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About Milo Confections

 

Officially launched this past April, Milo Confections is a L.A. based brand with a simple mission: create superior cannabis infused mints that bring the plant’s benefits to any lifestyle.

 

The company prides itself on valuing patient feedback to continually improve their mints. Founder Patrick has extensive experience working with dispensaries, exposing him to varied cannabis patients dealing with different conditions, goals, and preferences. This insight helped him identify common factors all patients look for: high quality ingredients, consistent dosing, and well marked packaging.

 

How Milo Confections Mints Are Made

 

Milo “Betta” (better) mints are vegan-friendly and gluten-free, made using only high quality ingredients, cannabis included. The brand infuses mint, the base of all their products, using raw California cannabis distillate, one of the cleanest extraction methods available.

 

The Milo Confections team has developed a proprietary delivery method so their infused mints quickly deliver comfort, calm, and relief.  Patrick’s bio-chemistry background ensures strict and specific care; all dosages accurate and mixed with fatty acids to increase absorption. 

 

Naturally, Milo Confections prides itself on consistency, using SC Labs to test their mints for potency and purity. Precise and stable dosing allow patients to be in control of their medication, giving them the comfort of knowing exactly what to expect every time they open a Milo tin.

 

Like the products, their packaging focuses on transparency. Every tin label contains the cannabinoid content, ingredients, dosage instructions, and warnings to ensure you get a perfect, appropriate dose each time. Plus it’s small and discreet, perfect to put in your pocket, purse, or backpack.

 

Products

 

Milo Betta mints are small, triangular, and surprisingly chewy with no cannabis taste. Their consistency and subtlety might remind you of those soft, pastel after-dinner mints you’d find in restaurants as a kid.

 

There are three different formulas/flavors: Super Berry Blend THC, Açaí Berry Blend THC:CBD, and Raw Matcha Blend CBD. Each will give you consistent effects, unique flavor and fresh breath simultaneously! 

 

Just be careful: residue might powder your fingers and the top of the tin’s sometimes sticky label. This’ll eventually change, along with a new embossed tin and a hard mint shell, once all government packaging restrictions and regulations have been set in place.

 

So if you’re looking for familiar, light, healthier edibles to use on the go and on the low, these tasty mints are for you.

 

Super Berry Blend THC Betta Mints

These pure THC mints come 15 per tin with 20mg THC each, totaling 300mg ($20). After trying you’ll immediately taste a blast of fruity berries balanced with just the right sweetness and no artificial taste. Remember, they do produce psychoactive effects so start with one or two then see how you’re feeling in about half an hour. Ideal for fueling a creative and productive day. 

 

 Açaí Berry Blend 2:1 THC+CBD Betta Mints

THC+CBD Betta Mints (around $15) have a 2:1 ratio of THC to CBD, blended with delicious and semi-tart açaí, the super healthy Brazilian berry. Each mint has 5mg THC and 2.5mg CBD, with 20 per tin, totaling 100mg THC and 50mg CBD. With enough CBD to help balance THC’s psychoactive effects, a couple of these are perfect for early morning medicating and all-day consumption. While they do create some psychoactive effects, they’ll be considerably less than their THC-only sister product.  

 

CBD Raw Matcha Blend Betta Mints

Unlike the other two, this cannabis derived CBD-only option blends non-psychoactive benefits with the relaxing properties of matcha green tea. Each mint has 5mg CBD with 20 mints in each tin ($15-20), totaling 100mg of CBD. Their relaxing effects are ideal for a nightcap or a day relaxing at home. These mints would also be ideal after a hard workout or a particularly challenging day dealing with chronic pain. Perfect for  patients weary of psychoactive.

 

Where to Buy Milo Confections

 

Milo Confections mints are available in several California MMJ dispensaries. You google medical shops to find them, or you can use Nugg’s medical marijuana delivery service to locate local ones that carry and deliver Milo Confections straight to you. It’s free to sign up, but you must have a valid medical marijuana recommendation before ordering.

 

Don’t have a valid cannabis rec? Don’t worry, NuggMD makes it easier than ever by having licensed cannabis doctors available online every day. After  meeting the criteria and being doctor approved via live video conference, you’ll get your medical recommendation for only $49. Then visit Nugg and instantly start ordering!

 

Customer Testimonials

 

“As a fashion photographer, I’m always on the go. These mints are perfect for my lifestyle! Small, discrete, and tastes great! Definitely a must have when medicating during the day! Typically, I’m not an edibles person, but these have been so effective it’s changed my mind!…For anyone who can’t smoke but wants the benefits of cannabis, check these products out!!” – Nia Drialla

 

“[The CBD Betta mints] tasted pretty pleasant…right after taking them it almost felt similar to after I take an anti-anxiety medication. There’s kind of this tingley, relaxed-ness.” – Marissa S.

 

“As a youtuber that reviews 420 products I get a lot of samples to try. Milo Confections has been one of the best by far! Great mints that deliver real medicine and don’t have an overtly ‘green’ taste to them. Any patient looking for a way to medicate discreetly at work/school should look into these guys!” – Mike D.

 

Official Links

 

Want to keep up with all things Milo Confections? Visit and follow them online:

• Website
• Instagram

 

About Awakened Topicals

 

Based in Los Angeles, “the original raw cannabis company” believes in providing the very best cannabis products to showcase the power of plant-based medicine. Awakened Topicals strives to make effective, long-lasting all-natural topicals and tinctures using only the highest quality ingredients. Their attention to detail and individualized customer service proves their genuine interest in the healing journey of all of their customers. 

 

A pity this ethos of quality, sustainability, and community was born out of misfortune. Years ago founder Levi Strom had a life threatening surfing accident that required emergency spinal surgery and a long recovery. As a result, he was prescribed many pharmaceutical painkillers, though was allergic to most of them. Lucky for Levi, his doctor suggested  a cannabis topical to help ease the pain.

 

How Awakened Topicals Tinctures and Topicals Are Made

 

Only the highest quality ingredients go into Awakened Topicals’ products. All cannabis used is sourced from sun grown, small batch farmers in California; and each of their partnered farms uses the latest organic growing methods, so you can trust no chemical solvents, pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers are used. An added bonus: their farmers take extra care to make the lowest possible negative impact on California’s natural resources.

 

Every product is made using raw or cold-pressed whole plant cannabis. By not using extreme heat to decarboxylate the cannabis, they preserve some of the most important cannabinoids like THCa, CBDa and other beneficial terpenoids and flavonoids normally burnt off by high heat extraction. Awakened believes their role as herbalists is not to manipulate mother nature, but simply be its messenger, bringing you medicine the way she intended.

 

Their products are tested by an accredited California lab that conducts cannabinoid and terpene profiling, as well as screens for pesticides, solvents and microbiological contaminants. They even publish testing results to promote transparency, a very refreshing and reassuring detail. 

 

Once crafted and tested, they’re packaged in UV ray protective jars (except the portable pain stick) to further optimize shelf life. Their earthy, minimalistic packaging will look at home next to your natural skin care and lifestyle products.

 

Products come with a shelf life of one year after opening. To maximize their lifespan, store your balm, tincture or pain stick in a dark cabinet, drawer, or even your refrigerator.

