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🌅 MORNING BRIEF —Florida Marijuana “Seven Days to Clarity: The PAiNT Research Countdown Report”

Why We Are Doing This

Inspirational Technologies and PAiNT Research began this countdown reporting for one reason: Floridians deserve clarity in a moment when clarity is hardest to find.
The petition process for the 2026 Adult‑Use Cannabis Amendment has become tangled in legal disputes, signature reversals, verification delays, and shifting rules. Many people who signed the petition believe their voice is already counted, when in reality tens of thousands of signatures have been removed, and the state’s reporting has been inconsistent.

Our role is not to advocate for a political outcome.
Our role is to illuminate the process, to help Floridians understand where things stand, and to ensure that those who participated know whether their participation still counts.

And the truth is this:

It is entirely possible the amendment will not make the November 2026 ballot.

Not because Floridians didn’t sign.
Not because support isn’t there.
But because the verification window is closing, the signature deficit remains significant, and the legal environment is unusually volatile.

This morning brief exists to give you the real numbers, the real risks, and the real timeline—so you can act, inform others, and understand the path ahead.

Time is counting Down to Count Your Voice on Legalization
Time is counting Down to Count Your Voice on Legalization

📊 MORNING BRIEF — January 28, 2026

Statewide Verified Signature Count (as of latest public update):

760,002 verified signatures
880,062 required

This leaves a deficit of 120,060 verified signatures with only days remaining before the February 1 verification cutoff.
This number is based on the most recent update from the Florida Division of Elections, which increased sharply from earlier totals as counties continue to process backlogged petitions.

📍 County-by-County Priority Watch (Top 5 Counties)

These counties hold the largest pools of petition activity and voter density. They are also where verification delays or invalidations have the greatest impact.

Miami‑Dade County

  • High petition volume; verification ongoing.
  • Many signers unaware of inactive‑voter disqualifications.
  • Action: Check voter status; re‑activate if needed.

Broward County

  • Verification complicated by fraud investigations involving circulators.
  • Some batches under review or flagged.
  • Action: Confirm your petition was received; update signature on file.

Orange County

  • Verification pace increasing; no major disputes reported.
  • Action: Contact Supervisor of Elections if you signed early in the cycle.

Hillsborough County

  • Large number of petitions submitted; verification still rolling.
  • Action: Re‑sign if possible; encourage others to check status.

Duval County

  • Verification steady but slower than expected.
  • Action: Call Supervisor to confirm your petition was validated.

⚠️ Why the Amendment Is at Risk

1. Signature deficit remains large

Even with accelerated verification, the campaign must net over 120,000 valid signatures in the final days—an extremely steep climb.

2. Tens of thousands of signatures have been invalidated

  • Inactive voters
  • Non‑resident circulators
  • Petitions missing required text
    These losses have created a gap that may not be recoverable in time.

3. Verification ends February 1 — no extensions

Even if more signatures exist in the pipeline, they must be verified by the deadline.

4. Legal disputes continue to reshape the totals

Court rulings have added and removed signatures repeatedly, creating uncertainty for both the campaign and the public.

📝 What You Can Do Today

1. Check your voter status

If you are listed as inactive, your petition signature was not counted.
Reactivate immediately.

2. Contact your county Supervisor of Elections

Ask whether your petition was received and verified.

3. Re‑sign if possible

Some counties still have active petition locations.

4. Inform others

Most Floridians who signed have no idea their signature may have been invalidated.

🟦 Closing Note — Steven Smith, Inspirational Technologies | PAiNT Research

“We are not here to predict outcomes. We are here to provide clarity.

The petition process is the people’s process, and the people deserve to know where things stand—without spin, without confusion, and without delay.

Whether this amendment reaches the ballot or not, every Floridian who signed deserves transparency. This countdown brief is our commitment to that transparency.”

We will continue producing these morning briefs daily through February 1 and add an evening “rapid update” edition when major changes occur.

Watching Florida's Stop Light on Marijuana
Watching Florida’s Stop Light on Marijuana

Predictive Artificial Intelligence News & Technology (2025)
 
“As we step into 2026, I’m proud of what we’ve built — and even more excited for what’s ahead. PAiNT Network is more than a platform. It’s a movement. A canvas for reform, creativity, and community‑powered change. Whether you’re an advocate, a researcher, or simply someone who believes in better — thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep painting the future together.”  Steven Smith – founder, Inspirational Technologies.
 

Happy New Year from Inspirational Technologies and the PAiNT Network.

Let the colors run wild. Let the pixels speak truth. Let the paint be wet.   2026

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Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System: The Wonders of CBDs

 

Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System: The Wonders of CBDs

Updated with PAiNT Research Palette – Green

Co-edited by Steven Smith, PAiNT Research   Mature Hemp Field Crop Hemp Is Now A Viable Agriculture Phenomenon Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System; The Wonders of CBDs CBD Molecule The following is a reprint with updated references. Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds made by the cannabis plant that unlock its many healing secrets. There are over 100 known cannabinoids and these chemicals imitate the endocannabinoids naturally produced in the human body. The shiny little crystals you see on cannabis buds are called trichomes where cannabinoids are stored. Human bodies (and many animals) have endocannabinoid systems (ECS), meaning that cannabinoids are naturally made so they can bind to endocannabinoid receptors creating changes in our physiology. To understand the master gland and immune system of the human body it is crucial to have a basic understanding of the endogenous cannabinoid system, otherwise known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is essential to human health because it maintains homeostasis in the body. Research into the endocannabinoid system has increased in recent years as scientists begin to reveal how complex and important this system is to our bodies. The legal cannabis movement started in San Francisco in the early 1990’s when it was discovered that cannabis treated many symptoms that AIDS patients suffered from, including pain. It was medical marijuana laws that changed the legal status of cannabis nationwide, opening the doors for research and an adult-use market and creating a path towards full legalization. Cannabis patients across the country have used the plant to treat a growing number of medical conditions. In Colorado alone, there are nine different qualifying conditions for a medical card: cancer, glaucoma, HIV or AIDS, cachexia (wasting syndrome), persistent muscle spasms, seizures, severe nausea, severe pain, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

  What Do CBD’s Do? The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. Homeostasis is defined as: “any self-regulating process by which biological systems tend to maintain stability while adjusting to conditions that are optimal for survival.” If homeostasis is successful, life continues; if unsuccessful, disaster and ill health ensues. The endocannabinoid system is made up of three parts: cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoids, and metabolic enzymes.   • Endocannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body on the surface of cells in the brain, organs, tissues, and glands. These receptors are embedded in cell membranes and produce varying reactions when stimulated by cannabinoids. • Cannabinoids come from two distinct places — the body, which produces naturally occurring endocannabinoids, and foods like the cannabis plant, which produces phytocannabinoids. • Metabolic enzymes act like a natural referee in that they destroy endocannabinoids once they are used up by the body. The two main metabolic enzymes are fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). This self-regulating system ensures the interaction of CBDs with the ECS only happens when needed and therefore keeps the workings of the endocannabinoid system relatively quiet to the conscious brain. Because homeostasis is so important to health, all vertebrates and invertebrates are known to have an endocannabinoid system.

  Cannabinoids can also be produced synthetically. Marinol (dronabinol) and Cesamet (nabilone) are synthetic versions of THC that have FDA approval to be marketed and sold as a prescription drug. Synthetic cannabinoids do unlock the endocannabinoid system to produce effects, but they often fail to incorporate the entourage effect which states that the sum of the different cannabinoids works better as a whole unit than any cannabinoid individually. With an understanding of the endocannabinoid system and its role in ensuring homeostasis in the body, it may be easier to see how this could be true. The Endocannabinoid System Despite its critical importance, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) was only discovered in the early 1990s when Lisa Matsuda, a researcher at the National Institute of Mental Health, and her colleagues discovered a DNA sequence that defines a THC-sensitive receptor in a rat’s brain. This discovery was quickly followed up with further evidence by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, the famous chemist who discovered THC. With less than 30 years of research, the endocannabinoid system is one of the least studied systems in the body. Currently, restrictions on cannabis research limit what scientists can examine in terms of furthering the understanding of how cannabis and hemp interact with the endocannabinoid system. Two cannabinoid receptors have been discovered by researchers: CB1 and CB2.

CB1 is found in the central and peripheral nervous system. It’s also found in the brain and is the receptor that THC interacts with, giving the user a “high.” CB2 receptors are predominantly found in the immune system and the gastrointestinal system where they regulate inflammatory responses in the bowels. CB2 receptors are also found in the brain, although not as densely as CB1 receptors. These receptors, a large part of the endocannabinoid system, play roles in regulating cardiovascular activity, appetite, mood, memory, and pain in the body. CBD does not fit exactly into either CB1 or CB2 receptors. CBD stimulates both receptors and causes a reaction without binding directly, creating changes in cells that contain them. CBD also binds to a protein-receptor couple, TRPV-1, responsible for regulating body temperature, pain, and inflammation. CBD is also known for counteracting the effects of THC, activating serotonin receptors, and inhibiting a gene attributed to several cancers.   CBD has grown in popularity recently as research and anecdotal evidence increasingly demonstrates the impact it can have on the body. The body’s endocannabinoid system reacts to CB1 and CB2 based upon the organ or bodily system that is sensitive to one or both. The brain is especially sensitive to CB1, the lungs to CB1, the spleen to CB2, the vascular system CB1, the pancreas to CB1 & CB2, the liver to CB1 & CB2, reproductive organs to CB1, the colon to CB2, the muscles to CB1, the immune system to CB2, and the bones to CB2. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is also involved in regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes including fertility, pregnancy (during pre- and postnatal development) appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory, and in mediating the pharmacological effects of cannabis. The ECS is also involved in mediating some of the physiological and cognitive effects of voluntary physical exercise in humans and other animals, such as contributing to exercise-induced euphoria as well as modulating locomotor activity and motivational salience for rewards. In humans, the plasma concentration of certain endocannabinoids (i.e., anandamide) have been found to rise during physical activity; since endocannabinoids can effectively penetrate the blood–brain barrier, it has been suggested that anandamide, along with other euphoriant neurochemicals, contributes to the development of exercise-induced euphoria in humans, a state colloquially referred to as a runner’s high. Cannabinoids Cannabinoids are broadly known for their anti-seizure, anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer effects — and science has just scratched the surface. How much these effects are expressed is a result of the entourage effect is not fully known. The entourage effect states that the cannabinoids work better in tandem than they do alone. THC and CBD produce stronger healing properties together that are shown differently based on their concentrations and the presence of other cannabinoids. In addition, terpenes, the oils that give cannabis its fragrance, contribute to the therapeutic effects of the plant on the body when paired with cannabinoids. The powerful combination of these naturally occurring chemicals produces the medical effects that have given cannabis its reputation as a wondrous medical agent.

