California has taken a significant step towards the normalization of cannabis with the recent approval of a bill that legalizes marijuana cafes. This legislative move marks a notable shift in the state’s approach to cannabis consumption, aiming to provide a regulated environment for users to consume cannabis in a social setting. This article delves into the details of the new bill, its implications, and the broader context of cannabis legalization in California.

Background and Legislative Journey

The road to legalize marijuana cafes in California has been marked by both progress and setbacks. Earlier, a similar proposal faced a veto from Governor Gavin Newsom, primarily due to concerns about workplace safety and the integration of cannabis consumption with food services. However, Assemblymember Matt Haney reintroduced the bill with modifications to address these concerns, leading to its eventual approval.

The Assembly passed the revised legislation with a resounding 58-6 vote, signaling strong support for the initiative. This bill allows licensed cannabis cafes to offer non-cannabis food, non-alcoholic beverages, and host live events, provided they receive approval from local governments. The legislation aims to create a safe and regulated space for cannabis consumption, separating it from food preparation areas to mitigate safety risks.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The approved bill outlines several key provisions designed to ensure a balanced approach to cannabis consumption in social settings:

1. Licensed Cafes: Establishments can obtain licenses to operate as cannabis cafes, where customers can consume marijuana on-site.
2. Food and Beverage Services: These cafes are permitted to serve non-cannabis food and non-alcoholic drinks, enhancing the social experience without introducing alcohol into the mix.
3. Live Events: The legislation allows cafes to host live events, providing entertainment options and promoting a vibrant social atmosphere.
4. Local Government Approval: Individual local governments retain the authority to approve or deny the establishment of cannabis cafes within their jurisdictions, ensuring community input and control.
5. Workplace Safety: To address previous concerns, the bill mandates a clear separation between areas designated for cannabis consumption and those used for food preparation and service.

Implications for the Cannabis Industry

The legalization of marijuana cafes is poised to have several significant implications for the cannabis industry in California:

1. Economic Boost: The introduction of cannabis cafes is expected to boost the local economy by attracting tourists and providing new business opportunities. These establishments can become popular social hubs, driving revenue through food and beverage sales, event hosting, and cannabis consumption.
2. Regulated Environment: By providing a regulated space for cannabis consumption, the state aims to reduce illegal and unsafe consumption practices. These cafes can offer a controlled environment where consumers can enjoy cannabis responsibly.
3. Social Acceptance: The approval of marijuana cafes represents a step towards greater social acceptance of cannabis use. It normalizes consumption in a social setting, similar to how alcohol is consumed in bars and restaurants.
4. Public Safety: The separation of cannabis consumption areas from food preparation spaces addresses safety concerns, ensuring that the new establishments operate within strict safety guidelines.

Broader Context of Cannabis Legalization

California has been at the forefront of cannabis legalization in the United States. The state legalized medical marijuana in 1996 and recreational use in 2016. Since then, the cannabis industry has grown significantly, contributing to the state’s economy through taxes and job creation.

However, the path to full legalization has not been without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, safety concerns, and opposition from certain community groups have posed obstacles. The approval of marijuana cafes represents a significant milestone, reflecting the state’s commitment to evolving its cannabis policies in response to public demand and industry needs.

Future Prospects

The future of marijuana cafes in California looks promising, with the potential to reshape the landscape of cannabis consumption. As these establishments begin to operate, they will likely set precedents for other states considering similar measures. The success of cannabis cafes in California could pave the way for more widespread acceptance and regulation of social cannabis consumption across the country.

In conclusion, the approval of the bill to legalize marijuana cafes in California marks a transformative moment in the state’s cannabis policy. By creating regulated environments for social cannabis use, the state is addressing safety concerns, boosting the economy, and promoting greater social acceptance of cannabis. This legislative move is a significant step forward in the ongoing journey of cannabis legalization in California.

