A recent study published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry has explored how marijuana use might influence the epigenome in the human body. The epigenome, often described as a system of switches, regulates how genes are activated or deactivated, shaping bodily functions.

According to Lifang Hou, a Northwestern University epidemiologist, the study identified a connection between multiple epigenetic markers and long-term cannabis use.

The researchers examined more than 1000 participants who had been involved in an earlier long-term study, which included surveys about their marijuana use spanning two decades. Participants who were between 18 and 30 years old at the study’s outset provided blood samples during two specific intervals—15 years and 20 years into the study.

These samples allowed the researchers to analyze changes in DNA methylation, an epigenetic mechanism where methyl groups are added or removed from DNA. While this modification does not alter the DNA sequence, it can influence gene activity by affecting how easily cells can interpret genetic instructions.

Lifestyle and environmental factors, including marijuana use, can induce such methylation alterations, which can have far-reaching implications, including potential transmission to future generations. Blood samples provide a snapshot of both recent and historical exposures to such factors, making them a valuable tool for this kind of research.

The study revealed associations between cannabis use and numerous epigenetic markers. For instance, in blood samples collected at the 15-year mark, 22 markers were linked to recent marijuana use, while 31 were linked to long-term use. By the 20-year point, researchers identified 132 markers tied to recent cannabis use and 16 linked to long-term use.

Interestingly, one of these markers had previously been associated with tobacco use, suggesting a potential overlap in how the body regulates epigenetic responses to both substances.

Hou and her team noted that some of the epigenetic changes identified have been connected to processes such as cellular growth, hormone signaling, immune responses, substance use disorders, and neurological conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. However, the study does not establish a direct causal relationship between marijuana use and these changes or health issues.

The findings offer new insights into how marijuana may influence epigenetic factors, according to Drew Nannini, another epidemiologist involved in the study. He emphasized the need for additional research across diverse populations to confirm these associations. Investigating how marijuana affects age-related health issues could also shed light on its long-term health impacts.

This call for additional research is partly the reason why the broader marijuana industry, including firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), has for long advocated for sweeping regulatory changes at the federal level so that it is easier to study marijuana and enable state-level and federal authorities to tweak marijuana laws based on the available science about the benefits and actual risks of this substance.

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

This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted long-awaited approval for a clinical trial exploring whether cannabis can help manage veterans’ post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The trial, which is being led by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), has faced delays since 2021 due to various objections raised by the FDA. Concerns included the potential risks associated with smoking high-potency marijuana and the study’s dosing method, which allows participants to regulate their intake within set daily limits.

MAPS said on Wednesday that the FDA had lifted its objections, allowing the study to move forward. Notably, the agency no longer opposes smoking as a consumption method or allowing participants to determine the amount they use, provided they stay within a maximum daily dose.

The FDA also approved the use of marijuana with a THC potency equivalent to what is legally sold in states where cannabis is permitted for recreational or medical use. One stipulation from the FDA is that participants must already have experience using marijuana.

According to Allison Coker, MAPS’ director of marijuana research, the study is designed to reflect how veterans might use marijuana in their everyday lives. This includes the method of consumption and the dosage.

Coker explained that many users prefer vaping or smoking marijuana because its effects are immediate—something particularly important for managing PTSD. The FDA had been hesitant about allowing these methods, but MAPS emphasized that these forms of consumption align with real-world usage.

The FDA’s decision marks a significant shift in the federal government’s stance on marijuana research. Coker believes it reflects a growing acknowledgment of its potential benefits rather than focusing solely on its risks. Broader changes in cannabis policy have also influenced this decision. The Biden administration, for example, proposed reclassifying cannabis to reduce its regulatory restrictions, though the process is complex and subject to political shifts.

The MAPS trial will receive $12.9 million in funding from Michigan’s marijuana agency, which allocates revenue from marijuana taxes toward research on its medical uses. It will include 320 veterans diagnosed with PTSD. Researchers will use cannabis sourced from Canada, selected for its high THC levels to match products commonly available in the U.S. legal market.