  In California, there are twelve qualifying conditions for a medical cannabis card, including one described as, “any other chronic or persistent medical symptom that substantially limits the ability of the person to conduct one or more major life activities (as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990) or, if not alleviated, may cause serious harm to the patient’s safety or physical or mental health.” There are over 100 known cannabinoids and we’ve only briefly described a few. There is a lot more research to be done to understand the intricacies of each cannabinoid and how they interact with each other. Cannabinoids can bind to receptor sites in either the brain (CB-1) or the body (CB-2). Cannabinoids will produce different effects on the body depending on which type of receptor site they bind to. Cannabis strains are filled with multiple cannabinoids that when consumed, bind to these sites, creating a symphony of effects on the body and thus corresponding to the wide variety of healing properties. This is why one plant can treat many different conditions. Cannabinoids begin as cannabinoid acids that are activated when heated. This heat-based activation, also known as decarboxylation, removes the acid from the molecule, turning it into a bioavailable compound that the body can register. The decarboxylated molecule is often more powerful and produces a different effect on the body than the acidic version. This is why you see both “THCA” and “THC” when looking at the contents of a cannabis strain.  

🌿 Introduction: A Living System of Discovery The endocannabinoid system (ECS) remains one of the most fascinating regulatory networks in human biology. From mood and sleep to immune balance and pain modulation, the ECS is a master regulator. Cannabinoids like CBD interact with this system in ways that continue to inspire both scientific inquiry and public imagination. With the PAiNT Research Optics Palette – Green, we bring a sharper lens to this evolving field—highlighting not only the breakthroughs but also the blind spots that demand further exploration.

🔬 Current Research Strides

  • Clinical Expansion: CBD has moved from anecdotal wellness use into formal clinical trials for epilepsy, anxiety, inflammation, and neurodegenerative conditions.
  • Mechanistic Insights: Researchers are mapping receptor subtypes (CB1, CB2, and beyond), uncovering how cannabinoids influence neurotransmitter release, immune signaling, and vascular health.
  • Formulation Innovation: Advances in delivery systems—nanoemulsions, transdermal patches, and targeted oral formulations—are improving bioavailability and consistency.
  • Agricultural Progress: Hemp cultivation under the 2018 Farm Bill has expanded genetic diversity, enabling strains optimized for high-CBD, low-THC production.

⚖️ Current Limitations

  • Regulatory Barriers: Federal scheduling and fragmented state laws continue to slow large-scale, multi-site clinical trials.
  • Data Gaps: Long-term safety data, especially for chronic use and polypharmacy interactions, remain incomplete.
  • Standardization Issues: Variability in plant genetics, extraction methods, and labeling practices undermines reproducibility and consumer trust.
  • Equity in Access: Research and product development often overlook marginalized communities most affected by health disparities and cannabis criminalization.

🎨 The PAiNT Optics Palette – Green

This editorial lens emphasizes sustainability, wellness, and regenerative potential. “Green” is not only the color of the plant but also a metaphor for growth, balance, and ecological responsibility. Through this palette, PAiNT Research frames CBD and ECS science as part of a broader movement toward integrative health and environmental stewardship.

🚀 Preparing for PAiNT Your Wagon

This blog is the first in a living research series. The next installment, PAiNT Your Wagon, will expand the conversation—exploring how predictive AI, narrative storytelling, and community engagement can accelerate cannabinoid research and policy reform. Together, these pieces will form a living research blog, where each chapter builds on the last, offering readers not just information but a roadmap for advocacy, innovation, and wellness.

✅ Closing Note The ECS is not just a scientific curiosity—it is a bridge between biology, wellness, and culture. By applying the PAiNT Research Optics Palette – Green, we illuminate both the promise and the challenges of CBD research, preparing the ground for deeper inquiry and collective action.  

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I hope this information was helpful and informative. If you have any more questions, please feel free to ask me. 😊 Inspirational Technologies – IT is Time

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.
 

At Inspirational Technologies

Our mission is to shape public perception and policy through credible, engaging narratives that empower communities. With the PaiNT Network, we are extending that mission into the realm of predictive intelligence. By blending editorial rigor with AI foresight, we are creating a platform that doesn’t just inform—it inspires action.

As Steven Smith notes:

Looking Ahead The launch of PaiNT Research is only the beginning. In the coming months, Inspirational Technologies will:

• Roll out “Engage → Palette” cycles on our blog, showing how dialogue evolves into curated insights. • Publish “PaiNT Your Wagon” action briefs to guide policymakers and advocates. • Release “PaiNT You a Picture” visuals to make complex science accessible. • Amplify insights through “PaiNT the Town”, ensuring that predictive intelligence reaches the audiences who need it most.

P a i N T   Pallette 2025
P a i N T Your Wagon 2025
P a i N T You a Picture 2025
P a i N T the Town 2025

A Call to Collaboration We believe that predictive intelligence is not a solitary pursuit—it is a collective canvas. Every voice adds a brushstroke. Every perspective adds depth. Together, we can paint a future where research is not just conducted but understood; not just published but lived. Join us as we launch PaiNT Research. Explore the categories. Share your insights. Because the future is not something we wait for—it’s something we paint together.

Brought to you by the PaiNT Network (2025) an inspiration from Inspirational Technologies

Predictive Artificial Intelligence News & Technology 2025

=====================================================================================================================================

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Front runners on the frontier of current technology. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________All Rights Reserved – Inspirational Technologies 2025 We hope this information has been helpful and informative. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions. 😊

Predictive Artificial Intelligence News & Technology
1st Hemp USA News is a resource of Inspirational Technologies (2021)
Created 3/1/2014
Logo by Steven M Smith Created 3/1/2014
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U.S. Farmers face uphill battle on international scale.

Executive Summary

U.S. soybean farmers face a sudden export shock as retaliatory tariffs and shifting trade flows have effectively shut China out of U.S. soy purchases this harvest season, while Argentina and Brazil capture market share, creating severe price pressure and cash-flow stress for growers Straight Arrow News | MSN GV Wire EconoTimes.

The Plight: what’s happening and who’s hurt

  • Export collapse: China imported no new-crop U.S. soybeans in recent months, opting instead for South American supplies, leaving U.S. bins full and prices depressed Straight Arrow News | MSN EconoTimes.
  • Competitive displacement: Argentina’s suspension of export taxes and expanded shipments to China undercut U.S. producers on price and timing EconoTimes theregenaissance.co.
  • Policy optics and political fallout: simultaneous U.S. financial support to Argentina has intensified farm-sector anger and created the perception that policy choices are favoring foreign competitors over American growers GV Wire Aljazeera.

Evidence cited: U.S. farm leaders and Senators have publicly warned this is a market and policy crisis for soybean-dependent communities Straight Arrow News | MSN GV Wire.

Hemp regulation friction across states

  • Florida: 2025 rulemaking tightened labeling, packaging, COA and child-resistant requirements and pushed aggressive proposals for THC limits and taxes that produced regulatory uncertainty for producers and retailers Greenspoon Marder LLP cannabisregulations.ai.
  • Arkansas: state regulatory shifts and enforcement variability have created market confusion for hemp processors and farmers (regional enforcement and statutory updates mirror trends in neighboring states) cannabisregulations.ai.
  • Ohio: lawmakers are actively reworking statutes after court interventions struck down executive actions that attempted to ban certain intoxicating hemp products, prompting a legislative flurry to restore clarity cleveland.com.

Regulatory fragmentation is raising compliance costs and constraining market development for smaller hemp businesses and farm operators seeking predictable rules Greenspoon Marder LLP cannabisregulations.ai cleveland.com.

Oversight, remedies, and practical policy fixes

  • Short-term relief: target aid to family and mid-size farms through emergency CCC-like support and market-loss programs tied to demonstrated export displacement, not blanket bailouts. Evidence from past tariff episodes shows targeted relief stabilizes cash flow without long-term market distortion Straight Arrow News | MSN.
  • Trade and market work: pursue immediate diplomatic and trade talks to reopen Chinese demand channels while accelerating diversification of export markets and domestic value-added processing to reduce single-market dependence EconoTimes theregenaissance.co.
  • Hemp governance: harmonize state-level hemp rules via a model-state framework that sets clear THC-per-serving limits, packaging standards, and testing/COA minimums to lower compliance burdens and protect public health Greenspoon Marder LLP cannabisregulations.ai.
  • Congressional role: require timely congressional review of major tariff actions and commodity-related trade interventions to align commercial impacts with national agricultural priorities Straight Arrow News | MSN.

Do Project 2025 proposals matter here?

Project 2025’s agricultural portfolio advocates shrinking federal farm programs, reconfiguring safety nets, and altering nutrition program administration—moves that would materially change how shocks like tariffs and export disruptions are absorbed and how relief is delivered to farmers The Hill Investigate Midwest The Senate Democratic Caucus. If enacted, the proposals could:

  • Reduce the existing federal buffer (crop insurance subsidies, ARC/PLC-style payments) that farmers rely on during trade shocks The Hill Investigate Midwest.
  • Reorganize SNAP and other food-aid structures that historically form part of the political trade-offs supporting farm policy, potentially making comprehensive farm bills harder to build The Hill The Senate Democratic Caucus.

Conclusion: Project 2025 ideas, if pursued, would amplify the vulnerability of export-exposed commodity growers unless paired with new, practical market-stabilizing mechanisms The Hill Investigate Midwest The Senate Democratic Caucus.

Closing notes and co-edit

This PAiNT-format brief maps the current market shock facing soybean farmers, the regulatory turbulence in the hemp sector across Florida, Arkansas, and Ohio, practical oversight steps, and how Project 2025’s policy direction could affect resilience. Co-edited by Steven Smith, Inspirational Technologies — PAiNT Research. References: reporting and analysis informing this brief include contemporary coverage of soybean export disruption and domestic political responses Straight Arrow News | MSN GV Wire EconoTimes Aljazeera theregenaissance.co, state hemp rule updates and 2025 regulatory activity in Florida and Ohio Greenspoon Marder LLP cannabisregulations.ai cleveland.com, and Project 2025’s agricultural proposals and critiques The Hill Investigate Midwest The Senate Democratic Caucus.

AT INSPIRATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES OUR MISSION is to shape public perception and policy through credible, engaging narratives that empower communities. With the PaiNT Network, we are extending that mission into the realm of predictive intelligence. By blending editorial rigor with AI foresight, we are creating a platform that doesn’t just inform—it inspires action.

As Steven Smith notes:

Looking Ahead The launch of PaiNT Research is only the beginning. In the coming months, Inspirational Technologies will:

• Roll out “Engage → Palette” cycles on our blog, showing how dialogue evolves into curated insights. • Publish “PaiNT Your Wagon” action briefs to guide policymakers and advocates. • Release “PaiNT You a Picture” visuals to make complex science accessible. • Amplify insights through “PaiNT the Town”, ensuring that predictive intelligence reaches the audiences who need it most.

P a i N T   Pallette 2025
P a i N T Your Wagon 2025
P a i N T You a Picture 2025
P a i N T the Town 2025

A Call to Collaboration We believe that predictive intelligence is not a solitary pursuit—it is a collective canvas. Every voice adds a brushstroke. Every perspective adds depth. Together, we can paint a future where research is not just conducted but understood; not just published but lived. Join us as we launch PaiNT Research. Explore the categories. Share your insights. Because the future is not something we wait for—it’s something we paint together.

