Spring 2020
Legalization Looms in Albany
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Publisher’s Letter Hi there! Thank you for choosing to read CannaBuff magazine. If you’re unfamiliar with our publication, let us introduce ourselves. This is just our fourth time publishing CannaBuff magazine. We started out as a blog in January 2019, and in June of 19 we introduced our first print publication. We have learned a lot since starting our journey. As the cannabis industry in New York continues to evolve, we aim to partner with and promote other like-minded businesses in the region. Our supporters range from healthcare providers, CBD retailers, educational institutions, glass and hydroponics distributors, product manufacturers, and more. If you are interested in advertising with us or sharing your story with our readers we encourage you to get in touch. Our ultimate goal is to advance the discussion about cannabis in our region. By focusing on quality products and services and what specifically makes them great, we hope to educate and bolster the cannabis community here in Buffalo and the rest of Western New York.
While the primary focus of our magazine will always be cannabis, we will cover other topics. We love our city, so highlighting the things that make it great comes easy to us. Wings, craft beer, art, coffee, music, sports, Bill’s Mafia, corruption, architecture, weather, potholes, and you. The amazing people that make our city great. Our newest column— MusicBuff— promotes local artists, bands, and musicians. Check CannaBuff to find out about cannabisrelated job postings, events, doctors, the best prices on medical marijuana products, and much more! We also distribute via mail and email, and we throw a launch party after every issue. If you’re interested in any of this please join our email list at CannaBuffMag.com We look forward to becoming your independent source for cannabis news, lifestyle, and culture...in Buffalo and beyond!
In this Issue 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
In Bloom Cover Sponsored Content Publisher’s Letter Hemp 3D Printing Innosek Photos Cannabis Events Legislative update
THE TEAM Printer: Jamestown Post Journal Photos By: Kim Buchner KMBuchnerPhotography Magazine Design: Samantha Jean Design Cover and Ad Design: Deanna Clohessy Comic Artist: John Comeau Publisher: Geoff Brown Editors: Brendan Murphy Writers: Jack Porcari, Justin DeLuca, Melissa Moore, Antonio Guerrucci
ADVISORY BOARD: Terrance Bellnier, RPh, MPA Maria Janda, PharmD Michael Infranco, PhD Michael Monzillo, MS Jake Schecter, RN Website: CannaBuffMag.com Twitter: @CannaBuffNY Facebook: @CannaBuffNY Instagram: @CannaBuffMag Phone: (716)-218-0624 Email: Geoff@CannaBuffMag.com
Grow your career with NCCC Sports! CannaBuff Product Picks Sponsored Content Canna Critic The Green Standard Ironworks Spring Lineup Crossword NCCC
Special Thanks to: Niagara County Community College, Adult Health DNP, OneHemp Holistics, Landmark Health Systems, Welcome716, HappyHydro.com, Ground Level Distribution, Sativa Remedy, and @BuildingBuffalo. Disclaimer: The information and documents herein (the content) are intended for personal, noncommercial, general informational purposes, do not constitute medical advice, and are not a substitute for the advice of a medical provider or other licensed professional. CannaBuff makes no warranty, express or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, reliability, timeliness, correctness, suitability, merchantability, or fitness for any particular purpose of the content, and in no event shall CannaBuff or its employees be liable for damages resulting from reading or use of the content. References to specific commercial products, or services by tradename, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, do not constitute or imply an endorsement or recommendation by CannaBuff.
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BUSINESS PROFILE Take a look at local businesses in the cannabis industry.