Coker expressed hope that this approval signals a turning point for marijuana research. MAPS has made all its communications with the FDA publicly available to help guide other researchers navigating similar studies.

Marijuana firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) will be waiting to see the findings from this clinical trial since they could contribute to cementing the place of marijuana as a treatment for some conditions for which conventional medicine has proved ineffective.

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

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.

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

Last year, when Delaware legalized cannabis, legislators approved the opening of 30 retail cannabis stores across the state. However, despite licenses being expected this year and stores potentially launching by 2025, available locations for shoppers to purchase cannabis legally are declining.

Several cities and towns in the state have used a provision in the legalization law to ban marijuana retail outlets, along with testing, cultivation, and manufacturing facilities. Sussex County has enforced bans in towns such as Bridgeville, Seaford, Millsboro, and Dagsboro. Beach towns like Milton, Rehoboth, South Bethany, Dewey, Bethany, Lewes, Fenwick Island, and Ocean View have also opted out of allowing cannabis businesses.

Additionally, Middletown, Delaware’s fourth-biggest city, has passed a total ban on cannabis businesses, while Newark has made an exception for its Main Street shopping area. Dover, the second-biggest city in the state, is also considering limitations on where marijuana stores can operate.

Sussex County Council is utilizing another legal provision that enables counties to regulate aspects such as the number and location of cannabis businesses. The council has restricted cannabis stores to C3-zoned areas, which are designated for heavy commercial use. However, the law also prohibits any cannabis businesses from being within three miles of municipalities, churches, schools, or drug abuse treatment centers.

This zoning restriction effectively results in a ban on retail marijuana stores in the county since all of the C3-zoned areas are within three miles of restricted areas, leaving no viable locations for these businesses.

Meanwhile, in Wilmington, the mayor’s office issued a statement in September outlining its approach to cannabis businesses. Cannabis entrepreneurs would have little trouble opening their enterprises in different parts of the city if there were no local prohibitions.

The mayor, however, has expressed his intent to restrict cannabis businesses from operating near schools or neighborhoods. The proposal initially sought to ban these businesses within 100 feet of schools or residential areas. Permitted zones would include manufacturing districts, downtown retail areas, and commercial centers. However, the restricted zone was extended by the city’s planning commission to 300 feet, but it will be reviewed again this month before the council makes a final decision.

In New Castle County, the only current restrictions being considered are that cannabis stores cannot operate within 1,000 feet of places like schools, daycare centers, churches, parks, government offices, or drug treatment centers.

State Representative Ed Osienski, who sponsored the cannabis regulatory and legalization bills, has expressed frustration with the actions taken by most local governments. He stated that the original intent of the law was to treat cannabis stores similarly to liquor stores, which are common throughout the state.

Meanwhile, Robert Coupe, Delaware’s cannabis commissioner, has remained focused on processing license applications while staying neutral on the local zoning issues. Coupe acknowledged the difficulties created by these local restrictions, especially in Sussex County, but also noted that New Castle and Kent counties seem to be imposing fewer hurdles for cannabis retailers.

While the situation in Delaware is still very much in flux, industry actors like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) from around the country that hoped for widespread access to adult-use marijuana products by adults wishing to consume those products could be getting concerned by the restrictive actions of local authorities with regard to potential locations for cannabis businesses.

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

California Governor Gavin Newsom approved a measure that will allow the operation of marijuana cafés, modeled after those in the Netherlands. The law is set to come into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, subject to local government approvals.

Last year, Governor Newsom vetoed a similar proposal from Assembly Member Matt Haney, which would have permitted California’s cannabis retailers to run full kitchens and host events. Newsom’s main concern at the time was the lack of adequate worker protections in the bill.

