Podcasts about Controlled Substances Act

United States drug-regulating law

  • 159PODCASTS
  • 371EPISODES
  • 41mAVG DURATION
  • 1MONTHLY NEW EPISODE
  • Apr 20, 2025LATEST
Controlled Substances Act

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024


Best podcasts about Controlled Substances Act

Latest podcast episodes about Controlled Substances Act

The Podcast by KevinMD
Healers or criminals: the alarming trend of physician prosecution

The Podcast by KevinMD

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 14:50


Practicing internist and psychiatrist Muhamad Aly Rifai discusses his article "Criminalizing care: How the system turned on physicians." He argues that physicians, historically pillars of trust, are increasingly being targeted and criminalized under regulations like the Controlled Substances Act and health care fraud statutes. Muhamad details several cases, including those of Drs. Sachy, Kousa, and Anand, as well as his own acquittal on federal fraud charges, to illustrate how medical judgment and complex patient care are being conflated with criminal activity. He critiques the tactics used, such as aggressive federal investigations, flawed audits, data manipulation in PDMPs, inflammatory press releases ("dirty doctors"), and a perceived erosion of the presumption of innocence, noting that only 0.4 percent of federal defendants are found not guilty. Muhamad highlights the devastating personal and professional consequences for physicians and the disruption to patient care, calling for urgent reforms including clearer guidelines, prosecutorial accountability, DEA process reform, and equal application of due process to end the war on healers. Our presenting sponsor is Microsoft Dragon Copilot. Microsoft Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow, is transforming how clinicians work. Now you can streamline and customize documentation, surface information right at the point of care, and automate tasks with just a click. Part of Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare, Dragon Copilot offers an extensible AI workspace and a single, integrated platform to help unlock new levels of efficiency. Plus, it's backed by a proven track record and decades of clinical expertise—and it's built on a foundation of trust. It's time to ease your administrative burdens and stay focused on what matters most with Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended

The Psychedelic Entrepreneur - Medicine for These Times with Beth Weinstein
The Altered States of America: Psychedelic Movements - Robert Forte

The Psychedelic Entrepreneur - Medicine for These Times with Beth Weinstein

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 93:38


Robert Forte is a scholar of the history and psychology of religion, with a special focus on the ancient and modern use—and misuse—of psychedelic plants and drugs. He has studied and collaborated with many of the most seminal figures who first brought these substances to public consciousness since the 1940s, including Albert Hofmann, Gordon Wasson, Timothy Leary, Alexander Shulgin, Stanislav Grof, and others.His first book, Entheogens and the Future of Religion, was praised by Huston Smith as “the best single inquiry into the religious significance of psychedelics.” His second book, Outside Looking In: Appreciations, Castigations, Reminiscences of Timothy Leary, offers an intimate look at this controversial figure. In 1998, he republished an updated edition of The Road to Eleusis: Unveiling the Secret of the Mysteries by Gordon Wasson, Albert Hofmann, and Carl Ruck—a seminal text that initiated the inquiry into the role of entheogens in Western religion and philosophy.Over the years, Forte has manufactured MDMA before it was scheduled, conducted research into its clinical effects, and performed fieldwork in Peru studying the impact of ayahuasca on cancer patients. He has also maintained an underground practice utilizing various medicines for psychotherapy and spiritual exploration.Around 20 years ago, his interests shifted toward the sociology of psychedelic experience, where he has developed a somewhat controversial perspective on how these substances entered modern consciousness. He argues that the history of psychedelics, much like the history of religion, contains both the best and worst of humanity. Without acknowledging and integrating its shadow aspects, he warns, we risk becoming victims of them.Episode Highlights▶ How early psychedelic experiences profoundly influenced individual perspectives.▶  How the 1980s saw a resurgence in psychedelic research following prior suppression.▶  MDMA's shift from therapeutic tool to illegal substance exemplifies drug policy complexities.▶  Government drug policies and how they often prioritize control over public health.▶  The psychedelic narratives that are often entangled with conspiracy theories and misinformation.▶  How psychedelics offer potential for consciousness expansion, but require careful integration to avoid pitfalls like spiritual bypassing.▶  The Controlled Substances Act and how it's rationality is widely questioned.▶  How despite illegality, MDMA's popularity grew, reflecting societal interest.▶  The societal impact of psychedelics is multifaceted, demanding ethical consideration.▶  Why meaningful change requires applying psychedelic insights to daily life, beyond mere experience.Robert Forte's Links & Resources▶ Website: alteredstatesofamerica.net▶ Substack: alteredstatesofamerica.substack.com▶ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/robert.forte.79  Download Beth's free trainings here: Clarity to Clients: Start & Grow a Transformational Coaching, Healing, Spiritual, or Psychedelic Business: https://bethaweinstein.com/grow-your-spiritual-businessIntegrating Psychedelics & Sacred Medicines Into Business: https://bethaweinstein.com/psychedelics-in-business▶ Beth's Coaching & Guidance: https://bethaweinstein.com/coaching ▶ Beth's Offerings & Courses: https://bethaweinstein.com/services▶ Instagram: @bethaweinstein ▶ FB: / bethw.nyc + bethweinsteinbiz ▶ Join the free Psychedelics & Purpose Community: / psychedelicsandsacredmedicines

