Posted on 06/09/2023 by Steven M Smith — Leave a comment

So, I Live in Florida. Can I Grow Marijuana?

Does Florida Require a Marijuana Grower to Obtain a Cultivation License?

Yes. The State of Florida requires marijuana growers to obtain cultivation licenses before they can legally grow marijuana. However, the cultivation license is bundled with marijuana treatment center licenses and is not issued exclusively. Per Florida Statutes Section 381.986, only licensed medical marijuana treatment centers (MTC) may cultivate marijuana in the state. The Florida Department of Health issues marijuana treatment center licenses. Florida’s MTC licenses permit organizations to grow, process, transport, and dispense low-THC cannabis, medical cannabis, and engage in cannabis delivery devices. At the inception of the MTC program, the Department of Health licensed only ten new marijuana treatment centers. Currently, it issues four new licenses for every 100,000 new medical marijuana patients that register with the state’s medical marijuana program. It is illegal to grow marijuana on private residential properties in the State of Florida.

Image result for medical marijuana treatment centers

Per state laws, Florida requires all medical marijuana treatment centers to show the technical and technological ability to grow marijuana. They are also required to prove the ability to secure their premises and hire appropriate personnel needed to grow marijuana. MTCs must equally maintain accountabilities for all raw material, finished products, and other byproducts to prevent unlawful access or diversion. The medical marijuana treatment centers are only permitted to make bulk purchases of marijuana if they can convince the Department of Health that their harvest failed.

Several rules apply to MTC when cultivating marijuana in Florida. These include:

Pesticides used for growing marijuana must be approved by the Department of Health in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and have proven to be safe and for human consumption.
Marijuana must be grown in an enclosed space with restricted access and separate from other plants.
Marijuana plants must be treated and fumigated, while infected plants must be removed and destroyed.

What Are the Different Types of Cultivation Licenses in Florida?

Florida has only one type of marijuana cultivation license, which comes bundled with the MTC license. MTC licenses permit MTC to grow marijuana on the state-recommended scale. Licensed MTCs in Florida practice vertical integration. As such, they must cultivate, process, and transport their marijuana products.

Who Can Grow Marijuana in Florida?

Licensed marijuana treatment centers are the only legal entities permitted to grow marijuana in the State of Florida. As stipulated in Florida Statutes Section 381.986. only qualified staff above 21 years who have passed a level 2 background check in line with the state laws are permitted to work in marijuana treatment centers. Generally, staff of MTC’s do not require special permits to grow marijuana. However, the MTCs are required to provide appropriate training on the cultivation and handling of marijuana and marijuana products to their staff. Florida does not permit felons or individuals with prior criminal records to work in a marijuana treatment center.

How to Get a Marijuana Cultivation License in Florida

To obtain a marijuana cultivation license, interested parties must apply for an MTC license as this is the only license in Florida that permits a marijuana business to cultivate marijuana.

Per Section 381.986(8)(a), F.S., the Department of Health is responsible for issuing licenses to marijuana treatment centers. To apply for an MTC license, an applicant must complete the Application for Medical Marijuana Treatment Center Registration Form and submit it to the Department of Health for processing. MTC licenses are issued biennially and applicants must adhere to the application’s requirements, blind grading, format, and organization as prescribed on the application form. Completed applications must be submitted with the following:

A non-refundable application fee of $60,830
A written proof from the Florida Department of State or Department of Revenue confirming that the applicant has a Florida registered business that has existed for at least five years. The applicant’s name on the application must match the name on any such supporting documentation.
Written evidence that the applicant holds a current Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services certificate of registration.
A list of the owners, managers, officers, and board members together with the date of their most recent Level-2 background check within one year of the application

Completed license application forms and supporting documentation should be hand-delivered to:

The Department of Health

Office of Medical Marijuana Use

4052 Bald Cypress Way

Tallahassee, Florida

The Department of Health will review submitted applications and then notify applicants with incomplete applications within 15 days of receiving the applications. Applicants with incomplete documentation are required to provide any missing document within five days of receiving such notifications.

If an applicant’s documentation is complete, the application is forwarded to subject matter experts for review and scoring. A team of seven subject matter experts in different relevant fields will then review and score relevant sections of the application. These experts will analyze, evaluate, and score applications using the Scorecard for Medical Marijuana Treatment Center Selection Form. Subject matter experts involved in this process include:

A Professional with two years of relevant experience or a master’s degree holder in agriculture, horticulture, or agronomy
A Professional with two years of relevant experience or a master’s degree in chemistry, biology, or biochemistry
A Professional with two years of relevant experience or a master’s degree in industrial engineering, supply chain management, or strategic management
A Professional with two years of relevant experience or a master’s degree in a field related to running a business in a highly regulated environment
Individuals with at least two years of management experience in a health-care-related firm
Individuals with active CPA licenses or current law licenses and experience in business structuring

Each applicant’s score from each section is added to give the applicant’s overall score. Applicants who do not pass the background check or meet the minimum scores for cultivation, processing, marijuana dispensing, security, or general operations, will not be included in the final application ranking. Per Section 381.986(8)(a)3., F.S., applicants with facilities used for canning, concentrating, or processing of citrus fruits will receive 35 additional points.

Image result for department of agriculture florida

Licenses are issued to applicants who:

Have been registered to operate a business in Florida for at least five years before the license application
Have valid registrations from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as required by section. 581.131 of Florida Statutes.
Can show the ability to develop and produce marijuana, including but not limited to low-THC cannabis, on a technical and technological level.
Can show the capacity to procure the appropriate facilities, resources, and hire employees to run a medical marijuana treatment facility.
Have the ability to keep track of all raw materials, completed products, and byproducts to avoid diversion or unauthorized access to or ownership of these substances.
Have a system in place to deliver marijuana to certified patients who have registered.
Can show proof of financial ability to continue operations for a 2-year approval cycle, including providing certified financial statements to the department.

Under Section 381.986(8)(a)2, F.S., 10 licenses are to be issued at the start of the medical marijuana treatment center program. The law requires that priority be given to the following categories of applicants:

An applicant whose application was reviewed, analyzed, and scored by the department but was denied a marijuana dispensing organization license by the department under former Florida Statutes 2014 shall be licensed by the department if:
- The applicant had one or more administrative or judicial challenges pending as of January 2017
- The applicant shows the department that it has the required infrastructure, technical, and technological capabilities to start cultivating marijuana within 30 days of registration for a medical marijuana treatment center.
One applicant who is a recognized class member of Pigford v. Glickman, 185 F.R.D. 82 (D.D.C. 1999) or In Re Black Farmers Litig

Preference is given to applicants that qualify to be licensed and demonstrate in their applications that they own facilities used for the canning, concentrating, or processing of citrus fruit. If two applicants score an equal number of points in the evaluation, the applicant with the highest score in Financials – certified documents, Financials – Business Structure, Diversity Plan, and Accountability- Operations in order of priority is selected.

Once a license application has been approved, the applicant must within ten days:

Post a performance bond, provide an irrevocable letter of credit to the department or provide financial assurance to the tune of $5 million.
Provide proof to back up any statements made in the application about property ownership and leases.

How Much Do Marijuana Cultivation Licenses Cost in Florida?