In his latest signing statement, he expressed support for Haney’s improvements to the current bill. These changes include protecting employees’ right to wear masks, with employers covering the costs, and requiring that workers be informed about the dangers of secondhand marijuana smoke. Newsom also stressed that businesses that fail to follow these safeguards will not be viewed favorably.

The marijuana café law might be the only reprieve for California’s cannabis industry for the time being. The governor’s proposed $291 billion budget for FY 2024–2025 doesn’t include any cuts to the fees or taxes imposed on cannabis businesses.

Just a day earlier, Newsom vetoed a bill, AB 1111, that sought to allow small cannabis producers to sell their products directly to users, citing concerns about its wide scope. Further, he stated that the measure’s eligibility criteria, which included most licensed cannabis growers, could potentially strain the state’s cannabis control department’s regulatory efforts and disrupt the existing retail licensing structure.

The veto has been met with disappointment from advocates within the cannabis industry, particularly those representing small growers. The Origins Council, which represents around 800 producers in the Emerald Triangle, voiced its frustration, noting that small businesses are essential to the sustainability and equity of California’s cannabis market.

The bill, had it been signed into law, would have permitted small farmers to sell up to $175,000 worth of cannabis products at approved events, starting in January 2026.

Over the past few weeks, marijuana industry groups and advocates, such as the Origins Council, Equity Trade Network and Supernova Women, pushed hard for Newsom’s approval through various campaigns.

Despite the veto, Newsom noted that he was open to considering a revised version of the bill next year that would be more narrowly focused. He underlined that future legislation should address the major issues that the cannabis sector is currently facing, such as increased access to legal cannabis products and competition from unregulated sources.

This authorization of cannabis cafes in California is likely to be followed by marijuana companies, including SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), because it could usher in a new dynamic within legal marijuana markets in different jurisdictions. This is because when California leads the way, other jurisdictions often take a leaf from what has worked in the Golden State.

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

A former Nebraska senator and past member of the Nebraska Health Board has filed a lawsuit aimed at stopping two state medical marijuana ballot petitions. John Kuehn, a rancher and veterinarian from Heartwell, is challenging the placement of these measures on the Nov. 5 , 2024, ballot.

Kuehn has listed seven key reasons for his challenge, including claims of procedural violations and constitutional issues under federal and state laws. Kuehn’s legal team, led by attorneys Cameron E. Guenzel, Steven E. Guenzel and Andrew La Grone (another former state senator), filed the case in Lancaster County District Court. The lawsuit seeks to prevent Bob Evnen, the secretary of state of Nebraska, from approving the two petitions for the ballot. Further, Kuehn wishes to prevent the state from recognizing the election results even if these measures are approved.

The two measures in question would legalize medical marijuana and outline who would be considered a patient, provider and caregiver. The measures are supported by Nebraskans for Medical Cannabis, with leaders including campaign manager Crista Eggers, State Senator Anna Wishart and former State Senator Adam Morfeld. Kuehn’s lawsuit names these campaign leaders as well as Evnen.

Kuehn claims that there were several issues with the petitions, including delays in accessing the signatures, a lack of valid signatures, duplicate entries and an invalid sponsor statement from Wishart. He also argues that the petitions violate the state’s constitutional single-subject rule, unlawfully delegate power to a proposed Nebraska Medical Marijuana Commission and conflict with federal laws banning cannabis as a Schedule 1 substance. The lawsuit further asserts that most signatures were collected either before the official petition circulation period or after the deadline. Kuehn argues that invalid signatures were unlawfully accepted by the secretary of state’s office. However, the lawsuit doesn’t specify exactly how many signatures may be invalid.

Mike Hilgers, the state’s attorney general, announced a press conference to address alleged falsifications in the petition process, though it is unclear if these remarks relate to the medical marijuana measures.