Key Takeaways:

• California lawmakers approved a bill to legalize cannabis cafes.
• The bill allows on-site marijuana consumption at licensed businesses.
• These businesses can also offer non-cannabis food, non-alcoholic drinks, and host live events.
• Local governments have the authority to permit or deny cannabis cafes.
• The bill aims to help legal cannabis businesses compete with the illegal market.
• Amendments address health and safety concerns for workers.
• Hemp-based food and drinks are not considered “non-cannabis” products.
• Non-cannabis items must be stored separately from cannabis products.
• Live musical or other performances are allowed in areas permitting on-site consumption.

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how the world perceives cannabis. It’s no longer solely viewed through the lens of recreational use but increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential and economic opportunities. Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, highlighted this transformation during his keynote address at the Medicinal Cannabis Training Course in Suva’s Suvavou House. Let’s delve deeper into this groundbreaking shift and its implications.

Embracing the Economic Potential

Unveiling Lucrative Opportunities: The medicinal cannabis market is on the brink of remarkable growth globally. With projections indicating a staggering revenue of $19,101 million (USD 8,362.7 million) by 2024 in Australia and the Oceania region, the economic prospects are undeniable. Fiji, positioned strategically within Oceania, stands to harness this potential and bolster the region’s economic landscape.

Government’s Forward-Thinking Approach: Shaheen Ali commended the Fijian government for its foresight in proposing the establishment of a medicinal cannabis industry. This bold initiative not only signals a progressive stance but also underscores the government’s commitment to exploring innovative avenues for economic growth.

Nurturing Industry Development

International Collaboration for Progress: Recognizing the complexity of establishing a new industry, Fiji has actively engaged with international and technical partners. This collaborative effort is aimed at providing necessary support and expertise to propel the development of the medicinal cannabis industry forward. Moreover, it paves the way for synergistic opportunities, including advancements in the nutraceutical sector.

Cultivating Economic Diversification: The advent of the medicinal cannabis industry aligns seamlessly with the government’s economic diversification goals. By diversifying revenue streams and fostering the emergence of new sectors, Fiji is poised to strengthen its economic resilience. Additionally, the industry holds promise in generating employment opportunities and expanding export markets, thus bolstering national prosperity.

Paving the Path to Sustainability

Blueprint for Long-Term Viability: While the potential of the medicinal cannabis industry is undeniable, ensuring its long-term viability necessitates the formulation of robust policies, strategies, and legal frameworks. The government’s proactive stance in this regard underscores its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth.

Promoting Responsible Regulation: Balancing economic aspirations with regulatory imperatives is paramount in the nascent stages of industry development. By instituting prudent regulations, Fiji endeavors to strike a delicate equilibrium that safeguards public health and fosters industry innovation.

Conclusion

The discourse surrounding medicinal cannabis transcends mere economic considerations; it embodies a paradigm shift in societal perceptions and aspirations. As Fiji steers towards embracing this transformative industry, the journey towards realizing its full potential begins, promising a future defined by innovation, prosperity, and holistic well-being.

Image by Andreas from Pixabay

In a groundbreaking move, the New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) has taken a significant step forward by voting to waive cannabis cultivator licensing fees for the next two years. This decision marks a crucial turning point in supporting struggling cultivators and bolstering the state’s burgeoning cannabis industry.

Celebrating Progress

Governor Kathy Hochul hailed the decision as a testament to the state’s commitment to supporting its farmers and fostering a thriving cannabis industry. With this move, the state aims to provide cultivators with the necessary resources to succeed in this evolving market.

Expanding Business Opportunities

Alongside waiving cultivator licensing fees, the CCB has approved 114 new cannabis business licenses, including retail dispensaries and micro-businesses. This influx of licenses opens doors for entrepreneurs to grow, process, and sell cannabis, further diversifying the industry landscape.

Relief for Cultivators

The waiver of licensing fees until 2026 alleviates financial burdens on cultivators transitioning to non-conditional licenses. Previously, these fees ranged from $4,500 to $40,000, posing significant barriers to entry for many growers. This move ensures that cultivators can invest in their businesses without the added strain of licensing costs.

