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Check out these amazing solutions to move the conversation and country forward as we grapple with the complex issues of cannabis! Download the guides in the thread and share with everyone you know!

Descheduling cannabis is a step, but does it protect patients? The idea of descheduling cannabis has gained significant traction, (as my post yesterday shows) and while it’s an important step forward, descheduling alone might not be the comprehensive solution that patients need. At least that is what Americans For Safe Access thinks, and I agree! Descheduling cannabis would remove it from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), effectively decriminalizing it nationwide. However, this approach could leave patients (at least in some states) vulnerable to inconsistencies in quality and access—challenges that we've seen time and time again with loosely regulated markets. On the other hand, rescheduling cannabis—placing it in a lower schedule under the CSA—keeps it under strict federal control, which can stifle innovation and limit patient access by continuing to treat cannabis like a dangerous substance that requires the same oversight as harmful drugs. Both options have significant drawbacks that could hinder the progress we've made in recognizing cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment. This is where the Medical Cannabis & Cannabinoid Act of 2024 (MCCA) comes in as a superior alternative. Rather than simply rescheduling or descheduling cannabis, the MCCA proposes creating a new and specialized agency—the Office of Medical Cannabis & Cannabinoid Control (OMC)—under the Department of Health and Human Services. This agency would be distinct from the FDA, which has historically been biased and slow to adapt to the evolving landscape of cannabis research and medicine. The OMC would focus exclusively on the unique needs of medical cannabis patients, ensuring that regulations are tailored specifically to this industry rather than forcing it to fit into the outdated models designed for other substances. The MCCA also introduces Schedule VI, a new category that would allow for complete decriminalization of cannabis while still providing the necessary oversight to protect patient safety. Schedule VI would ensure that cannabis can be cultivated, manufactured, and distributed without the restrictions that come with the current scheduling system, but with safeguards to maintain high standards of quality, consistency, and access. This legislation is crucial because it strikes a balance between removing unnecessary criminal penalties and maintaining a structure that prioritizes patient care. By setting up the OMC and creating a new regulatory framework under Schedule VI, the MCCA offers a path forward that recognizes cannabis as the medicine it is, ensures it is accessible to those who need it, and protects patients from the pitfalls of both unregulated markets and overly restrictive federal control. If you're ready to support a future where cannabis is treated with the respect and care it deserves, especially for the millions of patients who rely on it, comment "I want to help ASA support" below, and I'll DM you details on how you too can help!

The MCCA offers a much-needed alternative to the simplistic debate over descheduling vs. rescheduling. With a focus on creating a new regulatory framework that prioritizes patient care, this act could redefine how we approach cannabis regulation in the U.S.

The reclassification of cannabis by the DEA in the USA is an uncertain but potentially significant step towards legalization. The comment period on this reclassification has ended, but the future of medical cannabis in the country remains unclear. Despite the large number of comments submitted by stakeholders, the path to reclassification is fraught with obstacles. The DEA has up to 60 days to publish a final decision, but this process could take months or even years due to the complex analysis of the comments and the possibility of an administrative hearing. Additionally, opponents of reclassification may file lawsuits, further delaying the process. Elections could also influence the delay in the final decision, due to changes in the DEA’s priorities and the appointment of new members, motivated by the election of the future President of the USA and the uncertainty about their cannabis policy. The delay in reclassification could negatively impact the medical cannabis industry, hindering its development and growth. Patients who rely on medical cannabis for treatment could also be affected, having to wait longer for legal and safe access to the substance. If cannabis were removed from the list of dangerous substances, where it currently sits alongside drugs like heroin and cocaine, this would not mean automatic legalization across the country. Each state would still have the autonomy to define its own laws regarding cannabis use. One of the main implications of this reclassification would be the facilitation of research on the medical benefits of cannabis. With fewer restrictions, scientists could conduct more in-depth and comprehensive studies. Additionally, reclassification could result in fewer incarcerations, as many people are imprisoned for cannabis-related crimes. This could also increase access to cannabis for medicinal or recreational use, depending on each state’s laws. It is important to note that reclassification would not give the FDA the authority to create laws on the quality of medical cannabis. The FDA has limited authority over cannabis, as it does not fit into any of the categories it regulates. Federal drug law grants states the primary authority to regulate cannabis, and some states have already implemented their own quality standards for medical cannabis. Therefore, reclassification could facilitate research on the medical benefits of cannabis, increase access to medical cannabis for patients in some states, and change public perception of cannabis, making it more acceptable. However, it is crucial to remember that each state still defines its own laws regarding cannabis, and it is always important to consult local laws before using or cultivating cannabis. Despite the challenges, the reclassification of cannabis by the DEA is an important step towards recognizing medical cannabis https://lnkd.in/dN9STsw9

