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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 — Colombian Marijuana Exports Exceed $10M as Authorities Double Shelf-Life Limit

In the past year, Colombia’s export of medical marijuana has continued its upward trajectory, although it hasn’t reached the anticipated heights yet. According to data from ProColombia, a governmental body promoting alternative Colombian trade, medical marijuana exports from the country reached a value of $10.8 million in 2023. This marks an 11.3% increase compared to the previous year’s $9.7 million and a notable 96% rise from 2021.

Observers within the industry interpret these latest figures as indicators of the Colombian marijuana market’s ongoing development. Avicanna CEO Aras Azadian highlights the growing recognition of the economic, practical and environmental advantages of cultivating cannabis in Colombia. Azadian anticipates further growth, particularly as pharmaceutical projects such as Avicanna’s Trunerox gain marketing authorization in Colombia and Brazil, leveraging active pharmaceutical ingredients sourced from Colombia.

Trunerox, an Avicanna’s CBD-based medication that targets individuals with Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, exemplifies the potential for medical cannabis products. Azadian notes the extended timeline for developing medical marijuana markets, suggesting that only a handful of companies may thrive due to the considerable investment and regulatory hurdles. Despite the challenges, the approval of certain products indicates potential scalability.

In 2023, Colombia’s marijuana exports encompassed diverse products, including dietary supplements, cosmetics and phytotherapeutic products. Notably, the destinations for Colombia’s exports have been evolving alongside changing regulations in other countries. Brazil emerged as the top destination in 2023, surpassing Argentina, then followed by Australia and Germany.

Azadian draws attention to the importance of pharmaceutical cannabis medications such as Trunerox, which can make medical claims and may support Colombia’s exports in the future. Rather than being a raw resource, he sees Trunerox as a finished good that Colombia will sell in large quantities.

Recent regulatory changes in Colombia that extend the timeframe for selling or exporting THC products to 48 months offer further opportunities. This extension, doubling the previous limit, aims to prevent the stockpiling of unsellable cannabis while providing relief to companies with surplus inventory.

Industry responses to the regulatory change vary, with some viewing it as critical, particularly for smaller growers who rely on inventory as capital. Larger producers such as PharmaCielo welcome the extension because it allows them to retain inventory for longer, supporting anticipated growth in international sales.

Despite the expansion of government-funded health insurance to include medical cannabis in late 2022, the domestic market in Colombia faces challenges. Only two medical marijuana drugs have obtained marketing authorization from INVIMA, Colombia’s regulatory body. Additionally, the majority of medical products are magisterial preparations, which face hurdles in scaling due to regulatory constraints and insurance coverage issues.

Avicanna’s head legal director, Ernesto Castilla Bautista, highlights the constraints imposed by the magisterial preparation model, inhibiting economies of scale. He notes the challenges patients face in accessing medical cannabis due to insurance coverage issues, emphasizing the need for products such as Trunerox with INVIMA approval to streamline access and affordability for patients.

The successes being notched by Colombian cannabis exporters are an inspiration to entities such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that have an interest in making their mark on the global cannabis market.

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420 with CNW — Schumer Sends Out Petition Urging Public to Express Support for Cannabis Banking Legislation

Chuck Schumer, the Senate Majority Leader, is rallying public support for a bill focused on facilitating banking services for cannabis-related businesses through an online petition. In a recent communication concerning this endeavor, he reaffirmed his stance in favor of a comprehensive federal legalization of marijuana.

In the wake of continuing congressional discussions on budgetary appropriations, the SAFER Banking Act has come back into focus. Schumer, in an email communication, highlighted the challenges faced by state-licensed marijuana businesses in accessing banking facilities nationwide.

Schumer paints a picture of the predicament faced by these businesses, unable to access basic financial services such as credit lines or deposits due to the federal illegality of cannabis. Consequently, they are compelled to manage substantial cash reserves, a situation fraught with risks. Financial institutions remain wary of engaging with such enterprises given the conflicting legal landscape.

Further, he emphasizes the urgency of supporting the SAFER Banking Act to address these immediate concerns, employing a common tactic of online petitioning to galvanize support, leveraging it as a means for list-building and potential campaign fundraising.

Signatories are directed to a questionnaire probing their awareness of the marijuana banking issue, shedding light on the extent of the problem. The messaging underscores Senate Democrats’ commitment to assisting small businesses and rectifying the unjust legal status of cannabis. It solicits support to uphold the Democratic Senate Majority, hinting at donation avenues for those inclined to contribute.