Innosek and Hemp 3D Printing About 3D Printing Considering our current laser technology and computeraided design, we have come a long way from the old models and prototypes that were laboriously built from wood or other materials. These could take days or weeks to construct, and were costly to produce. Making changes or alterations to the model was equally as difficult and time-consuming, especially if a consultant or third party was involved. This discouraged designers and inventors from making last minute improvements, or taking small details into account. An idea called “rapid prototyping” evolved in the 1980s as a solution to this problem. Rapid prototyping uses automation to develop models and prototypes in hours or days, rather than the weeks that traditional prototyping would take. 3D printing is an automated method in which product designers can make their own rapid prototypes, in a matter of hours, using sophisticated machines similar to inkjet printers. A 3D printer is operated from a computer and produces a 3D model one layer at a time, from bottom to top, by repeatedly printing over the same area. The printer simultaneously deposits and fuses the material using a method known as “fused depositional modeling”. A 3D printer is able to quickly and automatically create a model by using a 3D computer-aided design drawing to produce countless two-dimensional, cross-sectional layers, that lay on top of one another. Instead of ink, the 3D printer deposits layers of molten plastic (or other compounds), and fuses them together with the existing structure with an adhesive or UV light. Instead of toner cartridges, 3D printers are loaded with spools of plastic or other material. About Innosek Innosek is a leading innovation and additive manufacturing company here in Buffalo. Since its inception, Innosek has helped companies both large and small develop products and custom/retired parts for their inventions, equipment, and manufacturing processes. Innosek bridges the gap between prototyping and injection molding, and helps customers rapidly develop or produce smaller batch quantities where expensive tooling and molds are not needed. This keeps customers’ prices down when compared to injection molding and machining, and it also enables them to go to market faster. Founded in 2018, Innosek has quickly become a leading resource to the Buffalo Manufacturing and Startup scene. They’ve worked with, and developed products for, startups and companies like ACV Auctions, Panasonic, Aviate Audio, Tesla, 3AM innovations, and many more. As the company grows and evolves, the 3D printing of various materials has become a huge competitive advantage for Innosek. Currently, Innosek is able to 3D Print flexible, high temperature-resistant, glass, wood, and carbon fiber infused plastics, and now, hemp! Yeah...they 3D print hemp… About Hemp 3D Printing Hemp 3D printing is an innovative and sustainable way to produce new products for a variety of purposes. Here is a brief overview of how it works: 4 CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020
First, the raw plant material must be obtained. The material can be sourced from a local hemp farmer that has excess plants, or a hemp processor that has byproduct plant material that would typically be discarded. Next, the particle size of the material is reduced. This can be accomplished with a blender for smaller batches, or with large production-grade milling equipment, such as the KannaMill (proudly made here in Buffalo), for larger quantities. After the particle size is reduced, the material is mixed with Polylactic Acid (PLA) pellets. PLA is a biodegradable polymer base commonly used in 3D printing. Once the hemp and PLA are combined, the resulting mixture is sucked into an extruder and melted down. At this point, dye can typically be added to achieve a desired color. For hemp filaments, the dyes are usually left out and the finished product is a brown, earthy color that is particularly characteristic of hemp filament. The extruder then pushes the semi-molten material out through a hole with a small diameter, forming a continuous string, or filament. Then, the filament is run through a warm water bath, which cools and solidifies the material and ensures it maintains its size. After this, the filament is measured to ensure it is the correct size for the 3D printer. Finally, the filament is then wound onto a spool and is ready to be loaded into the printer.
New Product Development Low to Mid Volume 3D Printing Validate Ideas Faster
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Innosek has made Buffalo proud with its 3D printed wings & other promotional products honoring the Queen city.
Pictured here are products 3D printed using a hemp filament. A comb, Peace emblem for necklace, and a coaster.
CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020 5
Cannabis Events Monthly Planning Meeting, Western New York NORML Sat March 21st 6pm at Sativa Remedy, 19 Main St, Tonawanda, NY 14150 Marijuana Justice Lobby Day, Western New York NORML Tue March 24th 10am at State Capitol Albany, NY
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Get your Medical Marijuana Card, BROWZ Studio Wed March 25 at 5:30pm-8pm at BROWZ Studio 425 Elmwood Ave, Suite 200, Buffalo, New York 14222 $25 Deposit on cashapp and $150 paid debit/credit at time of service Monthly Cannabis Industry Roundtable, HempLabNY Thur March 26th 8:30am-10:00am at Boylan Code LLP Culver Road, Rochester, NY, USA Raising Chickens 101, Happy Shack Oils & More Sat March 28th 3pm-5pm at Happy Shack Oils & more 6989 Transit Rd, East Amherst NY 14051 Class is $20.00 per person call or text to reserve your spot 716-940-5161. Chick/duck starter kits available for $45.00 for 6 chicks or $60 for 6 ducklings Author Talk and Book signing with Elana Frankel author of “Women & Weed: How the Green Rush is Changing Our Lives” by Ellementa Western New York Sun, March 29th 2:00pm at Happy Shack Oils & more 6989 Transit Rd, East Amherst NY 14051 Tickets $10 advance or $15 door purchase through Eventbrite Cannabis Seed to Sale 101, HempLabNY Thur and Frid April 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th 6:30pm-8:30pm at Three Heads Brewing 186 Atlantic Avenue, Rochester, NY Kush Taco Night, Built without Guilt & Sativa Remedy Sat April 4th 6pm at Public Espresso + Coffee 2178 Seneca Street, Buffalo, New York 14210 Tickets $35 advance or $40 at the door through Eventbrite CannaBusiness: 20/20 Legislative Outlook, HempLabNY Weds April 15th 8:30am-1:30pm, Hyatt Regency Rochester 125 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604 420 Freedom Festival, Western New York NORML & Terrapin Station Mon April 20th 6pm at Buffalo Iron Works 49 Illinois St, Buffalo, NY 14203 Tickets $10 Monthly Cannabis Industry Roundtable, HempLabNY Thur April 23rd 8:30am-10:00am at Boylan Code LLP Culver Road, Rochester, NY, USA Monthly Cannabis Industry Roundtable, HempLabNY Thur May 28th 8:30am-10:00am at Boylan Code LLP Culver Road, Rochester, NY, USA
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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE Providing the latest on cannabis and hemp laws.
Comprehensive Cannabis Legalization in New York: Round II By: Patrick Hines (phines@hodgsonruss.com) and W. Seth Calleri (wcalleri@hodgsonruss.com), Hodgson Russ LLP On January 21, 2020, as part of his 2021 Executive Budget, New York State Governor Cuomo released his proposed Cannabis Regulation and Taxation Act (“CRTA” for short)—his vision of a regulated cannabis market in New York State. As readers probably know, comprehensive cannabis legislation failed to garner enough support to pass as part of the budget or as standalone legislation in 2019. The current version of the bill includes more detail than last year’s, no doubt benefiting from twelve months of additional consideration and discussion among the Governor’s office and the legislature. Here’s (some of) what you need to know. The Office of Cannabis Management The CRTA calls for the creation of a new “Office of Cannabis Management,” or “OCM,” which will be a part of the broader Division of Alcohol Beverage Control. The three main branches of the cannabis industry—medical, hemp, and adult-use—would all be brought under the OCM umbrella. The legislation charges the OCM Executive Director and four board members, all political appointees, with creating and maintaining the rules of the road for New York’s cannabis program. OCM’s authority will be broad. For example, OCM has the power to set minimum mark-ups and maximum prices for products; set maximum doses and concentration of products; set a cap on the production or sales of certain licensees; dictate form and contents of labels and types of packaging; regulate advertising; regulate hours of operation; and approve the size and location of any type of registered facility. Anyone looking to operate a cannabis business, or even deal with cannabis businesses, needs to know and appreciate OCM’s rules as they are proposed, and when they will take effect.