A Boost for Legalization Efforts

With the issuance of additional dispensary licenses and the promise of waived fees, Governor Hochul reaffirms her commitment to advancing cannabis legalization efforts in New York State. By creating a more favorable environment for cultivators, the state aims to stimulate economic growth and foster innovation within the industry.

Addressing Illegal Market Challenges

Despite progress in licensing, New York still grapples with an estimated 2,000 illegal cannabis businesses, outnumbering legal establishments significantly. This underscores the urgency of providing support and incentives for legal operators to thrive and compete with illicit markets effectively.

Financial Support from the State

In response to the challenges faced by legal cannabis businesses, the New York Senate has proposed a budget allocation of $128 million to support the industry. This funding includes provisions for farmers’ loans, relief grants, and compensation for losses incurred due to regulatory delays.

Reflecting on Past Challenges

Governor Hochul acknowledges the shortcomings of the initial cannabis legalization framework and its impact on businesses. The delay in implementing effective regulations has hindered the industry’s growth and profitability, underscoring the need for proactive measures to address existing challenges.

Proposed Solutions and Criticisms

While the proposed budget allocation signifies a step in the right direction, critics argue that it merely addresses the symptoms of a flawed regulatory framework. Calls for comprehensive reforms and more efficient regulatory processes echo across the political spectrum, highlighting the need for systemic changes.

Supporting Cannabis Farmers

Senators advocate for measures to support cannabis farmers who have borne the brunt of regulatory delays and market uncertainties. By providing financial assistance and streamlining licensing procedures, policymakers aim to safeguard the interests of small-scale growers and promote equitable participation in the industry.

Conclusion: Paving the Way Forward

The decision to waive cultivator licensing fees and the proposed financial support represent pivotal developments in New York’s cannabis landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders must collaborate to overcome challenges and create a sustainable, equitable framework for growth and innovation.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why did New York State decide to waive cannabis cultivator licensing fees? New York State waived cultivator licensing fees to support struggling farmers and stimulate growth in the cannabis industry.

2. How long will cultivators be exempt from paying licensing fees? Cultivators will be exempt from licensing fees until 2026, providing them with a two-year reprieve from financial burdens.

3. What other measures has the state proposed to support the cannabis industry? The state has proposed a budget allocation of $128 million to provide financial assistance and relief grants to cannabis businesses.

4. How does the legalization of cannabis in New York compare to the illegal market? Despite legalization efforts, New York still grapples with approximately 2,000 illegal cannabis businesses, highlighting the challenges of regulatory enforcement.

5. What criticisms have been raised regarding New York’s cannabis regulations? Critics argue that New York’s regulatory framework has been slow and ineffective, hindering the industry’s growth and competitiveness.

In a pivotal move, Malawi’s parliament is currently in talks around legislation to authorize the cultivation of cannabis, also known locally as “chamba.” The proposed aim is to bolster the nation’s foreign exchange earnings, although opposition from anti-drug advocates looms large.

During a session on Thursday, Malawian lawmaker Peter Dimba presented compelling arguments in favor of the initiative. Dimba highlighted the significant international demand for locally grown cannabis, emphasizing its potential to generate substantial revenue for the country.

Dimba stated, “Studies have indicated that the cultivation of chamba could potentially yield up to $200 million annually in its initial stages. As the industry matures, this figure could soar to an impressive $700 million, more than double the current earnings from tobacco sales.”

Historically, Malawi has heavily relied on tobacco, which contributes approximately 13% to its gross domestic product and constitutes 60% of its foreign exchange earnings. However, diminishing tobacco prices, largely due to anti-smoking campaigns and the established link between tobacco use and cancer, have spurred the exploration of alternative agricultural avenues.

