TESTSTSARDSARAre HIPAA-Style Privacy Regulations Coming to Cannabis? by Dan Greene As of Dec. 1, 2021, cannabis dispensaries and technology vendors operating in the state of Illinois must protect health information with the same stringent security and privacy standards required of medical providers under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These regulations, applied by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), include fines of up to $10,000 per violation. While Illinois is the first state to place these strict data security and privacy rules on dispensaries that provide medical-use cannabis, it is likely not the last. As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, so does the attention from legislators and regulators. As more state legislatures and regulatory agencies address concerns surrounding the health information cannabis companies access and retain, we anticipate increased data security and privacy requirements placed on canna-businesses that collect, process, and store client personal information, including health information. While we wait for further regulations from other states, cannabis dispensaries and vendors located nationwide should begin taking a critical look at their data security and privacy protocols and start working toward compliance with HIPAA standards. What are the HIPAA requirements included under Illinois’ Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act?HIPAA, a federal statute enacted in 1996, requires covered entities and many of their vendors (called business associates), to protect patient data, such as diagnosis and treatment information, which is known as protected health information (PHI). HIPAA applies to health plans, healthcare clearinghouses, and healthcare providers that submit standard electronic transactions. Since cannabis is not currently covered by health insurance, cannabis dispensaries arguably do not fall within the definition of a “covered entity” under HIPAA, because they do not submit requests for payments in the form of standard electronic transactions. However, under Illinois’ Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Program Act (A280), dispensaries that provide medical-use cannabis to patients must implement data security and privacy standards like those required under HIPAA. IDFPR published specific guidance outlining its interpretation of the Act’s requirement for HIPAA-like privacy and security requirements. Specifically, dispensaries are required to provide customers with a Notice of Privacy Practices and adopt administrative, technical, and physical controls consistent with HIPAA Security Rule standards with special attention given to conducting regular security risk assessments. It is worth noting for those new to HIPAA, that a Notice of Privacy Practices is not the same as a website privacy policy or other privacy statements. Importantly, IDFPR guidance also states that these requirements apply to vendors of cannabis dispensaries that receive patient data from dispensaries. This would include call centers that handle patient calls from medical licensed cannabis dispensaries, vendors that host patient medical data, and vendors that perform data analysis that requires the use of identifiable medical information. How does HIPAA define administrative, technical, and physical controls, and what constitutes a risk assessment?Under HIPAA, administrative controls refer to the processes, policies, and procedures used to protect health information against a breach or unauthorized disclosure. Technical safeguards refer to technology, including firewalls, encryption, and backups. Physical safeguards, like facility access controls, device and media controls, and workstation use procedures, protect the physical facilities that house an organization’s sensitive patient data. IDFPR focuses on two HIPAA safeguards in its guidance — security risk analysis and encryption of health information at rest and in transit. Although HIPAA does not prescribe a timeframe for a security risk analysis, the IDFPR guidance states that medical cannabis providers should conduct a security risk analysis annually. IDFPR also states that not encrypting computers or networks where data is transmitted or stored and not encrypting emails containing patient data would constitute a violation. Creating and implementing these types of controls and safeguards requires specific knowledge of data security and privacy best practices, making this a daunting ask for some canna-businesses. Dispensaries and technology vendors that host health information should meet with counsel to discuss how these new requirements can be efficiently incorporated into existing compliance programs. Could Illinois signal a trend for other states?Other states may embrace Illinois’ use of HIPAA guidelines as an easy way to adopt data protections for cannabis data. From a health consumer perspective, HIPAA has been in place for over two decades and is well understood by businesses in the medical field. Since many dispensaries distribute cannabis primarily for medical purposes, requiring dispensaries to adopt HIPAA standards is an easy, if not clumsy, manner of protecting this data. Additionally, current cyber threat trends suggest threat actors target health information, especially in fast-growing industries that have not yet been held to sophisticated data protection standards. Arguably, the states that lean into the HIPAA framework are preparing the industry for eventual federal requirements under HIPAA, a likely outcome once federal rescheduling occurs. While enforcement of HIPAA in the cannabis industry at the federal level is on an uncertain timeline, sophisticated operators are already preparing as if it does, as we may soon see some states follow the precedent set by Illinois. It is best practice to implement data security and privacy controls even if HIPAA does not directly apply to your organization at present. Preparing your canna-business now will ultimately protect you and your customers from financial and reputational harm and allow the business to have a smooth transition into complying with additional regulatory requirements if HIPAA ever does become directly applicable to cannabis dispensaries. What can cannabis companies do to prepare?Here are the key questions cannabis dispensaries and vendors should ask themselves as they evaluate readiness for new requirements: • Should I draft my Notice of Privacy Practices and train staff on its use? • Should I hire or appoint additional privacy and security personnel? • Is my training program appropriate and adequate? • Should I consider additional administrative, technical, or physical controls to prevent unauthorized access? • Is my annual risk analysis sufficient? • Should I change my vendor management protocols? • Does my incident response plan consider relevant notification requirements? • How should I document these compliance measures? • Do my employees know what to do when a patient requests records? Partnering with sophisticated legal and technical counsel that work on these initiatives can help canna-businesses amend their data protection practices to comply with current and future regulations and safeguard their customers sensitive health information. This article was originally published in the winter 2021 issue of Cannabis & Tech Today. Read the full issue here for free. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/privacy-regulations-coming-to-cannabis/