 

Products

 

The company produces three versatile raw cannabis products: pain stick, balm, and sublingual tincture.

 

1:1 THCa+CBDa Raw Cannabis Pain Stick

Their non-psychoactive pain stick (about $30) packs serious healing, combining thirteen active whole plant ingredients like cannabis, aloe, jojoba oil, St. John’s Wort, and vitamin E. It’s idea for reducing back, joint and muscle pain; as well as a wide range of additional ailments, including psoriasis, burns, bites, bruises, and wrinkles. Also try using it as chapstick when dry; it leaves a pleasing taste!

 

This incognito, travel-size product comes in a 15 mL applicator (0.5 oz) that can easily fit in your pocket or purse. It’s great for getting those hard-to-reach places and there’s virtually no greasy residue (they’ll be some on the packaging). Just push the stick up from the bottom to reveal as much medication as needed and apply liberally.

 

1:1 THCa+CBDa Raw Cannabis Balm

This topical lives up to its reputation, which is why it won first place at the 2015 Emerald Cup. Also made with thirteen active, whole plant ingredients and hot poured by hand, the raw cannabis balm is safe to apply to your face, feet, hands, under arms, hair—almost anywhere.

 

Harnessing a 1:1 CBDa to THCa ratio gives all the benefits without the high, perfect for all-day relief. Plus it’s vegan, gluten, and paraben free.

 

Like the pain stick, the raw balm can be used to treat a wide variety of issues, including sore muscles, arthritis, acne, eczema, and stretch marks. But unlike the pain stick, your hands will get a little greasy. If it’s a problem just comb those oily fingers through your hair. Don’t let it go to waste.

 

Choose between two sizes: a 50 mL jar (1.7 oz) with 76 mg of combined cannabinoids ($25-30) or a 25 mL jar (0.85 oz) with 38 mg of combined cannabinoids ($45).

 

1:1 THCa+CBDa Raw Cannabis Sublingual

This sublingual is another Emerald Cup winner. It’s made with single strain and origin cannabis from Emerald Triangle, processed using Awakened’s signature raw cold infusion process to ensure the extract will be rich with CBDa and THCa. It’s blended into extra virgin olive oil made on Awakened’s own estate and is completely vegan, gluten, and paraben free.

 

However, the tincture is only very mildly psychoactive, with many patients barely noticing the psychoactive effects.

 

It’s an effective natural option for serious chronic pain relief and inflammation. While these claims aren’t supported by the FDA, the sublingual has proven effective in treating symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, social anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, multiple sclerosis, and can be an effective sleep aid.

 

A 30 mL bottle (1 oz) with 270 mg total of combined cannabinoids ($60) roughly translates to 30 servings at the recommended serving size of two drops to one full dropper. Start with two drops under the tongue every six hours, then increase as needed. You can also add it to your favorite foods and drinks.

 

Where to Buy Awakened Topicals

 

Awakened Topicals’ MMJ products are available in several California dispensaries as well as through their patient membership program.

 

You can also use Nugg’s medical marijuana delivery service to find local dispensaries that carry and deliver Awakened Topicals straight to you. It’s free to sign up, but you must have a valid medical marijuana recommendation before ordering.

 

Still don’t have a valid cannabis rec? Don’t worry, NuggMD makes it easier than ever by having licensed cannabis doctors available online seven days a week. After meeting the criteria and being doctor approved via live video conference, you’ll get your medical recommendation for only $49. Then visit Nugg and instantly start ordering!

 

Customer Testimonials

 

“I want to thank you again for your ‘Raw Body Balm’ product.  As you know, I have a rare skin disease called ‘Papular Dermatitis’ and your ‘RBB’ is the only natural product that has been able to provide me with relief.  It is absolutely amazing!  I have suffered for years until this ‘balm’ of yours came along.  Please let your customers know that this salve can work miracles on any type of skin rash, scar or other skin defect.  Thanks for creating a remedy that is truly miraculous and life altering!” —Anthony U.

 

“I’ve always been curious about the power of cannabis balms and salves for combination and problem skin. After using the raw balm for a few days I noticed a difference in smoothness and skin tone. And it’s great for burns and bruises! Truly a convenient topical cure-all.” —David S.

 

“Miraculous!!! Your topical is like nothing I have ever used before. I had thrown out my low back for the first time…and all my other “biologique” products were just not working. Your product works almost instantly, lasts a long time, and it takes such a small amount to be effective. My boyfriend is equally amazed with your product, he is an ashtanga yoga man who blew out his shoulder and has been in constant pain for more than a year, so he thanks you!” —Cindy E.

 

Official Links

 

If you’d like to stay up to date on Awakened Topicals products, specials, and other news, visit or follow them on social media:

• Website
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Facebook

 

Where to Apply for a License

 

First, you’ll need to apply for a temporary license in order to begin legal operations on Jan. 1, 2018. There will be two license categories issued by this branch: an “A license” for recreational cannabis businesses and an “M license” for medical cannabis businesses. You can hold both, but you must make a separate application for each type.

 

The Bureau doesn’t have the license application available online yet, but it does anticipate accepting applications shortly. When ready, you’ll find the application for a temporary license at www.bcc.ca.gov. You can submit your application electronically or mail a paper copy to:

 

Department of Consumer Affairs – Bureau of Cannabis Control
P.O. Box 138200
Sacramento, CA 95813-8200
CalCannabis@cdfa.ca.gov

 

So far, there’s no listed fee for the temporary application.

 

Can I Have Both a Medical and Recreational License at the Same Location?

 

You can apply for both a medical and recreational license at the same location if they’re for an identical type of commercial activity. Find the continued stipulations on holding two licenses for the same locale on page 24.

 

What If I Want to Run a Microbusiness?

 

Small cannabis providers were disturbed by the MMRSA’s licensing requirements that could potentially drive “mom and pops” out of business. In response, the Prop 64 allowed for specific Type 12-Microbusiness licensing if the applicant wants to distribute their own product.

 

In order to hold a microbusiness license, the business will need to engage in at least three of the following activities: cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, or retail.

 

Depending on the type of activities the microbusiness intends to engage in, the applicant will need to provide the same info as a regular cannabis business license, including a map of the facility showing all business activities taking place. This includes cultivation and manufacturing, which may make it difficult to find suitable physical locations due to local zoning laws. It should be possible if local authorities cooperate.

 

Microbusinesses will also be held to the same environmental protection standards and documentation requirements that all other cultivation and manufacturing licenses are held. The requirements are extensive, so applicants should consider the cost and feasibility of complying before beginning the licensing process.

 

Applying for the Permanent License

 

Once you’ve received your temporary license, you need to immediately fill out an annual license application. This is because your temporary license will only be valid for 120 days and can only be extended for another 90 days, if the state has received your annual license application.

 

What Do I Need to Apply for a Regular License?

 

First, you need to be compliant with your local jurisdiction to be approved. The state realizes locals are still setting up their own ordinances, so they’ve developed a system for approving licenses in the event of contingencies.