In 2020, Malawi took a progressive step by enacting legislation permitting the cultivation of industrial hemp as a tobacco farming alternative. However, farmers report that industrial hemp hasn’t met expectations, citing difficulties in finding buyers. Mathews Osman, leading a cooperative of industrial hemp farmers, noted the heightened market interest in cannabis due to its psychoactive component, THC.

Osman further emphasized the practical challenges faced with industrial hemp, such as expensive imported seeds, contrasting with the anticipation of cheaper seeds for local cannabis varieties.

Patrick Galawanda, spokesperson for Malawi’s Rastafarian community, voiced hope that legalizing cannabis would prevent unjust arrests of Rastafarians using the substance for spiritual and medicinal purposes.

Conversely, Nelson Zakeyu, representing Drug Fight Malawi, expressed concerns over the legalization of cannabis, citing its addictive and harmful nature, particularly among teenagers. Zakeyu referenced research indicating a surge in teenage cannabis use following the legalization of industrial hemp.

In response to these divergent perspectives, Richard Chimwendo Banda, leader of government lawmakers, underscored the government’s cautious approach. Banda stressed the dual responsibility of safeguarding the youth while maximizing economic opportunities.

As the debate unfolds, lawmakers continue to refine the proposed legislation on cannabis cultivation, with the timeline for a vote yet to be determined.

Lawmakers in Hawaii’s House of Representatives met together with senators to talk about a bill about cannabis. The bill, SB 3335, would make it okay for adults 21 and older to have some cannabis. They could have an ounce of cannabis and five grams of cannabis concentrates. The bill also sets rules for selling cannabis legally.

The Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee liked the idea and said yes with a 7-3 vote. Another committee, Agriculture and Food Systems, also said yes, with five for and one against. Rep. David Tarnas, who supports the bill, says they’re trying to make sure it’s fair and safe for everyone. He says they’re taking advice from the attorney general. The bill is really long, more than 300 pages! They first talked about it in January.

The Senate already said yes, with 19 for and 6 against. At the meeting, they made some changes to the bill. They made some rules less strict. For example, selling cannabis to a minor would be a smaller crime. They also said caregivers could give medical cannabis to kids in some places.

Some colleges might let people have cannabis if they’re 21 or older. And if you have a medical card, you can use cannabis at school. They also want someone who knows about farming to help make decisions. They also fixed some words that were confusing.

Many people wrote letters about the bill. Some liked it, and some didn’t. Some people had ideas to make it better. Some police officers don’t like the bill. They think it could make driving more dangerous and make more crime. But some groups support the bill. They say it’s better than having cannabis sold illegally. Some people say the bill is too harsh.

They think it could put more people in jail for small things. Some groups also worry about kids using cannabis. But some people say it’s not as bad as people think. The bill also says how much tax people would pay for cannabis. It would go to two places: one for police and one for other things.

People with past crimes for cannabis could still work with cannabis after 10 years. The bill also has rules for driving and for people under 21. The bill could start in 2026. But some people want it to start later. They want to make sure the bill is fair for everyone. They also want to listen to everyone’s ideas. Some people hope the bill becomes a law soon. They say it could help Hawaii’s economy. Many people in Hawaii say they want cannabis to be legal.

A survey found 58% of people support it. The governor also supports the bill. He says it could be good for Hawaii. Last year, the legislature also asked the governor to help people with old cannabis crimes. They’re also talking about other drugs. They want to help people who need medical care with psilocybin, a kind of mushroom.

Key Points

• Lawmakers in Hawaii’s House of Representatives and senators discussed a cannabis bill.
• The bill, SB 3335, allows adults 21 and older to possess limited amounts of cannabis and cannabis concentrates.
• Some colleges may permit cannabis use for adults 21 and older and for medical cardholders.

Past cannabis offenders could work with cannabis after a 10-year waiting period.

Tax allocation for cannabis sales was outlined, with proceeds directed towards law enforcement and other areas.

Discussions extend to other drugs like psilocybin, aiming to provide medical assistance.