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TESTSTSARDSARPowerful Motivators for Using Cannabinoids In Your Health Regimen by Miles Oliver Cannabinoids have a range of health benefits from improved sleep quality to reduced joint pain. However, if you’re a first-time user of cannabis-derived products, you probably don’t know how to incorporate them into your current health regime. Not knowing how to use cannabinoids isn’t your fault. We all grew up with synthetic painkillers like ibuprofen and joint relief medicine like Mentholatum creams, and heavy-handed drug laws kept most people away from more natural remedies like cannabis-based CBD oil. But responsibly incorporating CBD into your health regime is a great way to boost your overall wellbeing and help you live a pain-free life. CBD and Your Immune SystemYour immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins which act as a defense against illnesses like viruses and diseases. Due to the pandemic, immunity and the immune system have gained considerable media attention and may be at the forefront of your health-related thoughts. Unfortunately, there is plenty of misinformation spread about immunity. Common immune system myths tend to trump up claims or stem from a misinterpretation of research. For example, folks’ weight became a major cause of concern during Covid, as excess body fat does harm immunity. While a sustainable approach to weight loss may work, harsh diets will actually weaken the body’s response to infection as the body will be under excess stress during an extreme caloric deficit. Likewise, plenty of misinformation about CBD and the immune system has circulated the web in the past few years. It’s important to recognize that CBD isn’t magic, and research shows that CBD use does not directly support your immune system. However, CBD can reduce your stress and make it easier to focus on other elements of your health regime which do promote immunity. So, when using cannabinoids for immunity, remember that soft gels and oils alone are not enough to maintain a healthy immune system but that use of CBD can help bring down your stress levels and improve things like your sleep, diet, and exercise routine. SleepSleep is a critical part of everyone’s health. The CDC recommends that the average adult should get 7-9 hours per night for optimum recovery and wellbeing. However, getting a good night’s sleep might feel impossible if you have a bad relationship with bedtime. Fortunately, CBD can help with sleep. A literature review found that cannabinoids “may have a therapeutic potential for the treatment of insomnia”, and evidence shows that CBD can help improve REM sleep. This could improve your daytime focus, and help you avoid feelings of sleepiness during your waking hours. However, incorporating cannabinoids into your sleep routine is more complicated than eating a few edibles or lighting up. That same literature review suggested that THC (the psychoactive component of cannabis) may impair sleep quality in the long term if used for sleep purposes. The key is to speak with a CBD-literate medical professional about your sleep problems and ask them for advice. While physicians cannot prescribe CBD currently, they can recommend dosage and best practices. This is important, as your insomnia may have a few different root causes which CBD may alleviate but not resolve. Mental HealthThe past few years have resembled a mental health crisis for millions of Americans. Without realizing it, you may be suffering from a mental health condition if you lost your job, said goodbye to a loved one, or simply felt overwhelmed by the storm of breaking news and national emergencies that swept the country. No prescription drug or cannabinoid can replace the work of a good therapist. However, CBD can improve your emotional wellness and make it easier to see the silver lining. This is particularly important if you are dealing with excess stress. Cannabidiol may help you reduce the symptoms of burnout, and give you a slight mental health boost you need to make a positive change in your life. Before you start using CBD for mental health, it is worth consulting with a medical professional. Occasional adverse effects may occur as a result of using CBD products, and your therapist should know if you’re using CBD in tandem with consultations. This will help you avoid allergic reactions, and increase the efficacy of your overall treatment. Cardio Vascular DiseasesCardiovascular diseases like heart conditions cause 1 in 4 deaths in the USA. That means that poor heart health is the biggest killer of adults in the nation, and represents a serious health concern for everyone. The best way to avoid heart disease and cardiovascular illness is to follow a healthy, active lifestyle. However, you may find that extreme pain is preventing you from working up a sweat. For example, if you suffer from vein disease, then you’ll be familiar with the debilitating effects of varicose veins. Varicose veins can make it feel impossible to move your body and take proactive steps to improve your heart health. But, recent research suggests that CBD may provide a therapeutic effect for those suffering from vein disease by improving blood flow and protecting against vascular damage. So, if pain is preventing you from exercising, it may be worth using CBD to reduce inflammation and alleviate your symptoms. Using CBD to mask pain is not optimal, but it can help you get back on track and start living a heart-healthier lifestyle. Incorporating cannabinoids into your health regime may help you overcome ailments and reduce your overall stress. When used responsibly, CBD can even help improve your sleep regime and spark a shift in mindset that boost your mental and physical wellbeing. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/powerful-motivators-for-using-cannabinoids-in-your-health-regimen/ TESTSTSARDSARThe 2022 Emerald Cup a Big Hit in Hollywood by Rachelle Gordon There’s long been a division between NorCal and SoCal, especially when it comes to the cannabis space. While the Emerald Triangle is revered for its sun-grown flower and rich agricultural traditions, Los Angeles has typically skewed more toward indoor hype. For Tim Blake, Founder of the Emerald Cup, it’s time for the communities to unite. The esteemed cannabis competition, now in its 18th year, has deep roots in Northern California but brought the party to Hollywood for the first time earlier this month. Blake and the rest of the Emerald Cup family knew that while there may be initial skepticism at the decision to move the awards south, it was the right thing to do. The opportunities for exposure in the nation’s biggest media market were too big to ignore. “It makes perfect sense to me to bring this competition to Los Angeles, it’s a massive opportunity for the farmers,” said Emerald Cup judge Bill Levers, one-half of the grower turned media powerhouse brand Beard Bros Pharms. “We as an industry have to be open to change and while having the competition up north was always a great time, this move will benefit the competition and everyone involved immensely. You can’t pass up the opportunity to get these products in front of so many buyers, consumers, and journalists. I commend Tim and the rest of the team for the decision.” Emerald Triangle Roots Meet LA VibesThe awards show was held at the iconic Ricardo Montalbán Theatre in the heart of Hollywood, attracting industry elite, influencers, and celebrities alike. A group of Emerald Triangle farmers, many of whom were contestants, walked in solidarity