This is not the first attempt for Nebraska to place medical cannabis on the ballot, as previous efforts in 2020 and 2022 fell short due to similar legal challenges. The current campaign marks the group’s third attempt, and group officials are hopeful that this will be their final push. However, the lawsuit presents significant hurdles that could delay or derail their efforts once again.

The cannabis industry, including established enterprises such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL), will likely be watching how the legal battle pans out and whether voters will finally cast their ballots on this matter as the year draws to an end.

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

A new study backed by the National Football League (NFL) sheds light on the increasing acceptance of therapeutic marijuana in sports while also highlighting the significant challenges posed by federal restrictions. These limitations continue to hinder research efforts, leaving a gap in understanding both the risks and benefits associated with cannabinoid use among athletes. The closing of this knowledge gap is an urgent matter, according to the report.

The study notes that, largely due to prohibition, healthcare providers lack sufficient understanding of a substance that is becoming more widely available for both recreational and therapeutic use.

The NFL committed $1 million in 2022 to studies examining the potential of cannabis to reduce pain and prevent concussions. This funding supported clinical research investigating the dosage of CBD and its potential as a substitute for opioids, in addition to the current investigation.

The study’s authors highlight the importance of education as a proven tool for reducing harm. “While there are ongoing efforts to educate the public on the risks of cannabinoids, equivalent efforts must be made to investigate and understand their benefits,” the 27-page paper argues.

The paper, which acknowledges both potential advantages and hazards for athletes using marijuana therapeutically, mostly evaluates existing literature. The authors warn against the dissemination of false information and unfavorable preconceptions that continue to impede the public’s understanding of cannabis and recommend a fair and impartial approach to sharing these findings.

The study highlights that concentrating only on negative messages runs counter to the positive experiences that many people who use cannabis products have had, which undermines public confidence in health authorities. Further, the study also discusses how the public’s comprehension of cannabinoid medicines is impeded by the cannabis industry’s emphasis on recreational usage. The industry’s commercial orientation, which permeates legal and political discourse, further blurs the discussion about the possible health advantages of cannabis products.

To truly serve the public, policymakers need to prioritize evidence-based studies, according to the study’s authors. However, this requires overcoming complex regulatory barriers that currently make it nearly impossible to conduct research on real-world cannabis products outside of studies funded by commercial interests.

One of the primary hurdles identified by the report is the limited availability of rigorous studies. The researchers note that many existing studies on humans have significant limitations in design and applicability. Variations in the types of cannabinoids studied, participant demographics and administration methods make it difficult to draw broad conclusions. As such, the authors advise caution when interpreting these findings, because they may not apply to other populations or different cannabinoid formulations.

The report also characterizes the existing cannabis laws and guidelines in sports as ambiguous and contradictory. The researchers urge politicians, medical experts and athletes to be better informed about the possible advantages and disadvantages of cannabis. The research makes the case that by addressing these problems, the sports community can promote a more knowledgeable and fair conversation on cannabis usage in sports.

As the misconceptions and stigma associated with marijuana use by athletes dissipates, many more are likely to use the products made by entities such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) to help in the management of the different physiological and mental-health challenges they face as a result of the rigors of the sports they participate in.

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

The recent decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to limit the power of federal regulatory agencies has introduced new uncertainty regarding the future of cannabis rescheduling. However, administrative law and policy experts believe that the ambiguity is not expected to hinder the Biden administration’s reclassification process.

In a 6-to-3 decision last Friday, the court ruled that courts are no longer obligated to follow federal agencies’ interpretations of statutes when Congress leaves those interpretations unclear. This ruling effectively ends the Chevron doctrine, named after a 1984 judgment. Historically, courts would defer to regulators as the subject matter experts.

There is speculation about the implication of the Chevron ruling on state-licensed cannabis markets, with questions arising about the future ability of federal agencies to provide nonbinding guidance, such as a new Cole memo. Further, doubts have surfaced regarding the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) authority over intoxicating hemp products such as delta-8 THCA and THC.