 

In some cases, like Long Beach, the jurisdiction isn’t handing out operating licenses just yet; the rules are still being drafted. Instead, they’re handing out authorization letters that only serve to continue the licensing process in a timely manner. They won’t allow a business to start operating, so find out whether your jurisdiction is allowing business to begin on January first, or merely helping to move the process along.

 

The Bureau will contact your local authorities once it’s processed your application. If you don’t  provide a copy of your local ordinances with it, your local jurisdiction will have 60 days to respond to the state’s request for information.

 

Your jurisdiction will only have 10 days to respond if you do submit a copy; if they don’t, the state will deem all is in order and the application process will continue.

 

You’ll also be required to show a list of funds in savings, checking, and other accounts–including account numbers. They’ll need to list all loans in the applicant’s name and whatever security was provided for said loan. A list of investments made to the commercial cannabis business are required, along with a list of gifts made to the applicant for use in conducting commercial cannabis activity.

 

You’ll need to supply certain information about your business, including:

 

• Who the owners and financial interest holders are
• Where the business will operate
• What are the waste disposal procedures (tracked closely to prevent black market sales of “waste products”)
• Inventory and quality control methods
• Transportation plans
• Security plans

 

How Soon Will They Process My Application?

 

If your business has already been in operation under the Prop 215 before September 1, 2016, your application will be given priority review status. Also, if you’ve been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces, your application will be expedited (Sec. 5014, page 15).

 

Insurance Requirements for Distributors

 

Distributors will need to have a minimum of $2,000,000 worth of insurance, and a minimum of $1,000,000 for each loss. Specific requirements for the insured and insurers are listed on page 42.

 

Breakdown of Manufacturing Licenses

 

If you plan on manufacturing cannabis products, you should know the Manufactured Cannabis Safety Branch of the California Department of Public Health.

 

In addition to “A” and “M” type licenses, there’ll be four specific license types issued for manufacturing:

 

• 7: Extraction with volatile solvents
• 6: Non-volatile solvent or mechanical extraction (rosin press, making butter and oil, water and ethanol or carbon dioxide extraction)
• N: Infusions using pre-extracted cannabis oil
• P: Packaging and labeling

 

Whether the application is for a type 7 or type 6 license, any extracts created using CO2 or volatile solvents must use a closed loop system, which must be certified by a licensed California engineer and by the local fire code official. Hydrocarbon-based solvents must be at least 99% pure.

 

Production will be further limited to the amount of THC (10mg per serving/100mg per package) foods that can be infused with, and shape; nothing that’ll attract children. You’ll find more about on page 78 of the proposed manufacturing regulations.

 

A Note About Manufacturing Licenses Cost

 

The licensing restrictions for manufacturers may prove particularly onerous for smaller, non-microbusiness manufacturing establishments since each annual application costs $1,000, not including the licensing fee. If you need all eight licenses, the fees alone will be $8,000.

 

Each will carry an annual licensing fee based on gross sales. It’ll be at least $2,000 per license and at most $75,000. So the total for a very small edibles manufacturer who employs all methods for both adult and medical use would be, at minimum, $16,000; PLUS the application fee for all eight licenses, totaling $24,000.

 

Even a manufacturer who wishes to use one method of extraction but still wants to make and package their own product will face a minimum of $18,000 for the six required licenses. This doesn’t include local fees, inspection fees, CEQA compliance, etc. These costs are much higher at higher levels of operation.

 

A list of the other licensing fees for other cannabis businesses starts on page 16. Some of the amounts are surprising.

 

A Note on “Excessive Concentration

 

The Bureau can actually reject a license application for a retail license or microbusiness, even if it’s compliant in every other way, if it believes there’s an excessive concentration of these businesses in the area.

 

The problem is, “excessive concentration” isn’t firmly defined.

 

“(1) The ratio of licensees to population within the census tract or census division in which the applicant premises is located exceeds the ratio of licensees to population in the county in which the applicant premises is located, unless denial of the application would unduly limit the development of the legal market so as to perpetuate the illegal market for cannabis or cannabis products.

 

(2) The ratio of retail licenses or microbusiness licenses to the population within the census tract, census division, or jurisdiction exceeds that allowable by local ordinance adopted under section 26200.”

 

The only way to fight such a denial would be to prove that it said denial would “unduly limit the development of the legal market so as to perpetuate the illegal market for cannabis.”

 

Unfortunately, this isn’t the only arbitrary reason the Bureau can deny a license. It can also deny for “any reason specified in section 26057 in the Business and Professions Code, and on any additional grounds including, grounds for denial under section 5018 of this division, and grounds for discipline under the Act or this division.” The process for appealing a denial is listed on page 22.

 

Testing Laboratories

 

Licensed testing labs will need ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation to operate. However, they can get a provisional license while they seek this accreditation, so long as they meet the other standards. Laboratory license requirements are on pages 77-105, including testing requirements, which are very complex.

 

What Should I Do with My Current, Non-Compliant Inventory?

 

The department recognized that there will be product remaining on the market produced before these regulations come into effect. The proposed rules suggest these products can be sold with certain packaging and labeling restrictions until July 1, 2018 through both “A” and “M” licensees.

 

Anything produced after Jan. 1, 2018, must be extracted, produced and labeled according to the new standards. You can find out more about dealing with existing inventory on page 25.

 

Some Clarification on Points That Might Confuse Applicants

 

They’ll ask for information on “each owner who meets the criteria of Business and Professions Code section 26001(al).” Here’s what that section of the code says:

 

1. The owner or owners of a proposed licensee. Owner means all persons having (A) an aggregate ownership interest (other than a security interest, lien, or encumbrance) of 20 percent or more in the licensee and (B) the power to direct or cause to be directed, the management or control of the licensee.
2. If the applicant is a publicly traded company, owner includes the chief executive officer and any member of the board of directors and any person or entity with an aggregate ownership interest in the company of 20 percent or more. If the applicant is a nonprofit entity, owner means both the chief executive officer and any member of the board of directors.”

 

What If an Owner Quits the Cannabis Business?

 

A new license application must be submitted within 10 business days of ownership change. Info regarding notification and licensing requirements for ownership, financier and location changes begin on page 22.

 

New Dispensary Requirements

 

All commercial retailers are required to create a limited access area only for employees. They must keep logs of anyone else who enters this area and visitors must be escorted by an employee.

 

The Bureau is also establishing daily limits on the amount of cannabis sold to one customer at a time. This may seem reasonable, but not to patients who must travel hundreds of miles to obtain their medication. So medical patients can purchase up to eight ounces of flower at a time to alleviate this problem. If a patient has a physician’s recommendation stating he or she needs more, the dispensary can oblige.

 

There’s a nasty sticking point on page 51 regarding the provision of free cannabis goods. They’re  just not allowed. If a facility has a type 10 retailer M license, type 9 retailer non-storefront M license or a microbusiness M license, they may provide free cannabis to needy patients if they meet certain criteria. In these situations, the provider still remains limited to giving away no more than they’d otherwise be allowed to sell in one day.

 

What Happens If I Violate One of These Regulations?

 

The Bureau claims full rights to search your business, records, books, equipment and vehicles. This includes your required videotape records. Even though you have the constitutional right to refuse self-incrimination and warrantless searches, doing so may result in an administrative violation and loss of your licensing right, along with fines.  