together down the Walk of Fame arriving at the venue as a unified front. Tina Gordon, Founder of Moon Made Farms, helped coordinate the symbolic march to in order to capture history in the making. While she initially reached out to a small number of other growers, word spread fast with dozens of people showing up. “The intention behind The Farmer’s Walk of Fame was to commemorate a historic moment and publicly shine the spotlight on the farmers and all of their extended families who are at the root of this movement,” Gordon explained. “Craft farmers have an intimate relationship with this plant whose genesis in this country is credited to marginalized counter cultures.” At the theatre, guests were given the red carpet treatment on their way in, with cameras flashing all around. Once inside, attendees were encouraged to peruse a display of this year’s entries with a dizzying amount of product on display. Those seeking a taste of some of the winning varietals could enjoy a dab on the mezzanine level or a full-spectrum joint on the rooftop patio. Inside the Emerald Cup AwardsAfter a social hour complete with plenty of cocktails and cannabis, guests made their way inside for the main event. Those wishing to continue the party could view the ceremony on an outdoor screen. The awards show began with an exhilarating recap video and a moving speech from Blake who marked a new chapter for the legendary Emerald Cup competition. Several dozen awards were given out, with categories touching on every aspect of the market. Alternative cannabinoids and hemp were honored first, followed by tinctures and topicals, edibles, concentrates, and finally, flower. Several brands found their way to the podium multiple times, including Kalya Extracts, Om Wellness, LitHouse, Fig Farms, and Farmer and the Felon, who took home the coveted Best in Show for its Lemon Sponge Cake. “It stood out from the very first moment we saw it,” said flower judge Joey Sullivan, buyer for Mercy Wellness, noting the pungent gas notes of the strain, which also won first place for sun-grown flower. “I was happy to see that sun-grown took top honors since this started as a sun-grown competition.” This year marked the adoption of a new classification system for flower strains, seeing them divided by terpene profile as opposed to indica vs. sativa. Developed in conjunction with SC Labs, entries were broken down into Jacks and Hazes; Tropical and Floral; OGs and Gas; Sweets and Dreams; Dessert; and Exotics. Actor, activist, and newly-minted marijuana operator Woody Harrelson received the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless dedication to cannabis reform. The star was also celebrating the launch of his new dispensary The Woods, which held its grand opening the day before. Harrelson features a number of sun-grown brands in the store, with an Emerald Cup display front and center. Harrelson thanked a number of people, but the most meaningful moment was when he called out Pebbles Trippet. The activist responsible for the Trippet Standard, which allows people to carry legal cannabis in their vehicles, was in the room, standing proudly when the A-list star said her name. After the spirited ceremony, guests retired to the rooftop where a DJ spun groovy tunes to the wee hours of the morning. Copious amounts of smoke wafted into the night sky, capping off one of the most successful Emerald Cups to date. What’s in store for next year’s event? Only time will tell. Images courtesy of Rachelle Gordon. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/the-2022-emerald-cup-a-big-hit-in-hollywood/ TESTSTSARDSARThis New App Lets You Swap Your favorite Strains by Aron Vaughan The cannabis industry is the ideal marketplace for “budding” entrepreneurs to make a name for themselves. According to CNBC, cannabis is projected to be a $70 billion market by 2028. And because there is still a massive amount of untapped potential due to the fact many states have not legalized medical or adult-use, that number could climb higher. Cannabis advocates and entrepreneurs who have been harmed by a draconian system that once penalized them for their interest in the plant are now free to explore the many avenues offered in the burgeoning industry, leading to unprecedented innovation. One such entrepreneur is Antonio Miller, founder of Budswap LLC. Budswap is an application where, as you might guess, you can swap strains with other people in your area. How It WorksTransactions, or “swaps” can be made at recommended locations such as dispensaries, or app users can determine an agreed upon location. Every user must agree to Budswap’s terms of service which include no liability for any illegal activity that occurs during a swap. However, Miller stressed that his team would crack down on any unscrupulous activity occurring during swaps such as prescription bartering or theft. Along with swaps, users can trade their cannabis for services such as walking their dogs or cleaning their cars. Essentially it’s a bartering system where cannabis can be used as cash. However, for legal purposes, the app only allows users to “gift” the cannabis to one another, as states are stringent on how the plant is bought and sold. The services rendered do not constitute a transactions but rather, favors and gifts. The app also features a rating system similar to that of Uber, where users can rate and comment on the quality of their swaps. Grassroots EntrepreneurMiller is a true grassroots entrepreneur, and he will be the first to tell you the road to creating the app was not an easy one. However, a combination of determination, a clear vision, and a supportive cannabis community have coalesced to put Miller on the path to success. Endorsements from some of the biggest players in the industry including Redman, Tommy Chong, Snoop Dogg, and many others have come over the last two years. Cannabis & Tech Today had the opportunity to talk with Miller about his journey from development to launch. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Cannabis & Tech Today: So where are you based?Anthony Miller: We got two business licenses. One out of Colorado and then, one out of California. C&T Today: I checked out a couple of things on social media, and I saw a post from Redman. He was promoting the app, so that is awesome.AM: Yes, sir the list it just- C&T Today: It’s growing. Where’s the app at right now? In terms of development? And as far as funding?AM: Right now, it’s in development. C&T Today: Okay. So, what does that mean?AM: We’re about $42,000 away from having this thing coded in the app store. C&T Today: Got it. So you’ve already got the business license. You’re in the last phase of funding, and what about the advertising for it? What are you doing?AM: All right, a couple of other things that we did as well, that are part of, that I should mention to you. We got the patent pending for the intellectual property. We got the trademark on Google, as well as through the USPTO. But as far as marketing, we’re on the ground, boot traffic. Word of mouth, gas stations. Incredible marketing. Guerrilla for real, it’s what it is. I literally got up on Instagram, and I thought of a concept based off of relationship building, because that’s what every business is about. All you got to do is get on whoever’s Instagram that you want to get in touch with, and see who they’re following. Check their profile out. See what kind of person there is. Boom. And then, decide to build a relationship with them. The first thing I did was I