Morocco’s first legal cannabis harvest happened in 2023, with a total of 294 metric tons. This followed the country’s approval for its cultivation and export for medicinal and industrial purposes, according to cannabis regulator ANRAC.

The harvest was managed by 32 cooperatives involving 430 farmers, covering 277 hectares in the northern Rif mountain areas of Al Houceima, Taounat, and Chefchaouen, as reported by ANRAC in an email to Reuters.

The United Nations drugs agency notes that approximately 47,000 hectares of the Rif region are dedicated to cannabis cultivation, which is about a third of what it was in 2003 due to government crackdowns.

This year, ANRAC is reviewing applications from 1,500 farmers organized into 130 cooperatives for cultivation. The cultivation of the local drought-resistant landrace, known as Beldia, began this month.

While Morocco is a significant cannabis producer, the official use of cannabis for recreational purposes remains illegal. However, it is generally tolerated in practice.

Almost a million people reside in areas of northern Morocco where cannabis is the primary economic activity. It has been cultivated and used publicly for generations, often mixed with tobacco in traditional long-stemmed pipes with clay bowls.

The legalization aims to enhance farmers’ incomes and shield them from drug traffickers who control the illegal cannabis trade and export.

Currently, two legal cannabis transformation units are operational, with two more awaiting equipment. Additionally, 15 cannabis products are in the process of being authorized for medicinal use, according to ANRAC.

Morocco is also looking to capitalize on the growing global market for legal cannabis, having issued 54 export permits last year.

Recent research findings indicate that a specific cannabis extract possesses potential in impeding the proliferation of melanoma cells and promoting apoptosis.

A collaborative study conducted by researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) scrutinized the impact of cannabinoid PHEC-66, a concentrated cannabis extract developed by MGC Pharmaceuticals in Australia, on programmed cell death in melanoma cells.

The study, which was partially funded by MGC Pharmaceuticals Ltd. in Australia and was published in the Cells journal, highlights the link between the cannabis extract and receptors on melanoma cells, pointing to a potential additional therapeutic use for malignant melanoma. However, additional preclinical research is necessary to fully evaluate its effectiveness and potential.

Despite making up a small percentage of skin cancer cases, melanoma—which is derived from melanocytes in the epidermis—is responsible for a substantial number of skin cancer-related deaths because of its tendency to spread and resistance to standard therapies.

There are currently few treatment options available for metastatic melanoma. However, new research suggests that several naturally occurring cannabis plant chemicals, like terpenes, flavonoids, and polyphenols, may have anticancer effects and may be useful in the treatment of melanoma.

Previous research has demonstrated that chemicals derived from plants can inhibit the growth of tumors at an early stage by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors, which in turn modulates other molecular pathways.

The current study shows that the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors interact with the cannabis extract PHEC-66 to inhibit the proliferation and motility of melanoma cells.

In order to verify the role of these receptors in mediating the lethal effects of PHEC-66, melanoma cells were treated with CB1 and CB2 antagonists. The outcomes show a noticeable rise in cell viability after receptor blocking.

Furthermore, the research notes distinct changes in receptor gene expression in melanoma cell lines after PHEC-66 treatment, indicating that CB1 and CB2 receptors play a role in the signaling pathways that are activated. Furthermore, the variation in response amongst cell lines highlights how intricate this relationship is.

Moreover, melanoma cell migration and proliferation have been shown to be inhibited by the cannabis extract PHEC-66, which contains mostly CBD, potentially preventing the spread of cancer. However, additional investigation is necessary to clarify the exact mechanisms behind PHEC-66’s binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors in melanoma cells.

Interestingly, studies of the relationship between PHEC-66 and its receptors in the presence of particular blockers, AM251 and AM630, showed that the extract primarily depends on CB2 receptor activation in all tested melanoma cell lines for its growth-inhibitory actions.