 

If it does findsa minor violation, they will likely send you a notice to comply (page 106).

 

The Bureau reserves the right to revoke a license. It can also issue citations containing fines up to $5,000 and abatement orders for more serious violations. Fines must be paid within 30 days unless contested; a license cannot be reinstated until they’re resolved.

 

You can contest a citation within 30 days of receipt by requesting a hearing in writing. You can also request an informal hearing within 15 days. If you choose this option, the Bureau has 15 days to provide the hearing. It may decide to withdraw, modify or affirm the citation. At this point, the licensee can request for a hearing to proceed if filed.

 

The Bureau has a lot of leeway for modification of citations, or extending time for abatement or correction of a violation if there is good cause, so there are administrative options available to a licensee facing compliance difficulties. They may also be responsible for paying enforcement fees as decided by the administrative court. The details of disciplinary actions and some of the potential defenses are on page 105.

 

Final Note

 

Remember, if any of these proposed cannabis business regulations give you cause for concern, take a minute to contact the Bureau and profess your thoughts. Proposition 64 was submitted and adopted by the people, and the people own the licensing process as well.

 

What Records Will Be Kept When I Purchase Cannabis Legally?

 

Record keeping requirements (defined on page 57) involve:

 

• The first name of the customer.
• A special number assigned to the customer.
• What he/she bought.
• When he/she bought.
• How much he/she bought.
• How much he/she paid.

 

The assumption is this info will be used to track whether you’re buying or carrying more than the legally allowed amount. By doing so the government can prevent the criminal sale of cannabis, a likely scenario considering the vast areas banning legal sales.

 

How Much Cannabis Can I Buy?

 

 

There are very strict limits on how much recreational weed users can obtain. You can purchase and transport up to 28.5 grams (an ounce) of flower or 8 grams of concentrate at a time for personal use. Larger amounts will be subject to criminal penalty.

 

This probably won’t affect the casual user. It won’t prove to be much of a hardship, even for those who must drive long distances because of local bans. On the other hand, this could prove rough on some medical users attempting to fly under the radar to avoid potentially negative consequences of being a cannabis patient.

 

Why You Want to Keep or Get Your Medical Recommendation

 

 

There are numerous benefits to having your medical marijuana recommendation in 2018. 

 

• A lower age limit of 18, not 21 like all recreational users.
• MMJ patients can walk-in and/or order from more than 1,000 dispensaries now; plus there’s a wider array of quality cannabis products to enjoy.
• A recommendation permits the possession and transportation of medical cannabis without fear of legal reprisal.
• Recreational users will pay up to a 45% tax in state and local fees. Medical cannabis patients are exempt, though they’ll pay a small tax come January. Until then, medical cannabis is tax-free.
• Cannabis patients are allowed to carry up to eight ounces at a time. Otherwise, it’d be more likely authorities would assume you’re engaging in illegal sales, even with a rec.

 

Get your medical recommendation and/or ID card quickly, easily and professionally with NuggMD, the leading telemedicine platform. The process is fast, affordable, and easy to use. Sign up online and in about fifteen minutes you can become a cannabis patient. Your medical recommendation is only $49.

 

After getting your NuggMD recommendation, you’ll need to go through the state’s medical marijuana program to receive your official ID card. It’ll cost about $100 and $50 for Medi-Cal patients. You’ll have to submit your application in-person at your local county program location, which has 30 days to validate it.

 

If you spend more than $100 a month on cannabis, it makes fiscal sense to spend the $139 to renew your existing MMJ rec and get a state-issued ID card instead of paying the sales tax. 

 

Can I Still Get Delivery?

 

 

Some jurisdictions are choosing to ban medical marijuana deliveries. Prop 64 permits them, though it doesn’t allow local roads to be closed off to delivery drivers. This means delivery drivers can use these roads, but only for traveling through a city or county with a delivery ban. They can’t deliver in the city or county itself.

 

Unfortunately, a backlash has been taking place in several conservative districts, citing concerns over crime and child use. The lack of delivery leaves traveling to a storefront dispensary as the only option for patients or their caregivers if they’re unable to grow their own medical cannabis.

 

Fortunately, very few districts are choosing ban MMJ delivery; however it’s still a good idea to check your local ordinances and see what’ll be allowed. Your local city council, planning department or county board should be able to answer this question quickly.

 

Nugg, California’s largest online cannabis marketplace, provides medical cannabis delivery across the state. Just enter your address to get a list of local dispensaries that’ll deliver MMJ products to your door in about an hour. Even compare prices, discover new products, and read reviews before ordering. 

 

Remember, if a delivery service like Nugg is prohibited in your area, don’t try to entice anyone to illegally deliver your product or ask a friend to get it. That might be tempting, especially if you’re in medical need, but the penalties are steep fines and possible criminal charges. Ultimately, local governments must be forced to consider the situation reasonably and compassionately—or be replaced.

 

Can I Smoke Cannabis in Public?

 

 

Simply lighting up on the street will likely result in a fine. Most local zoning ordinances control where you can smoke marijuana, and most will forbid public consumption (see Health and Safety Code 11362.3). If cigarettes are banned, joints are definitely out too. You can’t smoke near daycares, schools or other public areas where children gather.

 

You’re better off lighting up in the privacy of home or at a cannabis bar that allows on-site consumption. And don’t even think of lighting up in your car. You can and will get stopped for driving under the influence, and passengers who light up can land you in the hot seat too.

 

Can I Grow My Own Cannabis?

 

 

Absolutely; but whether you can grow it outdoors or only indoors is up to your local jurisdiction. The new proposed regulations don’t really address growing for personal use. But almost all local governments have developed or are developing local rules for personal cultivation.

 

These rules range from simple, allowing growing six plants outdoors with little regulation, to complex, requiring construction of separate, secure buildings with special fencing, locks, and strict environmental controls.

 

On the bright side, you won’t need a grower’s rec if you’re only planning to grow your legally allowed six plants. If you want more, you must sign up for a cultivator’s license or a microbusiness license. You could grow more if a doctor recommends it, but the new laws have closed many pre-Prop 64 loopholes. You should seek legal counsel before growing a significant amount (see Health and Safety Code 11362.77).

 

Can I Give Away My Personal Cannabis?

 

 

New proposed regulations don’t affect your ability to give away up to 28.5 grams of flower or up to eight grams of concentrate to adults 21 or older. There can be absolutely no compensation. However, don’t expect freebies from retailers anymore; giving away product to recreational users is strictly forbidden.

 

What About Cannabis Cups?

 

 

Trade shows and cannabis events will still be permitted, but the record keeping requirements will be just as stringent as any cannabis business. This includes records for composting or destroying cannabis, and documentation of all tracking and financial records for at least seven years.

 

Cannabis events will now be strictly limited to those 21 and over. A medical patient under this age is no exception. Alcohol and/or tobacco consumption will be strictly prohibited, so no cigarette breaks on show grounds. Free samples are also a no-go here, as they’d be subject to the same restrictions as all cannabis businesses.

 

Will I Still Be Able to Find My Favorite Cannabis Products?