reached out to two men on Snoop Dogg’s page by the name of TwinSkills LLC. And they were licensed plumbers. They did community work. I’m seeing all of this on their profile. Sent a message to these men. I said, this is what I’m trying. I said, “What’s the best way to get in touch with you to discuss some business?” I know everybody wants to make money. If you’re about business, people respect that. So they gave me a number and I reached out to them. And the first thing I said, “Hey, how did y’all get Snoop Dogg following y’all on Instagram?” And they shared that with me. They said, “We were doing our old school raffle. It was our first one, and Snoop saw the car. He wanted to buy it, but we had to tell the people at the store that are buying the raffle ticket, we just got to let them know that you want to buy the car. Whoever win the raffle, won’t get the car. It’d be unfair just to sell you the car, Snoop.” So I went and actually participated in that first raffle. Before that, I went and met the twins in person, just by talking to them on the phone for maybe an hour. And I just got great energy. They’re twins. They’re 50 years old. They got their own business. They love their mother, you know what I’m saying? Just principles like this, and they got 200 shares apiece and hot tubs. So they’re like, “of course, we’ll invest in you.” They said, “This is what we’re going to do for you. Not only do we got Snoop following us, but we a part of Curren$y’s car club.” I said what? Straight-up – Curren$y. You know what I’m saying? I’m like, “oh word.” The twins said what they would be able to do as my investors at this company is get Curren$y to promote our merch. And he’s best friends with Wiz Khalifa. They said “We’ll get them to send some stuff to Wiz. And we could send some stuff to Snoop and have him do a video of your merch.” And this was a very early on phase of the company when I started doing team building. C&T Today: When did you come up with the concept for the app, and when did you actually start building it?AM: I would say April of 2020. When the pandemic hit. When everybody got locked down? Right after that, I was dealing with a lot of stuff at home, you know what I’m saying? Marital issues, newlywed. New baby. Wife not treating me good, not appreciating me. Working deadbeat jobs and still doing other stuff. But it was like, there was a calling for my life to be something greater bro. That wasn’t it. You know what I’m saying? So I left Georgia with 100 bucks to my name, a car that didn’t even have insurance on it, and I drove all the way to Colorado. Not knowing what would happen. I did some tree work, and I’m out in Colorado. Me being a weed connoisseur, I’m a kid in candy land. It’s my first time in a legal state, bro. So I’m having the time of my life there. I’m working. I’m living in the car at this time. One time, somebody I was working with, ended up allowing me to take a shower at his house, that he was just couch surfing on. We did a bud swap. I been doing bud swaps. You know what I’m saying? I’m showering, and I thought of the commercial back in the day where there’s an app for that. There’s an app for that. And I’m like, something just stuck with me real hard. You know how you feel things heavy in your heart? And that’s what happened, bro. I felt heavy in my heart and I’m like, yo – this is what I’m supposed to do. Nobody was doing it. I called the app company, they’re located in Atlanta, Georgia. They made apps for AT&T and Hilton. Five hundred dollars down, boom. They copped my car and I used my whole check in that week, got the business license. We’re legal, with the binders and everything, 700 bucks. Whole check that I’m sacrificing lunch and all kinds of things, working at a tree service job. That’s basically how it all got started. C&T Today: Well, it’s a great concept. Will all of this be legal? Because if you’re doing a bud swap, I don’t know the full legality of it.We got consultations with some attorneys before we put this shit together. By law, where cannabis is recreationally legal, I can give up to an ounce. It’s federally legal in the country of Canada. Our app’s going to get to the App Store marketplace. This is an international company. Anywhere where hemp or CBD is legal, you’ll be able to access this app, if there’s App Store there. And that’s the industrial side, that’s India, that’s anywhere where the App Store marketplace is accessible, bro. C&T Today: So, I know you can swap bud, but I guess the idea is legally, what you’re doing is you’re gifting that marijuana to somebody else and then they’re gifting theirs to you?AM: They’re going super stupid hard on all of that. As far as, by law, yes. That’s the legal term. But we like to use the term barter, because it’s all about how you word certain things to protect you at times, too. C&T Today: You said you can swap bud for other strains or other services? What would those services include? You give somebody an eighth and they clean your apartment or something?Exactly. It’s just whoever does whatever service within that community. They will be listing their service, they’ll be on Budswap. These people know that they’re weed-friendly, and the conversation will grow afterward, you know what I’m saying? The connection. Anything they do offline, is on them. It’s not limited to flower, so the oils, edible scenes, plant form, black hash. Anything cannabis or CBD-related. And then, Facebook has a marketplace, Budswap has a marketplace where people within your community, can list these items. But in exchange for the bud. I would say, just from my own point of view. I would be careful. Make sure you have a good attorney to make sure that everything is above board. Because what if somebody decides to swap more than an ounce? All right so, disclaimers. That’s going to be legal. Before you sign on and get your account, people will agree, and we will take the liability away from us. We will also give prompts and safe ways to do these swaps. We’re going to be even implementing digital trading posts, where you can go to a special parking lot. They mess with Budswap, or you know what I’m saying? This area or this location, they’re down with the app. It might be a smoke shop or whatever the case may be, you know what I’m saying? Yeah, our company bud swaps in our parking lot. It would make people more comfortable. Everybody needs an ID. The same way in order to get a sale on IG bro. They upload their IDs freely. We need their ID, and we’re going to do a photo verification as well, which basically will put the facial recognition folks. I know I tell you, hold up three fingers or two fingers, like some of these apps we’ve got today. And we’re going to match that picture, that selfie that they take with the uploaded photo ID. And there will be email verifications and each person that swaps, has the ability of rating each swap on a five star rate system, with a comment. So it’s like people have the ability to report their swaps too. If there’s some bull crap going on. You know what I’m saying? Somebody be doing me dirty. You report it, and we’re going to start banning people off the app. You know what I’m saying. We can’t onboard crap, as quick as possible. It’s going to be a lot of stuff that can potentially go on. We’re doing as many measures to keep it as safe as possible. And we’re doing everything to keep it legal. By law, even if they say, “All right. You guys can’t do this with weed.” We can do it with CBD. So that’s what. We got our foot in the door for Budswap CBD. And then when we get better, we’re allowed. We’re good. All of this is better, legal in Canada. So we’re going to continue to keep building. Just like we been building. C&T Today: Sounds like you’ve thought everything through. And you’re in a good place with it. You just have this last round of investment, and then you can go live, right?AM: Yes sir. There’s beta testing. Then, once we get through that, there ain’t no looking back. As far as marketing is concerned, we got access to a lot of celebrities that, they starting to use the app. Any person that you see, that get a cameo and it’s like, “oh. Budswap, that’s a great idea.” They going to go download this app. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/this-new-app-lets-you-swap-your-favorite-strains/ TESTSTSARDSARRhode Island Legalizes Cannabis With New RICA Law by Sara Brittany Somerset Rhode Island announced Wednesday that it would be the 19th state to legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis. Democratic Governor Dan McKee signed the Rhode Island Cannabis Act (RICA) into law, according to a press release on his website. Possession and Home GrowThe RICA allows Rhode Islanders age 21 and over to possess up to one ounce in public or up to 10 ounces at home. Home cultivation of up to six plants will also be permissible, but no more than three mature plants. DispensariesLimited amounts of cannabis will be available for purchase at 33 retail cannabis dispensaries allowed to operate within the state. The state’s existing medical cannabis providers will be able to apply for licenses to sell adult-use cannabis. Duane Boise, President of MMJ BioPharma Companies, which currently operates a DEA Analytical lab in Rhode Island for Schedule One through Four drugs with a primary focus on cannabis research and development, said, “Although we are not in the adult-use cannabis business, we are pleased to see this progress in the State of Rhode Island. The state legalization puts our analytical lab in a perfect position to assist the state in assuring that consumers are receiving quality and safe products.” ExpungementThe RICA includes automatic expungement of prior civil or criminal cannabis possession charges and convictions, cited as a “key provision” in the Governor’s original cannabis proposal to the General Assembly. The new law will give courts until July 1, 2024, to automatically expunge past convictions. However, those who want their expungement to occur sooner may request it. Social EquityAdditionally, social equity preferences were cited as a primary component of the Governor’s bill. “The legislation makes numerous investments in the creation of an equitable, accessible cannabis retail market through the set-aside of certain application fee revenues and the reservation of a portion of new licenses for social equity applicants and worker-owned cooperatives,” according to the Governor’s release. “This bill successfully incorporates our priorities of making sure cannabis legalization is equitable, controlled, and safe,” said Governor McKee. “In addition, it creates a process for the automatic expungement of past cannabis convictions. My Administration’s original legalization plan also included such a provision, and I am thrilled that the Assembly recognized the importance of this particular issue. The result is a win for our state both socially and economically.” SalesSales are expected to begin by December. The taxes on legal cannabis are high, sitting at 20%. The division of the tariffs will be a seven percent sales tax, a new ten percent cannabis tax, and a three percent tax by the municipality where cannabis is being sold. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/rhode-island-legalizes-cannabis-with-new-rica-law/ TESTSTSARDSARWhat Does It Take to Become an Eco-Friendly Cannabis Consumer? by Sponsored As the world gears towards an environmentally friendly future, many industries are starting to switch to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. The cannabis industry is no different. Marijuana growers and manufacturing companies are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact. As a consumer, follow suit to ensure your choices and usage reflect your eco-friendly values. How do you achieve this? Can You Become an Eco-Friendly Cannabis Consumer? (Image Credit Pexels) Choose Energy Efficient Devices Energy-efficient devices use less power, which conserves energy and reduces carbon footprint. Many cannabis consumers use devices such as vaporizers, which can significantly impact energy consumption. A study found that using a vaporizer for cannabis resulted in lower carbon dioxide emissions than smoking it. Opt for delta 8 carts, which are gentle on your throat and the environment. Check how much electricity the device uses, and turn it off when not in use to save power. Opt For Organic ProductsOrganic cannabis products have not been exposed to harmful chemicals and pesticides. These products are often grown using sustainable methods that have a minimal impact on the environment. When buying organic cannabis, look for products certified by a third-party organization. This ensures that the product meets specific standards and is grown using eco-friendly practices. Support Sustainable CompaniesSustainable companies are those that have eco-friendly policies and practices in place. They often use recycled materials, renewable energy, and sustainable packaging. As a cannabis consumer, support these companies by buying their products. Look for companies transparent about their environmental practices and constantly striving to improve. Check out their website or social media platforms to get to know them better. Be Mindful of Your UsageWhen it comes to cannabis consumption, being mindful of your usage is key to reducing your environmental impact. That means consuming what you need and not wasting any product. For example, when using a vaporizer, grind your cannabis finely to get the most out of it. Avoid pre-rolled joints as they often contain more cannabis than needed. If you do have leftover cannabis, don’t throw it away. Compost or Recycle the WasteAfter consuming cannabis, you’re left with waste such as stems, leaves, and cannabis packaging. Rather than throwing these in the trash, compost or recycle them. Composting is a great way to reduce your environmental impact as it reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill sites. Many local authorities offer free compost bins if you don’t have one. Check if the cannabis packaging is recyclable. Some companies are even starting to use biodegradable packaging, so look out for this. Biodegradable means that the packaging will break down naturally without harming the environment. Opting for refillable rather than disposable products is also a great way to reduce waste. Educate Yourself and OthersThe more information you have about eco-friendly cannabis consumption, the more likely you will make sustainable choices. Share your knowledge with others to help spread the word about sustainable cannabis use. Start by learning about sustainable and eco-friendly cannabis strains. These use less water, energy, and resources to grow. There is a wealth of information available online. Every Effort CountsAs you do your best to become an eco-friendly cannabis consumer, remember that every little bit counts. You’ll make a big difference to the environment, encourage others to follow suit, and support eco-friendly companies. In the long run, this will make the cannabis industry more sustainable and preserve the planet for future generations. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/eco-friendly-cannabis-consumer/ TESTSTSARDSARSlutty Vegan CBD Gummies Now Available Nationwide by Ebby Stone In the two years since launching her first Slutty Vegan location, founder Aisha “Pinky” Cole has amassed a national following. With revenues topping $4 million in the first six months, Cole’s vegan junk food is bringing communities together in four locations and growing. She’s now using that momentum to move into the CBD space. Slutty Vegan CBD gummies are available nationwide, offering organic, pectin-based edibles to vegans and meat-eaters alike. What stands out most among her accolades is her commitment to philanthropic work. Since launching the business, she has already provided life insurance to 25,000 Black men, paid the tuition of 30 Clark Atlanta students, and founded the Pinky Cole Foundation to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. As a former television producer and casting director, Cole is well versed in the world of entertainment and uses all her experience to leverage a creative, provocative brand strategy that’s paying dividends across the Deep South. In this interview, Cole explains what inspired her to enter the CBD space and how she’s handling the demands of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Cannabis & Tech Today: What was happening in your life when you launched the Slutty Vegan brand?Pinky Cole: I started Slutty Vegan in 2018. It was really just a concept that popped in my brain. I’m like, “Okay, I’m going to do this thing. I want some vegan food on a late night, and I’m going to just create this little movement.” At the time I had already had my dream job, I was a casting director. I knew it was going to be a good side hustle, but I had no idea that it would turn into one of the most popular concepts in the country. C&T Today: What inspired the name Slutty Vegan?PK: So I said, if I can connect the two of the most pleasurable experiences, and that’s sex I know what bores them. I know what makes them want to change the channel. If I could create a dialogue around something racy and something that’s been coined as boring and tasteless, if I can merge those two worlds, I knew that I would have something people would pay attention to. C&T Today: How did this passion for food and branding translate to the CBD space?PK: First of all, a lot of people around me use medical marijuana, and some people don’t use it medically. So I’ve realized the whole [cannabis] world was a world that I could exist in. I know there are so many health properties. So to be able to offer a unique product to people in my community that can help them with their pain, can help them with their anxiety, it’s a no brainer. And it’s a game changer. Especially because we are moving into a space where more people are using CBD and more people are using marijuana. Because Slutty Vegan is such a forward-thinking brand, I knew that it would be right on brand to do something like that. Even beyond that, when I thought about the vegan and plant-based space, the gummies that we use are whole plant extracts with organic ingredients. They include a base that doesn’t have animal gelatin in it. People who are plant-based and vegan don’t have to compromise when they try our CBD gummies. C&T Today: You’re a new mother to a 5-month old, right? Something coming up more often is the use of CBD as a mom-friendly alternative to frequently used relaxants like wine or prescription medications. How do you feel about CBD as a tool in your self-care arsenal?PK: Well, I love it. I eat my own CBD gummies now when I have a long day at work and I come home and I just want to wind down. I’m usually very tense because I’m dominating all my meetings. I’m having all my calls. I’m coaching, I’m leading, I’m guiding people, I’m doing so much. So by the time I get home, I’m just exhausted. So when I take a CBD gummy, it really allows me to take the edge off and I can just chill. There’s nothing better than being able to come home and take your clothes off and relax. Take a gummy, just chill, sit back, and reflect on the day. Those are the little things that mean a lot to me, so I recommend it. The working mom has so many pressures on her to be an entrepreneur, to be a leader in the workplace. Then to come home and be a mom and a homemaker — sometimes we just need some time for ourselves and that’s okay. C&T Today: How is community engagement part of your strategy for success? PK: The reason I’m successful is because of the community. None of this would be possible if it weren’t for the people who stand in line for two hours a day to support me. I’m very honored and blessed that I can utilize my platform and resources to create an ecosystem for people to have better opportunities because it’s good karma. That good karma comes back to me in the form of more customers in my store. I love helping people. I love giving people opportunities. I love giving them resources to be better and get out of their circumstances. I love helping entrepreneurs. Just recently I did an activation where I signed up 40 entrepreneurs to get their LLCs. Things like that show me that as long as I continue to foster what the community needs, the community will always take care of me. This article first appeared in the winter 2021 issue of Cannabis & Tech Today. Read the full issue here for free. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/slutty-vegan-cbd-gummies/ TESTSTSARDSARIsrael Can Now Ship Medical Cannabis Seeds to the U.S. by Patricia Miller In a historic first, medical cannabis seeds were legally exported this week from Israel to the United States according to Israel’s Agriculture Ministry. Last August Israel’s government reformed cannabis export laws to permit the legal export of medical cannabis seeds, with this week’s shipment to the United States serving as the culmination of many months of effort. For many decades Israel has served as an international leader when it comes to medical cannabis research. After all, Israel is the home of famed chemist Raphael Mechoulam who is credited with being the first to isolate both CBD and THC back in 1963 and 1964 respectively. From the 1960s until fairly recently, Israel was one of the very few countries that even permitted large-scale cannabis research, let alone embraced it. Heavily-Researched Cannabis GeneticsIt’s not a leap to assume that Israel is sitting on some amazing cannabis genetics given the amount of research its scientists have conducted over so many years. What type of strain(s) were involved in Israel’s first legal cannabis seed exportation is unclear. Who will be on the receiving end of the shipment is also unclear. All that was referenced in the Israeli government’s announcement on that front was, “Upon arrival, the seeds will be examined by commercial hemp growers to verify their suitability for the US market.” The specific seeds at the heart of this story sent from Israel to the United States originated from the BetterSeeds company. Per the BetterSeeds company’s website, “BetterSeeds makes use of genome editing technology (CRISPR-Cas9) in order to produce new varieties, incorporating game-changing traits which are not today available across all crops due to the limitations of conventional breeding. Genome editing technologies make precise and rapid breeding possible by introducing specific, controlled, and preselected changes in the plant genome.” BetterSeeds produces