Florida marijuana cultivation license is bundled with the MTC license. The MTC license permits interested parties to grow, process, and dispense medical use marijuana in the state. MTC licenses are reviewed and renewed every two years for $60,830.

Florida Marijuana Cultivation License | FloridaStateCannabis.org

Can Licensed Marijuana Cultivators Hold Other Cannabis Licenses in Florida?

Yes. Generally, the MTC license permits license holders to grow marijuana in Florida. It also allows them to process, produce, retail, and dispense marijuana in the state. However, MTC license holders are not permitted to operate marijuana testing centers.

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Frontrunners on the frontier of current technology.

We are often faced with our own personal conflicts which directly influence our interactions with our peers and family.

When Inspirational Technologies is an endorsement of the “Cannabis” approach to the medical condition, we say, let’s let the look at the data and the people who say that they benefit for cannabis alternatives.

InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

Inspirational Technologies – is Committed to Your Health Wellness Beauty and Enrichment

Reporting on Today’s Internal Botanical and Skin Product Benefits

4 Hemp Club was Inspired by Steven Smith’s vision to “Have an older generation 4H Club, where an older community of adults could carry on what the younger 4H Club envisioned.

Our 4H Platform Uses HEMP as an Agricultural Focal Point, deserving of research, development and with the

4 Hemp key points being Health Hope and Happiness, thru Hemp“.

Cannabis CBD and Me

Steven M Smith

AllRightsReserved2023

#cbdtea #cbdoils #cbdcures #hempproducts #hempcommunity #cbdedibles #healthylifestyle #weed #cbdflower #cbdeducation #cbdforpain #cbdtincture #thc #cbdlove #hempcbd #cbduk #cbdforanxiety #anxiety #cbdoilbenefits #cbdbeauty #cbdstore #cbdcream #natural #cbdforpets #hempheals #cbdfacts #cbdwholesale #cbdproducts #cbd #cbdhealth #cbdoil #cbdoil #coa #hemp #cbdhealth #cbdproducts #cannabis #cbdlife #cannabiscommunity #cbdmovement #hempoil #cbdheals #cbdcommunity #cbdvape #cbdwellness #cbdbenefits #cannabisculture #cbdgummies #cannabidiol #health #organic #wellness #cbdflowers #cbdisolate #cbdhelps #cbdshop #hemplife #cbdedibles #cbdhemp #sativa #cbdtincture #weed #cbdlifestyle #cbdoils #indica #cbdcures #cbdskincare #cbdflower #anxiety #fullspectrum #cbduk #ultrabroadspectrum #medicalmarijuana #cbdforthepeople #cbdoilbenefits #healthylifestyle #natural #cbdforpain #cannabinoids #bhfyp #cannabisoil #cbdeducation #hempcommunity #life #hempproducts #hightimes #weedstagram #inspirational #technologies #inspirationaltechnologies #backgroundnoisestudios #1sthempusa #hempower #2018farmbill #hempfarm #hempfarmers #industrialhemp #hempseed #WeAreInThisTogether #MentalHealth #AnxietyHelp #DepressionHelp #MentalHealthMatters #LoveThisAbility #cbdlife #cbdmovement #hemp #cbdcommunity #cbdheals #cbdwellness #cbdbenefits #cannabis #cannabiscommunity #hempoil #cbdgummies #cbdflowers #wellness #cbdhelps #health #organic #cbdshop #cannabisculture #hemplife #cannabidiol #cbdlifestyle #cbdhemp #cbdskincare #hempflower #bhfyp #mcoa #inspire #hempsmart #inspirationaltechnologies #global #IndustrialHemp#cbdoil #coa #hemp #cbdhealth #cbdproducts #cannabis #cbdlife #cannabiscommunity #cbdmovement #hempoil #cbdheals #cbdcommunity #cbdvape #thc #cbdwellness #cbdbenefits #cannabisculture #cbdgummies #cannabidiol #health #organic #wellness #cbdflowers #cbdisolate #cbdhelps #cbdshop #hemplife #cbdedibles #cbdhemp #sativa #cbdtincture #weedporn #cbdlifestyle #cbdoils #indica #cbdcures #cbdskincare #cbdflower #anxiety #fullspectrum #ultrabroadspectrum #Marijuana #CropGrowth #2023marijuana

#2023

Our ONE STOP BLOG FOR INFORMATION, EDUCATION, & INSPIRATION OF ESSENTIAL INNOVATION & RENOVATION of You-

#AllRightsReserved-InspirationalTechnologies2023

Posted on 06/08/202306/22/2023 by Steven M Smith — Leave a comment

Can you eat Cannabis? This and Other Cannabinoid Questions, Answered.

None of the information mentioned in this article should be taken as nutritional advice.

The role cannabinoids play in nutrition is often overlooked in discussions of the science of cannabis. It’s generally understood that cannabinoids like CBD and THC don’t have any direct nutritional value, and this assumption is essentially true.

The story of cannabinoids and nutrition goes much deeper, though. In this guide, familiarize yourself with the basics of cannabis nutrition, and discover all the ways cannabinoids might impact human nutrition.

Basics of nutrition

The human body needs a variety of substances called nutrients to survive. Nutrients promote growth, provide nourishment and energy while maintaining life. These substances are generally separated into “macronutrients,” which are needed in great quantities, and “micronutrients,” which are needed in much smaller quantities. Examples of essential macronutrients include fat, protein and carbohydrates while, examples of essential micronutrients include vitamin C, calcium, and zinc.

The human body only flourishes when provided with a diet filled with essential macronutrients and micronutrients. These nutrients are found in many different forms of Cannabis sativa plant and animal life, and the Cannabis sativa plant has been identified as a great source of certain essential and non-essential macronutrients and micronutrients.

Can you eat Cannabis?

Yes, every part of the Cannabis sativa plant is edible, and cannabis appears to have considerable nutritional value. The fibrous stalks and leaves, while not optimal for human digestion, are excellent sources of certain dietary fibers. s contain large amounts of nutrients, including protein, minerals, fatty acids, and dietary fiber. The fatty acids in hemp seeds are rich in the highly beneficial omega fatty acids.

While the whole cannabis plant is technically edible, only certain parts of the plant are ideal for human consumption. Traditionally, cannabis seeds have been the most commonly used for nutritional purposes, though the eating of cannabis leaves for their nutritional value is not unknown.

Does Cannabis have nutritional value?

Yes, the various parts of cannabis offer nutritional value in different ways. The most nutritious part of the cannabis plant is the seed due to its high fat and protein content, but cannabis leaves are also notable for containing essential micronutrients. These include vitamin E, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, zink, and an array of B vitamins. Furthermore, cannabis flower may offer an indirect nutritional benefit due to the antioxidant activity of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabis seeds - a source of incredible Protein & Nutrition!

Which parts of the Cannabis plant are nutritious?

Let’s break down the nutritional value of cannabis part by part:

Do cannabis seeds have nutritional value?

Yes, even if they’re commonly overlooked in preference of hemp seeds for culinary purposes. Some inspired chefs include cannabis leaves in salads and other green dishes, and consuming cannabis leaves will provide your body with lots of essential macronutrients and micronutrients.

Which nutrients are contained in cannabis seeds?

According to the USDA, 2 tablespoons (28 g) of hemp seeds contain: 3.3 g carbohydrates, 9.2 g protein, 12.3 g fat, and 2 g fiber.