Brought to you by the PaiNT Network (2025) an inspiration from Inspirational Technologies

Predictive Artificial Intelligence News & Technology 2025

=====================================================================================================================================

We, at Inspirational Technologies are at the forefront of Inspirational and Front runners on the frontier of current technology. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________All Rights Reserved – Inspirational Technologies 2025 We hope this information has been helpful and informative. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any further questions. 😊

Predictive Artificial Intelligence News & Technology
1st Hemp USA News is a resource of Inspirational Technologies (2021)
Created 3/1/2014
Logo by Steven M Smith Created 3/1/2014

 

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Medical Marijuana Seniors concerned over Potential Recreational Legalization.

Older patients comprise a growing subset of medical marijuana patients, according to a new study.

Seniors’ perspectives on marijuana legalization, especially in the context of medical and recreational use, are multifaceted. Let’s delve into the nuances:

  1. General Attitudes Toward Marijuana Legalization:
  2. Age Disparities:
  3. Stigma Reduction and Increased Medical Use:

    Seniors’ perspectives on marijuana legalization, especially in the context of medical and recreational use, are multifaceted. Let’s delve into the nuances:

    1. General Attitudes Toward Marijuana Legalization:
    2. Age Disparities:
    3. Stigma Reduction and Increased Medical Use:
    4. Mixed Views on Recreational Legalization Impact:
    5. Partisan Differences:

    In summary, seniors’ concerns about marijuana legalization span a spectrum, influenced by factors such as age, stigma reduction, and perceptions of societal impact. As discussions continue, understanding diverse viewpoints is crucial for informed decision-making.

  4. Discreet, Free Delivery to Seniors benefits the Florida market usually suffering the paranoia of Medicinal Marijuana use.

  1. The stigma associated with cannabis use is gradually diminishing, especially concerning medical marijuana. A significant 94% of Americans express support for legal access to medical cannabis 3.
  2. Among older adults, there’s a growing interest in using medical marijuana due to reduced stigma and increased awareness of its potential benefits 3.
  3. Mixed Views on Recreational Legalization Impact:
  4. Partisan Differences:

In summary, seniors’ concerns about marijuana legalization span a spectrum, influenced by factors such as age, stigma reduction, and perceptions of societal impact. As discussions continue, understanding diverse viewpoints is crucial for informed decision-making.

 Seniors are Increasingly Using Cannabis Studies show.

Titled “Age-related Patterns of Medical Cannabis Use: A Survey of Authorized Patients in Canad

,” the new scientific publication presents the consumption trends observed in patients and the self-reported impacts of medical cannabis in alleviating their primary symptoms.

Older Patients Are Choosing Cannabis To Treat Chronic Pain, Arthritis, Anxiety And Insomnia, New Study Shows© Provided by Benzinga

Nearly 54% of patients taking prescription opioids, reported a decrease in use over the past year with medical cannabis.

Tilray revealed in a Wednesday press release that those taking part in the study said cannabis had a “high degree of efficacy in alleviating their illness or symptoms,” with many emphasizing “a reduction in their use of prescription opioids, alcohol, tobacco, and other substances.”

“Our role in this initiative exemplifies our commitment to medical research, leading us one step closer to unlocking the full therapeutic potential of medical cannabis,” said José Tempero, Tilray’s medical director.

The latest results build on a growing body of research, which shows cannabis consumption among seniors is becoming more common. A recent study done at the University of Colorado Boulder, examined the effects of cannabis use in adults aged 60 to 88 with no history of alcohol or other substance use disorder. It showed that “low-dose, daily cannabis use after age 55 might effectively reduce the degenerative effects of chronic brain inflammation,” said Gary Wenk Ph.D., a scientist not involved in the study.

Americans appear to continue to see a need for change with U.S. cannabis laws. New research data from Pew found that an overwhelming 88% of U.S. adults say that cannabis should be legalized for medical or recreational use. 

Pew found that, in an environment where most Americans live in a state that has legalized the plant and products made from it for certain reasons, having exposure to at least one dispensary in their communities has opened more people up to the idea that total legalization would be OK, it seems.

The survey split up choices in various ways based on beliefs about how the plant should be used and was conducted between Jan. 16 and Jan. 21.

In survey data out this week, Pew found that almost 57% of Americans say they believe cannabis should be legal for both recreational and medical reasons, while 32% said cannabis should only be legalized for medical use.

One interesting aspect of the data is how Americans view the impact legalizing cannabis for recreational use might have on safety and encouraging the use of other substances.

29% of Americans said they believe cannabis increases the use of other drugs, while about the same — at 27% — said they believe it would decrease the use of other substances including cocaine, fentanyl and heroin. 42% said cannabis would have no impact on the use of other substances.

And when it comes to beliefs about safety in the community, 34% of Americans surveyed said legalizing cannabis makes communities less safe while 21% said legalizing cannabis makes communities safer.

And, beliefs about the legalization of cannabis were impacted by politics — the majority, 64%, of those who identify as a Democrat, or who lean towards being Democratic said the believe legalizing cannabis is good for local economies, and 58% said cannabis legalization creates a more fair justice system.

41% of Republican respondents said legalizing cannabis for recreational use has a positive impact on local economies, and 27% said legalization has a positive impact on the criminal justice system.

Those views were altered when age was factored in, with a majority 57% of Republicans between 18 to 29 years old who said they believe cannabis should be legalized for recreations and medical use — 52% of Republicans between 30 to 49 years old said the same.

Pew found that “wide majorities” of Republicans of all age groups favors cannabis legalization for medical use.

Across all racial and ethnic groups, Pew found that about 4 out of 10 U.S. adults believe cannabis legalization for recreational use makes the U.S. criminal justice system fairer.

For the study, Pew Research Center uses randomly selected U.S. adults who participate in self-administered web surveys. Pew said it used an oversample non-Hispanic Black men, Hispanic men and non-Hispanic Asian adults to “provide more precise” estimate of “opinions and experiences of these smaller demographic subgroups.”

In addition, a recent New York Times report looked at the uncertainty and desperation that fuels senior cannabis use, and how many are turning to it as a last resort for various ailments. Dr. Aaron Greenstein, a geriatric psychiatrist said, “People are just desperate. They’re willing to try anything.”

Steven M Smith InspirationalTech.org CEO since 2013.

Thank you for consideration.

Inspirational Technologies
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What’s Going On With Marijuana? NEW Rescheduling of DEA assessment to Schedule III Eminent.

Vice President Kamala Harris said that the DEA needs to move quickly to reschedule marijuana at a meeting at the White House on Friday.

Watch Live: VP Kamala Harris Hosts Marijuana Pardon Recipients At White ...

Vice President Kamala Harris has recently urged the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to expedite its review of cannabis’s scheduling. During a White House closed-door roundtable discussion on criminal justice reform, Harris emphasized that the current classification of cannabis as a Schedule I substance is “absurd and patently unfair.” She called for a swift resolution to this issue1.

Here are some key points:

  1. Background:

  2. Harris’s Actions:

  3. DEA’s Role:

In summary, the rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III is imminent, and the DEA’s decision will have significant implications for federal drug policy1.

Also on Friday, Doug Kass posted that on the social media platform X that the DEA will soon announce the rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III. 

“We have learned yesterday that the US Drug Enforcement  Administration will shortly approve a rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III –and that the biggest legal hurdle, an international treaty (the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs (1961)), to which the US is a signatory has been resolved favorably,” Kass posted. 

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has also recommended the DEA reschedule cannabis as Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act

How hard it is to survive in the cannabis space?

On the one hand, the marijuana industry is nascent as the plant has been stigmatized for decades. Being illegal at the federal level makes operating that much more complicated. On the other hand, the industry continues to progress. Each year more states and countries embrace it, and new studies confirm the vast potential of marijuana’s healing properties that our ancestors knew centuries ago.

So, it’s difficult, but not impossible to maneuver in the cannabis space.

Often viewed as one of the biggest challenges is the lack of access to banking and financial services due to marijuana’s Schedule 1 status, which the DEA classifies as having no accepted medical value and has high abuse potential.

On the complexity of regulatory issues, she told us that “all of cannabis is complex, but the most complex regulatory issues arise with new regulations or changes to existing regulations – it can be difficult to understand how these regulations are used in practice. The most common misapprehension about the cannabis industry is that we are all risk-takers living on the edge – the reality is that most of us in this industry are all super compliance-focused and constantly checking to make sure that we’re following every single applicable rule.”

 

Regulatory Compliance First

In January, the government released hundreds of pages of documents related to its ongoing review of the status of cannabis under federal law, confirming that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recommended the DEA reschedule cannabis as Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This means that HHS has acknowledged some medical value of marijuana, and the rescheduling is being considered. We asked Ayinehsazian, a respected California Advocate of Marijuana Law Deregulation how much would change in the marijuana industry in terms of regulatory issues, banking services and taxes if cannabis is reclassified to Schedule III.

“I think that even with rescheduling regulatory compliance would still remain of great importance,” she said. “Banking and taxation would be greatly improved though – the current banking issues we face as a result of federal illegality would be greatly alleviated, as would the federal taxation issues associated with 280E.”

Ayinehsazian said that in terms of taxation and banking, both rescheduling and de-scheduling would be about the same. “In terms of regulatory requirements, de-scheduling may present a bit less of a burden, but I think that no matter what, we’re still looking at regulatory compliance being incredibly important.”
 

The 280E is an IRS tax code, which states that “no deduction or credit shall be allowed in running a business that consists of trafficking a controlled substance.” This means that until cannabis is removed from a list of controlled substances on the federal level, there will be no tax deductions or credits given to legal cannabis operators.

Sahar Ayinehsazian    is an attorney in Vicente Sederberg’s Los Angeles office,
where she focuses on cannabis banking, corporate transactions, and regulations.
With her specialized knowledge, Sahar helped to establish and currently co-leads
Vicente Sederberg’s Banking and Financial Services Department. As a member of
the National Cannabis Industry Association’s Banking Access Committee, Sahar
also works on strategy and educational advocacy to enable state-licensed businesses
to obtain accounts at depository institutions. Prior to joining Vicente Sederberg,
Sahar served as the Director of Regulatory and Governmental Affairs at a multi-state
money transmitter servicing the cannabis industry, where she developed a comprehensive understanding of credit card flow, banking and cannabis compliance. She
holds a Bachelor of Arts, with honors, from the University of California, San Diego
and a law degree from Loyola Law School, where she was a Loyola Scholar