 

 

In many cases, no. The Manufactured Cannabis Safety Branch created their own set of emergency regulations requiring specific limits on product concentrations and shapes. Some food products are strictly prohibited, like cannabis-infused seafood (probably wise) and edibles that look like commercially available, kid-friendly candies.

 

The requirements for licensing certain types of products are so extensive that some businesses aren’t finding it financially feasible to continue (read more about them here).

 

Stay Informed on All New Regulations

 

These are by no means a summary of all the new regulations coming into effect. The three branches of California’s cannabis control are each proposing new regulations, along with environmental and water control agencies.

 

Here’s a list of the new regulations California’s cannabis community will need to become familiar with over the upcoming months:

 

• The MAUCRSA.
• The emergency proposed manufacturing regulations.
• New manufacturing instructions and fact sheets.
• The emergency proposed cultivation regulations (including the track and trace requirements).
• New cultivation instructions and fact sheets.
• Licensing information for all other business types (bottom of the page).

 

What Is HIV-AIDS?

 

 

HIV, aka the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a sexually transmitted disease that impairs the immune system. As a result, those infected with it are vulnerable to opportunistic infections. AIDS, or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, refers to the immune system’s breakdown caused by the HIV virus.

 

The virus is bloodborne, primarily transmitted by exchanging bodily fluids like blood and semen via unprotected sex, as well as contaminated blood transfusions, in utero, or infected mothers’ breast milk. It can’t be transmitted through casual contact.

 

It attacks the body’s white blood cells, which protect against infections, fungal growths, and malignancies. Consequently, HIV impairs the immune system, leaving the body open to opportunistic infections and cancers.

 

Currently there’s no cure, though antiviral drugs have helped many manage their condition for decades. With proper treatment, a person with HIV-AIDS can often expect to live a nearly normal lifespan, so long they adhere to their medications.

 

Conventional Treatments

 

 

Antiretroviral drugs have transformed HIV-AIDS from a death sentence to a manageable condition. The FDA has approved six classes of drugs and more than 25 medications to keep the HIV virus from multiplying and impairing the immune system.

 

Typically patients are treated with a combination of drugs suited to their needs and must adhere to a strict daily treatment regimen. However, these medications come with severely debilitating side effects, causing many to discontinue their life-saving medications.

 

Megestrol acetate, commonly prescribed to battle AIDS weight loss, can prompt seizures, heart failure, seizures, pneumonia, nausea, vomiting, constipation, impotence, vaginal bleeding and more.

 

Opioids like codeine, morphine, and oxycodone are typically prescribed to fight polyneuropathy that comes with HIV-AIDS. Yet they’re often overprescribed and can result in severe addiction, mood change, and even death–which are rising at a staggering rate amid the current opioid epidemic.

 

Somatropin, a synthetic human growth hormone, is used to combat AIDS wasting syndrome–though may induce stomach, face, hands and feet swelling, cancer, diarrhea, headaches and high blood pressure.

 

Arrive — cannabis.

 

Is Cannabis Use Safe for HIV-AIDS?

 

 

Cannabis’ side effects, on the other hand, are much less addictive, non-lethal, and mild–even with the sickest of patients. Although it can hinder performance, resulting in temporary impairment, it has little effect on physiological functions.

 

Inhaling cannabis smoke can harm the respiratory system, though serious complications from it are rare. If it causes discomfort, vaping is a cleaner alternative.

 

Medical Marijuana and HIV-AIDS

 

 

Cannabis’ effectiveness in treating symptoms related to HIV-AIDS is widely recognized. Its value as an antiemetic and analgesic has been proven in numerous studies and has been recognized by several comprehensive, government-sponsored reviews.

 

AIDS wasting syndrome was a frequent complication of HIV infection prior to the advent of protease-inhibitor drugs. It’s been associated with major weight loss and cachexia, conditions that further debilitate its victims who’re already weakened by immune system failure and opportunistic infections.

 

Cannabis has been a frequently employed alternative medicine for the condition, particularly in the U.S., because of its reported benefits on appetite and improvement of other AIDS symptoms.

 

HIV-AIDS patients have known this, self-medicating with cannabis to tolerate their condition and its resulting effects. It’s been effective in reducing nausea, neurological pain and anxiety, as well as stimulating appetite. In fact, the prognosis improves threefold for HIV-AIDS patients who use cannabis as an adjunct therapy to their conventional medications.

 

The medical community has taken an interest as well, and research into marijuana’s pain-relieving, mood-elevating, and appetite stimulating properties gained momentum. Before long, a consensus soon emerged–marijuana was safe and effective in addressing the debilitating symptoms HIV-AIDS patients dealt with on a daily basis.

 

The evidence for marijuana’s efficacy as an adjunct therapy turned out to be so overwhelming that the federal government was effectively pressured into approving Marinol, a synthetic version of medical cannabis.

 

Unfortunately, Marinol has never been as well-tolerated or as popular as marijuana when it comes to symptom relief. That’s because individually isolated cannabinoids (Marinol is just THC) have been shown to have less positive health benefits than when consuming cannabinoids in concert. Namely, THC and CBD together, which has come to be known as the “entourage effect.”

 

Sympathy for HIV-AIDS patients and the steady accumulation of scientific evidence supporting cannabis’ painkilling benefits proved to be a watershed moment in tipping public opinion in favor of MMJ. More recently, a few studies have suggested that cannabinoids may also have antiviral properties.

 

A Summary of the Scientific Studies

 

HIV-AIDS was among the first conditions that medical marijuana was widely used for in the United States.

 

Initially, some researchers worried heavy cannabis use could further impair white blood cell counts and immune functioning in patients. However, a majority of studies appear to confirm that medical cannabis is safe, well-tolerated by patients, and an effective pain reliever.

 

More recently, researchers are beginning to investigate medical marijuana’s potential antiviral properties. Here is a summary of important findings:

 

• A clinical trial conducted in 2003 found no evidence that either smoked marijuana or oral cannabis undermined immune function in HIV-AIDS patients.
• In 2005, research published in the Journal of Pain Symptom Management concluded that cannabis helped HIV-AIDS patients improve symptom control.
• A 2005 study published in Psychopharmacology found that marijuana was an effective appetite stimulant for patients suffering from the wasting effects of HIV-AIDS.
• According to a 2007 report, up to 33% of HIV-AIDS patients self-medicate with cannabis to help alleviate nausea, vomiting, depression, weight loss and other side effects caused by their treatments. Some studies suggest that cannabis use is correlated with improved adherence to antiretroviral regimens.
• A study published in 2012 found that cannabinoids have the potential to “exert potent antiviral activity without inducing immunosuppression.”
• A 2013 Harvard study found that cannabinoids may help prevent the HIV virus from damaging the brain.
• At least one study suggests MMJ may help inhibit the progression of the HIV virus itself. However, researchers caution that cannabis should be considered a complementary therapy, not a replacement for proven treatments.

 

Medical Marijuana Products to Treat HIV-AIDS

 

Health providers tailor drug therapies to match the unique needs of individual HIV-AIDS patients.

 

Similarly, there’s no one marijuana strain or cannabis-based product that’s appropriate for all HIV-AIDS patients.