The fate of the bill now rests with Schumer’s leadership. While the banking committee in the Senate endorsed the bipartisan measure months ago, its progression to the Senate floor hinges on scheduling. Nonetheless, there’s a palpable optimism among legislators regarding the measure’s prospects, buoyed by ongoing bicameral discussions.

Sherrod Brown, Chair of the Senate Banking Committee, has signaled the Act’s priority status despite acknowledging the complexities posed by prevailing House dynamics. Similarly, Tom Emmer, the House Majority Whip, although not a vocal advocate for marijuana reform, expressed a desire to advance the banking bill during a recent industry summit.

Disagreements over nonmarijuana provisions within the measure have stalled its advancement. Nevertheless, bicameral negotiations persist, with indications pointing towards an imminent resolution. Prominent sponsors from both parties have reaffirmed their commitment to shepherding the bill through Congress. Senator Maria Cantwell recently joined as the 36th cosponsor of the measure, further solidifying support within the chamber.

Should the bill proceed to the Senate this year, amendments are expected. Schumer has hinted at the possibility of incorporating provisions relating to gun rights for marijuana consumers and state-legal marijuana expungements.

The cannabis industry, including leading companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) has long yearned for equal access to banking services in the way that other legitimate businesses access these services, but it looks like it may take a while for the needed legal reforms to be enacted at the federal level.

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420 with CNW — Bipartisan Lawmakers Express Concern About Persisting Barriers to Marijuana Research

Two bipartisan Congress lawmakers have expressed serious concerns about the slow progress in implementing a measure that President Joseph Biden signed into law aimed at simplifying cannabis research procedures.

Representatives Andy Harris from Maryland and Earl Blumenauer from Oregon sent a letter to the heads of the U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking clarification on how marijuana research should be facilitated under the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act signed into law by the president in 2022.

Harris and Blumenauer, despite their differing views on more general marijuana policy matters, collaborated on this legislation, which they hailed as a significant step forward in resolving the federal government’s restrictions on marijuana research. However, they criticized the DEA and HHS for failing to implement the law effectively, contrary to congressional intentions.

In their letter, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of studying the effects of marijuana use, especially with more than one-half of U.S. citizens residing in states where recreational marijuana is legal and more than four million medical cannabis users. They expressed concern over the delay in processing an estimated 150 research applications for marijuana studies by the FDA under HHS and highlighted the outdated licensing requirements imposed by the DEA, which exclude many researchers.

Further, they noted that the HHS failed to meet its deadline for providing Congress with a report detailing the obstacles to government cannabis research, pointing to the act’s inadequate execution.

Harris and Blumenauer posed several questions to the DEA and HHS, including seeking clarification on timelines for research application decisions, pending research licensing applications, reasons for missing deadlines, and steps being taken to streamline research registration and expand marijuana research.

The collaboration between Harris and Blumenauer is noteworthy given their contrasting stances on marijuana policy. Blumenauer, a cochair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus (CCC), has long advocated for federal cannabis legalization, while Harris has opposed such efforts. Despite their differences, both lawmakers are committed to ensuring that federal agencies adhere to the law aimed at facilitating marijuana studies.

In a related move, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recognized the difficulties faced by researchers studying marijuana due to federal prohibition; these challenges include convoluted laws and insufficient cannabis supply. In response, the agency declared its intention to create a resource center for marijuana and cannabinoid studies, demonstrating its dedication to removing obstacles that stand in the way of researchers and scientists.

The research barriers that the lawmakers refer to are a fraction of the hurdles that industry actors such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) have to contend with in the different jurisdictions where they operate.

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420 with CNW — Study Shows Cannabis Users Less Likely to Suffer Cognitive Decline

A recent study suggests a potential link between cannabis use and reduced instances of subjective cognitive decline (SDC), wherein individuals who incorporate cannabis into their routines, whether for medical or recreational purposes, report experiencing less memory impairment and confusion than nonusers.

Published in the “Current Alzheimer Research” Journal, the study’s significance lies in its departure from prior research that has often associated subjective cognitive decline with a higher risk of dementia in later life. The findings challenge conventional assumptions about the cognitive impacts of THC, the primary psychoactive component of marijuana.

The research, conducted by scholars from SUNY Upstate Medical University, examines various facets of marijuana use and its association with SCD among older and middle-aged adults in the United States. Unlike previous studies, which primarily focused on heavy marijuana consumption’s adverse effects on mental performance, this study delved into the nuanced relationship between marijuana use frequency, reasons for consumption, method of administration and subjective cognitive decline.

