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Should the U.S. consider marijuana a lower-risk drug?

Published

3 months ago

August 31, 2023

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has proposed a relaxation of restrictions on marijuana, marking a significant step following a review request from the Biden Administration last year.

As the trend toward legalisation gains momentum across nearly 40 U.S. states, the move could signal a pivotal shift in marijuana’s legal status both at state and federal levels.

While marijuana has been legalised for various forms of use in almost 40 U.S. states, it remains prohibited in certain states and under federal law.

The HHS’s recommendation to reclassify marijuana reflects a push to acknowledge its potential benefits while demoting its perceived risks, in alignment with a growing majority of Americans who support broader legalisation.

The HHS conveyed its scheduling recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) on Tuesday, as per President Biden’s directive.

The DEA, tasked with enforcing drug-related laws, possesses the authority to schedule or reschedule drugs under the Controlled Substances Act.

Presently designated as a schedule I drug, on par with heroin and LSD, marijuana’s classification implies high potential for abuse and lacks accepted medical applications.

The HHS’s proposal, in contrast, suggests a reclassification of marijuana to acknowledge its moderate to low potential for dependence and reduced abuse likelihood, likening it to substances such as ketamine and testosterone.

Should federal regulations around marijuana become more lenient, it could open doors for cannabis-related businesses. Major stock exchanges might allow the listing of such enterprises, and international companies could potentially enter the U.S. market.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasised that the administration’s process is rooted in evidence and led by independent bodies such as HHS and the Department of Justice.

North of the border, cannabis has gained legal status in Canada, creating a haven for publicly traded cannabis businesses. Many of these Canadian entities are poised to expand into the U.S. market if federal legalisation progresses.

News of the proposed shift triggered a surge in the stock prices of various cannabis companies. Notable firms like Canopy Growth, Tilray Brands, and Cronos Group experienced stock price increases, while entities such as Verano Holdings and Sunburn Cannabis expressed support for the HHS’s move.

George Archos, CEO of Verano Holdings, articulated the sentiment shared among advocates for marijuana reform, citing the outdated scheduling status of cannabis as a hindrance and emphasising the harm caused by the historical “War on Drugs.”

The HHS’s recommendation marks a notable development in the ongoing dialogue surrounding marijuana’s legal status in the United States, potentially setting the stage for a broader reconsideration of its classification and the resulting implications.

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The Game Awards 2023: Industry celebrates huge year

Published

13 hours ago

December 4, 2023

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The gaming community is abuzz with anticipation as The Game Awards 2023 approach, scheduled for this Friday, December 7th. This annual event has become a significant highlight for gamers worldwide, celebrating the best titles released throughout the year. With an array of outstanding games in contention, fans are eagerly speculating about the potential winner of the coveted Game of the Year (GOTY) award.

Nominated Titles

The competition is fierce, with some stellar titles vying for the top spot. The nominees include:

Alan Wake 2
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Resident Evil 4
Spider-Man 2
Baldur’s Gate 3
Super Mario Bros Wonder

Each game brings a unique experience to the table, making the decision for the ultimate winner even more challenging. Fans and critics alike are engaging in heated discussions about their personal favorites and predictions.

Watch the Live Announcement Video Here

Resident Evil 4 Remake in VR: A Terrifying Experience Awaits

Capcom is set to thrill fans with a groundbreaking update for Resident Evil 4 Remake. Starting December 8th, owners of PSVR2 and the Remake will have access to a free add-on VR Mode. The immersive experience includes the entire main story with 3D audio, a shooting range for weapon interactions, and a terrifying yet thrilling encounter with the iconic game in virtual reality.

The addition of VR mode is a significant leap for the PSVR2 lineup of games, offering players a chance to dive into the horror classic in an entirely new dimension.

Experience the Chills with the RE Remake VR Mode Trailer

PlayStation 5 Slim Hits Australia

Exciting news for Australian gamers as the sleek PlayStation 5 Slim is set to hit shelves this week. Available for pre-order from major retailers, the slim version will be available on Wednesday, December 6th, just in time for the holiday season.

Options include both disc and digital consoles, with prices at $799 for the disc version and $769 for the digital version bundled with two controllers via Amazon AU. Additional accessories, such as the disc drive and vertical stand, can be purchased separately.

Get a Closer Look at the New PlayStation 5 Slim

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora – A New Frontier in Gaming

In the midst of the gaming frenzy, Ubisoft is set to release Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora on Friday, December 7th. This action-adventure game, set in the expansive open world of the Western Frontier of Pandora, offers a first-person perspective and promises a visually stunning experience.

Fans of the Avatar movies are in for a treat, with the game available on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC. The captivating graphics seen in early footage have heightened the anticipation for this exciting addition to the gaming landscape.

Embark on a New Adventure with the Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Trailer

As the gaming community gears up for The Game Awards and the release of highly anticipated titles and updates, December promises to be a thrilling month for gamers worldwide. Stay tuned for the big reveals and immerse yourself in the ever-evolving world of gaming.

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EV integration and recent tax reimbursement raises questions

Published

16 hours ago

December 4, 2023

ticker NEWS

The Victorian Government’s decision to reimburse Electric Vehicle (EV) owners over an alleged unconstitutional tax has sparked discussions about the global evolution of EV integration.

Automotive journalist Mike Costello emphasises the broader implications for environmental policies and the potential precedent this sets for other regions.

The incident underscores the importance of transparent processes in identifying and compensating affected EV owners and may prompt a reevaluation of tax structures globally.

How governments handle this situation can impact the perception of their support for green initiatives and influence the trust of EV owners.

In summary, this reimbursement marks a pivotal moment, shaping future policies and fostering a more supportive environment for electric vehicles on a global scale.