 

With a condition as serious as HIV-AIDS, it’s especially important to discuss all MMJ treatment options with a licensed physician first.

 

Interesting HIV-AIDS Facts

 

• Roughly 37 million people have HIV-AIDS worldwide.
• Globally, 1.8 million children have HIV-AIDS.
• Worldwide, 40% of those living with HIV-AIDS are undiagnosed.
• 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV-AIDS according to the U.S. Department of Health.
• One in eight people infected with HIV-AIDS in the U.S. are unaware of their condition.
• HIV-AIDS is most prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa where the World Health Organization estimates that one-third of the population is infected.

 

Doctor Testimonials

 

“From working with AIDS and cancer patients, I repeatedly saw how marijuana could ameliorate a patient’s debilitating fatigue, restore appetite, diminish pain, remedy nausea, cure vomiting and curtail down-to-the-bone weight loss.” — Dr. Kate Scannell

 

“When appropriately prescribed and monitored, marijuana/cannabis can provide immeasurable benefits for the health and well-being of our patients.” — The American Academy of HIV Medicine

 

“[Medical marijuana] stimulates the appetite and promotes weight gain, in turn strengthening the body, combating chronic fatigue, and providing the stamina and physical well-being necessary to endure or withstand both adverse side effects of ongoing treatment and other opportunistic infections.” — Dr. Marcus A. Conant

 

Patient Testimonials

 

“Wasting syndrome, in combination with other HIV-related symptoms and conditions, left me thoroughly disabled and desperate to obtain relief. I tried smoking marijuana to combat nausea. I found that it reduced my nausea and restored my appetite, allowing me to eat and regain my strength with no noticeable side effects…nothing compares to marijuana in terms of results.” — Daniel J. Kane

 

“I am a retired Air Force Captain and JAG Corps prosecutor, a former foot soldier in the war on drugs…I am also an AIDS patient who credits medical marijuana as an important link to saving my life…I found that it took only two or three puffs from a marijuana cigarette for my appetite to return.” — Keith Vines

 

“Medical marijuana was originally recommended to treat my nausea and chronic pain and has proven to be more effective than any of the numerous other treatments I have tried. It is effective without the debilitating grogginess, nausea and lethargy I experienced with other prescribed pain medications. Marijuana also acts as an appetite stimulant, helping me eat enough to avoid ‘wasting.’” — Michael Chelosky

 

Not in MY Backyard!

 

The problem with legalizing something socially sensitive? It has to be legal everywhere to work. Yet Prop 64 only protects those willing to grow their own in compliance with local law. A local jurisdiction is otherwise completely within its right to ban all commercial activity–including outdoor cultivation.

 

To complicate matters, many local governments require enormous and expensive regulations be met before anyone can grow their own supply. In some areas like Yuba county, requirements are so onerous it was estimated a person would have to purchase over $50,000 worth of building and equipment just to grow their legally allowed six plants.

 

Perhaps consumers could just get cannabis from areas where it’s legal; those places will benefit even more from their newfound revenue source. However, in many areas they’ll need to drive 200 miles or more to obtain it legally.

 

This simply won’t be feasible, especially since consumers are only allowed to carry up to an ounce of recreational weed at a time. If medical cannabis isn’t also available, recreational consumers will likely just turn back to the black market–where they were getting it before Prop 64.

 

What’s the Reasoning for These Bans?

 

 

Most local governments are feeling enormous pressure from political and business-related groups like the League of Cities. These politicians feel it’d be too risky to vote in favor of reasonable regulations when an outright ban is allowed.

 

Some activists also speculate that local bans will allow local police to continue profiting from their current asset forfeiture activities while fulfilling their contracts for required prisoner populations in corporate prisons.

 

Those who campaigned for Prop 64 stated that Sec. 6 took care of that problem, saying:

 

Q: “What does P64 do to stop Asset Seizures for businesses and persons? What specific section prohibits asset forfeiture?”

A: “Prop 64 does that in Section 6, Regulation and Safety, codified as Business and Professions code § 26037.”

 

However, a closer look at Section 6 reveals that only those who’re acting legally under state and local law are protected. There’s nothing to prevent asset forfeiture if the business is operating in a gray area or in opposition to a local ban.

 

It makes interesting food for thought. Whether enforcement will continue in this manner remains to be seen, but you can always attend the California District Attorney’s Association’s Annual Asset Forfeiture Course to find out more about upcoming changes to forfeiture tactics. Prop 64 looks to be a big topic of discussion at next year’s conference in Monterey.  

 

Whatever their reasoning, many of the bans are based on what some would call a very questionable thought process. Below are just a few examples of the stated logic behind these local bans. More examples will be addressed in future articles in this series.

 

Laguna Beach

 

 

In this case, it was the voters who made the decision to ban commercial cannabis sales after placing enough signatures to force the issue. The initiative’s loss came after fierce opposition from the city council itself.

 

This came as a surprise to many, since Mayor Steven Dicterow seemed to take a favorable stance on the issue. Yet, he voted unanimously with the council on April 12th to “direct staff to return to the City Council by May 10th with an analysis and recommendations regarding a possible competing initiative.”

 

Dicterow was later forced to recuse himself from subsequent council votes due to conflict of interest. Apparently, his business partner was attempting to purchase a property that might qualify as a dispensary–should the city choose to lift their ban.

 

When explaining his reasoning for the recusal, Dicterow said:

 

“I didn’t want anyone to perceive that I would be making a vote on this issue because I was hoping that a property I may own in the future may cause me to be the future landlord for a medical marijuana dispensary.”

 

Dicterow then explained he’d been approached by one of Congressman Dana Rohrabacher’s consultants to run a pro-medical marijuana ballot initiative, an offer which he said he rejected.

 

Shortly thereafter, the council voted to scrap the competing initiative altogether and oppose the voters’ initiative instead. After a slew of alarmist anti-dispensary propaganda and disturbing accusations by both sides, the voters decided that commercial cannabis was all well and good, just “not in their backyards.”

 

Laguna Woods

 

 

While Laguna Woods was the first city in Orange County to allow cannabis dispensaries, the council has now taken a 180 degree turn in their policy, opting to prohibit dispensaries within city limits. City Attorney David Cosgrove cited the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, saying cities that allow dispensaries tend to have increased crime rates.

 

Of course, one must consider whether this is a causal relationship. Such a vague statement fails to take into account the cause or even type of pre-existing crime statistics in an area that chooses to legalize it.

 

It’s entirely possible that those areas with higher crime rates due to economic depression are more likely to consider the tax benefits of legal dispensaries. Or, these areas may be considering the fact that ceasing marijuana prosecutions frees up law enforcement to handle dangerous and pressing criminal activity.

 

In general, statistics have shown that crime decreases with legalized cannabis activity. But it’s reasonable to assume law enforcement costs will increase if dispensaries open since they’ll need to be regulated. This fact was taken into consideration by allowing local control over taxes and fees as well.

 

Orange County

 

 

Orange County has taken the preliminary steps to approve a ban, and once again a recent trip to Colorado was referenced by board member Lisa Bartlett in the decision making process.