The researchers obtained insights from respondents 45 years of age and older in 14 states as well as Washington, D.C., by examining data from the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). The study, which included 4,744 valid responses on SCD, investigated the use of cannabis by participants, including how often they used it, why they used it (medically, recreationally, or both), and how they consumed it (smoking, ingesting it, vaporizing it, etc.).

The study disproved assumptions regarding the negative effects of cannabis use on cognition by showing that recreational marijuana usage was highly linked to a decreased risk of SCD in contrast to nonusers. The researchers proposed several hypotheses to explain these findings, including the potential role of cannabis in improving sleep quality and reducing stress levels, both of which are implicated in cognitive function.

However, the study also identified some mixed results. While certain consumption methods, particularly smoking, were associated with a higher prevalence of SCD, the relationship between marijuana use frequency and subjective cognitive decline was not statistically significant. Moreover, the study highlighted the prevalence of SCD among individuals using marijuana for medical or combined medical and nonmedical reasons, hinting at the complexity of the relationship between marijuana use motives and cognitive outcomes.

Despite shedding new light on the potential cognitive benefits of marijuana use, the study acknowledges several limitations. Self-reported data, potential underreporting or misreporting of cannabis use, and the lack of geographical diversity in the sample raise questions about the study’s generalizability and reliability.

In conclusion, while the study challenges prevailing beliefs about the cognitive impacts of cannabis, it underscores the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and potential risks associated with cannabis consumption. By considering multiple factors, including reasons for use, future studies can provide a more nuanced understanding of cannabis’s effects on cognitive health.

For now, users of licensed marijuana products from various companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) can take comfort in the fact that they may not face any major risk of cognitive decline if they use cannabis products in moderation.

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420 with CNW — New Poll Shows Voters Want Cannabis Taxes to Fund Housing, Education

Opinions among adults in New Jersey vary regarding how the state should utilize revenue from the marijuana tax. However, a recent study sheds light on the prevailing sentiment that most residents do not favor directing marijuana tax funds toward antidrug or law-enforcement initiatives.

The study, which was published in the “International Journal of Drug Policy,” polled 1,006 New Jersey residents and gave them seven alternatives for how marijuana tax revenue should be spent, including financing for law enforcement, affordable housing and public health.

The study’s findings, compiled by researchers from Drexel and Rutgers Universities, showed that financing for community-based programs such as education (23%), housing (15%), public health (21%) and transport infrastructure (13%), was preferred over funding for antidrug initiatives (4%) and law enforcement (11%). Findings showed that 13% of respondents did not know where the revenue should be directed.

According to the authors, these findings reflect a desire among the public to invest in essential societal pillars such as public health and education rather than continuing the punitive measures that have traditionally been linked to marijuana laws.

The results shed light on a discussion that has taken place in legislatures and political campaigns around the nation, with proponents of legalization typically opposing plans to utilize marijuana tax revenue to fund the organizations that upheld the harsh drug laws that the repeal of prohibition wants to remove.

The survey results also revealed partisan differences, with Republicans generally supporting funding priorities less than Democrats, especially when it comes to law enforcement. Notably, only one Black participant stated that funding law enforcement was a top priority when it came to cannabis tax revenue, highlighting concerns about the disproportionate impact of marijuana criminalization on Black communities.

The study concludes by stating that marijuana legalization initiatives can address social inequities by reinvesting tax revenue, though further exploration is needed on how this reinvestment can benefit disadvantaged communities and promote health equity.

The data from New Jersey indicates a preference for investing in education, drug treatment and public-health initiatives over law enforcement, reflecting a broader trend in public opinion. This sentiment underscores the potential benefits of formally allocating health- and justice-related funding to address health disparities and historical injustices stemming from punitive marijuana policies.

Similarly, in Ohio, the debate over tax revenue allocation has intensified, with cannabis activists opposing efforts by the Republican-controlled assembly to redirect funds toward law enforcement, contrary to voter-approved legalization measures.

The debates going on regarding how best to utilize the cannabis taxes that companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) pay in the states where they operate show how a legal cannabis industry can exert a transformative role upon the jurisdictions that enact drug reform and end prohibition.

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420 with CNW — New Study Explores How Cannabis Entourage Effect Impacts Therapeutic Benefits

A recent review that delves into the collaborative interplay of different marijuana chemical compounds, such as flavonoids, terpenes and cannabinoids, has shown that to fully understand the therapeutic potential of marijuana, it’s important to understand how the different constituents interact. Echoing sentiments expressed in the cannabis community for years, the study underscores that the effects of cannabis extend beyond only CBD and THC.