Hemp seeds are especially notable for containing all nine amino acids, offering a “complete” source of protein. They also contain abundant micronutrients including Vitamin E, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Potassium, B vitamins.

Do cannabis leaves have nutritional value? Yes, even if they’re commonly overlooked in preference of hemp seeds for culinary purposes. Some inspired chefs include cannabis leaves in salads and other green dishes, and consuming cannabis leaves will provide your body with lots of essential macronutrients and micronutrients.

Which nutrients are contained in cannabis leaves?

The main macronutrient present in cannabis leaves is dietary fiber. Leaves of cannabis and hemp plants also contain abundant micronutrients like Iron, Calcium, Vitamin K and Vitamin C.

Do cannabis stalks have nutritional value?

Cannabis stalks contain lots of dietary fiber, unfortunately these fibers are hard to digest when eaten raw or when added to dishes. Moreover, the micronutrient content in cannabis stalks is much lower than it is in cannabis leaves. As a result, stalks are generally not used for culinary purposes though they show great potential in industrial applications.

Do cannabis buds have nutritional value?

Cannabis buds contain the same amount of dietary fiber and micronutrients that are present in cannabis leaves, but the buds also contain cannabinoids and terpenes, powerful antioxidant compounds that may boost digestion indirectly. Cannabis buds should be ingested for their cannabinoid and terpene content since cannabis leaves will serve just as well for fiber and micronutrient purposes.

Do cannabinoids have nutritional value?

Cannabinoids, which are most abundant in the buds of cannabis and hemp plants, are not known to impart any direct nutritional value. They are not used in any of the metabolic systems that process micronutrients and macronutrients, but cannabinoids have been universally determined to have at least some degree of antioxidant activity.

As a result, ingesting cannabinoids orally may reduce digestive inflammation, thus improving the gut’s ability to absorb and process nutrients. Despite the lack of nutritional value in cannabinoids themselves, modern science is gradually coming to grips with the role oxidative stress may play in poor nutritional uptake, potentially making cannabinoids more important to nutrition than any other part of the hemp plant.

Could cannabinoids boost nutrition in other ways?

Despite not offering any nutritional value as micronutrients or macronutrients, certain cannabinoids may boost the overall functioning of your digestive system, making it easier for your body to process waste and send essential nutrients where they need to go. Let’s take a look at the available research on the impact of cannabinoids on oxidative stress and digestion:

Research into cannabinoids and digestion

The abstract of a 2005 academic paper on the role of cannabinoids in digestion begins by noting that the body uses endocannabinoids (body-generated cannabinoid-like compounds) extensively in the digestion process. Since phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids found in plants like cannabis) dramatically impact the operation of endocannabinoids in the body, the authors of this paper postulate that phytocannabinoids like CBD and THC may be valid targets of research into novel therapies for digestion-related conditions.

This research was followed up by a 2015 study into the impact of cannabinoids on the gut’s mucosal defense barrier. The authors of the study concluded that “the endocannabinoid system represents a promising target in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases,” indicating that cannabinoids may have a profound indirect impact on the digestion process.

Cannabinoids can reduce inflammation and repair the integrity of intestinal lining. The endocannabinoid system can also regulate gastric secretions, such as the secretion of stomach acid, through cannabinoid receptor activity. In vivo studies have shown that cannabinoids reduce gastrointestinal transit in rodents through activation of CB1 receptors. However, in pathophysiological states, both CB1 and CB2 receptors could reduce the increase of intestinal motility induced by inflammatory stimuli ¹.

Cannabinoid receptors are widely distributed throughout the digestive system, as well as in the brain regions considered to be crucial to the gut-brain axis ².

Research into cannabinoids and inflammation

Your body’s ability to uptake nutrients is hampered by inflammation. Researchers have studied the anti-inflammatory potential of cannabinoids like CBD and THC in great detail, and both cannabinoids show promise in different ways. CBD has been researched extensively for its potential ability to combat almost every type of inflammation, gradually replacing THC as the primary target of cannabinoid inflammation research, a seemingly anti-inflammatory cannabinoid that nonetheless can cause unwanted inflammation under certain circumstances.

Do terpenes boost the digestive benefits of cannabinoids?

Unless ingested in isolated form, cannabinoids are always accompanied by terpenes, which along with flavonoids provide cannabis with its delicious flavors and aromas. In addition to their culinary value, terpenes are universally believed to offer anti-inflammatory benefits 6 to varying degrees. If you’re consuming cannabinoids for digestive purposes, therefore, it would make sense to ingest products that also contain natural terpenes found in cannabis.

While scientists have determined that virtually all discovered terpenes have some degree of anti-inflammatory or antioxidant potential, each terpene has a different chemical makeup and unique effects. Some of the terpenes that have been investigated for anti-inflammatory effects include limonene, pinene, myrcene and caryophyllene.

What are the best ways to consume cannabis for nutrition?

To take advantage of any potential nutritional benefits cannabinoids may impart, you will need to consume these cannabis compounds orally. Out of the various oral ingestion methods available for cannabinoids, capsules offer the greatest simplicity and purity while tinctures and gummies offer more opportunities for customization. It’s also possible to consume cannabis concentrate on its own, but research indicates that carrier oils improve the bioavailability of oral cannabinoids, which would make properly formulated oral cannabinoid products more effective.

The bottom line: Is cannabis a superfood?

Cannabis is often touted as a “superfood,” a popular term for a substance that has higher-than-usual nutritional benefits. This term might apply to the seeds of the cannabis plant, but the direct nutritional uses of other cannabis components appear to be much less impressive.

As we’re learning, though, nutrition is about a lot more than just the volume of macronutrients and micronutrients you ingest. The human gut is an extremely complex ecosystem with more than 100 million nerve endings, and modern science is gradually unveiling the massively important role inflammation plays in overall health.

Due to their impact on inflammation, cannabinoids may play a major, if indirect, role in human nutrition. The human digestive tract is, after all, largely controlled by a system composed of endogenous cannabinoid compounds, and cannabinoids like CBD and THC have been widely demonstrated to significantly impact the operation of the endocannabinoid system.

There are better ways to ingest cannabinoids and the other beneficial substances in cannabis than eating raw cannabis plants, though. Cannabis may only reach true “superfood” status when prepared into finished, formulated products. Cannabinoid-rich capsules, tinctures, and edibles, for instance, maximize the potential indirect nutritional value of cannabinoids while doing away with the unpalatable or inconvenient components of cannabis.

Cannabinoid nutrition facts FAQ

Learn more about the nutritional value of CBD and other cannabinoids below:

1. Does CBD have nutritional value?

Any potential nutritional value that CBD may offer has not yet been assessed. As we have discussed in this guide, CBD is not generally pursued its nutritional benefits but rather for its potential therapeutic properties. Scientists of the future may determine that CBD is useful for some nutritional purpose or another, but at this point, it remains unclear if CBD has any dietary value.

2. Does CBN have nutritional value?

We do not yet know if the cannabinoid cannabinol (CBN) has any nutritional value, but based on what we know about CBD, the chances are relatively small. Even though they may have differences that are significant from the point of view of medical science, cannabinoids share a basic chemical structure that does not appear to impart any nutritional value to the human digestive system. It would be very unlikely if CBN proved to be the exception to this rule.