more than just cannabis seeds and appears to produce seeds for nearly every type of major crop imaginable. I know that when I read ‘genome editing technologies’ it gave me a bit of heartburn, and I know that I am likely not alone in feeling that way. However, the seeds that were sent to the United States are proprietary in nature, so we may never know for sure what they are and/or how they may have been altered in some manner. A Small, Significant MilestoneThis first-ever legal shipment of cannabis seeds from Israel out to the international community is worth keeping in context. It is essentially a test run to help ensure that the shipment can be performed and completed in a way that complies with regulations in both Israel and the United States, as well as within evolving international cannabis policy (at least to some degree). “The shipment is an experimental and initial shipment, after which contacts will be made regarding the continued export. This is a historic step as part of the implementation of Government Resolution No. 4490, which was updated last August to include the export of medical cannabis seeds from Israel, and could lead to the opening of additional international markets for Israeli exports and significantly advance the medical cannabis industry in Israel,” the Ministry stated in its press release. “The opening of seed exports in the field of cannabis is expected to strengthen Israel’s position as having knowledge and expertise in the field of seeds,” the Ministry also stated in its press release. “In addition, increasing the range of exports and expanding it to cannabis products, will enable the deepening of existing markets and penetration into new markets while riding on the growing wave of demand for cannabis products with medical-health value. Moreover, Israel is among the leading countries in seed research and development in general as well as medical cannabis in particular, and cannabis seed exports are expected to attract interest from various researchers around the world and further strengthen the field of research.” Obviously, this is not the first time that cannabis seeds have been shipped from one part of the world to another. It’s quite likely, if not guaranteed, that seeds from Israel have specifically made it from Israel to the United States in the past, albeit illegally. Still, this is a big milestone for a country that is sitting on a wealth of knowledge, experience, and other valuable assets, including genetics. Hopefully it leads to a much larger global involvement for Israel within the emerging international cannabis industry. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/israel-can-now-ship-medical-cannabis-seeds-to-the-u-s/ TESTSTSARDSARIt’s Not Easy Being Green, But People Want Eco-Friendly Cannabis by Andrea Morhardt A recent nationwide survey conducted by Canivate Growing Systems laid bare the new expectations of cannabis consumers: 64% of consumers are willing to pay more for cannabis that is grown organically with eco-friendly objectives. Climate change was once a future concern that many industries were kicking down the road. But now, it’s an immediate crisis. As a result, today’s consumer wants to know that the companies they buy from care about the future of the planet. Today’s consumer wants to hear about the commitment, the strategies, and the metrics that will drive change. Consumers want companies that are walking the walk to make a difference. But finding cannabis growers who are truly driven by those eco-friendly objectives — and not simply giving them lip service — is a formidable task. Sustainable Cannabis Practices Are Still RareFirst, cannabis production overall is not as green and natural as many believe it to be. For example, a recent study set out to answer this question: “Which of the following — a joint, a beer, or a cup of coffee — is more damaging with regard to climate change?” If the cannabis is grown indoors, the answer is the joint. That’s what researchers at Colorado State University concluded when they conducted a study of cannabis greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the study found that indoor cultivation accounts for 1.7% of Colorado’s annual greenhouse gas emissions. Now, 1.7% might not seem significant, but coal mining produces the same percentage of the state’s gas emissions. Commercial Cannabis Is Often Grown IndoorsEven in climates where outdoor growing is feasible, early policies that originally sought to facilitate regulation and guard against theft made indoor growing the only viable option. But even when some of those policies have been lifted, cannabis growers have opted to remain indoors. Of course, cost is a factor, but this is happening for a variety of other reasons, including: Appearance. Cannabis grown outdoors will not require fossil fuel-burning energy to heat, air condition, or ventilate the plants. However, the flowers and buds on plants grown outdoors tend to have a “rougher” look that is not as aesthetically pleasing to today’s consumer. Consistency. Because of the unpredictable nature of nature itself, growers typically find it more challenging to produce a consistent product, which is also important to consumers. Supply. Again, citing the unpredictability of outdoor conditions, growers are reluctant to leave their ability to produce multiple abundant harvests. Consumers, activist groups, and regulatory voices continue to pressure cannabis cultivators to adjust their practices to become more sustainable and eco-friendly. All three groups are sending a very clear message: For the cannabis industry to thrive, sustainable cultivation and manufacturing practices need to be incorporated. Not only because it’s the responsible way to operate, but because a growing number of consumers — and retailers — won’t tolerate anything less. Understanding GreenwashingWith so many obstacles in the way, companies, whether they are growing the cannabis or ultimately selling the products, have some difficult decisions to make. Among those decisions is how can companies satisfy the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable cannabis and remain financially viable? One unfortunate answer is that some companies are regularly “greenwashing” their brand. Think of greenwashing like a hotel labeling itself as “green” just because they provide an option to skip daily linen laundering. How to Discern Greenwashing From True SustainabilityDuring the United Nations’ COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow, Scotland, world leaders recently met to address the elevated pace of worldwide rising temperatures and natural disasters. Leaders are calling for more alignment between the often-competing interests of financial reporting with environmental, social, and governance (or ESG) reporting: Among the mandates is a baseline of minimum standards that will enable a more direct line of sight into company practices. One of the most significant objectives will be to make greenwashing much harder for companies to perpetuate. A Company That’s Getting It RightThere are companies out there getting it right. One of them is Kloris. Kloris is a cannabis retailer with a management team that made a conscious decision as they began their company to do things as sustainably and responsibly as possible. Why? “We all have to take responsibility for the state of the planet and this has to be reflected in our actions,” said Pedram Mehrshahi, director at Kloris. “You can’t look externally for change without first doing what’s within your own sphere of control. We were fed up with seeing products needlessly wrapped in single use plastic, or with excessive packaging designed to look pretty but that was a nightmare for the environment. Our mission is to be 100% plastic free very soon, we are currently sitting at around 98%,” Mehrshahi said. Within the CBD area specifically, Mehrshahi said the market grew very quickly. Cheap brands flooded the market. These companies sell products that are poorly made, untested, and don’t deliver what they promise, especially in terms of the concentration and quality of CBD. “We realized we needed to counter this with rigorously tested, high-quality products and that this could be done in an environmentally-friendly way,” Mehrshahi said. Managing the Bottom LineThe company has managed to avoid financial turmoil largely because, from the very start, they built their environmental commitments into the business model. By setting an authentic green and sustainable manifesto and performing due diligence from the get-go, the company works only with manufacturers and suppliers who share the same ethos when it comes to sustainability. As a result, higher costs are more efficiently tolerated and absorbed across the supply chain. This kind of partnership is a game-changer. Unwavering Commitment Is KeyWhat began over a meal discussing the many ways CBD was helping people — from anxiety and insomnia to menstrual cramps and backache — has evolved into a mission to bring ethical, reliable, and science-backed products to consumers. The management team spent months on a global search for the purest CBD, cultivated in the most sustainable and responsible manner. With sustainability and efficacy at the forefront of the company’s purpose, Kloris is committed to harnessing the healing power of nature and combining it with ethical business practices that honor the earth. Mehrshahi emphasized, “We see this as a never-ending journey. We’re always looking to do better, and so we will continue to evolve the business, our products, and processes as fast as we can.” This article was first published in the winter 2021 issue of Cannabis & Tech Today. Read the full issue here for free. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/people-want-eco-friendly-cannabis/ TESTSTSARDSAR5 Advantages of Smoking Cannabis With a Water Pipe by Sponsored As the cannabis industry is slowly expanding and marijuana is being legalized in various parts of the world, people are becoming more interested in learning about the different methods to consume cannabis. Although rolling up a joint is the most common way to get your THC fix, there is another method that is quite popular among cannabis users and that is water pipes, also known as bongs. Generally, water pipes consist of a bowl and a cylinder glass piece called a downstem through which the smoke travels and is filtered through water before going up the water pipe’s neck to the mouthpiece. They are really one of the best ways to smoke cannabis because they are simple to use, they filter the smoke to remove tar, and can provide you with an enhanced smoking experience. However, this isn’t the only reason why water pipes are a favorite among consumers. Here is a brief guide that explains the five advantages you get from smoking cannabis from water pipes. Come in a Variety of StylesOne of the best things about water pipes is that they come in a variety of styles and types, all of which are aesthetically pleasing and can provide consumers with a better smoking experience. They can be made out of different materials and come in all kinds of shapes and forms that range from the simple to the complex. For example, the hexagon ceramic bong is an excellent water pipe style that is highly functional and very visually appealing. The shape of the bong has the power to provide you with the smoothest hit while the ceramic material gives the entire smoking device a sleeker look. Offers More Effective SmokingAnother major reason why water pipes are the best method for consuming cannabis is because they offer more effective smoking. This is because the water pipe can cool and filter smoke to give you a smoother toke that feels less harsh compared to what you get from a rolled joint. To understand this better, you should know how water pipes work in the first place. Bongs generally feature a small bowl that holds dried cannabis which when you light it, it combusts. Meanwhile, as you inhale, the water in the bottom of the device bubbles, raising the smoke up through the water and the downstem and producing a smoother hit. Provides Better FiltrationImproved filtration is another great advantage of smoking cannabis using a water pipe. Although lighting anything on fire produces carcinogens, the water pipe can significantly reduce the number of harmful compounds that end up in your lungs because of its ability to filter the smoke through the water. In addition to this, water can also filter out other nasty toxins of combustion, such as tar. The water pipe’s main parts help keep any ash and tar particles in the water instead of allowing them to enter your mouth and lungs. For an even cleaner smoking experience, consider adding an ash-catcher accessory to your water pipe. Prevents a MessIf you have been smoking your cannabis in the form of joints, then you know what a mess can be made with the rolling paper and the flower buds especially if you do not have prior experience. There can be marijuana spread across your table and a lot of ash while you are smoking, which certainly makes the entire process very messy. However, this mess can be easily prevented with the water pipe as the smoking device doesn’t require you to use any rolling paper. This means there will be no ash and you won’t have to worry about cleaning up after. Offer Better Dose ControlDespite the numerous benefits cannabis is believed to offer users, people still need to be careful with how much they consume. Too much consumption can lead to various side effects, including a psychoactive reaction, lung damage, persistent cough, and even increased anxiety. You can reduce the risk of such side effects if you use a water pipe because the device offers better dose control than grinding cannabis into a rolling paper in which you cannot measure the right amount. In a water pipe. However, the bowl has a measurement that allows you to see how much cannabis you are consuming and whether you should add more or less. Photo by Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels Final ThoughtsAfter joints, bongs are undoubtedly the best way to consume cannabis. They filter and cool the smoke that comes from burning marijuana, thus providing an enhanced smoking experience to consumers. You can find them in various shapes, sizes, and materials, all of which can contribute to better and smoother hits. In case you need any more reasons, be sure to check out our other articles and learn about the numerous benefits you get from smoking your cannabis from a bong. A link to your site, with your site's name and description as anchor text. Via https://cannatechtoday.com/5-advantages-of-smoking-cannabis-with-a-water-pipe/ |
ABOUT MEHallo, ik ben Renz Verspaget, ik ben een betrouwbare administratief medewerker in de gezondheidszorg met 4,5 jaar ervaring met patiëntendossiers, medische facturering, werkschema's van ziekenhuizen en gezondheidszorgbeleid. Ziekenhuiskosten met 13% verlaagd door nieuwe factureringsmethoden te implementeren. Archives
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