Sorry, the existing proposal does not allow you to grow recreational at home, with or without a license. Hemp and Hemp Extracts Hemp rules will also change. New hemp legislation passed in December 2019 takes effect this month. But if the CRTA passes, it will change all those rules again, effective January 2021. Processing hemp for hemp extract (CBD) will require a hemp processor license. And CBD distributors, wholesalers, and retailers will need permits authorizing them to sell hemp extract products. There is a great deal of uncertainty in the hemp industry, between federal guidelines still in flux, New York rules about to take effect, and a potential sea change on the horizon. Anyone currently in the hemp space, or thinking about making a play, needs to consistently stay on top of the regulatory landscape. Taxes The CRTA gives us a look at how cannabis will be taxed. For medical cannabis, the proposed law provides a 7% tax on gross receipts. For adult-use non-medical cannabis, all licensees will need to pay a $600 registration fee with OCM and the New York Tax Department. Then, there is a two-tiered structure. Taxes based on product weight will accrue when cultivators sell or transfer their crops. Retail sales are subject to a 20% state tax, and an additional 2% local tax. However, those retail sales will not be subject to other existing state or local taxes. What’s next? There is no guarantee the current CRTA will be adopted as part of this year’s budget, but it is likely to become law if it does. Even after passage, there will be many months of rulemaking before you will be able to grow or sell cannabis for non-medical purposes. To be successful, cannabis businesses need to pay attention to that process, be ready to invest before it is finalized, and plan for the long term with adaptability along the way.
Licensing To enter the market for non-medical cannabis in New York, you will need to apply for one of several licenses, divided into cultivators, processors, distributors, and retailers. There are some other types of licenses, too. Successful applicants will need to show that they have the infrastructure and setup necessary to use the license. So if you want to be first to market, the time to act is “yesterday.” Existing “Registered Organizations”—the 10 current medical cannabis companies in New York—will be permitted to grow, process, distribute, and sell at retail (also called “vertical integration”). Everyone else will have to make a choice. If you want a retail license, you cannot also have licenses to grow, process, or distribute product. OCM could also limit your ability to transfer or sell a license once you get it, so long-term planning is also important. CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020 7
Grow your Career in the Cannabis Industry with Cannabis Horticulture Classes from Niagara County Community College
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Cannabis Pest Management This course is designed to develop the student’s skills for biotic and abiotic diagnostic problem identification, and increase
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The Biology of Cannabis In this course, students have the opportunity to learn about the anatomy and physiology of cannabis as they explore the unique features of cannabis biology, including the evolution, taxonomy, morphology, and floral traits of the plant. Other topics covered include cannabinoids, terpenes, tropisms, plant genetics, and breeding. The topics presented will increase the student’s awareness of the role that external environmental factors play in producing internal responses in the cannabis plant. This course is typically taught during spring semester.
To learn more about these courses or how to earn a Horticulture Associate of Applied Science degree or Horticulture Certificate, visit niagaracc.suny.edu/programs/cannabis/
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There are three unique ways for students to study at NCCC. Students can: (1) take classes for college credit in pursuit of an associate’s degree or certificate, (2) take low-cost, non-credit classes through the Workforce Development and Continuing Education program and earn a certificate of completion, or (3) attend classes tuition-free as a Senior Audit for individuals 60 and older. NCCC horticulture classes give a well-rounded overview of plant cultivation and management. Courses cover plant protection (IPM), landscape design, herbaceous and woody plants, turf management, greenhouse management, plant biology, and soil science. Their cannabis-focused courses are summarized below.
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Niagara County Community College (NCCC) is now offering classes on cannabis horticulture, starting this fall. NCCC is a public SUNY school offering associate degree programs and certificates, as well as a number of non-credit bearing programs for individuals looking to enhance their career prospects.
Cannabis Production Learn the science behind the cultivation, propagation, and production of cannabis, including industrial hemp and various strains of marijuana. This course will provide students with the latest research and best management practices for the indoor and outdoor commercial production of cannabis species including methods of propagation, lighting, irrigation, media, equipment, fertility, harvesting, drying, and curing. Information on hydroponics and organic options will be included. This course is typically taught during the fall semester.
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Demand for Horticulturists Many cannabis companies have sprouted from the skill of previously illicit growers, but as these companies increase scale they are seeking the help of qualified horticulturists to take their operations to the next level and optimize their growing practices. A number of states have experienced problems where cannabis supply is unable to meet demand, losing stakeholders significant amounts of money. Cannabis horticulturists are positioned well to help solve these issues.