The study stresses the entourage effect, which describes the complex interactions between flavonoids, terpenes, cannabinoids and other chemicals found in marijuana plants. The study, published in the scientific journal “Molecules” last month, highlights the need to explore these complex connections to fully realize cannabis’ therapeutic potential in the field of natural plant medicine.

The study recommends a more thorough investigation of the precise ratios of flavonoids, terpenes and cannabinoids in various marijuana products or strains. It implies that this kind of examination can result in the creation of more specialized and efficient medical treatments.

Terpenes and cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce a range of effects, including neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, research indicates that other substances in the plant may also have an impact on their effects, which may not be entirely attributable to their separate actions.

The research notes that terpenes, for instance, have demonstrated pharmacological properties and can interact with neurotransmitter receptors and enzymes, potentially modulating the effects of cannabinoids. Further, the entourage effect proposes that terpenes and cannabinoids working together could have a therapeutic benefit that is more potent than the sum of their separate actions.

The authors also cited studies that suggest that flavonoids may have neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory qualities with cannflavins, a type of flavonoid, showing strong anti-inflammatory properties, especially against neuroinflammation. The study ALSO sheds light on the intricate network of chemical interactions that could influence the effects of cannabis on individuals.

However, the authors stress the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and synergistic effects of flavonoids, terpenes and cannabinoids. They further highlight the importance of exploring the biotechnological, bioactivities and biosynthesis applications of these compounds to harness their potential and expand treatment options.

The study also notes that the regulatory obstacles to marijuana research present serious difficulties. It highlights how important it is to resolve these barriers, especially those resulting from marijuana’s Schedule I status, to enable more widespread access to marijuana products for research.

Companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) may be doing a lot behind the scenes to leverage the therapeutic effects of combining different components of marijuana plants.

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420 with CNW — DEA Settles Lawsuit, Agrees to Rehire Agent Fired for Positive CBD Test

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently rehired an agent that was fired almost five years ago after the agent tested positive for tetrahydrocannabinol during a drug screening. Anthony Armour, the agent in question, was terminated in 2019 by the federal agency.

In 2023, Armour filed a suit against the agency in the Federal Circuit’s Court of Appeals, arguing that the DEA had no grounds to fire him without any evidence that he’d intended to break the law. In his suit, Armour asserted that he was using what he thought to be a hemp product that was federally legal as an alternative to opioids to manage chronic pain.

His attorney, Matt Zorn, also argued that the DEA had no policy on CBD at the time of his client’s termination, which came roughly one year after the 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp and its derivatives. It should be noted that in 2021, the DEA did revise its policy for job applicants, including a section inquiring about prior use of CBD and hemp before federal legalization in its questionnaire.

Last week, the court process ended in Armour’s favor, with the agency agreeing to reinstate him with restored pension eligibility as well as back pay. The Department of Justice, through the lawsuit, acknowledged that during his tenure, the plaintiff was an outstanding agent. The department then highlighted that despite this, his careless conduct in CBD consumption did justify his firing by the DEA.

In an interview, Armour stated that he was excited to return to work at the federal agency and hoped to finish his career by aiding the DEA in its mission to remove dangerous drugs from the streets. He also hopes that marijuana will be legalized, given scientific evidence that supports the drug’s legalization.

In an interview last year, Armour revealed that he was in favor of marijuana legalization.

This settlement agreement comes just as the DEA concludes a review into the scheduling of cannabis under a directive issued by President Joseph Biden in 2022. While the Department of Health and Human Services did recommend that marijuana be moved to Schedule III, the DEA has yet to give its final decision on the matter.

The issue on classification was brought up in Armour’s case, with the primary query being whether marijuana rescheduling would prevent the Drug and Enforcement Administration from enforcing its employment penalty.

The agency still defines an illegal substance as any drug under Schedule I or II of the Controlled Substances Act that cannot be prescribed.

As the scheduling review process nears its end, cannabis companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be hoping for an outcome that eases many of the hoops that they have been compelled to jump through in order to operate their state-legal businesses within the broader federal regulations, which aren’t so accommodating.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our 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. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. 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 — Missouri Legislators Hesitant to Add Cannabis to Workers’ Comp Law

Missouri voters approved a recreational cannabis measure in 2022, joining the growing number of states with adult-use marijuana markets. However, the legalization measure did not address how employers would handle compensation for employees who sustain workplace injuries while under the influence of cannabis.

Currently, employees may have their compensation and death benefits cut by up to 50% even if they hadn’t consumed cannabis for days but still tested positive for THC. This mostly stems from the fact that existing cannabis tests aren’t accurate and cannot properly connect blood THC levels to actual intoxication. Worker compensation attorney Bradley Young says this hasn’t changed even after voters legalized recreational marijuana because cannabis is still prohibited at the federal level.