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In summary, this study underscores the ability of PHEC-66 to attenuate melanoma cell growth through interactions with CB1 and CB2 receptors, thereby influencing metabolic pathways and cell cycle progression, ultimately culminating in apoptosis and reduced tumor growth. Further research is imperative to elucidate its therapeutic potential in advanced-stage melanoma, particularly in combination therapies and utilizing advanced experimental models.

While offering a glimmer of hope in cancer therapeutics, the translation of these findings into clinical applications necessitates rigorous scientific scrutiny, including animal experiments and human clinical trials, to ensure safety and efficacy.

In essence, this study highlights how PHEC-66 can effectively slow down the growth of melanoma cells by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors. These interactions impact important cellular processes like metabolism and cell cycle, ultimately leading to cell death and decreased tumor growth. However, further research is crucial to fully understand its potential in treating advanced melanoma, especially when combined with other therapies and tested in more advanced experimental models.

While these findings provide hope for improved cancer treatments, they must be subjected to rigors scientific testing. This comprises animal research, followed by human clinical trials. Only through thorough research will we be able to ensure the safety and efficacy of translating these discoveries into real-world patient therapies.

How do I get access to medical cannabis in Australia?

Accessing medicinal cannabis in Australia began in 2016, but it was very costly, and not everyone had access. Almost 9 years later, we have access to over 200 medications, with new brands and suppliers regularly entering the Australian market with various consumption methods i.e. oral liquid, flower, vape carts, and edibles.

To reduce the stress and worry associated with access to alternative chronic pain management choices, I often advise new patients to seek out pharmacies or dispensaries which specialize in medicinal cannabis.

These clinics have highly qualified pharmacists who can provide guidance and empathize with their patients. During my own journey, I explored a number of clinics, but none of them offered the personalized treatment that I found at Astrid Dispensary. They’re a boutique plant-based pharmacy who are dedicated to providing a safe space and providing the best patient experience.

What impressed me the most was the thorough Doctors appointment and the range of medication, they have pretty much every day, if a product is not in stock, it can be ordered in and received in a mattery of days – long as the supplier is in stock.

If you’re in Melbourne or Byron Bay you can simply pick up from their dispensaries’ at either location. To get started, all I did was go to their online clinic and fill out the pre-screening questionnaire, and book an initial doctors consultation via the Astrid Dispensary + Clinic website, and I was on my way. Because the dispensary and clinic are integrated, it makes it easier to manage and access your scripts.

This month the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) made changes to the medicinal cannabis advertising laws. During the 2022-23 period, the TGA issued 101 infringement notices, amounting to $1,292,040, for suspected unauthorized advertising of medicinal cannabis.

What is the TGA?

In Australia, the TGA is in charge of regulating therapeutic goods, which include medications, medical equipment, and vaccinations. Before they may be lawfully supplied in the nation, it evaluates their efficacy, safety, and quality.

When Did Australia legalize Medicinal Cannabis?

In October 2016, Australia legalised medicinal cannabis. The government changed the legislation to allow institutions to grow cannabis for scientific purposes and the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals. Growing cannabis for personal use is still prohibited everywhere other than the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

What Are The New TGA Updates?

The TGA have published an article stating the updates, in the words of the TGA, they’ve advised the below:

“This prohibition extends to the use of synonymous words for medicinal cannabis in advertisements such as ‘plant medicine’, or any word that becomes colloquially known as, or synonymous with, medicinal cannabis, as well as the use of medicinal cannabis in business names including logos or pictures.” – source

The screenshot below is an example of something that the TGA may flag:

image: screenshot taken on 25.12.23

For all clinics, doctors, pharmacists, and suppliers, I advise you to remove any creative content or signage containing the term “plant-based medicine”. The TGA seem to be cracking down and playing catch up with all brands and cannabis clinics (rightfully so). This change is going to make it even more difficult in an industry already facing rigorous compliance demands.

Here is a list of words and term which may be suitable:

• Natural therapies
• Holistic wellness solutions
• Natural healing remedies

Please check with your compliant team, I won’t be responsible for you receiving a fine.