3. Does CBG have nutritional value?

No, there is no evidence yet that the cannabinoid cannabigerol (CBG) offers any nutritional value. Like other cannabinoids, CBG has a chemical structure that does not appear to provide the body with energy or any other form of nutrition. Put another way, you cannot subsist on CBG just as you cannot subsist on any other discovered cannabinoid.

4. Are cannabinoids good for the body?

Despite the fact that scientists have not discovered any nutritional value in cannabinoids, these substances still appear to offer a great deal of bodily benefits. Some cannabinoids, for instance, appear to help with inflammation, which is the root cause of many serious medical conditions. As we learn more about cannabinoids, we’ll be able to make more definitive statements regarding the benefits they might offer the human body.

Sources

1. Tan, B. L., Norhaizan, M. E., & Liew, W. P. (2018). Nutrients and Oxidative Stress: Friend or Foe?. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2018, 9719584. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/9719584

2. Izzo, A. A., & Coutts, A. A. (2005). Cannabinoids and the digestive tract. Handbook of experimental pharmacology, (168), 573–598. https://doi.org/10.1007/3-540-26573-2_19

3. Gyires, K., & Zádori, Z. S. (2016). Role of Cannabinoids in Gastrointestinal Mucosal Defense and Inflammation. Current neuropharmacology, 14(8), 935–951. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159×14666160303110150

4. Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 9(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021

5. Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future medicinal chemistry, 1(7), 1333–1349. https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.09.93

6. Gallily, R., Yekhtin, Z., & Hanuš, L. O. (2018). The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Terpenoids from Cannabis. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 3(1), 282–290. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0014

7. Stella, B., Baratta, F., Della Pepa, C. et al. Cannabinoid Formulations and Delivery Systems: Current and Future Options to Treat Pain. Drugs 81, 1513–1557 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-021-01579-x

8. Aidan J. Hampson, Julius Axelrod, Maurizio Grimaldi, (1999). Cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants (US09/674,028).US Department of Health and Human Services. https://patents.google.com/patent/US6630507

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Frontrunners on the frontier of current technology.

We are often faced with our own personal conflicts which directly influence our interactions with our peers and family.

InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

Inspirational Technologies – is Committed to Your Health Wellness Beauty and Enrichment

Reporting on Today’s Internal Botanical and Skin Product Benefits

4 Hemp Club was Inspired by Steven Smith’s vision to “Have an older generation 4H Club, where an older community of adults could carry on what the younger 4H Club envisioned.

Our 4H Platform Uses HEMP as an Agricultural Focal Point, deserving of research, development and with the

4 Hemp key points being Health Hope and Happiness, thru Hemp“.

Cannabis CBD and Me

Steven M Smith

AllRightsReserved2023

#2023

Our ONE STOP BLOG FOR INFORMATION, EDUCATION, & INSPIRATION OF ESSENTIAL INNOVATION & RENOVATION of You-

#AllRightsReserved-InspirationalTechnologies2023

Posted on 06/08/202306/29/2023 by Steven M Smith — Leave a comment

Cannabis Reform Not Reaching the Equity Status of Ethnic Marijuana Business Owners.

As a cannabis entrepreneur based in Long Beach, California, Edgar Cruz’s work in the industry’s social equity space is personal.

At 15, Cruz had his first run-in with the law when he was arrested and charged for illegal possession of marijuana. That charge, he tells CNBC Make It, has influenced his decision to not only be involved in the now legal market, but to also ensure that entrepreneurs like himself have equal access to the billion-dollar industry.

Today, 18 states, two territories and the District of Columbia have passed legislation to allow adult recreational use of cannabis in the U.S. And 36 states and four territories have passed legislation to allow medical use, according to the National Conference of State Legislators. This increased legalization has put the legal marijuana market on track to be worth $70.6 billion globally by 2028. In the U.S., where marijuana is still illegal at the federal level, legal marijuana sales are expected to hit $24 billion in 2021 alone.

“To see how lucrative the industry has become and who’s profiting from these legalization changes versus who is still suffering because of the history behind it is very frustrating,” says Cruz, who has been trying to get his cannabis brand Ekstrepe off the ground for three years now.

In 2017, 81% of marijuana business owners in the U.S. were white, 5.7% were Hispanic, 4.3% were Black and 2.4% were Asian. Cruz, along with several other equity advocates in the cannabis space, says the lack of diversity in the industry is at least partly due to the lasting impact of the war on drugs. And while many cities and states have launched equity programs to try and close this gap, Cruz, who is a participant in Long Beach’s Cannabis Social Equity Program, says these programs have often failed due to local government regulations and a lack of resources and capital for budding entrepreneurs.

Edgar Cruz, CEO of the cannabis brand Ekstrepe.

Photo courtesy of CNBC Make It video.

Impact of the war on drugs

In the early 1970s, President Richard Nixon announced the “war on drugs,” kicking off a global campaign to increase federal drug control agencies in order to reduce the production, distribution and consumption of illegal drugs. Following this campaign, which still has lingering effects today, the U.S. prison population skyrocketed, and Black and Latino communities were disproportionately impacted by drug arrests and racial profiling.

From 1980 to 1997, the number of people behind bars for nonviolent drug offenses increased from 50,000 to over 400,000, according to the Drug Policy Alliance. Today, drug offenses are the leading cause of arrest in the U.S., with more than 1.5 million people arrested for drug law violations in 2019.

Black Americans are now 3.6 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana than white Americans, despite having similar usage rates, reports the American Civil Liberties Union. In some counties, the ACLU reports that Black residents are “20, 30, 40 or even 50 times more likely” to be arrested for marijuana than white residents. These arrests, according to the data, can lead to life-altering circumstances, such as families being evicted from public housing, parents losing their children due to court orders and long-term difficulty in finding employment.

New York State Senator Liz Krueger, who played a critical role in passing New York’s Marijuana and Taxation Act in March, says she first wanted to end the war on drugs when she looked at the data and saw the disproportionate impact marijuana arrests were having on communities of color in her state.

Towards the end of New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s administration in 2012, Krueger says roughly 50,000 arrests were being made per year in the city for marijuana possession. Many of these arrests were young people of color whose lives were turned upside down because of a run-in with the law for a low-level drug offense.

“These young people who weren’t doing anything else wrong were suddenly being caught up in the criminal justice system because they had some marijuana cigarettes,” she says. “And when we looked at the data statewide, it trended the exact same way. No matter what the population ratio was in any given area of the state where people were getting arrested and dragged into the criminal justice system [for marijuana], the courts were full of young people of color, and so I knew we had to do something.”

With the recent passing of the state’s Marijuana and Taxation Act, Krueger says she and other New York lawmakers worked to ensure that racial equity stayed at the forefront of their plan. In addition to expunging the records for those previously convicted of marijuana possession under the now-legal amount of three ounces or less, the state says it will invest 40% of the revenue from the legal marijuana market back into the communities hit hardest by the war on drugs, another 40% into public schools, and 20% into drug treatment and education. Krueger also explains that 50% of the state’s cannabis licenses will go to social equity applicants.

New York’s goal, she says, is to learn from the frustrations of other states that have previously legalized marijuana, but have failed to equalize the playing field with their social equity programs and funding.