 

Her reasoning was identical to Chairman John Peschong’s complaints in San Luis Obispo. She noted the rising number of children hospital visits due to accidentally eating edibles while admitting that no one has ever died from a marijuana overdose.

 

But again, the cognitive dissonance of the situation must be acknowledged. Dr. Genie E. Roosevelt, who was involved with an oft-cited study showing an increase in child exposure to cannabis, noted that parents are more willing to admit to possession in emergency situations, saying:

 

“In 2009, we didn’t know what was wrong with these kids, and we did all kinds of work-ups, […] Now, after legalization, more people are saying, ‘Oops, I left my brownie out, and my child ate it.’ That’s not great, but it’s helping us to manage these patients.”

 

So, the possibility must be considered that some of the increase in reported cases is due to willingness of parents to discuss the possibility of exposure. And again, the number of overdose cases for cannabis measure in the hundreds, with not one single resulting death, while the number of overdose cases for opioid measures in the thousands, with deaths in the hundreds.

 

Supervisor Todd Spitzer noted that the Board was just following the trend of Orange County’s cities, since only two (Santa Ana and Costa Mesa) have decided to open their doors to the commercial cannabis industry.

 

However, Supervisor Shawn Nelson said that the Board (and apparently the cities) were failing to acknowledge the will of the voters who approved of Prop 64 in every district in OC. He cast the only dissenting vote.

 

San Luis Obispo

 

 

Chairman John Peschong led his fellow county board members to consider banning edible manufacturing and dispensaries. His recommendation came as a shocking turnabout to the cannabis community since the county had been one of the most reasonable up to this point.

 

And what was the reason for this sudden change of heart? Peschong said that he learned about a child who consumed an edible in Colorado and went to the hospital for treatment.

 

These anecdotal stories can definitely have a powerful impact on our emotions, but it’s shocking how little actual evidence of real harm exists, and how outrageous the level of cognitive dissonance is surrounding the subject.

 

What Peschong fails to see is that he drives past pharmacies every day–pharmacies that provide the doorways for deadly opiates that flood our streets. He also walks past liquor stores that sell the deadliest drug in our nation, killing 88,000 people a year. Incidentally, this is almost as many deaths caused by tobacco, which is also legally sold at the same liquor stores Peschong walks past.

 

Meanwhile, cannabis saves the lives of veterans who suffer agonizing amputations, helps those on opiates to relieve their addictions, and saves the lives of cancer patients who would otherwise starve to death from nausea and vomiting.

 

Yet we blow up at the headline: “Third Death in Colorado Linked to Edible Marijuana.” The sensationalism of this comment says it all. Of course, what the headline fails to mention is that the actual causes of these three deaths were suicide, murder, and that other factors.

 

What level of cognitive dissonance is required for a politician to allow his county to renew the business licenses of pharmacies, liquor stores, and even fast food chains, then deny the sale of a product that’s never caused a single fatal overdose?

 

Yes, keep edibles away from kids; it’d be a terrifying experience that no child deserves. But what happens when adults turn back to opiates for pain management because they can no longer obtain a safer alternative? What happens when a child finds and eats opiates because they’re pretty and look like candy?

 

Santa Clara County

 

 

Most of the cities in Santa Clara County have decided to ban both medical and recreational cannabis. The City of Campbell was outright hostile toward the idea of either business. In response to a voter initiative’s qualification for the ballot, Campbell put up a competing measure that won.

 

This competing measure enforces a two year moratorium, allowing the city more time to see how the state’s rules pan out. Oddly, despite the ban, they passed a 7-15% cannabis tax that could garner up to a quarter million dollars–if they had any dispensaries to tax.

 

Meanwhile, the city isn’t concerned about residents with MMJ recommendations since they’re allowing MMJ delivery (some cities aren’t even allowing that). However, one wonders how far delivery drivers will travel considering more cities and counties are banning rather than allowing.

 

Saratoga also passed a ban and is now even more restrictive than they were before Prop 64–refusing to allow cultivation even by legitimate cannabis patients. Their reasoning? Public safety and crime prevention.

 

Yet again, we’re forced to wonder about the logic behind this decision. It’s an age-old argument that crime decreases with legalization because the only reason cannabis is expensive is because it’s illegal. Now that cannabis is freely available in many areas, though not in others, wouldn’t this actually increase the incentive to illegally sell the plant?

 

It looks like the gangs are back in business after all.

 

Prop 215: The Beginning of Modern Medical Cannabis

 

 

Before you ask, “can I buy marijuana in California?” let’s examine the laws that made it happen.

 

The Compassionate Use Act of 1996 was originally conceived by San Francisco marijuana activist Dennis Peron in memory of his partner, Jonathan West, who used marijuana to treat his debilitating AIDS symptoms. It declared that medical cannabis can be grown and purchased by patients with virtually any medical condition. 

 

After several failed attempts to achieve legalization, Peron worked with other activists to create Californians for Compassionate Use, a political action committee dedicated to putting medical marijuana on the ballot. That proposition passed with 55.6% support.

 

However, implementing Prop 215 was not without its challenges. Some California counties decided to opt out, effectively banning medical cannabis within county lines.

 

Plus, cannabis remaining a Schedule I narcotic added more barriers and reasons not to comply. Despite allowing ill patients safe access to medical marijuana, many so-called “cannabis clubs,” where patients can obtain and use the plant, were subject to police raids and criminal prosecution.

 

SB 420: California’s Official Medical Marijuana Program

 

 

In 2003, California State Senator John Vasconcellos introduced Senate Bill 420, also known as the Medical Marijuana Program Act. The bill aimed to clarify key components of Proposition 215 and create an official medical marijuana program, complete with a voluntary ID system. It also allows certain patients to be exempt from standard possession limits if a qualified doctor believes more medical cannabis is needed.

 

SB 420 also enacted laws and protections for patients and caregivers that weren’t originally included in Prop 215, including protection against arrest for transporting medical cannabis. It also declared that more information be gathered to potentially increase the number of qualifying conditions.

 

Additionally, the Medical Marijuana Program Act allows probationers, parolees, and prisoners to apply for permission to use medical marijuana; but such requests may be refused at the discretion of authorities.

 

Qualifying Conditions: Who Can Obtain Medical Cannabis in California

 

 

Unlike other states, California has a practically endless list of conditions that may qualify a patient for the California Medical Marijuana Program. They include:

 

• Anxiety
• Anorexia
• Arthritis
• Cachexia (Wasting Syndrome)
• Cancer
• Chronic Pain: any persistent medical symptom that can cause serious harm and limits the ability to conduct one or more major life activity
• Fibromyalgia
• Glaucoma
• HIV/AIDS
• Migraines
• Multiple Sclerosis/Chronic Muscle Spasms
• Seizures

 

What’s the Difference Between a Medical Marijuana Prescription & an ID Card?

 

 

Many are asking, “do I need a California medical marijuana card and a script?” While they’re similar, a medical marijuana recommendation isn’t the same as an ID card. The rec is essentially a paper prescription a licensed medical provider gives a patient verifying their qualifying condition(s) and allowing him or her to use medical cannabis.