Cannabis patients slam new Health Ministry cannabis reform https://ift.tt/nHqjdDW In early April, the Health Ministry announced the beginning of a new era for Israel’s cannabis reform, with the message being, “Enough with bureaucracy.” At the heart of the plan was the move from licenses to prescriptions. Instead of having to renew licenses and wait for the decision by the Medical Cannabis Unit, cannabis prescriptions would be given to patients to be used in the nearest pharmacy, just like a prescription drug. The intentions were good, but according to Walla’s examination and many testimonies of cannabis patients, the actual reality is less idyllic. The reform was built in stages. The plan reportedly began in July 2013, with additional stages being added gradually, such as a “medical release” of the plant for certain patients – in accordance with the government’s decision to regulate the Israeli cannabis market. In addition, a committee headed by Dr. Boaz Lev prepared the current move from license to prescription in an attempt to reduce bureaucracy while maintaining the safety of the public, the products, and an appropriate medical framework. The members of the committee decided that giving prescriptions would preserve the uniformity and professionalism of the medical treatment by cannabis, as is the case with the vast majority of drugs and medical treatment, so that treatment by cannabis could become an integral part of the medical treatment from the patient’s medical file to the Health Maintenance Organization.  Furthermore, the committee argued that such a move would enable the documentation, monitoring, and control required for this unique type of treatment. As such, the coordination of treatment between all the medical services provided to the patient would greatly improve as well. Employee tends to medical cannabis plants at Pharmocann, an Israeli medical cannabis company in northern Israel (credit: AMIR COHEN/REUTERS) Shortage of doctors and opting for private markets  Just when it seemed that the long-awaited solution had been found and after October 7, there would be maximum understanding for this population, as of today, the appropriate answer has not yet been found – neither for post-traumatic sufferers nor for the majority of people suffering from chronic pain.  To receive the long-awaited cannabis license, patients suffering from post-trauma will have to attach to the application a special appendix from a psychiatrist who will fill in the details of their request. A specialist doctor would then have to recommend the administration of cannabis to the patient, and finally the Cannabis Medical Unit would examine the application for a fee of NIS 360 per year. However, as in other fields, the queues for specialist doctors are very long in the public health system, and the shortage of doctors in Israel also affects cannabis patients.  According to a list provided by the ministry, only 65 specialist doctors can fill i...

As 2024 draws to a close, Business of Cannabis Europe looks back on a year marked by pivotal developments in the cannabis sector across Europe and beyond. From groundbreaking legislation to significant market shifts, here are the top 5 stories that shaped the cannabis industry this year: 1. Cannabis Costs in Germany: Breaking Down the Numbers for Patients and Practitioners As Germany continues its transition to a full medical cannabis market, our in-depth analysis revealed the financial complexities patients and practitioners face under the new regulations. The report shed light on the costs impacting both access to care and the broader market landscape in Germany. 👉 read here: https://lnkd.in/eH9UiKAe 2. 'Huge Milestone' as Japan Moves Ahead With Cannabis Reform Japan made waves in the cannabis space with its progressive steps toward reform. A historic milestone was reached this year as Japan pushed ahead with cannabis policy changes that will likely influence cannabis markets in Asia and beyond. 👉 read here: https://lnkd.in/eSDXS7nk 3. 'New Era in Greek Healthcare' as First Medical Cannabis Prescriptions Issued Greece took a major leap forward in medical cannabis access, marking the first official medical cannabis prescriptions issued in the country. This shift opens up new opportunities for patients and the growing cannabis sector in Greece, making it a market to watch in 2025 and beyond. 👉 read here: https://lnkd.in/gpGt5ChF 4. Czech Republic Will Pursue Full Adult-Use Commercial Cannabis Market, Leaked Documents Suggest Leaked documents revealed that the Czech Republic is poised to take a bold step toward full adult-use cannabis legalization. This potential move is set to reshape the European cannabis landscape, making the Czech Republic a key player in the region. 👉 read here: https://lnkd.in/eFR4U-FH 5. Germany’s Predicted Medical Cannabis Boom Is in Full Swing Following Passage of CanG The passage of the Cannabis Gesetz (CanG) in Germany has set the stage for a medical cannabis boom. As predicted, the German market is expanding rapidly, offering significant opportunities for both local and international cannabis businesses. 👉 read here: https://lnkd.in/ek7Vy2Dk As the year wraps up, these stories highlight the rapid evolution of the cannabis industry in Europe and beyond. The sector continues to grow, with new opportunities and challenges on the horizon. What will 2025 bring for the global cannabis market? #Cannabis #MedicalCannabis #CannabisIndustry #BofC #CannabisReform #Germany #Japan