“We’ve seen in lots of other states that big pharma, big tobacco, alcohol and large companies are all prepared to move in and just take over right away,” she says. “We don’t want that to be the story in New York. We want the story to be small mom-and-pop community-based businesses starting and growing and expanding…[and] we want people who are selling in the communities that they live in in the illegal market out of the illegal market.”

Edgar Cruz, CEO of cannabis brand Ekstrepe.

Photo courtesy of CNBC Make It video.

Barriers to equity

Many states that have legalized marijuana, including New York, have worked to enforce social equity programs, which are initiatives put in place to address the long-standing impact marijuana enforcement policies have had on communities of color.

In 2018, when Long Beach announced the launch of its cannabis equity program, Cruz was one of its first participants. To qualify, applicants had to have a family income that was at or below 80% of the Los Angeles, Long Beach, Glendale area median income, which is adjusted based on family size. Applicants also had to satisfy at least one of three criteria: being a resident in Long Beach for a minimum of three years; being arrested or convicted for a crime related to the possession, sale or use of cannabis in Long Beach prior to marijuana being legalized in the state in 2016; or being a Long Beach resident currently receiving unemployment benefits.

Once accepted into the program, participants who want to work in cannabis receive assistance with landing a job in the industry and those who want to start their own business receive assistance with navigating the city’s application process in order to receive licensing. Of the 93 participants who have gone through Long Beach’s equity program since its launch in 2018, only one has received a license, says Cruz.

Across the country, data shows that many states and cities have seen less than satisfying outcomes from their social equity initiatives. In Massachusetts, only 1.2% of businesses are owned by racial minorities despite their social equity efforts. In Illinois, where 89 dispensaries exist, none are minority-owned. And in Chicago, where 16 dispensaries exist, just two are located in Black and Brown communities, according to The Chicago Reporter.

Some of the biggest barriers to accessing a license in the legally regulated cannabis market are capital and local government regulations, says Cruz. Both have impacted his ability to successfully launch his own company in Long Beach.

Currently in Long Beach, the only way to legally sell cannabis is through a dispensary. Though city officials are currently pushing for more dispensaries in the area, Cruz explains that even before the Long Beach equity program was started, a 2016 voter-approved legislation capped the number of dispensaries in the city at 32. Today, all of those dispensaries are open or in the process of opening, according to Long Beach Post News. None of these dispensaries are Black-owned.

Securing cultivation and manufacturing facilities also presents a barrier to entry. Right now, opening your own cultivation facility in the city can easily cost up to $1 million, says Emily Armstrong, Long Beach’s cannabis program manager. In addition to allowing more dispensaries, city officials are also working to allow shared-use manufacturing facilities — which would allow multiple businesses to work out of the same location and share costs — and delivery-only licenses. These options, according to advocates, will help reduce the financial barrier for entrepreneurs who are looking to start their business but don’t have the capital needed to open up a storefront of their own.

“There’s a huge barrier to entry for almost anyone to get into the space,” says Kyle Kazan, CEO of the Glass House Group, an integrated cannabis brand based in California that owns two marijuana farms and sells cannabis products. As a seasoned investor and manager of private equity funds, Kazan says he was fortunate enough to enter the cannabis market when it became legal in the state in 2016 due to his relationships and access to capital.

“By the time we were all said and done, to get the first 500,000 square feet in both farms, we were over $20 million in purchase price and also retrofitting costs,” he says. “And that was money raised in cash. If I didn’t have a long track record with a lot of investors successfully deploying capital and returning good returns, I’d have zero chance of doing it.”

Today, Kazan is working with Cruz to provide him with the space, capital and guidance to grow his products and his business. As an industry leader, who previously served as a Los Angeles police officer, Kazan says he understands the profound impact drug enforcement policies have had on communities of color and he’s not proud of his “zealous participation in the drug war.”

“Just from my observations in my life experience and being a business person, we need to rebuild and offer opportunities to these areas that were so decimated by the war on drugs,” he says, while explaining that he and his team members at Glass House are also working with community leaders and advocates to “get people out of prison for violating the same federal law that I am violating right now.”

Glass House farm in California.

Photo courtesy of Glass House.

Additional solutions

While states are slowly legalizing the recreational and medical use of marijuana for adults, many advocates are calling for the federal legalization of cannabis as well.

In early June, advocacy groups like ACLU and the NAACP called on congressional leaders to pass the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act, which is a comprehensive marijuana policy that would remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act, allow people with cannabis charges to have their records expunged and create a federal tax on marijuana with the funds going to community reinvestments. The act, which was approved by the House last year, is being reintroduced at a time when Senate leaders say they are also drafting up a bill to legalize marijuana.

In April, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said he’s willing to move forward with a legalization bill even if President Biden continues to oppose.

But, in addition to federal legalization and the need for more capital, Cruz says another big piece to closing the opportunity gap in cannabis is education.

After noticing the struggles that Long Beach was having with its cannabis equity program, Cruz took matters into his own hands last year. He partnered with equity assistance programs like United CORE Alliance to launch an equity oversight committee in Long Beach called the Long Beach Cannabis Commerce Council (LBCCC).

“We were awarded the solicitation to pilot one program, which is called the Entrepreneurship Academy Program for Cannabis Equity, which provides workforce development, business development, business plan development [and] technical assistance,” he says. “Social equity recipients have tough times getting over these hurdles.”

The first class for the academy was held on June 5, says Cruz. And, Long Beach’s cannabis equity department gave him $25,000 to help further LBCCC’s efforts.

Right now, Cruz says he has put developments for his own brand on hold so that he can focus on LBCCC and its work to help existing equity program participants get the support they need.

“We don’t need anybody that’s coming in here just for the financial aspect,” he says. “We all understand that this is a cash cow now. What we need is support for our communities to make sure that we are included in this kind of cultural-based industry.”

Video by: Alysha Webb

Check out:

Why Black workers still face a promotion and wage gap that’s costing the economy trillions

Why restoring voting rights to former felons is “one of the key civil right issues of our time”

Why the homeownership gap between White and Black Americans is larger today than it was over 50 years ago

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Frontrunners on the frontier of current technology.

We are often faced with our own personal conflicts which directly influence our interactions with our peers and family.

InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

Inspirational Technologies – is Committed to Your Health Wellness Beauty and Enrichment

Reporting on Today’s Internal Botanical and Skin Product Benefits

4 Hemp Club was Inspired by Steven Smith’s vision to “Have an older generation 4H Club, where an older community of adults could carry on what the younger 4H Club envisioned.

Our 4H Platform Uses HEMP as an Agricultural Focal Point, deserving of research, development and with the

4 Hemp key points being Health Hope and Happiness, thru Hemp“.

Cannabis CBD and Me

Steven M Smith

AllRightsReserved2023

#2023

Our ONE STOP BLOG FOR INFORMATION, EDUCATION, & INSPIRATION OF ESSENTIAL INNOVATION & RENOVATION of You-

#AllRightsReserved-InspirationalTechnologies2023

Posted on 06/08/202306/27/2023 by Steven M Smith — Leave a comment

Cannabis – What and How to Buy

8 Beginner Cannabis Buying Mistakes and How to Avoid Them© Provided by The Frugalpreneur

In the world of burgeoning markets and emerging consumer segments, the cannabis industry is capturing the spotlight like never before. It’s an economic powerhouse that’s set to reach a valuation of $70 billion by 2028.