Paradoxically, the dependence of courts on the Chevron doctrine has hampered earlier attempts to reschedule cannabis. This reliance enabled the DEA to utilize its own criteria in determining that cannabis did not have a recognized medical use.

However, in the ongoing rescheduling process initiated by President Joseph Biden in 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) determined in August 2023 that marijuana does have a recognized medical use based on a new two-part standard. Acting on this advice and an opinion from the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Office of Legal Counsel, Merrick Garland, the U.S. attorney general, proposed a rule in May to reschedule cannabis in Schedule III of the CSA.

Chief Justice Roberts noted in his 35-page opinion that federal law requires courts to use their own discretion to decide legal disputes rather than relying on administrative bodies to make decisions.

Other concerns regarding the DOJ’s analysis, which suggests that U.S. responsibilities under international treaties prevent rescheduling, are also covered in the ruling decision. There will likely be legal challenges referencing the ruling in regard to the rescheduling process.

It’s unlikely that ongoing legal actions, including one contesting the legality of the federal marijuana ban, will be immediately impacted by the ruling.

According to former Massachusetts state regulator and attorney Shaleen Title, predictions that the verdict could be used to challenge state marijuana legislation regarding licensing or social justice requirements are, at best, speculative. Meanwhile, others suggested that states might adapt their deference policies in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling, potentially weakening deference and empowering state courts to set standards for marijuana businesses.

The regulatory landscape for marijuana in the United States is still very much in flux, and leading actors such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have plenty to digest, ranging from court decisions that set precedents to state and federal regulations, as they work to operate within established legal boundaries while going about their legitimate business activities.

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

According to a new survey, the majority of Americans believe that marijuana is less detrimental to health than tobacco and alcohol. According to the YouGov poll, 64% of participants believe that regular alcohol consumption is riskier than marijuana use, and 63% believe that regular tobacco use is also riskier. The survey conducted from April 5–8, 2024, involved 1,148 adults.

Contrastingly, only a small fraction — 14% — believes that cannabis usage poses a greater threat than regular alcohol consumption. Additionally, 16% of participants stated that marijuana is more detrimental than tobacco. In total, 53% of those surveyed indicated that both tobacco and alcohol are more detrimental to health than cannabis.

These findings align with other recent surveys, such as one conducted by Gallup, which revealed that Americans generally perceive cannabis as less detrimental than cigarettes, alcohol and vaping. Moreover, the survey noted that marijuana use has overtaken cigarette consumption in the United States while vaping is currently behind both.

Similarly, a JAMA poll published last year indicated a shift in public perception, with more people considering smoking cannabis or secondhand marijuana smoke exposure as safer compared to tobacco smoke.

The YouGov poll also revealed that a significant majority of Americans — 62% — support marijuana legalization. This sentiment cuts across political affiliations, with 46% of Republicans, 67% of independents and 71% of Democrats expressing support for legalization.

Regarding usage patterns, 56% admitted to trying cannabis in their lifetime, with 24% reporting consumption within the past year and 17% within the last 30 days. Among those who consumed marijuana in the past year, 24% used it several times daily, 11% used it once daily and 20% used it occasionally.

According to the survey, smoking bud or flower was the most popular (61%) form of use among those who have tried cannabis or CBD. Furthermore, if cannabis were to be legalized countrywide, 67% of nonusers stated that they would keep abstaining. Another 14% expressed uncertainty about trying it, while 6% said they likely would, and 2% said they certainly would.

Meanwhile, another recent survey revealed that more than one-half of the adult population was surprised by the fact that cannabis remains federally illegal in the United States.

Furthermore, a Pew Research Center survey found that 90% of Americans support the legalization of cannabis for either medical or recreational purposes. Most respondents stated that legalization enhances equity in the criminal justice system and helps the local economy.

As perceptions toward marijuana keep changing, cannabis companies such as SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) could see their clientele growing in the different markets in which they have operations.

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