The Business of Cannabis This course includes an important introduction to the legal, financial, and societal issues surrounding medicinal, recreational, and industrial cannabis and the cannabis industry. Learn about the laws that govern cannabis distribution, cultivation, possession, and consumption for adults and medical patients. Additionally, this course will explore the history of cannabis, industry trends, careers available in the industry, business types, sales and customer service skills, security, and information on strains, products, consumption methods, budtending, and cannabis culture. This course is typically taught during the fall semester.
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Horticulture is the branch of plant agriculture that deals with the cultivation and management of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants. Horticulturists focus on the art and science of plants to build greener communities. Cannabis horticulture is an emerging industry with demand expected to grow exponentially as the cannabis and hemp industries continue to expand in the U.S. and abroad.
understanding of potential prevention and treatment options in the cannabis industry. The course covers the identification of various environmental and nutrient problems, as well as insect, disease, and weed pest issues. Additionally, it will cover cultural, non-chemical, organic, biological controls, and synthetic chemical pest management options and how they impact quality control issues. The emphasis in this course will be placed on sustainable, best management practices. This course is typically taught during spring semester.
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There are now eleven states that have legalized marijuana for adult recreational use. Thirty-three states have approved public medical cannabis programs, and with the passing of the farm bill, it is also now legal to grow hemp (the version of the plant that contains little-to-no THC). As interest in cannabis grows and society begins to accept its culture more and more, the demand for it greatly intensifies. Along with this follows the demand for qualified individuals who are trained to properly grow it. These specialists are called horticulturists.
Sports: MLB Changes Policy Regarding Cannabis, Opiates; Vision Set on Recovery Rather than Punishment By Antonio Guerrucci and Brendan Murphy As reported in our last issue, the MLB does not currently test its athletes for marijuana. The league removed marijuana from its list of banned substances, first reported in December by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The amended rule also contained the addition of several substances, including synthetic cannabinoid (commonly known as K2 or Spice), cocaine, and opioids such as fentanyl and oxycodone. The ruling is set to be enforced in the upcoming 2020 season. The league’s main interest is to ensure athletes aren’t using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). If they are found to be using PEDs, fines as well as temporary suspensions could ensue. To find out more about the new rule and how it might impact the league, we reached out to MLB’s media relations team and discussed what concrete actions will be taking place when testing for banned substances. Consistent screening seen throughout the different levels of baseball (MLB & MiLB) Prior to the new instatements, MiLB players and MLB players were treated differently with regards to drug testing. MiLB players were subjected to more extensive testing for drugs of abuse, and faced harsher punishments in the form of suspensions. MLB players, on the other hand, did not face the same degree of screening, and instead were punished by fines and mandated treatment programs. Part of the reason for this inconsistency was due to the unionization of MLB players, who sought leniency with marijuana. Essentially, because of this, the MLB was not routinely checking its players for drugs of abuse, but was doing so for the minors. Talk about your night and day scenarios. Now that marijuana has been removed from the list of banned substances, under the new rules, players from both leagues can be treated the same.
on practical approaches to marijuana, as well as the dangers of drugs of abuse. This brings us to our last point of discussion. Focusing more on recently added substances, specifically Opioids Although cannabis is a hot-topic in our country right now, it was not the driving force behind the sudden change in the league’s testing process. The adjustment comes mainly in response to the passing of former Angels pitcher Tyler Skaggs. The 27-year-old pitcher was found dead in his hotel room with the autopsy revealing toxic levels of fentanyl, oxycodone, and alcohol in his system. Sadly, he is not the only athlete that has died from a deadly concoction of prescription drugs and alcohol. Former New York Rangers hockey player Derek Boogaard also passed after using Percocet prior to a night of drinking. With the new change already underway through Spring Training, the MLB is very optimistic about its potential to protect the health of its players with continued support and further education. MLB Deputy Commissioner and Chief Legal Officer Dan Halem adds, “It is our collective hope that this agreement will help raise public awareness on the risks and dangers of opioid medications and contribute positively to a national conversation about this important topic.”
