdie.

Meanwhile, Justices Cody Hiland, Rhonda Wood, and Karen Baker dissented from the majority ruling. Hiland contended that the initiative’s ballot title and popular name were neither insufficient nor misleading. He argued that the court’s long-standing legal standard for determining the sufficiency of ballot titles had been disregarded in this case and that voters should have been allowed to decide on the initiative.

Arkansans for Patient Access expressed disappointment over the court’s decision, calling it a setback for the state’s medical cannabis program. They reaffirmed their commitment to removing barriers for patients and reducing costs while accusing anti-cannabis politicians of ignoring the will of the people.

Conversely, Protect Arkansas Kids praised the ruling describing the ballot initiative as misleading. They claimed it was part of a broader effort by the cannabis industry to legalize potent, addictive drugs under the pretense of medicine.

The ruling is likely to be a disappointment to the broader cannabis industry, including firms from across the border like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) since the issues that the ballot measure was seeking to address will persist until the next election cycle when campaigners can launch another attempt to enact change.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com