But despite the robust growth and increasing normalization of cannabis, first-time buyers often find themselves in the perplexing labyrinth of choices, regulations, and misconceptions.

If you’re stepping into the vast world of cannabis for the first time, it might seem as daunting as it is exciting. There are many different strains, product forms, and consumption methods.

These are a few of the reasons why it’s easy to make purchasing mistakes. To make things easier for you, we’ve put together a guide. Keep reading if you’d like to find out more.

1. Purchasing Low-Quality Products

One common pitfall for first-time buyers is opting for cheaper, low-quality cannabis products. The saying “you get what you pay for” holds true in the cannabis world.

Low-quality products may not provide the desired effects due to insufficient concentrations of cannabinoids, the active ingredients in cannabis. These products can sometimes contain contaminants that could harm your health.

To avoid this mistake, always check for lab testing results when buying cannabis. This information will give you a breakdown of cannabinoid content and show if the product passed contaminant screenings.

Remember, a quality cannabis experience starts with a quality product.

2. Choosing the Wrong Cannabis Products

Not all cannabis products are created equal, and not all will be right for you. There’s a multitude of different cannabis products available, from edibles to oils to vape pens, each with varying effects.

For instance, edibles may have a more potent effect compared to smoking because of the relationship between cannabinoids and the digestive tract. Also, the onset of effects from edibles can take longer, so patience is key.

It’s essential to take the time to understand what kind of product will suit your needs and preferences. You can do this by doing some research or consulting with a knowledgeable cannabis professional.

3. Not Having Realistic Expectations

Cannabis can provide numerous benefits. But it’s not a magical cure-all. Many beginners come to cannabis with sky-high expectations, only to feel disappointed when reality doesn’t match.

Cannabis’s effects can vary greatly depending on factors like dosage, strain, method of consumption, and individual tolerance.

Avoiding this mistake is a matter of tempering expectations. Understand that like any other substance, cannabis may not be the perfect solution for everyone.

It’s also essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase until you find what works for you.

4. Not Doing Enough Research

As the digital world expands, buying cannabis online has become a popular and convenient option. However, not every cannabis store website is reputable. Some may sell substandard or counterfeit products.

Before making a purchase, take the time to research the online shop. Look at the online customer reviews, and consider how long they’ve been in business and if they provide lab testing results.

Additionally, check if the online store is licensed to sell cannabis in your area. By doing this, you can ensure that you’re purchasing safe and quality cannabis.

5. Going With the First Option

As a beginner, you may feel inclined to go with the first cannabis option you come across, but this could lead to a less-than-optimal experience.

The world of cannabis is diverse, with a wide array of strains and products that offer distinct experiences.

Avoid this pitfall by taking time to explore various cannabis products and strains before making a choice.

Consult a budtender or a trusted cannabis enthusiast for advice on the best options for beginners. This way, you can ensure a positive initial encounter with cannabis that matches your desired experience.

It is also a good idea to spend time comparing cannabis.

6. Not Understanding Possession Regulations

Regulations on cannabis possession vary widely depending on location. Failure to understand these regulations can lead to legal issues.

Some areas restrict the amount of cannabis a person can possess at any one time. Others have strict rules on where cannabis can be consumed.

Steer clear of legal troubles by educating yourself about local and state laws regarding cannabis use and possession.

Understand that being a responsible cannabis consumer includes adhering to the legal parameters set by your jurisdiction.

7. Not Storing Cannabis Correctly

Cannabis storage may seem insignificant, but incorrect storage can degrade the quality of your product over time.

Exposure to heat, light, and humidity can cause your cannabis to lose potency and can even encourage mold growth.

The solution? Store your cannabis in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. Glass jars are a great option as they can help maintain the product’s freshness while keeping it safe from environmental factors.

8. Spending Too Much Money Too Soon

Cannabis products come with a wide range of price tags, and it’s easy to spend more than necessary as a beginner. Higher-priced products often signify quality.

But they’re not always the best option for beginners who are still exploring their preferences.

Before investing in high-end products, start with smaller, more affordable options. This allows you to experiment with different products and strains without emptying your wallet.

The Top Beginner Cannabis Buying Mistakes

If you are about to purchase cannabis for the first time, it is a great idea to familiarize yourself with the top beginner cannabis buying mistakes,

Make sure that you purchase high-quality products, and that you set realistic expectations. It is also essential to research online shops before making purchases. Lastly, understand your state’s cannabis laws.

Do you want to find out more about the cannabis industry? If so, make sure to check out the rest of our blog.

The post 8 Beginner Cannabis Buying Mistakes and How to Avoid Them appeared first on The Frugalpreneur.

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Frontrunners on the frontier of current technology.

We are often faced with our own personal conflicts which directly influence our interactions with our peers and family.

InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

Inspirational Technologies – is Committed to Your Health Wellness Beauty and Enrichment

Reporting on Today’s Internal Botanical and Skin Product Benefits

4 Hemp Club was Inspired by Steven Smith’s vision to “Have an older generation 4H Club, where an older community of adults could carry on what the younger 4H Club envisioned.

Our 4H Platform Uses HEMP as an Agricultural Focal Point, deserving of research, development and with the

4 Hemp key points being Health Hope and Happiness, thru Hemp“.

Cannabis CBD and Me

Steven M Smith

AllRightsReserved2023

#2023

Our ONE STOP BLOG FOR INFORMATION, EDUCATION, & INSPIRATION OF ESSENTIAL INNOVATION & RENOVATION of You-

#AllRightsReserved-InspirationalTechnologies2023

Posted on 04/20/202304/18/2026 by Steven M Smith — 1 Comment

Happy 420 — Origins, Laws, and the Moment We’re In

Image result for happy 420 gif

Happy 420 — Origins, Laws, and the Moment We’re In

1. The Origin Story: How 420 Became a Cultural Signal

420 began as a simple meeting time among a group of California high‑schoolers in 1971 — the Waldos — who used “4:20” as a code for gathering after school. What started as an inside joke traveled through music culture, especially Grateful Dead circles, and eventually became a universal shorthand for cannabis itself.

Over the decades, 4:20 p.m. became a daily ritual, and April 20th evolved into a cultural holiday — part celebration, part protest, part community gathering. The beauty of 420 is that it was never created by a corporation, a government, or a marketing team. It grew organically, carried by people who believed in freedom, curiosity, and connection.

That’s why the origin still matters. It reminds us that cannabis culture was built from the ground up — by people, not institutions.

2. The Current Landscape: State Laws in 2026

The United States now lives in a patchwork reality:

Medical cannabis is legal in the majority of states, including Florida, where the program continues to expand in patient count and product availability.
Adult‑use legalization has passed in many states, but not all — and the rules vary dramatically.
Federal law still classifies cannabis as illegal, creating contradictions in banking, research, interstate commerce, and patient access.
Hemp remains federally legal, but states continue to tighten rules around intoxicating hemp derivatives.

This patchwork creates confusion for patients, consumers, businesses, and law enforcement. It also creates opportunity — because every year, more states move toward reform, and public support continues to grow.

Even in states without adult‑use legalization, medical programs like Florida’s show that regulated access can coexist with safety, oversight, and economic benefit.