The CBD Effect on Cannabis

While Cannabis is a very crucial part of the Marijuana movement, we must remember that CBD is a complex field with ongoing research, legal considerations, and exciting technological advancements.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid compound that has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects on various psychiatric disorders 1. A systematic review of neuroimaging studies investigating the acute impact of CBD on human brain function found that CBD induces significant alterations in brain activity and connectivity patterns during resting state and performance of cognitive tasks in both healthy volunteers and patients with a psychiatric disorder 1. The review also found that acute CBD enhanced fronto-striatal resting state connectivity in healthy volunteers, both compared to placebo and THC 1. Furthermore, CBD modulated brain activity and had opposite effects when compared to THC following task-specific patterns during various cognitive paradigms, such as emotional processing, verbal memory, response inhibition, and auditory/visual processing 1. In individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis and patients with established psychosis, acute CBD showed intermediate brain activity compared to placebo and healthy controls during cognitive task performance 1. CBD modulated resting limbic activity in subjects with anxiety and metabolite levels in patients with autism spectrum disorders 1. CBD is thought to have neuroprotective effects due to how it interacts with CB2 receptors in the brain. CBD acts on these receptors by creating an anti-inflammatory response in immune cells in the brain. This reduces the amount of damage caused by inflammation in the brain. Oxidation is one of the most common causes of brain tissue damage 2. Inspirational Technologies is likely to be adopting AI on social media to improve the efficiency of their content creation and marketing campaigns. AI-powered tools can help marketers generate new content ideas, optimize social media campaigns, and measure brand and trends across each social media channel 1. AI prompts for social media can help marketers overcome creative blocks and generate new post ideas 2. AI can also enable personalized recommendations, create more efficient customer service, and analyze data in real-time to help improve overall marketing campaign performance 3. AI tools have taken the world by storm over the last few months, and for good reason. Tasks that used to take hours are now finished in just a few minutes. The results AI tools can produce are blowing people away 2. However, it’s important to note that there are also plenty of examples where AI completely misses the mark. The difference between “omg that’s amazing 😱” and “omg… that’s not right 😐” is usually a well-crafted prompt 2. In conclusion, AI can be a powerful tool for social media marketing, but it’s important to use it wisely and with a human touch. AI can help marketers save time and improve efficiency, but it cannot replace human creativity and empathy 1. IF12278 (congress.gov)   Inspirational Technologies history 2018 farm bill hempsmart mcoa ceo cannabis reformation florida 2024 ballot on recreational marijuana #IntheWeedswithSteve

Be patient Florida, this too, shall pass!

Florida has specific laws regarding marijuana, and it’s essential to understand them. Here are the key points:

  1. Medical Use:

    • Medical use of marijuana is legal in Florida.
    • Qualifying patients (21 years and older) with specific medical conditions can purchase or use medical marijuana as recommended by licensed physicians.
    • Some qualifying conditions include ALS, cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and chronic pain related to specific medical conditions.
    • Minors can designate adult caregivers to assist in obtaining medical marijuana.

  2. Recreational Use:

    • Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Florida.
    • Possession of any amount of weed is against the law.
    • Possession of more than 20 grams (25 lbs) of cannabis is considered a felony.

  3. Growing Marijuana:

    • Individuals and businesses are prohibited from growing marijuana.
    • However, state-licensed cultivators are allowed to grow it.

  4. Penalties:

    • Florida imposes fines and jail time for simple possession of marijuana.
    • Possession of any quantity of marijuana is illegal.

  5. Medical Marijuana Cards:

    • Patients must possess active medical marijuana cards to legally use medical marijuana.
    • Over 750,000 Floridians currently hold active medical marijuana cards.
    • More than 2,500 certified doctors assist in determining appropriate medical marijuana treatments.

  6. Dispensaries:

    • There are over 450 open marijuana dispensary locations in Florida as of October 2022.

  7. Legalization Efforts:

Remember that while medical use is permitted, recreational marijuana remains illegal in Florida, and the state prescribes stiff penalties for those caught in possession of the drug2345.

 

Steven M Smith InspirationalTech.org CEO since 2013.

Thank you for consideration.
Inspirational Technologies
InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU.

 

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1st Hemp USA News is a resource of Inspirational Technologies (2024)
Continue reading What’s Going On With Marijuana? NEW Rescheduling of DEA assessment to Schedule III Eminent.
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Trulieve is Florida’s and now National leader in vertical integration in Marijuana.

Trulieve, Florida’s largest medical marijuana operator, has made significant strides in the cannabis industry. Notably, they recently achieved a historic milestone by becoming the largest cannabis retailer in the United States. This achievement was made possible through their acquisition of Harvest Health & Recreation, a former competitor, in a deal worth $2.1 billion123. Trulieve’s success is attributed to its vertical integration approach. As a seed-to-sale company, Trulieve cultivates and produces all its cannabis products in-house. They distribute these products through their Trulieve-branded dispensaries across Florida and also offer direct home delivery to patients. Additionally, Trulieve operates in several other states, including California, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia1.

Marijuana dispensary Trulieve opens second Mass. locationTheir combined income with Harvest Health & Recreation in the second quarter of the year was an impressive $317.6 million. Trulieve’s strategic moves, such as securing $350 million in debt financing and Harvest’s recent $55 million licensing sale in Florida, have contributed to their financial strength. Trulieve reported $215 million in cash and cash alternatives, while Harvest brought in $71 million during the same period. Together, they achieved a combined revenue of $318 million, making Trulieve the top public reporting cannabis company in the country1. Trulieve’s CEO, Kim Rivers, expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing the shared values and focus on core markets. This strategic move allows Trulieve to expand into growing markets nationwide, including the adult-use space in Arizona. Their goal is to create an iconic U.S. cannabis brand and provide best-in-class service to patients and customers across the nation1. Furthermore, Trulieve has actively contributed to efforts aimed at pot legalization in Florida. They recognize the challenges faced by small business owners due to hefty application fees and the state’s vertical integration model. By supporting legalization, Trulieve aims to foster a more accessible and inclusive cannabis industry in the state4. In summary, Trulieve’s commitment to vertical integration, strategic acquisitions, and dedication to serving patients and customers has solidified its position as a leader in the cannabis industry, both in Florida and nationally.  

Kim Rivers, the CEO of Trulieve , has been a driving force behind the company’s substantial growth and strategic direction, especially in the context of recent federal rescheduling discussions and the company’s operational optimizations.

Trulieve CEO Kim Rivers to Give Keynote Address at Benzinga Cannabis ...

With her expected appearance at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in April in Hollywood, Florida, let’s dive into her expertise and what attendees can expect from Rivers at the conference.

Advocating For Federal Cannabis Reform

Rivers has been vocal about the potential impact of federal cannabis rescheduling on the industry. She highlighted the significant tax burdens cannabis businesses face due to current federal classifications.

Rivers expressed optimism about the Health and Human Services Department’s recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration regarding cannabis rescheduling. This change could significantly alleviate operational challenges for companies such as Trulieve​​​​.

Operational Growth And Expansion

Under Rivers’ leadership, Trulieve expanded dramatically, growing from 10 employees in one state to a presence in 11 states with 9,000 employees. Last year, Trulieve made seven acquisitions, including a billion-dollar merger with Harvest Health & Recreation Inc. This growth strategy increased Trulieve’s market presence and its ability to serve a broader customer base​​.

Optimizing Operations And Financial Efficiency

Following Trulieve’s first quarter 2023 earnings report, Rivers discussed the company’s approach to optimizing its portfolio and efficiencies across its platform.

Despite declining revenue, Trulieve reported record results for the 4/20 period and demonstrated a commitment to financial efficiency by significantly reducing selling, general, and administrative expenses.

Rivers emphasized the importance of aligning operations across the combined assets of the company’s acquisitions and the strategic management of facilities to match market demand​​.

 

Addressing Overproduction, Market Demand

Rivers also noted Trulieve’s achievements in improving gross margins and managing inventory levels, even in the face of overproduction challenges.

The company’s new 750,000-square-foot facility in Florida produced higher yields and quality than anticipated, showcasing Trulieve’s operational capabilities and commitment to product excellence​​.

Speaking At Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference

Rivers is slated to be a speaker at the upcoming Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in April, where she will likely share more insights into Trulieve’s strategies, market perspectives and vision for the future of the cannabis industry. Her participation underscores her role as a thought leader in the cannabis space, offering valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the rapidly evolving market.

The CBD Effect on Cannabis

While Cannabis is a very crucial part of the Marijuana movement, we must remember that CBD is a complex field with ongoing research, legal considerations, and exciting technological advancements.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid compound that has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects on various psychiatric disorders 1. A systematic review of neuroimaging studies investigating the acute impact of CBD on human brain function found that CBD induces significant alterations in brain activity and connectivity patterns during resting state and performance of cognitive tasks in both healthy volunteers and patients with a psychiatric disorder 1. The review also found that acute CBD enhanced fronto-striatal resting state connectivity in healthy volunteers, both compared to placebo and THC 1. Furthermore, CBD modulated brain activity and had opposite effects when compared to THC following task-specific patterns during various cognitive paradigms, such as emotional processing, verbal memory, response inhibition, and auditory/visual processing 1. In individuals at clinical high risk for psychosis and patients with established psychosis, acute CBD showed intermediate brain activity compared to placebo and healthy controls during cognitive task performance 1. CBD modulated resting limbic activity in subjects with anxiety and metabolite levels in patients with autism spectrum disorders 1. CBD is thought to have neuroprotective effects due to how it interacts with CB2 receptors in the brain. CBD acts on these receptors by creating an anti-inflammatory response in immune cells in the brain. This reduces the amount of damage caused by inflammation in the brain. Oxidation is one of the most common causes of brain tissue damage 2. Inspirational Technologies is likely to be adopting AI on social media to improve the efficiency of their content creation and marketing campaigns. AI-powered tools can help marketers generate new content ideas, optimize social media campaigns, and measure brand and trends across each social media channel 1. AI prompts for social media can help marketers overcome creative blocks and generate new post ideas 2. AI can also enable personalized recommendations, create more efficient customer service, and analyze data in real-time to help improve overall marketing campaign performance 3. AI tools have taken the world by storm over the last few months, and for good reason. Tasks that used to take hours are now finished in just a few minutes. The results AI tools can produce are blowing people away 2. However, it’s important to note that there are also plenty of examples where AI completely misses the mark. The difference between “omg that’s amazing 😱” and “omg… that’s not right 😐” is usually a well-crafted prompt 2. In conclusion, AI can be a powerful tool for social media marketing, but it’s important to use it wisely and with a human touch. AI can help marketers save time and improve efficiency, but it cannot replace human creativity and empathy 1. IF12278 (congress.gov)   Inspirational Technologies history 2018 farm bill hempsmart mcoa ceo cannabis reformation florida 2024 ballot on recreational marijuana #IntheWeedswithSteve

Be patient Florida, this too, shall pass! Steven M Smith InspirationalTech.org CEO since 2013.

Thank you for consideration.
Inspirational Technologies
InspirationalTech.org for your Health Wellness Beauty and Inspirational Goals

For More Information on Cannabis and CBD and YOU.

 

AllRightsReserved2024

1st Hemp USA News is a resource of Inspirational Technologies (2024)
Continue reading Trulieve is Florida’s and now National leader in vertical integration in Marijuana.