Welcome to the 4/20 edition of Week in Weed, your Friday look at what’s happening in the world of legalized marijuana.
It’s been a big week for Republicans embracing legal marijuana or marijuana-related products. Donald Trump, John Boehner and Mitch McConnell have all moved to embrace the plant.
-
Trump to lift legal threat to states that permit marijuana use
(Reuters, 13 April 2018)
President Donald Trump will lift his administration’s plans for a possible crackdown on states that have legalized marijuana after talks with a Colorado senator, the White House said on Friday, an action that undercuts U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions.
- John Boehner Says, ‘My Thinking on Cannabis Has Evolved’
(New York Times: Politics, 12 April 2018)
The former House speaker once said he was “unalterably opposed” to legalization. Now, after joining a cannabis company’s board, he is arguing for change.
- Mitch McConnell Has Officially Filed His Promised Hemp Farming Bill
(High Times, 12 April 2018)
Today, the Senate Majority Leader has made good on his words. Mitch McConnell has officially filed his promised hemp farming bill.
But it’s not just the Republicans who are giving cannabis a second glance. Both candidates vying for the Democratic nomination in the New York governor’s race are speaking about legalization.
-
Cynthia Nixon is making marijuana legalization a pillar of her campaign for New York governor
(The Cannabist, 11 April 2018)
A week after telling two interviewers her support for legalizing recreational use of marijuana in New York was revenue-based, Democratic candidate for governor Cynthia Nixon said Wednesday that it’s now foremost a racial justice issue for her.
- Governor Cuomo shares updated stance on legalizing marijuana
(WHEC.com, 13 April 2018)
Is the governor paving the way to legalizing recreational marijuana in New York?
In non-political news, it looks like the FDA is going to approve the use of an epilepsy drug made from the marijuana plant.
- Epilepsy Drug Made From Marijuana Plant Gets Backing From FDA Staff
(Fortune, 17 April 2018)
The medication would treat seizures that typically affect children.
- GW Pharma Spikes On Growing Likelihood FDA Will OK Cannabis-Based Med
(Investor’s Business Daily: Technology, 17 April 2018)
GW Pharma spiked to an 11-week high Tuesday after an internal review hinted at the likelihood the FDA will approve its cannabis-based anti-seizure drug.
Happy 4/20 everyone! In case you’re wondering about the origins of this celebration, check out Leafly’s article here: The Origin and Meaning of the 4/20 Holiday.