Republican Representatives Sherri Gallick and John Voss have introduced measures that would add cannabis to the state’s workers’ compensation law. Under Missouri’s workers’ current compensation law, employees whose on-the-job injuries are sustained “in conjunction with nonprescribed controlled drugs” face a 50% reduction of their benefits.

According to Young, Missouri state law currently doesn’t classify marijuana as a nonprescribed controlled drug despite its status at the federal level.

Gallick’s bill would exempt medical cannabis patients who were using cannabis with a physician’s prescription while Voss’s measure does not include similar language. Another measure introduced by Jefferson City Republican Senator Mike Bernskoetter also mirrored the language in Voss’s bill.

However, both measures have faced opposition from Democrats and Republicans on the House Insurance Policy Committee. Republican Representative Richard West noted that his biggest problem with the measure is that the technology to accurately measure marijuana impairment doesn’t exist. He noted that employees can still lose 50% of their benefits if they have some cannabis in their systems from prior use but aren’t impaired during a workplace injury under the bill.

Young argued that after serving as a workers’ compensation defense attorney for three decades, he had never seen a case where a judge cut a worker’s benefits for using cannabis weeks, or even days, after the injury.

Several lawmakers criticized existing testing methods for their inaccuracy in properly measuring cannabis impairment. Most cannabis tests will show positive results even if an individual consumed marijuana several hours or even days prior and isn’t impaired at the moment of testing.

Conversely, alcohol impairment tests are incredibly effective at measuring intoxication levels on the spot. Without accurate cannabis impairment testing technology, West wondered whether the state would have to prevent people from consuming a legal substance in their free time.

When asked when efficient cannabis-testing technology will be available, Young said he represents a company that bought technology to determine if THC is active at the moment of testing. The technology is currently expensive, but Young said it would be more affordable next year.

The discussions in Missouri show that despite the existence of regulated markets in different states and countries where companies such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) operate, many reforms still need to be considered to end manifestations of prohibition.

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420 with CNW — Thailand Passes Draft Law Reversing Recreational Cannabis Legalization

Thailand’s recent political shift has set the stage for the introduction of fresh marijuana legislation, marking a major turnaround only 18 months after the nation took steps toward decriminalizing the substance.

The initial lenient regulations sparked a flourishing marijuana industry, serving both locals and tourists across southeast Asia. However, the conservative coalition government, which assumed power late last year, has pledged to enforce stricter rules, restricting marijuana usage solely to medical purposes.

Last week, the nation’s health ministry unveiled a draft measure outlining severe penalties, including high fines and potential one-year prison sentences for violators. The proposed legislation expressly limits marijuana and related products to medical applications. This aligns with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s commitment in September to change marijuana regulations within the first six months in office, reinforcing the government’s focus on medical use exclusively.

Although public cannabis consumption has always been illegal, the impending laws go further by prohibiting marketing and advertising campaigns for all marijuana products. An earlier version of the bill faced parliamentary rejection in November, but the current government remains steadfast in its determination to regulate recreational marijuana.

Thavisin has consistently emphasized the severity of the drug-abuse issue in Thailand through various media platforms. The proposed legislation represents a stark departure from the June 2022 milestone when Thailand became the first Asian country to fully decriminalize marijuana, a historic move in a region where severe penalties, including death sentences, are common for marijuana-related offenses.

While medical cannabis gained legal status in Thailand in 2018, full decriminalization allowed for the cultivation, trade and use of hemp and cannabis products without criminal repercussions. The subsequent proliferation of marijuana-related businesses, including cafes, dispensaries and hemp spas, attracted considerable attention, turning cities such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai into hot spots for weed festivals and tourist attractions.

Former health minister Anutin Charnvirakul stated in a CNN interview that the intent of original legislation was never to endorse public recreational marijuana use, emphasizing the promotion of marijuana for medical purposes.

Despite protests from prolegislation advocates, including the Future Marijuana Network, the government appears resolute in its decision to pivot away from the previously permissive stance on marijuana. Kitty Chopaka, a marijuana entrepreneur and advocate based in Bangkok, labeled the government’s move an unexpected response, expressing disappointment while highlighting that the momentum for marijuana as a narcotic has irreversibly shifted.

The ongoing debate underscores the complexities surrounding marijuana regulation in Thailand, impacting various stakeholders from farmers and small business owners to advocates emphasizing the importance of public involvement.

This policy reversal in Thailand could come as a disappointment to entities such as Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that had hoped for more international markets opening up on the Asian continent and elsewhere.

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