Florida judge calls out Gov. DeSantis MMJ license inaction, World Anti-Doping Agency doubles down on anti-cannabis stance, and MMA Fighter and medical cannabis advocate Elias Theodoru passes away.
Let’s dive into this week’s cannanews.
Florida’s ever expanding medical cannabis program of over 700,000 patients has hit a major roadblock. The states Department of Health (DOH)—under the direction of Governor Ron DeSantis—is refusing to grant additional medical marijuana treatment center (MMTC) licenses. Now, hopeful license seekers are taking to the courts to fight back against the DOH’s inaction.
For the record, the DOH’s continued withholding of MMTC licenses is completely illegal. The 2017 law which created the framework of the states medical cannabis program requires that the DOH grant new licenses to keep up with the increasing number of certified patients. So, whats the hold up?
According to Gov. DeSantis, the DOH is pausing its MMTC application process until the 2017 law finishes its stint in litigation. Only one problem—the 2017 law has already finished its stint in litigation with the state’s Supreme Court deciding to uphold its statutes.
With the courts precedent on their side, various applicants have sued the DOH in hopes of obtaining licenses. One of these lawsuits came from Louis Del Favero Orchids Inc. which took the DOH to Tallahassee appeals court.
Though the Tallahassee court ultimately sided with the DOH—they did acknowledge the DOH is not acting in good faith. Judge Ross Bilbrey suggested the DOH “open the application window” warning that continued inaction will make it “necessary for a potential licensee to ‘seek judicial relief to compel compliance with the department’s constitutional duties.”
What do you think of Florida’s ongoing MMTC license legal battles? Let us know in the comments!
Last year, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) came under fire for their suspension of U.S. sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson following a positive cannabis test. Many argued that cannabis’s place on the banned substances list was unwarranted considering the plant provides no performance enhancing properties. Unfortunately, it looks like criticism did not sway the WADA as the organization is expected to keep cannabis on its banned substance.
Veriheal has satisfied millions of patients nationwide by giving them access to these benefits
In a statement, the WADA revealed that it took some time to reconsider cannabis’ place on the list at the request of “a small number” of countries anti-doping agencies. However—after consulting with an expert panel—the WADA decided to keep the list as is. The WADA noted that its cannabis policies were incredibly lenient as is with minimal suspensions for violations.
U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) CEO Travis Tygart, voiced his disappointment at the WADA’s decision. Tygart said he does not believe athletes should be penalized for positive cannabis test. Instead, Tygart said the WADA should follow the USADA’s example and only punish athletes if the organization can prove the athlete is using cannabis to gain a competitive advantage.
The WADA will to make its decision public after its executive committee meeting on September 23rd.
What do you think of the WADA keeping cannabis on its banned substance list? Do you agree with Travis Tygart’s advice to the organization? Let us know in the comments!
Veriheal is saddened to report the death of MMA fighter and cannabis advocate Elias Theodoru. The Toronto native passed away from cancer on Monday September, 11th at the age of 34.
Theodoru’s accolades in the ring are only surpassed by his contributions as a cannabis advocate.
In 2020, Theodoru became the first Canadian athlete to earn a cannabis exemption. Theodoru made history again in 2021 when Colorado granted him a similar medical cannabis exemption—a first in the U.S.
We wish nothing but the best for Theodoru’s friends and family during this difficult time.
The governor could possibly be getting kickbacks from trueleaf. Since they obtained one of only two licenses,
They have gone from 1 store too over 100 in two years.
YOU TELL ME SOMETHING AINT GOIN ON!!!
With the arrival of 4/20 comes the promise of festivals, mass smoke sessions, and camaraderie with fellow cannabis enthusiasts. But, while cannabis may promote social gathering for some, others prefer to consume their cannabis in the way of the introvert – that is, completely alone. If you’re not exactly a social smoker and still want…
It’s become increasingly common to hear stories of those suffering from serotonin syndrome, but for some, the full scope and depth of this mysterious condition remain shrouded in mystery. Are psychedelic drugs and cannabis capable of triggering this serious medical issue? In this post, we’ll dive into what serotonin syndrome is, how you may be…
In the past few years, improvements in artificial intelligence (AI) have helped different industries evolve, making processes better and more efficient. In general, the agricultural sector has already welcomed the use of AI with open arms. The cannabis industry is also primed for big changes to incorporate the use of AI into the field. From…
The legendary stoner holiday 4/20 is upon us, and so are the transits and astrological happenings associated with it. As spring and warm weather begin to roll in, spirits lift, and people spend more time outside under the sun—and, of course, the stars. Smoking under the night sky is a thrilling experience. Whether you’re a…
Hash is more than just a hot trend with ancient origins: it’s the future of medical cannabis consumption. Because this form of concentrate is deliberately engineered to preserve the natural terpenes and cannabinoid profile of the cannabis plant, dabbing hash is perhaps the most efficient way to seek the potential benefits of medical marijuana –…
Get your medical marijuana card today
Sign up in under 5 minutes