3. The Political Climate: Optimism with Realism

The political climate around cannabis in 2026 is defined by momentum, contradiction, and public demand outpacing policy.

Here’s what’s shaping the moment:

Public support for legalization remains high, across party lines, according to multiple national polls.
Congress continues to debate reform, including banking protections and rescheduling proposals, but progress is slow.
States are acting faster than the federal government, creating a widening gap between state policy and federal law.
Courts and regulators are increasingly involved in defining the boundaries of hemp, THC limits, and product safety.
Advocacy groups continue to push for expungement, patient rights, and equitable access.

Optimism is justified — the direction of travel is clear — but realism is necessary. Reform is happening, but not at the pace many expected. The next breakthroughs will likely come from a combination of state‑level action, federal administrative changes, and continued public pressure.

Commentary by Steven Smith

Advocate for Cannabis Reform, Founder of Inspirational Technologies & PAiNT Research

“I’ve always believed that cannabis reform is ultimately about people — patients, veterans, families, and communities who deserve access, safety, and honesty. I’m optimistic, but I’m also realistic. I’ve seen how slow the system can move, how politics can stall progress, and how misinformation can cloud public understanding. But I’ve also seen something stronger: the steady rise of informed citizens who refuse to let outdated laws define their lives.”

“The future of cannabis is not just about legalization — it’s about education, research, and responsible access. Vaporizers, for example, represent a safer, more controlled way for many people to consume. They reduce combustion‑related harms and allow for precise dosing. As technology improves, so will safety, consistency, and patient confidence.”

“420 is a celebration, but it’s also a reminder. A reminder that reform is unfinished. A reminder that millions still lack access. A reminder that science must guide policy, not stigma. And a reminder that the culture that created 420 — grassroots, hopeful, human — is still alive.”

“And yes — it’s 4:20 somewhere. In fact, it’s 4:20 forty‑eight times a day around the world. That’s forty‑eight reminders that progress continues, that community matters, and that the future is brighter than the past.”

Closing Thought

Two days before 420, the message is simple:
Honor the origin. Understand the laws. Stay engaged in the political moment. Celebrate responsibly. And keep pushing for a future where cannabis policy reflects science, compassion, and common sense.

🌿 CANNABIS LAWS BY STATE ( 2026)

Cannabis policy in the United States has evolved dramatically since California first recognized medical cannabis in 1996. Three decades later, the national landscape is a patchwork of adult‑use legalization, medical programs, decriminalization reforms, and a shrinking number of prohibition states.

As of 2026, most Americans live in a state where cannabis is legal in some form. Federal law still classifies cannabis as illegal, but state‑level reforms continue to expand, and public support for legalization remains at historic highs.

Below is the updated 2026 state-by-state breakdown.

✅ 2026 CANNABIS LEGALITY TABLE

Legend:

AU = Adult Use Legal
MED = Medical Legal
DEC = Decriminalized
CBD = CBD‑Only
IL = Illegal / Full Prohibition

This version is optimized for WordPress: clean columns, no broken spacing, and consistent formatting.

📊2026 Table

STATE	AU	MED	DEC	NOTES (2026)
Alabama	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Alaska	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Arizona	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Arkansas	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
California	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Colorado	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Connecticut	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Delaware	✔️	✔️	✔️	Adult-use sales active
District of Columbia	✔️	✔️	✔️	Sales restricted by Congress
Florida	❌ (no 2026 ballot)	✔️	❌	Medical only
Georgia	❌	CBD	❌	Low‑THC oil only
Hawaii	✔️	✔️	✔️	Adult-use legalized 2024
Idaho	❌	CBD	❌	CBD‑only; prohibition otherwise
Illinois	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Indiana	❌	❌	❌	Full prohibition
Iowa	❌	CBD	❌	Limited low‑THC program
Kansas	❌	❌	❌	Full prohibition
Kentucky	❌	✔️ (2025 launch)	❌	New medical program
Louisiana	❌	✔️	✔️	Medical + decriminalized
Maine	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Maryland	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Massachusetts	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Michigan	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Minnesota	✔️	✔️	✔️	Adult-use legalized 2023
Mississippi	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Missouri	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Montana	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Nebraska	❌	❌	DEC	Decriminalized only
Nevada	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
New Hampshire	❌	✔️	DEC	Adult-use still pending
New Jersey	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
New Mexico	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
New York	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
North Carolina	❌	CBD	DEC	CBD‑only + decriminalized
North Dakota	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Ohio	✔️	✔️	✔️	Adult-use legalized 2023
Oklahoma	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Oregon	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Pennsylvania	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Rhode Island	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
South Carolina	❌	CBD	❌	CBD‑only
South Dakota	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only (adult-use overturned)
Tennessee	❌	CBD	❌	CBD‑only
Texas	❌	CBD	❌	Limited low‑THC program
Utah	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Vermont	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
Virginia	✔️	✔️	✔️	Adult-use legal; sales pending
Washington	✔️	✔️	✔️	Fully legal
West Virginia	❌	✔️	❌	Medical only
Wisconsin	❌	CBD	❌	CBD‑only
Wyoming	❌	CBD	❌	CBD‑only

📌 Closing

The national trend remains clear: more states are moving toward regulated adult-use markets, and medical access is now the norm across most of the country. While federal reform remains stalled, state-level legalization continues to expand, driven by voter initiatives, legislative action, and shifting public opinion.

How Do States Decide on Their Cannabis Laws?

For decades, states have been changing their cannabis laws through both ballot initiatives and the legislative process. In states including California, South Dakota and New Jersey, voters have directly approved measures legalizing medical cannabis, recreational cannabis or both.

State legislatures have been passing laws to allow medical cannabis since the 1990s. In 2018, Vermont became the first state to legalize recreational cannabis through its legislature rather than through a ballot initiative. Since then, legislatures in states including Illinois and Virginia have followed suit.

A state’s cannabis laws don’t address every detail of how its system works. Instead, the law creates a framework within which state agencies and local governments can make more specific rules.

What Is Medical Cannabis?

Medical cannabis, as the name suggests, is prescribed by a doctor to treat specific conditions and symptoms. Studies have shown that cannabis can help patients with a variety of health concerns, including:

Certain kinds of epilepsy.
Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy treatments for cancer.
The loss of appetite and weight loss that can be caused by HIV/AIDS.

Scientists continue to study whether cannabis is an effective treatment for some symptoms of multiple sclerosis, chronic pain and other conditions.

How Do States Regulate Medical Cannabis?

Each state’s medical cannabis program is unique, but they share important similarities.

How Do States Regulate Medical Cannabis

A physician will examine a patient and, if appropriate, provide a certification that the patient has a condition that can be treated with medical cannabis. Each state has its own list of qualifying conditions.

Once a patient has a physician’s certification, they can be placed on the state’s medical cannabis registry and issued an identification card. This card entitles them to purchase cannabis at a dispensary — a state-regulated store that is authorized to sell cannabis products. The amount of cannabis someone with a medical cannabis card can possess varies by state.

Another important difference between states is whether they recognize other states’ medical cannabis cards. Individuals must follow the rules of the state they are in, not just the state that issued their ID.

What Is Cannabis Decriminalization?