 

A medical marijuana program ID card is issued by county health departments on a voluntary basis. The idea behind the ID is patient protection. Police can easily identify MMJ patients by a unique identification number without hassling or detaining them. Patients must renew their ID every year and pay applicable fees; those on state insurance qualify for a 50% discount on their fees.

 

Where to Get a Cannabis Doctor’s Prescription & Medical Cannabis

 

 

With three options to choose from, getting a prescription for medical marijuana isn’t as complicated as you may think.

 

Visit your primary care physician and ask if he or she’s can provide a MMJ prescription. Typically, most aren’t comfortable with cannabis and aren’t knowledgeable enough to recommend it.

 

There are also several stand-alone offices throughout California, staffed entirely with medical marijuana doctors. These docs often see people on a walk-in basis and may be closer and cheaper than a primary care physician. Yet the legwork of searching for them, matching prices and traveling to their office can be a headache.

 

Now medical cannabis prescriptions can be secured online using telemedicine websites and apps. This process is fast, convenient and simple, giving patients nearly instant access to a MMJ certification.

 

But before you google “medical marijuana evaluations near me” try NuggMD, the country’s leading telemedicine service, and get medical marijuana recommendations for only $49. The entire process takes around ten minutes, but you can take all the time you want to talk to the weed doctor. All your info is HIPAA compliant and is never shared with a third party or the state.

 

Once you acquire yours, forget Google or Weedmaps and use Nugg, California’s largest online cannabis marketplace, to access medical marijuana delivery and have it sent to your home.

 

In addition to detailed online menus, compare prices and read reviews before ordering. With Nugg, patients don’t even have to leave home to obtain both a MMJ doctor’s recommendation and medical marijuana!

 

Don’t Wait Until 2018

 

Proposition 215 and SB 420 set the standard for MMJ programs across the country. It’s been over 20 years since medical cannabis was first legalized, and more Californians have safe access to it now more than ever. You should too. 

 

You can obtain a medical cannabis prescription from a few sources, though NuggMD is clearly the best option. Don’t hesitate and get yours today!

 

The Perception of Marijuana Users

 

 

For as long as we’ve known about marijuana, we’ve made assumptions about those who use it.

 

Cannabis has been tied to every pop culture institution imaginable, from the hysterical propaganda of “Reefer Madness” to beloved stoner films like “Half Baked.” Reggae and hip-hop artists have long embraced weed culture in their lyrics and merchandise, while documentaries have fleshed out the importance of cannabis in movements like the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s.

 

As our society continues to better understand cannabis’ role, we’ve begun to appreciate how incredibly diverse its user-base truly is. However, while today we may dismiss the idea that marijuana is only for bored teenagers and society’s rejects, the history of cannabis is plagued with misinformation, public bias, and prejudice.

 

In fact, the U.S. has often made a point of assigning stigmas associated with cannabis to whatever groups stood most at odds with the societal status quo. From the 1960s Counterculture Movement to the S.F. Buyer’s Club established by Dennis Peron in 1991, outsiders have always been more willing to see the truth in cannabis—and often paid a price for it.

 

By examining three eras of use, we can better understand how marijuana came out of the shadows to become mainstream medicine.

 

“Reefer Madness” & the Power of Ignorance

 

 

While “Reefer Madness”—a propaganda film released, re-cut and redistributed between 1936 and 1939—is now seen as a joke, at the time it was deadly serious. In the movie, marijuana is a conduit to heinous consequences, ranging from suicide to mental illness.

 

Aside from being entirely false, the movie’s fallout was a conflation that continues today: equating cannabis with deadly substances like heroin.

 

With no solid information widely available to combat these assertions and other publicly spread materials, many took marijuana’s life-ruining portrayal as gospel truth. This set a precedent for marijuana users as societal outcasts.

 

Jazz musicians were a popular target. Later forms of music, like hip-hop and reggae, would later embrace the role of marijuana. The fact that these three styles of music were primarily the domain of African-American musicians is of course no coincidence.

 

Despite the fact that hemp served a pivotal role in U.S. efforts during World War II—farmers were even allowed draft deferments if they agreed to plant the crop—no efforts were made to consider easing laws put in place by the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act and later made even more strict by the Boggs Act and Narcotics Control Act in the 1950s.

 

Instead, the divide between reality and public perception regarding marijuana users continued to deepen. Middle-class suburban families saw cannabis as an evil imbibed in alleyways—until their own kids starting lighting up.

 

Flowers in Their Hair (and Pipes)

 

 

The years surrounding 1967’s Summer of Love and the ongoing tragedy of the Vietnam War changed everything people thought they knew about marijuana.

 

Soldiers sent across the world were getting high to deal with the horrors they saw daily, while a movement composed of protesters and young Americans disillusioned with the suburban dream found cannabis was one way to reject the rules they’d been raised to honor and obey.

 

Whereas marijuana’s appeal was once only for jazz musicians in poorly-lit clubs, now the biggest band in the world was getting in on the green.

 

The Beatles—turned on to cannabis by fellow artist Bob Dylan—fell hard for cannabis. While many would later move on to LSD and other psychoactive experiences, marijuana began its long equivalence as a popular aid for the creatively minded.

 

The Beat Generation of writers—including luminaries like Allen Ginsberg and Jack Kerouac—also found refuge in cannabis. Suddenly marijuana’s face had morphed into a long-haired, bearded peacenik spouting poetry and calling for an end to war.

 

Of course, this view has drastic limitations; it’s a reflection of the greater society’s efforts to find some common (and negative) thread to tie together the expanding pool of people embracing cannabis as medicine and muse.

 

Stoner Slapstick & Silicon Valley

 

 

By the time High Times started in 1974, it was clear that marijuana wasn’t going away. While President George H. W. Bush followed in the footsteps of his predecessor Ronald Regan by introducing his vision for a “War on Drugs,” there was no placing the genie back in the bottle.

 

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, film became a portal into how cannabis had permeated everyday life. From the explicit exploits of Cheech and Chong to the high school vibes of “Dazed and Confused,” users are always burnouts.

 

Despite the fact that folks like astronomer Carl Sagan and many other academic luminaries were also enjoying the benefits of marijuana, the typical pot smoker was imagined to be a middle-class kid in a tie-dye shirt who was late for class and liked to surf.

 

Meanwhile the gay community suffering from HIV/AIDS found cannabis was a lifeline to surviving the debilitating side-effects of treatment.

 

History’s efforts to define marijuana users as the “other” no matter the situation finally began to crumble with mid-90s reform. As cannabis profits finally resonated with powerhouses like Silicon Valley, suddenly marijuana went from being a taboo to a trend.

 

Nowadays there’s no typical marijuana user: grandmothers, bookworms, and punk rockers all rely on cannabis for pain relief. Unfortunately, the U.S. criminal justice system paints a far different picture. Look at those convicted of non-violent drug offenses and you’ll see a small sub-section of faces, mostly black and brown.

 

When Will It Eventually Change?

 

As the industry expands, it’s important to remember that app-based vaporizers aren’t the final threshold in cannabis’ mainstream assimilation. That’ll only come when law enforcement stops a century of prejudice and finally accepts that marijuana users aren’t full of “Reefer Madness”; and understands that those who farm, cultivate, distribute, and consume it are as varied as the country itself.