PA Medical Marijuana Patients Could Purchase Edibles Under New Bill
Last week, Republican Senator Dan Laughlin announced his plan to introduce legislation that would allow Pennsylvania medical marijuana patients to purchase marijuana edibles at dispensaries. Laughlin is currently circulating a co-sponsorship memo to garner additional support for the bill. He feels that this legislation would put Pennsylvania more in line with other states that have medical cannabis programs. In his memo, Senator Laughlin emphasized that the measure would ensure that edibles were adequately tested for potency and that restrictions would be placed on packaging to make sure the products are not appealing to children.
The Cannabis Industry is Projected to Add Almost $100 Billion to U.S. Economy this Year
Advocates for cannabis legalization often focus on the benefits of the tax dollars that a legal cannabis market can generate. However, the industry itself benefits the economy. A recent analysis predicts that the impact of legal marijuana sales on the U.S. economy will be $99 billion in 2022. This is a 20 percent increase over the last year. Additionally, data projects that cannabis sales will impact the economy by upwards of $155 billion by 2026. To measure these figures, the analysts at MJBizDaily studied similar industries and consulted with economists. While tax revenue certainly is a factor, other data determine the overall impact of a specific industry on our nation’s economy. For instance, local real estate is boosted by new retail business, as well as when manufacturing and agricultural operations move into a given area.
Activists in North Dakota File Legalization Initiative for 2022 Ballot
Cannabis reform advocates in North Dakota filed a petition on Monday to put legalization on the ballot this November. The group, New Approach North Dakota, created a measure that would allow adults 21 and older to possess and purchase up to one ounce of cannabis. The potential bill would also permit the home-growing of up to three plants for personal use. The legislation is very similar to a legalization bill that passed in the House last year. New Approach North Dakota filed their petition with the Secretary of State who must review the measure. The attorney general must also review the petition before it can be approved for signature gathering.