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗮 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 – 𝗺𝘆 𝟲 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 As CEO of enua, I believe 2025 will be a decisive year for the European medical cannabis industry. The pace of change is accelerating, and only those who can adapt will thrive. Here are my six predictions for what’s ahead: 1️⃣ Political change in Germany: A double-edged sword The upcoming elections could reshape the cannabis landscape. A CDU/CSU-led government may attempt to roll back recreational cannabis policies, which would be a huge setback for the broader market. However, the medical cannabis sector is likely to remain stable, highlighting its importance for patient care and the health industry. 2️⃣ Putting patients first The industry is moving beyond merely selling products. Patients expect better outcomes, and companies that integrate telemedicine, digital tools, and personalized care will rise to the top. It’s not just about offering cannabis; it’s about improving lives through tailored solutions. 3️⃣ Data and BI: Thriving in oversupply Oversupply will be a first for Germany’s medical cannabis market. Companies must use data and business intelligence to navigate pricing pressures and identify the most promising opportunities. Quick adaptation will be key to staying competitive. 4️⃣ Growth at home and abroad Germany’s market is projected to grow from 70 tons in 2024 to 120 tons in 2025 - a massive leap. Simultaneously, markets in the UK, Poland, and the Czech Republic are expanding rapidly. Companies capable of scaling both domestically and internationally will dominate this next phase of growth. 5️⃣ Market consolidation: Only the strong will survive Fragmentation is ending. In 2025, national mergers and acquisitions by international players will intensify. Smaller companies will face increasing pressure, while professional, resourceful businesses with the ability to expand and scale will stay ahead. 6️⃣ Medical cannabis goes mainstream In 2025, medical cannabis will transition from niche to mainstream in Europe, becoming an integral part of standard care. Companies must focus on educating healthcare providers, delivering proven outcomes, and integrating seamlessly into healthcare systems to succeed. 2025 is the year for bold moves. Companies that innovate and focus on real impact will lead the way. Markus Musiol Lars Möhring Dr. Ingo Wieck Melanie Korthing Eray Aksahin Amir Farsar Christian Paffhausen and our great enua team are prepared! We’re ready to shape the future - with unwavering commitment to patients, growth, and staying ahead of the curve. What do you think? Which trends will shape the industry in 2025?

🌿 **Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Cannabis Legislation and Its Implications for the CBD Industry** 🌿 The CBS News article "Marijuana Nation" provides a comprehensive look into the dynamic realm of cannabis legalization and regulation across the United States. Here are key insights and their implications for the broader CBD industry: 1. **Justice Department Proposal**: Reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III highlights its recognized medical uses and may lead to a seismic shift in cannabis research and development, benefiting the CBD industry. 2. **State-Specific Developments**: States like Colorado, Maine, and Connecticut exhibit varying trajectories of cannabis market maturity and regulatory challenges. For the CBD sector, this diversity emphasizes the importance of tailored business strategies. 3. **Public Health Concerns**: Ongoing research linking cannabis use to cardiovascular risks underscores the necessity for robust health education and responsible marketing within the CBD space to maintain public trust and safety. 4. **Public Opinion & Policy**: With growing acceptance of cannabis businesses, juxtaposed with President Biden's stance on decriminalization, there is a clear trend towards more progressive cannabis policies. This could open new market opportunities for CBD products. 5. **Professional Athletes & Advocacy**: The therapeutic use exemption for professional athletes like Elias Theodorou signals potential mainstream acceptance and expansion of CBD's therapeutic applications. 6. **Regulatory Challenges**: Issues such as worker rights and environmental concerns call for the CBD industry to advocate and adhere to ethical business practices and sustainable cultivation methods. 7. **Medical and Recreational Use**: The legalization wave, as seen with California's Proposition 64, broadens the market for both medical and recreational cannabis. CBD companies can leverage this by innovating new products and treatment solutions. 8. **Public Health Frameworks**: Learning from Colorado’s comprehensive public health frameworks, the CBD industry must prioritize evidence-based practices to mitigate harm and contribute positively to community health. 9. **Future Developments**: The proposal to reclassify marijuana and ongoing legislative efforts are indicative of continuous evolution in the landscape. Staying ahead of these changes will be crucial for CBD businesses aiming to thrive in an ever-shifting regulatory environment. As the cannabis industry hurdles through rapid developments, it’s pivotal for professionals in the CBD sector to stay informed and engage in proactive dialogue to navigate this complex, yet promising market. 💬 **How do you see these changes impacting the future of CBD products? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!**

Insights from Cannabis Europa 2024: The Growth of Europe's Second Biggest Medical Market. This week, we had the privilege of attending Cannabis Europa 2024, where a compelling lecture on the growth of Europe’s second biggest medical cannabis market highlighted key challenges and opportunities. Here are some of our takeaways: Lack of Political Will: The NHS shows little ambition to embrace medicinal cannabis, largely due to systemic issues and a conservative approach. Patient Numbers: Reaching 200,000 patients is crucial for making medicinal cannabis a national story in the UK. We need to convert potential users into active patients. Awareness & Ethics: Raising awareness about the benefits of medicinal cannabis ethically is vital. We must treat it as a medicine and communicate its story professionally. Regulatory Hurdles: The UK's stringent regulations are stifling market growth. We need a balanced approach to push for more flexible policies while ensuring patient safety. Market Opportunities: The menopause and opioid replacement markets present significant opportunities. The UK has the highest opioid usage globally, highlighting a critical need for alternative treatments. The potential for medicinal cannabis in the UK is immense, but collaboration among patients, healthcare providers, policymakers, and industry leaders is key to unlocking this growth. Read more about our insights here: