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Tag: Marijuana

  • Can Cannabis Help You Survive Daylight Savings Time

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    Can cannabis help you survive Daylight Savings Time? Discover how it eases sleep, stress, and sluggish mornings

    Twice a year, millions of Americans grumble as the clocks shift for Daylight Savings Time (DST). This weekend marks the annual “fall back,” when most of the country gains an hour of sleep, but our internal clocks aren’t always so quick to reset. From sluggish mornings to restless nights, the change can wreak havoc on mood, energy, and sleep. But can cannabis help you survive daylight savings time?

    RELATED: Cannabis Helps The Young And Old Sleep

    Daylight Savings Time was first proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 as a way to save candles and make better use of daylight. The U.S. formally adopted it during World War I to conserve fuel and again in World War II. Today, nearly every state observes it (except Hawaii and most of Arizona). Originally meant to save energy and increase productivity, DST has become controversial, with studies suggesting it can actually disrupt human health and safety more than it helps.

    Photo by underworld111/Getty Images

    Human bodies run on a 24-hour circadian rhythm — a natural sleep-wake cycle driven by light exposure. When we shift the clocks, even by an hour, that rhythm gets out of sync. The result? Fatigue, mood swings, increased stress hormones, and, for some, higher risks of heart attacks and car accidents immediately following the time change. Sleep experts say it can take several days — sometimes up to two weeks — for the body to fully adjust.

    Cannabis may offer a modern tool for this age-old annoyance. Studies suggest certain cannabinoids, especially CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), can influence the body’s endocannabinoid system — the internal network regulating sleep, appetite, and mood.

    CBD, known for its calming and anti-anxiety properties, can help reduce stress and promote better-quality rest without the intoxicating effects of THC. Meanwhile, low to moderate doses of THC can help users fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep cycles, particularly for those who suffer from insomnia or restless nights.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    Experts recommend timing and dosage carefully. CBD is often best taken an hour before bedtime to relax the body, while THC may work better for those who need to initiate sleep. Cannabis users should avoid heavy consumption or overly potent strains, which can cause grogginess or interfere with REM sleep.

    Beyond cannabis, good sleep hygiene helps the transition. Limiting screen time, avoiding caffeine after noon, and exposing yourself to natural morning light can all help the circadian system realign.

    As Americans continue to debate whether Daylight Savings Time should stay or go, one thing is certain, the grogginess is real. For those looking for a natural way to rebalance their body clock, cannabis might just make “falling back” a little easier.

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    Sarah Johns

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  • Cannabis Helps The Young And Old Sleep

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    From Gen Z to Boomers, cannabis helps the young and old sleep better — here’s what science says.

    New research from University of Michigan (U-M) is adding nuance — and a dose of caution — to an increasingly popular trend: using marijuana to help you sleep. But what is interesting is cannabis helps the young and old sleep.  Yes, whether you’re a 20-something struggling with late-night screen time or a 60-plus professional battling early-morning wake-ups, they are turning toward the green plant to help with a sound snooze.

    RELATED: Gen Z Is Ditching Relationship Labels While Millennials

    According to the U-M’s psychiatry department, initial results suggest that cannabis may help people fall asleep faster and improve sleep quality in the early part of the night. But the benefit doesn’t necessarily carry through the whole night. The research points to more awakenings and fragmented sleep in the latter part of the night for some users. Yes, cannabis appears to help some people sleep, at least initially, but the story is far from straightforward. The U-M team emphasize the evidence is still in its infancy; usage has raced ahead of science.

    Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels

    For Gen Z or Millennials juggling business and baby-boom-aged parents, sleep is often elusive. Older adults, meanwhile, may contend with chronic pain, insomnia or medication-side-effects. That’s why the notion of a plant-based sleep aid is appealing across the age spectrum.
    The U-M research suggests those with chronic pain, anxiety or certain sleep disorders may experience more noticeable benefit. But for otherwise healthy sleepers, the upside may be limited, and in some cases, temporary.

    But like most sleep aids, what works at first may wear off. Routine cannabis use for sleep may lead to diminished benefit over time, and insomnia can return — sometimes when use is stopped abruptly.
    The mode of use matters too: inhaling cannabis may bring faster onset of sleepiness, while edibles act more slowly but last longer.

    Generational take-away: what each age group should know:

    • Younger adults (20s-40s): If you’re using cannabis to deal with irregular sleep patterns, late-night tech use or social jet-lag, it may help you get to sleep — but it’s not guaranteed to fix sleep quality or cycles long term.
    • Middle-aged adults (40s-60s): Those dealing with stress, pain or changing sleep rhythms might see a benefit — but must watch for dependence and tolerance.
    • Older adults (65+): If sleep disruptions stem from pain, sleep-apnoea or medications, cannabis might help but should be used under medical supervision. Long-term effects and interactions (e.g., with heart- or blood-pressure meds) are less well studied.
      Across all ages: better sleep hygiene (consistent bedtimes, reduced screen time, calming routines) remains foundational.

    RELATED: Cannabis Is Way Better And Safer Than A Honey Pack

    The U-M researchers urge caution: consult your doctor before using cannabis as a sleep aid. The sleep-inducing effect may not last, side-effects are still being mapped, and the optimal dosage/administration method is unclear. medicine.umich.edu
    For those who use cannabis for sleep, experts suggest treating it as a bridge, helping you establish better sleep patterns, rather than a permanent substitute for good habits.
    As one U-M sleep psychologist put it: “The research is still in its infancy, the availability of marijuana has really out-paced the science.”

    whether you’re young or old, cannabis can help you sleep. But it’s no silver bullet. The short-term benefits may exist, but they are often offset by fragmented sleep later at night, possible next-day fatigue, and diminished return over time. In real terms: if you lean on it nightly, you may trade off one sleep problem for another.

    The best approach? Use it cautiously, pair it with solid sleep hygiene, and keep an eye on how your sleep — and overall daily alertness — really responds.

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    Amy Hansen

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  • Smoke shops in Philly suburbs mislead consumers by selling ‘straight-up marijuana,’ district attorney says

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    Hundreds of unregulated smoke shops that sell hemp products in the Philadelphia suburbs use fraudulent lab reports that leave their customers “dangerously uninformed” about the potency of the drugs they’re taking, according to a Montgomery County grand jury report released Thursday.

    The 10-month investigation led by the district attorneys of Montgomery, Bucks and Chester counties examined a patchwork of businesses launched in recent years to take advantage of federal laws that allow hemp products to be sold legally with low levels of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis.

    MORE: Intercity bus terminal on Filbert Street to be renovated and reopened in 2026

    Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele said an “unintended consequence” of the 2018 Farm Bill is that unregulated smoke shops now sell a wide range of products that they claim meet legal standards but are actually much stronger than advertised.

    “What we found in a lot of them is they’re selling straight-up marijuana,” Steele said at a news conference Thursday.

    Narcotics detectives from all three counties went undercover to purchase products from smoke shops and have them lab-tested for potency. More than 90% of the edibles, THC vapes and loose flower products that were analyzed exceeded federal standards, the grand jury found, and many were mislabeled or backed by dubious certificates from suppliers.

    “This deception means that adults and children alike are exposed to substances whose potency and risks are hidden from view,” the report says.

    Steele said the most troubling facet of the smoke shop industry is that the products are often marketed toward children and can be sold to anyone who walks through the door. Some shops also carry other intoxicating products, including kratom and tianeptine, that have been associated with hospitalizations and substance abuse issues. 

    The grand jury report details nine times in the past year children were sickened after ingesting THC products commonly sold at smoke shops. 

    “They’re selling illegal products without oversight, and without concern for the health of Pennsylvanians, especially without regard for the health of our children,” Steele said.

    The 107-page report calls on state lawmakers to impose standards for product safety and testing at accredited labs, establish an age limit of 21 for THC products, and regulate the marketing of THC products with the same rigor applied to tobacco and nicotine. The report also urges lawmakers to create clear definitions of marijuana derivatives — such as Delta-8, Delta-10 and THCA — to prevent them from being sold under the banner of “legal hemp.”

    Steele said Montgomery County’s 240 smoke shops now outnumber schools and have turned fuzzy federal hemp laws into big business.

    “People are hiding behind that, saying this is Farm Bill compliant,” he said.

    Steele was joined Thursday by Bucks County District Attorney Jennifer Schorn and Chester County District Attorney Chris de Barrena-Sarobe, who said the deceptive practices of smoke shops are “flagrant” and “unsustainable.”

    In Chester County, De Barrena-Sarobe said he’s already issued 16 search warrants at smoke shops, arrested some lawbreakers and seized more than half a million dollars in cash and other proceeds. Steele said his office has taken similar actions when illegal activities are found.

    “People that are selling drugs out of their stores — selling marijuana, that’s a felony,” Steele said. “If you continue on in this way, plan on getting arrested.”

    The grand jury report comes against the backdrop of Pennsylvania’s halting efforts to legalize recreational marijuana, a move that would create clear standards and a licensing process for sales of the drug, amid a monthslong budget standoff in Harrisburg. Some lawmakers hope to first establish a cannabis control board to lay the groundwork that would address the sale of marijuana derivatives.

    Steele said the problems found at smoke shops are separate from the state’s licensed medical marijuana dispensaries, noting that their business has been impacted by unregulated stores that circumvent taxes and other restrictions on cannabis.

    Last week, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday joined colleagues across the country in a joint letter calling on Congress to close the loophole that has allowed “intoxicating hemp-derived THC products” to flourish at businesses that “pursue profits at the expense of public safety and health.”

    Steele said smoke shops in the region are getting away with selling products that don’t even hide their appeal to kids and teens. He displayed a photo from the grand jury report showing packages of edible THC products found at shops in the area.

    “You’ve got Cheetos with marijuana leaves on it,” he said.

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    Michael Tanenbaum

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  • The Dictionary’s New Word And The Secret Language of Cannabis

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    How the dictionary’s new word and the secret language of cannabis reveal modern culture trends.

    Language is always a bit of a lark, here is a peek at the dictionary’s new word and the secret language of cannabis. The dictionary recently added a new entry that’s already turning heads: “6 7”. The phrase is a popular, largely nonsensical Gen Alpha and Gen Z slang term stemming from a viral rap song and social media memes featuring NBA player LaMelo Ball. It has no fixed meaning, though some interpret it as “so-so,” and its primary purpose is to serve as an inside joke and a playful interjection in conversations to signal group membership and sometimes to playfully annoy adults.  

    For Millennials and Gen Z, it’s another shorthanded phrase floating around.  In this new lexicon, there are subtle ways younger generations talk about marijuana without saying it outright. And like 6 & 7, this generation has transformed cannabis conversation into something playful, coded, and cultural.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    For Millennials and Gen Z, cannabis isn’t just a plant—it’s a culture, complete with its own lexicon spanning playful slang, discreet references, and digital shorthand. Understanding this “hidden language” offers a window into how younger generations talk about, consume, and normalize cannabis in ways older generations never imagined.

    Take, for example, words like “green,” “sticky icky,” “dank,” or “bud,” which are part of a flexible, evolving vocabulary signaling familiarity and community. But it doesn’t stop there. Millennials and Gen Z frequently use coded terms in text messages or social media to bypass restrictions or maintain privacy, turning ordinary words like “Netflix and chill” or “herbal tea” into cheeky euphemisms for cannabis consumption. The language can be playful, ironic, or even rebellious—a reflection of a generation who grew up amid shifting legalization policies and changing cultural attitudes.

    Social media has accelerated this linguistic evolution. On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Discord, cannabis culture thrives through memes, hashtags, and emojis serve as shorthand for both discreet communication and cultural identity. The leaf emoji 🌿 or the “420” reference often functions as a subtle nod, creating an inclusive insider language resonating with peers but might fly under the radar of older generations.

    Interestingly, Millennials are witnessing a linguistic bridge between Gen Z and older users. Whereas Boomers and Gen X primarily used straightforward terms like “marijuana” or “pot,” younger generations lean into a mix of humor, irony, and coded vocabulary. This shift reflects more than playful creativity—it signals a deeper change in cannabis normalization. Where older generations often framed cannabis in terms of legality or risk, Millennials and Gen Z describe it with nuance, culture, and even culinary flair, from “infused edibles” to “craft strains” and “microdosing.”

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    The evolution of cannabis language isn’t just about words—it’s about generational perspective. For older users, cannabis conversations were private, cautious, or stigmatized. Millennials and Gen Z, by contrast, have turned their lexicon into a form of expression, identity, and community. And as the dictionary updates to capture these shifts, it marks a cultural recognition of language which has long thrived outside the mainstream.

    Cannabis has always been more than a plant—it’s a social marker, a generational signal, and now, officially, a dictionary-worthy phenomenon. The secret language Millennials and Gen Z share isn’t just clever slang—it’s a reflection of how culture, legality, and identity intersect in a world changing faster than ever.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • The Inconsistency About Cannabis And Guns

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    Exploring the inconsistency about cannabis and guns, where freedom for firearms clashes with outdated marijuana laws

    In the ongoing culture‑war of American politics, few issues highlight the contradictions within the conservative, pro‑Second Amendment world quite like the pairing of gun ownership and marijuana use. the inconsistency about cannabis and guns makes for odd political alliances.

    On the one hand, many on the Right argue vigorously that the individual right to keep and bear arms must be protected from government infringement. Yet on the other, that same political cohort often supports strict federal prohibitions preventing lawful — and even state‑legal — cannabis users from purchasing firearms. By contrast, alcohol use, which is legal nationwide, is rarely treated as a disqualifier for gun ownership despite strong associations with firearm violence. That contrast raises questions about consistency, principle and policy.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Here are some of the relevant statistics:

    • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2024 about 22.3 % of Americans aged 12 or older (roughly 64.2 million people) reported past‑year marijuana use.

    • Meanwhile, alcohol remains more widely used: in 2024, approximately 134.3 million Americans aged 12 or older reported past‑month alcohol use.

    • On firearms and substance risk: Alcohol misuse is documented to elevate the risk of firearm injury or death through homicide, suicide or unintended injury. For example, one advocacy page reports that alcohol misuse accounts for more than 140,000 deaths annually in the U.S. and that introducing firearms to alcohol‑misuse situations increases serious injury or death risk.

    Photo by Claire Anderson via Unsplash

    • By contrast, cannabis incident data tied to firearms (for example, use of marijuana plus gun‑possession) are far less publicly quantified, though one Hawaii report found that of some 23,528 firearm permit applications, 519 (~ 2.2 %) were denied — and of those, 211 (~ 40.7 %) were due to the applicant’s status as a medical‑marijuana patient.

    What emerges: legal alcohol is widespread, common among gun‑owners, and strongly implicated in firearm‑related violence; cannabis is increasingly used, often legal at the state level, but its users are often precluded from gun rights under federal law.

    At the federal level, under the Gun Control Act of 1968, 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(3) prohibits any person who is an “unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance” from possessing a firearm. Because cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance federally, state legal‑use does not override the restriction.

    In recent years, courts have challenged this blanket prohibition. For example:

    • The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals has held that applying § 922(g)(3) to someone who uses marijuana but isn’t intoxicated at the moment may violate the standard set in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen (2022) because firearm regulations must be consistent with historical traditions.

    • The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in August 2025 that medical‑marijuana users in Florida had plausibly alleged that the federal prohibition violated their Second Amendment rights.

    • And the Supreme Court of the United States has agreed to review whether regular marijuana users can legally own guns, with arguments expected in early 2026.

    Thus, the legal collision is clear: dozens of states permit adult‑use or medical cannabis; federal law bans gun ownership by cannabis users; and courts are now reconsidering the constitutional footing of that ban.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    From the vantage of many conservative advocates, gun rights are sacrosanct: the individual right to own firearms for self‑defense, deterrence of tyranny, and personal liberty. Meanwhile, proponents of cannabis reform argue that legal adult‑use meets the same liberty standard — and yet those who support gun rights often also support or accept federal cannabis prohibition that strips gun rights from users, even when state‑legal.

    The contradictory posture arises when one considers: if gun ownership is a fundamental individual right irrespective of political views, why exclude lawful adults simply because they also use cannabis? Especially when alcohol use, far more prevalent and demonstrably tied to firearm violence, does not (in most cases) lead to automatic loss of gun rights. That asymmetry suggests an underlying value‑judgment: alcohol is socially accepted (and taxed) despite risk; cannabis is socially stigmatized even as laws evolve. The Right’s selective focus — defending guns fiercely while accepting restrictions for cannabis users — raises questions about consistency of principle.

    This contradiction has real‑world consequences: legal ambiguity for millions of Americans, a patchwork of state laws vs. federal restrictions, and potential erosion of trust in institutions when liberty claims are applied unevenly. For the Right’s long‑term credibility on individual rights, the question becomes: can you credibly champion “freedom to keep and bear arms” while endorsing a regime that denies that freedom to law‑abiding adults because of a behavior (cannabis use) that’s legal in many states?

    In short: to claim consistency, the pro‑gun conservative movement must either defend gun rights across the board(including for cannabis users) or explain why this particular group is different. Until then, the contrast between alcohol, cannabis, and firearms under the law remains a striking example of “rights for some, restrictions for others.”

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    Terry Hacienda

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  • Making Your Cannabis Dollars Stretch During The Shutdown

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    Learn how to save and make your cannabis dollars stretch during the shutdown

    As the government shutdown drags on, its effects are rippling far beyond the halls of Washington. Federal workers face unpaid leave, small businesses see delayed contracts, and everyday Americans are feeling the pinch as essential services slow. Grocery prices have risen and rent, gay and utilities bills remain fixed so many people are finding creative ways to stretch their income.  Here is some help in making cannabis dollars stretch during the shutdown.

    RELATED: How Marijuana Can Heighten Intimacy With Your Partner

    Marijuana use has gained in popularity and has started replacing alcohol.  Cannabis consumers aren’t immune to economic pressures. With dispensary prices steady or slightly rising, maximizing the value of each purchase has become a priority. Thankfully, there are several strategies to help your cannabis last longer without sacrificing the experience.

    Photo by 2H Media via Unsplash

    Here are some practical ways to save money while still enjoying a buzz.

    Consider a Vape
    Vaping cannabis is often more efficient than smoking. Vapes heat the flower to a temperature that releases cannabinoids without burning the plant material, meaning you can use less for the same effect. Portable vapes also let you microdose throughout the day, giving a longer-lasting, controlled experience.

    Microdosing for Maximum Impact
    Instead of large sessions that burn through your stash, try microdosing — small, measured amounts of cannabis that provide subtle effects. Microdosing not only extends your supply but can enhance focus and creativity without overwhelming sedation. Millennials, in particular, are embracing this approach as a mindful way to enjoy cannabis while staying productive.

    Mix Methods
    Combine concentrates with flower. Adding a small amount of concentrate to your joint, bowl, or vape session can boost potency without needing extra flower. This “stretching” method is popular among budget-conscious cannabis users.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    Store It Right
    Cannabis loses potency when exposed to light, heat, or air. Use airtight containers, store in a cool, dark place, and avoid excessive handling. Proper storage ensures every gram remains effective longer.

    Explore Infusions and Edibles
    If you legally have access to cannabis-infused products, these can offer longer-lasting effects than smoking alone. A little goes a long way, and dosing carefully can make your purchase last days instead of hours.

    While the government shutdown may be causing economic stress, savvy cannabis users are finding ways to enjoy their favorite plant responsibly and cost-effectively. By embracing vapes, microdosing, and smart storage, you can make every gram count — and keep your wallet and your high happy.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • Mayor Brandon Johnson tries to beat state to taxing hemp with package that adds age limit

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    Mayor Brandon Johnson is pushing a plan to tax and regulate hemp products that can get people high, which would outlaw sales to those under 21 but forgo testing requirements the administration previously backed.

    Johnson’s effort to regulate the marijuana-like products for sale in stores around Chicago would be highlighted by a $2-per-item tax that his administration says will bring in $10 million to help balance the city’s 2026 budget.

    That levy would come with a host of new regulations and fees for sellers of the smokable flower and edibles, which exist in a legal gray area. The rules would mark a decisive step by Johnson’s administration in a yearslong regulate-and-tax effort that has pitted the city against the state.

    Hemp products sit behind the counter at Chi’Tiva hemp dispensary and lounge, Sept. 16, 2025, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

    Among them, The new standards would ban hemp products with packaging made “to resemble a branded candy, cookie, chip or other snack food,” an effort to address concerns that hemp manufacturers have been attempting to market their products toward children.

    But the management ordinance Johnson’s team shared this week with aldermen who will vote on his plan doesn’t identify specific contaminants the city would ban.

    “We’re not giving up on regulation,” Johnson told the Tribune in an interview Tuesday. “In fact, our proposal actually is to make sure, on the front end, that there are stricter regulations.”

    Johnson argued that Chicago “did not get its fair share” of revenue when the state legalized the sale of marijuana in 2019. This time, the mayor, who has aired his frustrated belief that Gov. JB Pritzker has repeatedly boxed him out of securing new tax revenue, is trying to beat Springfield to the punch.

    “I don’t want what happened to the city of Chicago during the cannabis debate to happen around hemp,” Johnson said.

    Efforts to legalize hemp have lingered in the City Council for over a year, led by Johnson’s pick to steer discussions on revenue-generating policies among aldermen, Ald. William Hall, 6th.

    Hall attempted to pass hemp regulation in the 2025 city budget, an effort that gained little momentum. But weeks later Johnson helped kill a competing effort in the Illinois House to strongly regulate hemp sales.

    Shortly after that, Johnson’s Department of Health Commissioner, Dr. Olusimbo Ige, told aldermen the city should take the unprecedented step of adding hemp rules to mirror regulations on marijuana and alcohol.

    State lawmakers again failed to pass hemp regulation during their spring session. Aldermen have failed to reach agreement too, though several hemp opponents on the council have meanwhile banned the sales in their wards.

    Despite their inaction, City Hall and Springfield share a belief that the generally unregulated products should face some level of restriction. But discussions have been complicated over disagreement on who should get the revenue from the currently low-taxed products and dueling lobbying efforts from hemp sellers who want to stay in business and marijuana companies that argue the less-regulated hemp products take an unfair slice from their sales.

    Johnson’s plan would require sellers to furnish samples for CDPH officials when requested. The department would test to make sure the products do not contain more than .3% delta-9 THC, the main intoxicating compound in cannabis.

    The rules also bans “toxic chemicals or organisms of public health concern as determined” by CDPH, but does not say what those toxic add-ins would be.

    The absent list of contaminants is a notable omission: Ige warned aldermen of the danger or contaminants in hemp products, as have the council’s hemp opponents.

    Cannabis products face stricter state rules, which require each batch be tested for over two dozen specific contaminant thresholds that must not be exceeded.

    Johnson’s plan would require businesses selling hemp to acquire a $1,750 license. In addition to banning sales to people younger than 21 years old, the measure would require hemp-selling stores to be 100 feet from childcare facilities and 500 feet from schools.

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    Jake Sheridan

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  • Marijuana Has Way Taken Over Cigarettes

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    Marijuana Has Way Taken Over Cigarettes — new data shows weed now dominates America’s smoke culture

    For the first time in recent memory, marijuana has way taken over cigarettes in the United States. This is a shift with cultural, commercial and public-health consequences. And yes, it covers “this doesn’t count because  I only have a cig when out drinks with certain friends.” A new analysis of national survey data shows “cannabis-only” past-month use rose sharply between 2015 and 2023 while cigarette-only use declined, leaving more Americans who report using marijuana than those who say they smoke cigarettes.

    RELATED: How Cannabis Can Help Combat Fall Respiratory Ailments

    Why the swap? Several forces converged. Legalization and normalization have removed stigma for many adults, especially younger and middle-aged cohorts, and product innovation (vapes, edibles, concentrates) has made cannabis easier to use discreetly. At the same time, decades of public-health work — taxes, smoke-free laws, advertising restrictions and education campaigns — have steadily pushed cigarette smoking down from its 20th-century highs. The World Health Organization and recent U.S. studies document that tobacco use continues a long-term decline even as absolute numbers remain large.

    But don’t read this as cigarettes being dead. The tobacco industry remains rich and politically powerful. U.S. economic data show tobacco sales, production and related revenues continue to generate billions annually — and the industry still lobbies, litigates and markets aggressively around the world. That money buys influence in policy debates even as overall smoking prevalence falls. Public-health advocates warn industry resources make ending tobacco harms a slower, ongoing battle.

    Is marijuana really “healthier” than cigarettes? Short answer: in some respects, yes — but it’s complicated. Decades of evidence tie combustible tobacco to lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and clear excess mortality; those links are far stronger and better quantified than most evidence for cannabis. Major reviews (including the National Academies’ 2017 report and more recent reviews) find mixed evidence: cannabis carries respiratory and mental-health risks, and heavy use can lead to cannabis use disorder, but population-level cancer and long-term mortality links are not as clear as they are for cigarettes. In other words: marijuana may be less deadly for some outcomes, but it is not risk-free.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    For Millennials and Gen-Z readers, the headline is a cultural one: weed has entered the mainstream in a way cigarettes haven’t in decades. For clinicians and lawmakers, the headline is a caution: shifting use patterns bring new questions about addiction, impaired driving and long-term health that require smarter surveillance — and a public conversation that’s honest about both benefits and harms.

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    Anthony Washington

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  • The Perfect Cup Of Cannabis Tea

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    The perfect cup of cannabis tea, a warm, relaxing autumn drink to reduce anxiety, better than alcohol for women.

    As the leaves turn amber and the air gains a crisp autumn bite, many of us reach for a steaming mug of something warm. Traditionally, it might be wine, cider, or a fancy cocktail—but this fall, there’s a new contender stealing the spotlight. Let us introduce you the perfect cup of cannabis tea. Beyond its comforting warmth, cannabis tea offers a gentle way to relax, ease anxiety, and skip the post-drink hangover.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    Cannabis tea is quickly becoming a wellness staple for Millennials and Gen Z women seeking a calm, cozy ritual. Unlike alcohol, which can disrupt sleep, spike anxiety, or leave you groggy, cannabis-infused tea can provide a soothing, mindful experience. Its cannabinoids interact with your endocannabinoid system, helping to regulate mood, reduce stress, and create a gentle sense of calm—perfect for autumn evenings when Netflix and fuzzy socks are calling.

    Photo by underworld111/Getty Images

    For those new to cannabis tea, there are two popular ways to brew it depending on your taste preference.

    The Classic “Weedy” Brew

    If you enjoy the signature earthy cannabis flavor, this is your go-to. Start by gently simmering 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis in a cup of water with a teaspoon of coconut oil or butter (to help absorb cannabinoids). Let it steep for 15–20 minutes, strain, and sip slowly. The result is a robust, herb-forward tea with a calming buzz perfect for winding down after a hectic day.

    The Light & Floral Option

    Not a fan of the “weed” taste? You can soften it with complementary flavors like lemon, rose, or chamomile. Brew your cannabis with dried chamomile flowers, a slice of lemon, or a few rose petals. Add honey or your favorite natural sweetener. This version masks the cannabis flavor while keeping its calming effects, making it a chic, Instagram-worthy wellness drink.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    Beyond taste, cannabis tea is versatile: you can enjoy it morning or night, hot or iced, solo or with friends. And unlike cocktails, it won’t leave you dehydrated or foggy—making it ideal for women balancing careers, social lives, and self-care routines.

    As the season shifts, swapping a glass of wine for a cup of cannabis tea could become your new autumn ritual. It’s cozy, calming, and comforting—a simple way to sip your stress away while embracing the cooler months.

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    Sarah Johns

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  • Arrest log

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    The following arrests were made recently by local police departments. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Massachusetts’ privacy law prevents police from releasing information involving domestic and sexual violence arrests with the goal to protect the alleged victims.

    LOWELL

    • Cyrinus Morris, 56, 17 Equestrian Lane, Lowell; public drinking.

    NASHUA, N.H.

    • Andrew Gordon Cannon, 28, no fixed address; disorderly conduct.

    • Jaden Peter Davies, 21, 254 Greenville Road, Mason, N.H.; two counts of traffic control device violation, disobeying an officer, reckless operation of motor vehicle, lane control violation, two counts of failure to use required turn signal, yellow/solid line violation.

    • Luis Antonio Fernandez Feliciano, 47, 31 Vine St., Nashua; violation of protective order, theft of services ($0-$1,000), two counts of stalking.

    • Jennifer Smith, 41, no fixed address; stalking.

    • Jacob Kenney, 33, no fixed address; theft by unauthorized taking ($0-$1,000).

    • Paul Nolin, 69, 12 Hunters Lane, Nashua; theft by deception ($0-$1,000).

    • Hannah Michelle Britton, 33, no fixed address; disorderly conduct, criminal trespass, resisting arrest/detention.

    • John Scott Thomas Jr., 32, 133 Ash St., Nashua; disorderly conduct.

    • Inmer Carrillo-Flores, 27, 31 Salvail Court, Apt. 203, Nashua; driving motor vehicle after license revocation/suspension.

    • Kathleen Elizabeth Carroll, 30, 14 Auburn St., Apt. E, Nashua; nonappearance in court.

    • Michael Lavoie, 56, no fixed address; disorderly conduct, criminal trespass.

    • Anthony Watson, 43, 202 Webster St., Apt. B, Hudson, N.H.; disorderly conduct, traffic control device violation, simple assault.

    • Johnny Rivera-Montalvo, 51, 273 Main St., Spencer; two counts of simple assault, three counts of criminal mischief, warrant.

    • Denis Velez, 44, no fixed address; theft by unauthorized taking ($0-$1,000).

    • Faith Stanley, 23, 6 Autumn Leaf Drive, Apt. 13, Nashua; two counts of simple assault.

    • Nathaniel Weddle, 36, no fixed address; warrant.

    • Warren Arthur Curtis III, 24, Manchester, N.H.; driving under influence.

    • Dagoberto Vasquez Bamaca, 20, 11 Lock St., Nashua; transporting alcohol or marijuana by minor, operation of motor vehicle without valid license.

    • Alexandria Iannotti, 28, no fixed address; nonappearance in court.

    • Tyler Downs, 31, 29 Cheyenne Drive, Nashua; simple assault.

    • Matthew Dozibrin, 52, 2 Quincy St., Nashua; warrant.

    • Michael William Bedard, 39, 5 Shedds Ave., Nashua; six counts of simple assault.

    • Rasmei Ung-Cora Flores, 45, 13 South St., Nashua; driving under influence.

    • Matthew Brian Young, 33, 10 Winchester St., Nashua; out of town warrant, disobeying an officer, three counts of lane control device, three counts of failure to use required turn signal, two counts of reckless operation of motor vehicle, four counts of traffic control device violation.

    • Luis Carlos Pacheco, 37, no fixed address; driving motor vehicle after license revocation/suspension, suspension of vehicle registration.

    WILMINGTON

    • Giancarlo Danao Ybanez, 38, 165 Pleasant St., Apt. 101, Cambridge; uninsured motor vehicle, unregistered motor vehicle.

    • Carlos Mendez, 33, 463 Eastern Ave., Apt. 3C, Lynn; unlicensed operation of motor vehicle, failure to stop/yield, no or expired inspection/sticker.

    • Thomas Doyle IV, 40, 59 North St., Wilmington; malicious destruction of property (less than $1,200), threatening to commit crime.

    • Liam Patrick O’Brien, 41, 1037 Main St., Apt. 1, Woburn; operation under influence of alcohol, possession of open container of alcohol in motor vehicle.

    • Eneias Silva, 50, 20 Locust St., Apt. 102, Medford; speeding in violation of special regulation, operation of motor vehicle with suspended license.

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    Staff Report

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  • How Cannabis Can Help Combat Fall Respiratory Ailments

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    How cannabis can help combat fall respiratory ailments  easing congestion, inflammation, and seasonal discomfort.

    Autumn is here, which means pumpkin spice lattes, crunchy leaves and football. It also means a new set of illnesses, here is how cannabis can help combat fall respiratory ailments. Leaving summer behind and a change in weather and social environments means the  inevitable flu, cold, and RSV season. While most of us reach for chicken soup or a hot toddy, more Americans are turning to cannabis to ease symptoms and even cut back on alcohol.

    RELATED: Fall For These Autumn Cocktails

    Before you light up, here’s an important distinction: smoking cannabis can irritate your lungs and worsen coughs and sore throats. But non-smoking options—think gummies, edibles, and tinctures—may help you feel better without the harsh hit to your respiratory system.

    Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has natural anti-inflammatory properties. This means it may help calm swollen airways and relieve some of the stuffy, congested feeling. And for those achy bodies arriving with colds or the flu, both CBD and THC can offer mild pain relief.

    Sleep is another key ingredient for recovery, and cannabis may help here too. THC can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, letting your body fight off infection while you catch up on Zzzs.

    Cannabis gummies are also becoming a go-to for folks looking to cut back on alcohol. Swapping a post-work beer or cocktail for a gummy can deliver relaxation and stress relief without the hangover, liver stress, or calorie load that comes with booze.

    Some studies suggest cannabis can reduce alcohol consumption when used responsibly, and anecdotal evidence from Reddit and wellness blogs backs this up. People report better sleep, a calmer mood, and an easier time sticking to lower-alcohol routines.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    If you’re new to cannabis, start low and go slow. Gummies and edibles make dosing easy, and you can choose products higher in CBD for inflammation relief or THC for sleep and relaxation. Avoid smoking or vaping while sick—your lungs will thank you.

    Cannabis isn’t a miracle cure for colds, the flu, or RSV, but it may help ease symptoms and reduce alcohol use in a pinch. Pair it with plenty of fluids, rest, and basic cold-season hygiene, and you could have a smoother autumn than ever before.

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    Amy Hansen

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  • Guess What Is Threading Its Way Back To Being Popular

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    Guess what is threading its way back to being popular — Gen Z’s surprising new obsession is sew cool.

    In a generational twist, young Americans are falling in love with their grandparents’ pastimes. From vinyl records spinning on turntables to typewriters clacking again on dorm desks, Generation Z and Millennials are breathing new life into analog culture. Now, they’re taking nostalgia one step further. You will never guess what is threading its way back to being popular now – sewing machines.

    Across TikTok, Instagram, and even in big-box aisles at Costco, sewing is emerging as the latest hands-on hobby to stitch its way back into mainstream life.

    RELATED: Immersive Events Redefine Millennial Nights

    From gardening and journaling to reviving the look of thrifted 1980s windbreakers, Gen Z has turned “old-fashioned” into “on trend.” This generation values individuality, sustainability and creative expression — all things found in vintage-inspired pursuits. Just as vinyl and Polaroid cameras have made a comeback, sewing fits perfectly into the same ethos: it’s tactile, personal, and proudly non-digital.

    The resurgence of hands-on creativity isn’t random. It’s a counterbalance to a world that’s often fast, online and disposable. In a sense, young people aren’t just buying less — they’re making more.

    Costco’s sewing machine

    Why Sewing Is Trending Again

    1. Crafting identity and self-expression
    For many, sewing is a declaration of independence from fast fashion. Customizing or making your own clothing offers a sense of empowerment — a creative outlet says, “I made this.” On social media, this translates into content celebrating originality, individuality and style over mass production.

    2. Sustainability and slow fashion
    Gen Z and Millennials care deeply about sustainability. Sewing gives them a way to reuse, repurpose and repair, rather than toss and replace. Visible mending — repairing clothing in a way shows off the stitches as part of the design — has become a viral movement on TikTok.

    3. Screen-break creativity
    With most of life lived online, sewing provides an analog escape. It’s hands-on, calming and meditative — a way to literally disconnect from screens. A recent Fortune article noted  many young adults are learning to sew “to get off their phones and save money.”

    4. The social media effect
    TikTok and Instagram have made sewing trendy, not tedious. Hashtags like #sewingtutorial, #upcycledfashion and #thriftflip are filled with videos showing transformations from thrift-store finds to high-fashion looks. Tutorials and time-lapse reels make the craft feel approachable and rewarding — especially when the finished product is instantly shareable.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    When a major retailer starts stocking modern sewing machines, you know something’s changing. Costco now offers sleek, computerized models like the Singer Heavy Duty 8832 and Brother XR3340, complete with LCD screens, hundreds of stitch patterns, and built-in quilting options. These aren’t your grandmother’s machines — they’re tech-forward tools align with the DIY spirit of younger shoppers.

    The fact Costco, known for bulk groceries and electronics, now markets sewing machines signals just how mainstream this revival has become. The craft aisle isn’t just for hobbyists anymore — it’s for creators, side-hustlers and trendsetters.

    On Instagram and TikTok, sewing creators are building large, loyal followings. Whether it’s a 20-second video of a thrifted denim jacket getting a new lining or a full tutorial on turning curtains into dresses, sewing content fits perfectly into Gen Z’s creative economy. It’s visually satisfying, shareable, and aspirational in a grounded way — making something from nothing.

    Younger users are even reframing the stereotype of sewing as something only grandmothers do. Many proudly show off learning from older relatives while adding a modern twist, connecting generations through thread and fabric.

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    Sarah Johns

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  • Doctors draw attention to potential health downsides of long-term marijuana use

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    As of May, 24 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., have legalized recreational cannabis. As more people in the U.S. use higher-potency products, more attention is being given to the potential health downsides of long-term marijuana use. Josh Code, assistant editor of the Free Press and CBS News medical contributor Dr. Céline Gounder discuss.

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  • The Odds Of The Feds Making A 2025 Cannabis Change

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    The Odds Of The Feds Making A 2025 Cannabis Change explored through politics, markets, and investor predictions.

    As the races toward the finish line, investors, policy wonks and marijuana consumers are asking the same question: what are the odds of the Feds making a 2025 cannabis change? Short answer: possible, but far from certain — prediction markets and recent signals put the odds in the low-double digits, while loud political and legislative headwinds keep the outcome uncertain.

    RELATED: The Connection Between Country Music And Cannabis

    Prediction markets give the cleanest single-number read: traders on Polymarket currently price the chance the Drug Enforcement Administration (or another federal process) will reschedule marijuana this year at roughly 18%. That market — “Weed rescheduled in 2025?” — settles on official government action by Dec. 31, making it a useful, real-time barometer of collective expectations.

    Speaker Mike Johnson

    Two dynamics are driving optimism. First, signals from the executive branch — including public comments from White House-adjacent figures and renewed attention from the administration — have signaled openness to reform, keeping the rescheduling conversation alive. Second, high-profile statements and advocacy (and even polling) have pushed cannabis onto the political agenda, prompting some lawmakers and officials to call for a clearer federal framework.

    But the path to action is narrow. Key congressional players have moved to constrain agency flexibility: the House Appropriations Committee has advanced language aimed at blocking Department of Justice funding for reclassifying marijuana, a direct check on executive action. That kind of legislative resistance reduces the chance the DEA or DOJ can unilaterally reschedule this year.

    The DEA’s own process and timing add more friction. Rescheduling entails administrative reviews, hearings and legal steps typically take months — and while the agency has periodically updated stakeholders, there’s no guarantee a final rule can be completed and implemented before year-end.

    RELATED: The VFW Stands Up For Marijuana

    Equities and cannabis ETFs have been volatile in response to policy chatter. Major pot names — Tilray, Canopy Growth, Cronos and others — have seen price swings tied to headlines, earnings and policy signals; some firms even reported notable gains after pro-reform statements and positive quarterly results. Market trackers and analysts continue to flag these stocks as sector plays to watch, but caution regulatory uncertainty keeps valuations jittery.

    Combine a roughly 18% market-implied chance, vocal White House signals and strong investor interest, but also legislative pushback and a slow administrative process, and the most realistic forecast is modest odds of federal movement before December 31. In plain terms: meaningful federal change this year is possible — not impossible — but bettors and investors should expect bumps, delays and political counter-moves rather than a clean, guaranteed policy win.

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    Terry Hacienda

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  • What To Know About Cannabis And A Brain Aneurysm

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    Discover what to know about cannabis and a brain aneurysm—risks, recovery, and medical cautions.

    When celebrity Kim Kardashian recently revealed she was diagnosed with a small brain aneurysm—reportedly detected during a routine MRI and attributed by her doctors to stress—her disclosure sparked interest in a condition most people don’t know much about. A brain aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning blood vessel in the brain, which can be life-threatening if it ruptures. With growing interest around cannabis use—both medically and recreationally—it’s worth exploring what to know about cannabis and a brain aneurysm.

    RELATED: The Science Behind Cannabis And Happiness

    A brain aneurysm (sometimes called an intracranial aneurysm) occurs when a weakened area of a blood vessel in the brain bulges outward. If the aneurysm ruptures, it can lead to a major bleed called a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a medical emergency. Many aneurysms remain small and never rupture, but risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, genetic predisposition, and possibly vascular stress. Kim Kardashian’s case underlines how even individuals with public profiles and access to healthcare can face this silent risk.

    Cannabis—or more precisely its components such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—has been studied for a variety of health issues. For some conditions like chronic pain, certain forms of epilepsy, or spasticity in multiple sclerosis, cannabinoids may offer symptomatic relief. There is emerging evidence medical marijuana can improve quality of life for some patients: reducing pain, improving sleep or mood, and even decreasing reliance on opioids in certain contexts.

    In the broad sense, in jurisdictions across the U.S., many patients use it under medical supervision for conditions like migraine, nausea from chemotherapy, or chronic neuropathic pain. “Medical” use does not equate to “safe in all contexts”—especially when other serious medical issues are present.

    When it comes to brain aneurysms—particularly after diagnosis or treatment—the research raises caution flags about cannabis use:

    • Studies show people who have had an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (a burst aneurysm), cannabis users had higher rates of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI)—a serious complication which can lead to poor outcome. One large study found cannabis users had about a 2.7 times greater risk of DCI compared with non-users.
    • Other studies link recreational cannabis use to a higher likelihood of having an aneurysm rupture in the first place—one estimate suggested about an 18 % increased risk.
    • Research also suggests cannabis affects vascular tone, cerebral blood flow, mitochondrial function in brain cells, and may contribute to vasospasm (narrowing of blood vessels) or oxidative stress—mechanisms which are particularly concerning in someone with a vulnerable blood vessel wall.
    • One review warned even for unruptured aneurysms, if cannabis is used, individuals should be aware they may face worse outcomes should rupture occur.

    RELATED: Evidence About Burning Mouth Syndrome And Cannabinoids

    If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm (ruptured or unruptured), here are some practical steps:

    • Talk to your neurologist/neurosurgeon about cannabis use. The research suggests elevated risks in people with aneurysms who use cannabis.
    • Avoid assuming “medical use = safe.” Even if you’re using cannabis under a physician’s care, an aneurysm changes the risk profile.
    • Focus on established risk-reduction: control blood pressure, stop smoking, manage cholesterol, avoid stimulants. These traditional strategies remain foundational.
    • If you have an untreated aneurysm and are considering cannabis for medical reasons, proceed with caution.Ask your medical team about the specific size, location, treatment plan of your aneurysm and whether there are recommended restrictions.
    • After an aneurysm rupture or treatment, strongly consider abstaining or closely monitoring any cannabis use. The data indicate increased complication rates in this particular setting.

    The public disclosure by Kim Kardashian highlights how common aneurysms may be, but it also reminds us the decision to use cannabis in a medical context should be made carefully. While cannabis offers genuine medical benefits for some conditions, when a brain aneurysm is in the picture—especially one which has ruptured or is being observed—caution is warranted. Speak with a neurologist familiar with cerebrovascular risk, weigh the benefits and the unique risks, and make an informed choice rather than assuming “legal = safe.”

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    Amy Hansen

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  • Tariffs And Visas Add To The Cannabis Industry’s Misery

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    Tariffs And Visa Add To The Cannabis Industry’s Misery, squeezing profits, talent, and innovation nationwide.

    The U.S. legal cannabis industry has been suffering over the last two years under an indecisive federal government — and now it’s getting squeezed from two unexpected angles: Tariffs and Visas add to the cannabis industry’s misery. For businesses and workers alike, what once looked like a budding success story is showing greater turbulence.

    The first punch comes via international trade policy. Many cannabis-adjacent businesses — from vape cartridge manufacturers to packaging suppliers and cultivation equipment importers — rely heavily on overseas inputs, especially from China. Recent U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods — in some cases raising rates to 30–50% or more — have forced costs up, and the ripple is hitting weed-industry players hard.

    RELATED: The VFW Stands Up For Marijuana

    According to one industry analysis, the cost to produce a typical vape unit is rising by a few cents apiece because of tariffs on hardware and packaging. With thousands of units produced monthly, it adds up quickly. Some companies are absorbing the hit, but others expect the increases to eventually land on consumers — or push buyers back into illicit markets.

    What makes this especially tough for cannabis businesses: margins are already razor-thin, regulatory burdens are high, and the domestic supply chain just isn’t built out. Switching suppliers takes time; finding U.S.-based manufacturers meeting regulatory compliance is even harder.

    Now consider the human side of the workforce. The immigration and “visa” side of the equation rarely gets front-page attention in cannabis, but it’s quietly important. The federal government still classifies cannabis (marijuana) as a Schedule I controlled substance, despite many states legalizing it. That creates complications for foreign nationals trying to work in or invest in cannabis-related businesses.

    For example, non-U.S. citizens on visas or applying for visas risk denial or revocation if they have past cannabis use, or if they’re working or investing in the cannabis industry—even when it’s legal in the state. This means companies would otherwise recruit international talent, or rely on global investment, may find restrictions.

    RELATED: Cannabis Mogul Appointed Ambassador To Middle East Country

    At the same time, broader visa policy changes are making the environment more uncertain. Recent shifts on H-1B visas, fees, and work permits are complicating cross-border mobility for skilled workers.

    The combination of higher input costs and a more restrictive workforce/immigration pipeline is a double whammy for cannabis entrepreneurs. It means:

    • Higher retail prices or slimmer margins
    • Supply chain disruption (imports delayed, domestic alternatives still catching up)
    • Caution around hiring international talent or tapping global investment due to immigration uncertainty
    • Potential slowdown in growth or innovation as more resources are diverted to coping

    For millennial cannabis consumers and industry watchers: yes, you might start seeing slightly steeper prices or less product innovation. And for workers and founders: borders, visas, and trade policy are no longer side conversations — they’re central to whether the business thrives.

    In short: the cannabis boom isn’t immune to macroeconomics and immigration policy. If anything, it’s among the more vulnerable sectors, since it straddles imports, regulation, and workforce mobility all at once.

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    Terry Hacienda

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  • A judge told Gov. Jared Polis not to comply with an ICE subpoena. Polis’ attorneys say he still wants to.

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    Gov. Jared Polis is still trying to find a way to comply with a federal immigration subpoena, four months after a Denver judge ruled that doing so would violate Colorado law.

    In repeated court filings, including one submitted Friday, Polis’ private attorneys have said they intend to turn over records on 10 businesses that employed several sponsors of unaccompanied children to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

    They’ve asked a Denver judge, who previously prohibited some state employees from complying with ICE’s subpoena, to dismiss the case and clear the way for them to turn over a more limited batch of records.

    The recent filings represent the second attempt by Polis to comply with the April immigration enforcement subpoena. The governor’s first attempt was blocked by District Court Judge A. Bruce Jones in June, after Jones sided with a senior state employee who’d sued Polis earlier that month to stop the state from fulfilling the subpoena.

    The employee, Scott Moss, argued that providing the requested records would violate state laws that limit what information can be shared with federal immigration authorities.

    But though Jones preliminarily sided with Moss, his ruling is complicated. He prohibited Polis from directing a specific division of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment to comply with the subpoena. But he said he couldn’t prevent Polis from directing others to comply with the subpoena, even though Jones said doing so would still likely violate the law.

    The records that Polis now says he intends to turn over to ICE are in the custody of another labor department division not covered in Jones’ order.

    In an email Tuesday, Polis spokeswoman Shelby Wieman declined to comment on the case or why Polis is still seeking to provide records to ICE. She pointed to the administration’s recent legal filings.

    The administration has previously said it wanted to support ICE’s efforts to check on unaccompanied minors without legal status, though the governor’s office has not provided any evidence that it has sought assurances that ICE wasn’t seeking the information purely for immigration enforcement efforts.

    David Seligman, whose law firm has supported the case, criticized the governor’s decision to seek the lawsuit’s dismissal while indicating his intention to turn over records to ICE. While ICE wrote that it wanted detailed employment records so it could check on the well-being of unaccompanied children, Seligman and Moss, the employee who brought the lawsuit, have argued that the agency only wants the information so it can arrest and deport the children’s sponsors.

    “It is absolutely absurd that this governor would be going out of his way to comply with and cooperate with ICE in light of everything that we’re seeing right now,” Seligman said.

    Moss has since left the department, and Polis’ lawyers now argue that no one associated with the case has a legal standing to challenge compliance with the subpoena. They’ve also argued that they can turn over the records because the employers’ addresses and contact information can be found online.

    The records are only part of the broader swath of personal details that ICE initially requested, and they cover only six of the 35 sponsors for which ICE first sought records. The sponsors are typically family members of children without legal status, who care for the minors while their immigration cases proceed.

    The administration has similarly told ICE officials that it intends to comply with part of the subpoena once the lawsuit is concluded. In a July 11 email, Joe Barela, the head of the Department of Labor and Employment, wrote to a special agent in ICE’s investigative branch that the agency planned to “provide your office with the names and contact information for those 10 employers.”

    The labor department has already complied with three ICE subpoenas this year, including in one “erroneous” case that apparently ran afoul of state law.

    Jones must now rule on whether to dismiss the lawsuit or let it proceed. Between June and early September, Recht Kornfeld, the private law firm Polis hired to represent him in the lawsuit, has billed the state for more than $104,000, according to records obtained by The Denver Post through a public records request.

    The Colorado Attorney General’s Office has said it was unable to represent Polis because of legal advice it provided to the governor related to complying with the subpoena. The office has declined to characterize the nature of that advice.

    The subpoena was sent to the state labor department in April as part of what ICE described as essentially a welfare check of unaccompanied minors in the state. The subpoena sought employment and personal records for the children’s sponsors.

    Initially, administration officials decided not to comply with the subpoena because of the state’s laws limiting such contact. But Polis abruptly changed course and decided to turn over the records, prompting Moss to sue.

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    Seth Klamann

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  • Minnesota cannabis dispensaries struggle to stock shelves as supply chain lags behind

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    Several adult-use cannabis businesses have the greenlight from the state to operate but don’t have the supply to stock their store shelves as Minnesota’s budding industry gets off the ground.

    Minnesota legalized marijuana for recreational use over two years ago and the licensing process continues. So far, nearly 60 businesses have received that stamp of approval with 1,400 others pending final clearance from regulators, according to state data.

    A majority of those licensed today are microbusinesses with a retail “endorsement” clearing the way for sales. 

    Mark Eide, who owns In-Dispensary in downtown Minneapolis, is one of them. While he was issued the license in August, his store isn’t selling adult-use cannabis products, only the lower-dose hemp-derived THC edibles that have been on the market for years. He told WCCO that’s led to a notable decline in business and contributed to layoffs.

    “I know for a fact just based on the sheer volume of foot traffic and phone calls that we would be doing four times the amount of business. We should be actually handling about 80 customers per day. Instead, we’re handling two to four,” Eide told WCCO in an interview on Monday. “We could hire back the two people that we had. We could expand our hours. We could hire more people. Instead, we simply can’t get product.”

    Right now, there are two cultivators licensed, with plants that are growing but are not yet mature, to sell cannabis flower to dispensaries like Eide’s

    Minnesota also has tribal compacts with three tribes — which could grow and sell earlier without a state license because they are sovereign nations — but there are tribal dispensaries on and off reservations that need supply, too. There isn’t enough growing to also support everyone else. 

    Joelle D’Alencar, owner of Loon Leaf in Blaine, is in a similar situation as Eide and shares the same frustrations.

    “People are incredibly frustrated. Businesses are honestly going to close before they even get a chance to get started because it’s an incredibly expensive industry to get into,” D’Alencar said.

    Eric Taubel, director of the Office of Cannabis Management, in an interview said he anticipated this part of the market rollout would be the hardest. But he remained confident that as additional tribal compacts are executed and other businesses begin cultivation, the supply chain will improve.

    In addition to the two licensed cultivator businesses, 24 others have preliminary approval, which means they are finalizing the necessary paperwork to get the official OK. He also noted that 13 of the 52 microbusinesses licensed have a cultivation endorsement and medical cannabis companies can wholesale if they choose to, which could also boost product supply.

    Taubel estimated that Minnesota needs 1.5 million square feet of cannabis canopy to meet the demand in Minnesota. The state has a fraction of that so far. 

    “There is a lack of product available right now, but that’s the reality when you start kind of from nothing and have to build every piece of infrastructure from scratch,” he told WCCO in an interview. 

    Eide and D’Alencar said other issues are beleaguering the market launch as well: there aren’t any transporter licenses, which are authorized to bring product from business to business, approved and just two testing facilities so far.

    “It’s not just, ‘Okay, we have product.’ But it’s, ‘How are we going to get the product? Who’s going to test the product? Is it going to come in bulk, or is it going to come pre-packaged?’ There’s a lot of other issues that kind of need to be resolved in order to get that steady flow of supply,” D’Alencar said.

    Taubel said regulators are close to giving final approval to one transporter and noted that both the tribes and medical companies can transport their own products if they decided to wholesale. 

    “We’ve been hopeful and we’ve seen early returns that some of the compacts that the governor has signed into with tribal nations is providing some access to early supply,” he said.

    RISE, one of the medical companies operating in Minnesota, said it would want to expand sale of its product elsewhere in Minnesota but said they are confined by state rules on how much they can grow and manufacture. Right now, the company is selling adult-use cannabis in its dispensaries in addition to patients in the medical program. 

    “We are currently bound by the state’s cultivation and manufacturing restraints, which limit the amount of adult-use inventory available to sell,” a spokesperson said in an email. “We are already selling medical product to other dispensaries and would love to sell adult-use product to others if we are able to successfully resolve the supply/demand imbalance with the state.”

    Eide said that many customers are confused by In-Dispensary’s offerings, unaware of the supply chain delays. They come to his store expecting to buy adult-use cannabis and leave disappointed. He understands their frustration.

    “You have to have a very long explanation process with them to educate them on what’s going on and why we don’t have it,” Eide said. 

    On Monday, Minnesota signed its third tribal compact with Prairie Island Indian Community. It has other compacts with White Earth Nation and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. The agreements allow them to open off-reservation dispensaries and sell product to non-tribal businesses. White Earth Nation is working with Legacy Cannabis in Duluth to stock its shelves.



    Amid Minnesota’s cannabis market rollout, few licensees have greenlight

    02:14

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    Caroline Cummings

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  • Data Confirms Cannabis Is Safer Than Alcohol

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    Cannabis is a hot topic on Capital Hill and online – but what are the facts? Data confirms a key issue about the plant.

    The medical community has come out and said cannabis has medical benefits. Despite this, some older congress members are concerned about the harmful effects of the plant. But data confirms cannabis is safer than alcohol.  The overall burden of disease and injury from alcohol far exceeds those of marijuana. For example Australia, alcohol accounted for 3.2% of the disease and injury, while marijuana accounted for only 0.2%.  The effects are clear and 88% of the public believe it should be legal in some form.

    RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

    The debate over the safety of marijuana versus alcohol has been ongoing for years, with evidence demonstrating marijuana poses significantly fewer health and safety risks than alcohol.  Data supports the marijuana is safer as an alternative to alcohol by examining health impacts, addiction rates, and societal effects. Already Gen Z sees it has a better lifestyle choice by choice to be California sober.

    Alcohol use is strongly linked to violent crimes, with estimates suggesting that 25-30% of violent crimes in the U.S. are alcohol-related. In contrast, marijuana use is not commonly associated with violence or crime

    Here is more information about the difference between cannabis and marijuana.

    1. Mortality Rates: Alcohol use is associated with tens of thousands of deaths annually in the United States, primarily due to chronic alcohol use and alcohol-related accidents. In contrast, there have been no documented cases of fatal marijuana overdoses.
    2. Health-Related Costs: The health-related costs for alcohol consumers are substantially higher than those for marijuana users. A study found that the annual cost per alcohol user is approximately $165, compared to just $20 per marijuana user.
    3. Neurological Effects: Alcohol consumption is known to cause permanent brain damage, whereas marijuana has been found to have neuroprotective properties.This suggests marijuana may not only be less harmful but can be beneficial in certain neurological contexts.
    4. Addiction Potential: Marijuana is less addictive than alcohol. While some individuals may develop dependence on marijuana, it is less severe and less common than alcohol dependence. Alcohol use can lead to severe physical withdrawal symptoms, which are not observed with marijuana.
    5. Dependence and Tolerance: Alcohol users are more likely to develop tolerance and dependence compared to marijuana users. This indicates that alcohol poses a greater risk of long-term addiction issues.

    In addition, alcohol increases risk-taking behavior, contributing to accidents and injuries, whereas marijuana does not seem to increase such behavior. This difference is crucial in understanding the societal impact of these substances.

    Data overwhelmingly supports the conclusion that marijuana is safer than alcohol in terms of health risks, addiction potential, and societal impact. As marijuana use becomes more prevalent, understanding these differences is crucial for informed policy-making and public health strategies.

    While both substances carry risks, the evidence suggests that marijuana poses fewer dangers to both individuals and communities compared to alcohol. This understanding can help guide more rational and evidence-based approaches to substance regulation and public health initiatives.

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    Amy Hansen

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  • Evidence About Burning Mouth Syndrome And Cannabinoids

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    Evidence About Burning Mouth Syndrome And Cannabinoids shows cannabis may ease pain through CBD’s nerve-calming effects.

    If you mouth on fire frequently?  There is evidence about Burning Mouth Syndrome and cannabinoids. It is a weird, stubborn condition: people feel a persistent burning, tingling or scalding pain in the mouth with little or no visible signs. For many sufferers, the pain is daily and annoying enough to wreck sleep, mood and social meals — so new options are getting attention, including cannabis-based therapies. But before you reach for an edible or CBD oil, here’s what the research actually shows.

    RELATED: 5 Ways Microdosing Cannabis Can Boost Work Performance

    Short version about help with Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS). there is encouraging, early evidence cannabinoids — particularly CBD-dominant or topical cannabis extracts — might reduce neuropathic oral pain for some people. A small, open-label pilot found cannabis sativa oil reduced symptoms in people with primary BMS, suggesting a signal worth studying in larger trials. That study didn’t prove a cure, but it’s the kind of clinical pilot which pushes the field forward.

    Photo by LeslieLauren/Getty Images

    Why cannabinoids could plausibly help, BMS is often considered a neuropathic pain disorder (a problem with how nerves signal pain). Cannabinoids act on the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in modulating pain, inflammation and stress — all relevant to BMS. Broader reviews of cannabinoids for chronic and neuropathic pain report moderate benefit in some neuropathic conditions, which supports the idea targeted cannabis-based treatments might be useful for mouth pain too.

    One attractive idea is using topical or intra-oral CBD formulations (drops, rinses, or oil applied to the mucosa) to get local effects without strong psychoactive side effects. Emerging reviews and early trials suggest intraoral CBD or cannabis-containing mouthwashes can reduce inflammation, pain, and even change oral microbiota in some small studies — but these findings are preliminary and product formulations vary widely. If dryness (xerostomia) is an issue — a common BMS complaint — be cautious: some cannabinoid products and delivery methods can affect salivation differently.

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    High-quality randomized controlled trials for cannabis specifically in BMS are still limited. Systematic reviews of BMS treatments note while several options can help some patients, consistent, large-scale evidence is lacking — and the same is true for cannabinoids in this specific condition. That means clinicians and patients must balance promising pilot data with uncertainty and potential side effects.

    A few practical takeaways

    • If considering cannabis for BMS, prioritize CBD-dominant or topical formulations and avoid high-dose THC until you know how you react.

    • Talk with your dentist/oral medicine specialist first — rule out nutritional deficiencies, meds, or infections mimicking BMS.

    • Expect a trial-and-error approach: some patients report meaningful relief; others don’t. A 2023 patient survey also found many people with neuropathic pain reported symptom improvement with cannabis, but self-report data has limits.

    Bottom line: cannabis is a promising avenue for some people with BMS, especially CBD/topical approaches, but evidence is early. If you’re curious, involve your clinician, start low, and track outcomes — the science is moving, but not finished.

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    Amy Hansen

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