Cannabis cases will be treated equally to those that involve Alcohol With that being said, the statement provided to us by the Major League Baseball’s Player Association (MLBPA) spoke to their new viewpoint regarding cannabis: “…marijuana-related conduct will be treated the same as alcoholrelated conduct under the Parties’ Joint Treatment Program for Alcohol-Related and Off-Field Violent Conduct, which provides for the mandatory evaluation, voluntary treatment and the possibility of discipline by a Player’s Club or the Commissioner’s Office in response to certain conduct involving Natural Cannabinoids.” In layman’s terms, the discipline has been reformed to be met with treatment rather than suspensions and/or monetary fines. With the course of action now taking on a different discourse in a sport of long-standing traditions and values, we are faced with this question — will the league begin to consider possible applications for the reform to be used in the context of physical or mental methods of recovery? When faced with this query, our source reverted back to the league’s statement regarding the background of the policy change. It was made clear that these programs set in place “should not be construed as promoting or recommending the use of natural cannabinoids…” and that marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance under U.S. federal law. However, the MLB and MLBPA are beginning to present educational programming to club players and personnel CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020 9
CannaBuff Product Picks! CannaBuff is here to share some of those special products that make it easy for the stoner on-the-go. We are now able to showcase a few of our favorite portableproducts through our preferred partner GroundLevelDistribution.com. Below, you’ll find CannaBuff’s top recommendations to add a little convenience to your Cannabis-lifestyle. These tried and true products are perfect for any pot pal who doesn’t have time to waste. Be sure to use the coupon code CANNABUFF for 20% off any of these products at GroundLevelDistribution.com. Rowll Rowll Rolling Papers were built with the vision of eliminating the need for multiple products to roll a simple joint. They attain this by providing space for storage, a grinder, papers and filters, built into an easy, all-in-one rolling kit. Rowll rolling papers are made from the finest quality, environmentally-friendly eco materials. They contain NO dyes, NO flavoring, and NO burn additives. We love Rowll’s convenient concept because it’s a one stop shop for everything you need to roll up and it eliminates waste, which benefits the world around us. Rowll helps you to be a better cannabis consumer! Jeca Energy Bars Jeca Energy Bars are MADE IN BUFFALO artisanal and made in a good, old-fashioned way, with high quality ingredients and small batch techniques. These holistic energy bars come in three amazing vegan-friendly flavors: Matcha & Seeds, Coconut & Curry, and Almond & Dates. All three varieties can be found on Ground Level Distribution’s website and at various stores around the 716. Not only are they an easy snack to grab and go, but we love that they’re locally made. Anytime you can support local small businesses, eat healthy, and keep it simple, we are in! Jeca Energy Bars are the perfect healthy munchie to enjoy after a smoke sesh, yoga, or on the way to the office. L’il Sucker The patented L’il Sucker keeps your drink (or bong) still and secure in a world full of motion. So it’s ideal for the adventurous cannabis-enthusiast on-the-go. Whether you are blasting down the river in a kayak, riding trails on your ATV, or chilling at your favorite music festival, L’il Sucker keeps your objects firmly planted where you set them down. Their hands-free design adds practical convenience and safety to your next cannabis-fueled adventure. CannaBuff Hoodie Stoners and hoodies go together like peanut butter & jelly. Potenthusiasts have been rocking hoodies since hoodies were rocked. They’re comfy, they’re easy, and they’re cool AF. What better way to honor this sacred union than a Cannabuff Hoodie? Rep your favorite local Cannabis brand in style and comfort with the Cannabuff Hoodie. We’ve gotten together with GLD to 10 CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020
offer our most loyal fans and followers this high-quality fashion statement. The hoodie is the pinnacle of convenience and the CannaBuff Hoodie is the perfect addition to any smoker’s wardrobe. You can find details and sizes on the GLD website. CannaBuff is happy to make your life a little easier with the aforementioned on-thego product suggestions. So, grab your Rowll papers, snag a Jecca Bar, throw your fav beverage into a L’il Sucker and wrap that CannaBuff Hoodie around your waist like you’re Hey Arnold! We all know life can be stressful, so why not keep it as simple as possible with these ease-enhancing items. Remember, use the coupon code CANNABUFF on GroundLevelDistribution.com for a 20% discount on all of these amazing products!
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CANNACRITIC Highlighting important and sometimes challenging issues related to cannabis.
Cannabis & Mental Illness Many believe that medical cannabis may be helpful with alleviating symptoms of mental illnesses, such as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but the effects of cannabis use on the brain are not yet fully understood. One of the greatest concerns many doctors have about cannabis is its association with mental illness. Many people with severe mental illness are heavy marijuana users. Pro-cannabis organizations usually respond to this by saying that it is the mental illness that leads these people to use cannabis as a form of self-medication, but this point is not fully supported by scientific evidence. Psychosis The most worrisome effect on the brain is an increase in the risk of developing psychosis. Symptoms of psychosis include delusions and hallucinations and a general disconnection from reality. Psychosis is the hallmark sign of schizophrenia, a severely disabling psychiatric disorder. Again, staunch supporters of cannabis will usually write this off, stating the reason for this is that these people are very sick. Their illness drives them to seek any means of treatment to feel better— cannabis is readily available and seems to work. The correlation for cannabis use and risk of psychotic illness appears to be dose-dependent. In other words, the heavier the use, the greater the risk. The effect is thought to be due to THC, and while correlation doesn’t equal causation, the link has been repeatedly confirmed and is a major concern of the National Academy of Medicine. Hypomania Another concern is the development of hypomania in adolescents and early adults using marijuana. Hypomania is a milder form of mania which is typically seen in Bipolar Disorder, and is characterized by hyperactivity, feelings of grandiosity, increased energy, and decreased need for sleep. A study done in the UK followed 3370 participants who used cannabis at age 17, and followed them throughout the next five years. Cannabis use at least 2-3 times a week was associated with a higher risk for hypomania at ages 22-23. Again, the risk appeared to be dosedependent, with weekly use being associated with a greater risk compared to any use at all. Cannabis Use Disorder Despite the medical application of cannabis and the millions of people who consume cannabis for therapeutic use, like any substance, it is susceptible to abuse. The American Medical Association cites marijuana’s large potential for misuse and abuse as their reason for opposing medical marijuana legislation. Cannabis use disorder has become more of a concern in recent years due to increasing potency of marijuana. In the nineties, the average THC content in marijuana was around 4%. By 2014, THC content had risen to 12%. Now, with the use of extracts on the rise, potency is even higher. Samples of marijuana extracts show THC content as high as 50-80% on a weight by weight basis.
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Motivation Historically, cannabis use was thought to sap motivation. This has been somewhat debunked, and changes in motivation no longer seem to be a major concern. Studies show frequent cannabis users rate their motivation levels similar compared to non-users. CBD While there is potential for THC to have negative effects on the brain, CBD seems to have more positive effects. CBD is neuroprotective and is being explored as a potential treatment for anxiety, schizophrenia, and a range of other neurologic and psychiatric disorders. As always, this is not medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Always seek the opinion of your doctor or psychiatrist before making any medical decisions.
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The Green Standard By Jack Porcari There has been much buzz about 2020 becoming the “year of cannabis.” From New York State governor Andrew Cuomo enacting a more progressive decriminalization policy last August, to Mayor Byron Brown ordering the police to stop enforcing lowlevel marijuana offenses, there seems to be a strong momentum. Citizens are listening closely to proposals highlighted in the 2020 State of The State and the Governor’s proposed legislation. Activists from organizations such as WNY NORML, The Drug Policy Alliance, The Start SMART Coalition, and Vocal NY have been present and ready to make substantive change in Albany this legislative session. Kassandra Frederique of the Drug Policy Alliance issued a statement to the governor in January addressing policies that legalization should focus on in the following years, “It’s our hope that Governor Cuomo take the opportunity to listen to real New Yorkers and small businesses across the state, to make this bill one that benefits all those who have been harmed by prohibition.” Advocates from all corners of New York are fighting for comprehensive policy positions in areas such as small business, home-grown cannabis, immigration status, parent’s rights, community reinvestment, and medical marijuana access. With the continual pressure of dedicated advocacy networks in Buffalo, Rochester, New York City Long Island and more, some believe that the Governor’s proposal has a good chance at passing through the budget this year on April 1.
More than 60% of New Yorkers have supported legalization since last year. Public opinion is certainly in favor of a new future for Buffalo and New York State as a whole. A future where our medical program has access to fullplant medicine and is not costprohibitive for many families. A future where parents, veterans, immigrants, working professionals, and otherwise lawabiding citizens do not have to worry about cannabis impacting the course of their life. Our state has the opportunity to set the green standard for legalization in other states and America by focusing on policies with significant reform in regard to social justice, equity, and reinvestment.
Senator Liz Krueger has been championing legislation in the New York State Senate since last year to make sure that legalization is a priority. Justin Flagg, the Communications Director for the Senator, claims that “We have moved the ball down the field as a result of efforts last year … we were very close to the finish line when the session ended, and essentially we ran out of time.” Despite the failed efforts last year, Flagg believes this attempt will have fewer challenges: “We’re starting this year a lot further along than we were last year, which is part of why I think, and why the senator is confident that we could get it done.” While the anticipation is high for legislation to be passed this year, many are cautious of what legalization could look like if implemented incorrectly. Kevin Harbinson, a local pharmacist and District Manager for dispensary operations in New York and Pennsylvania at PharmaCann LLC, has some reservations about the governor’s proposal, particularly the proposed tax rate. According to an analysis of Cuomo’s bill presented by Empire State NORML,” The overall rate is well in excess of 40% and in some cases, it could be as high as 60%.” As someone who works in medical marijuana dispensaries across the state, Harbinson knows current markets and worries that a tax rate this high could be detrimental for New York. ”I would hope that we wouldn’t be trendsetters in setting the highest tax rate … I think that would drive people to different states especially if the surrounding states start to slip.” For comparison, Colorado, a state with a 30% cannabis tax, collected $302.4 million in tax revenue from 2019 alone. With a population three times the size of Colorado and a GDP five times bigger, lawmakers in New York need to examine other state’s models and make up their minds on an equitable tax rate.
CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020 13
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CannaBuff Crossword: Spring is in the Air! By Maria Janda | Find answers on Page 8
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3. M LB _____ Day occurs in March 4. ET vehicles 5. Living room sectional 6. Buffalo avenue and village 7. Type of punctuation used in web addresses 8. Inscribe in a linoleum block 9. Cornell locale 10. Major Spring holiday 11. I t’s placed behind a shower curtain 14. Urgent area for M.D.s 16. USDs 22. W ord for a conman who assists a gambler 24. French neo-Impressionist 26. F eeling after a haunted house 29. S ports clothing title letters used in logo 30. S hort line was a fake one of these in monopoly (abbr.) 32. Anglers’ tools 33. Not a cathode
36. To beam or shoot out light rays in all directions 37. Dunaway, or Resnick 38. Remote controlled 39. Broken bone image 41. Dog command 42. Metamorphoses 43. R oadside assistance company 48. Tent 51. Erected or in shape 53. Meat cut 54. Spanish affirmation 55. Custard pie 57. G as company after Standard Oil 59. A quick pool visit 60. To feel ill 61. Tub 62. Abbreviation used for sugar 66. Spanish for “I”
CANNABUFFMAG.COM • SPRING 2020 15
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For more information: niagaracc.suny.edu/programs/cannabis Carolyn Stanko Program Coordinator, Horticulture cstanko@niagaracc.suny.edu
Fall classes begin August 31, 2020 NIAGARA COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
3111 Saunders Settlement Road Sanborn, NY 14132 • 716-614-6222