In addition to implementing and refining medical cannabis programs, states are also continuing to address the question of how to regulate the nonmedical use and possession of cannabis. As the map shows, many states now allow adults to possess and use cannabis with some restrictions. Others have opted instead for decriminalization.

Decriminalization of cannabis does not mean legalization of cannabis. Instead, decriminalization can reduce the legal consequences of those caught possessing or using cannabis.

Decriminalization generally means criminal penalties are replaced with civil penalties. For example, police would issue a citation instead of making an arrest, would not punish an individual with a jail or prison sentence, and the incident would not appear on the individual’s criminal record.

It’s important to note that these more lenient punishments generally only apply to the first-time possession of smaller amounts of cannabis — harsher penalties can be imposed for multiple infractions or for possessing larger amounts.

What Is CBD?

The Cannabis sativa plant contains both delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — the chemical compound found in medical and recreational cannabis — and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is psychoactive — it’s the chemical in cannabis that causes a “high.” CBD is not psychoactive. For this reason, many states have begun loosening restrictions on its use for medicinal and other purposes.

At both the state and federal levels, however, the law surrounding CBD remains complicated and unsettled. This is especially true when it comes to the presence of THC in CBD products. Since the two compounds are chemically similar and derived from the same plant, many CBD products contain some THC. Some states that allow CBD products but have more restrictive laws for THC have specified that CBD products may not contain more than a certain small amount of THC.

By isolating and extracting the CBD from Cannabis sativa plants, it is possible to create CBD-only products. Since these products contain no THC at all, they reduce some of the risk and uncertainty surrounding the production, sale and use of CBD.

420 Happy420 GIF - 420 Happy420 Neon - Discover & Share GIFs

Navigating State Cannabis Laws

The laws addressing recreational cannabis, medical cannabis and CBD continue to evolve. We’ll continue to update our map to reflect changes to each state’s cannabis laws. If you have questions about how specific laws affect your cannabis business, you can always reach out to us — we’ll help you find the answers.

Posted on 04/13/202304/27/2023 by Steven M Smith — Leave a comment

Happy “April Rules” Month, 2023.

Happy “April Rules” Month 2023

April Rules is a colloquial term for April Fools, on current appropriate verbiage.

So, let it out. April does rule. It is the beginning of spring, and the hope for a new beginning, (aside from the tossed New Year’s resolutions).

This year the new collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association excluded any and all marijuana testing for players per The Athletic.

Could the NFL soon follow suit?

It was three years ago that the NFL reduced potential penalties for marijuana use, in a move that many thought was a prelude to the elimination of testing for it altogether.

The NFL hosts franchises in many states where marijuana use is legal for medicinal and recreational use, but the “No Fun League” always fell back on the fact that it remains a controlled substance under federal law.

But now that more and more states are legalizing it, it seems the league might be moved to ban testing altogether, while still maintaining order among players who choose to indulge.

But the league’s current laws surrounding marijuana use and testing might not have anything to do with the substance itself, but rather, a political move. The NFL regards the marijuana ban as part of collective bargaining. This means that, before they get rid of it, they want something in return from the NFL Players Association.

Some believe this has already happened, or the league just refuses to enforce any violations, but it’s simply not the case. The NFL still levies harsh fines for positive tests, and multiple violations still mark players for the treatment program and potential suspensions.

But for how much longer?

Too soon to tell, but there’s no question the NBA’s decision to ban marijuana testing for players is a move other leagues will be monitoring closely.

Big Bucks And Buds: This State's Cannabis Industry Spent Millions On Lobbying Efforts

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Frontrunners on the frontier of current technology. We are often faced with our own personal conflicts which directly influence our interactions with our peers and family.

InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

Inspirational Technologies – is Committed to Your Health Wellness Beauty and Enrichment

Reporting on Today’s Internal Botanical and Skin Product Benefits

4 Hemp Club was Inspired by Steven Smith’s vision to “Have an older generation 4H Club, where an older community of adults could carry on what the younger 4H Club envisioned.

Our 4H Platform Uses HEMP as an Agricultural Focal Point, deserving of research, development and with the

4 Hemp key points being Health Hope and Happiness, thru Hemp“.

Cannabis CBD and Me

Steven M Smith

AllRightsReserved2023

#2023

Our ONE STOP BLOG FOR INFORMATION, EDUCATION, & INSPIRATION OF ESSENTIAL INNOVATION & RENOVATION of You-

#AllRightsReserved-InspirationalTechnologies2023

Does Florida Require a Marijuana Grower to Obtain a Cultivation License?

What Are the Different Types of Cultivation Licenses in Florida?

Who Can Grow Marijuana in Florida?

How to Get a Marijuana Cultivation License in Florida

How Much Do Marijuana Cultivation Licenses Cost in Florida?

Can Licensed Marijuana Cultivators Hold Other Cannabis Licenses in Florida?

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU. Click On the Following Link

Thank you for consideration.

Inspirational Technologies 2023

AllRightsReserved2023

Share this:

Like this:

Basics of nutrition

Can you eat Cannabis?

Does Cannabis have nutritional value?

Which parts of the Cannabis plant are nutritious?

Do cannabis seeds have nutritional value?

Which nutrients are contained in cannabis seeds?

Which nutrients are contained in cannabis leaves?

Do cannabis stalks have nutritional value?

Do cannabis buds have nutritional value?

Do cannabinoids have nutritional value?

Could cannabinoids boost nutrition in other ways?

Research into cannabinoids and digestion

Research into cannabinoids and inflammation

Do terpenes boost the digestive benefits of cannabinoids?

What are the best ways to consume cannabis for nutrition?

The bottom line: Is cannabis a superfood?

Cannabinoid nutrition facts FAQ

1. Does CBD have nutritional value?

2. Does CBN have nutritional value?

3. Does CBG have nutritional value?

4. Are cannabinoids good for the body?

Sources

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU. Click On the Following Link

Thank you for consideration.

Inspirational Technologies 2023

AllRightsReserved2023

Share this:

Like this:

Impact of the war on drugs

Barriers to equity

Additional solutions

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU. Click On the Following Link

Thank you for consideration.

Inspirational Technologies 2023

AllRightsReserved2023

Share this:

Like this:

1. Purchasing Low-Quality Products

2. Choosing the Wrong Cannabis Products

3. Not Having Realistic Expectations

4. Not Doing Enough Research

5. Going With the First Option

Marijuana legalization by state

6. Not Understanding Possession Regulations

7. Not Storing Cannabis Correctly

8. Spending Too Much Money Too Soon

The Top Beginner Cannabis Buying Mistakes

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU. Click On the Following Link

Thank you for consideration.

Inspirational Technologies 2023

AllRightsReserved2023

Share this:

Like this:

Happy 420 — Origins, Laws, and the Moment We’re In

1. The Origin Story: How 420 Became a Cultural Signal

2. The Current Landscape: State Laws in 2026

3. The Political Climate: Optimism with Realism

Commentary by Steven Smith

Closing Thought

🌿 CANNABIS LAWS BY STATE ( 2026)

✅ 2026 CANNABIS LEGALITY TABLE

📊2026 Table

📌 Closing

How Do States Decide on Their Cannabis Laws?

How Do States Regulate Medical Cannabis?

What Is Cannabis Decriminalization?

What Is CBD?

Navigating State Cannabis Laws