Blunt Business
The INCBA's Perspective on Regulation, Compliance, and Investment

Blunt Business

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 43:47


Blunt Business explores the critical issues facing the cannabis industry, focusing on regulation, compliance, and investment, through the lens of the International Cannabis Bar Association (INCBA). David Ruskin, their newly appointed president, shared his insights on the organization's role and the evolving legal and regulatory landscape. Ruskin highlighted the INCBA's value as a network of experienced professionals dedicated to navigating the complexities of cannabis law. He emphasized the organization's role in providing access to expertise on diverse regulatory standards across different markets, a crucial benefit given the ever-changing rules governing the industry. The INCBA serves as a central resource for staying informed and connected, offering guidance on navigating the intricate regulatory environment. The conversation addressed the ongoing process of rescheduling cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act. Ruskin discussed the delays caused by new allegations and the subsequent public comment period, including an interlocutory appeal that further complicates the timeline. The potential impact of the Biden administration's support for rescheduling was explored, along with the possibility of increased DEA involvement in cannabis regulation following rescheduling. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The Guy Gordon Show
House Passes Fentanyl Legislation

The Guy Gordon Show

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2025 7:57


February 7, 2025 ~ The HALT Fentanyl Act passed the House and would permanently place fentanyl-related substances in Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. Guy, Lloyd, and Jamie talk with U.S. Congressman Tim Walberg (R-Tipton) about the legislation he sponsored, and how to stop the delivery of the drug across the border.

Rio Bravo qWeek
Episode 181: Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Rio Bravo qWeek

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 21:41


Episode 181: Cannabinoid Hyperemesis SyndromeFuture Dr. Johnson explains the pathophysiology, assessment, and management of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis syndrome. Dr. Arreaza adds some insights on the topic.  Written by Tyler Johnson, MSIV, Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific-Northwest. Editing and comments by Hector Arreaza, MD.You are listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast, your weekly dose of knowledge brought to you by the Rio Bravo Family Medicine Residency Program from Bakersfield, California, a UCLA-affiliated program sponsored by Clinica Sierra Vista, Let Us Be Your Healthcare Home. This podcast was created for educational purposes only. Visit your primary care provider for additional medical advice.Definition Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a syndrome of cyclic abdominal pain, vomiting, or nausea in older adolescents and adults who have chronic ϲаnոаbis use.The term “marijuana” is considered racist by some people. In the 1930s, American politicians popularized the term “marijuana” in the U.S. to portray the drug as a “Mexican vice” and to have a justification to persecute Mexican immigrants. Epidemiology The overall prevalence of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is unknown due to a lack of definitive criteria or diagnostic tests. It occurs in a population that may not disclose substance use. One study conducted in 2015 in a United States urban emergency department not named, found one-third of patients with near-daily cannabis use met criteria for having had CНЅ in the prior six months.Why are rates of CHS increasing?Between 2005-2014 hospitalizations cyclic vomiting syndromes increased by 60 %. concurrent cannabis use in hospitalized patients increasing from 2 to 21 percent. 7 years after the commercialization of cannabis in Canada, the Canadian health services found a 13-fold increase in cyclic vomiting syndromesPotential correlations for the increase in CHS are increased legalization and commercialization of cannabis, higher tetrahydrocannabinol concentrations in cannabis products, and increased recognition of the syndrome.Legal status of Cannabis in the USCannabis is legal in 24 states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington. It is also legal in Washington, D.C. Cannabis is approved for medical use in 38 states.Federal level: Cannabis is a Schedule I drug, under the Controlled Substance Act (added in 1970) in the group of Hallucinogenic or psychedelic substances. Tetra-hydro-cannabinol (THC, a “mind-altering substance in cannabis”) is on the same list. However, cannabidiol (CBD, derived from hemp or non-hemp plants) was removed from the Controlled Substances Act in 2018. CBD is FDA-approved (under the name of Epidiolex®) to treat rare seizure disorders. CBD is still on the list of controlled substances in some states. I see THC as a problem.THC increased concentration As recreational Cannabis becomes more normalized, innovators look to find new ways to differentiate their product and increasing THC has become a common way to perform this similar to alcohol content in the beer, wine, and liquor industry. An article by Yale School of Medicine titled “Marijuana: Rising THC Concentrations in Cannabis Can Pose Health Risks” states, “In 1995, the average THC content in cannabis seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration was about 4%. By 2017, it had risen to 17% and continues to increase. Beyond the plant, a staggering array of other cannabis products with an even higher THC content like dabs, oils, and edibles are readily available—some as high as 90%.”Recently, cannabis-infused water started to be sold in some grocery stores.Pathophysiology of CHSIt is not entirely understood. Some suggest multifactorial involving cannabinoid metabolism, exposure dose and tolerance modifying receptor regulation, complex pharmacodynamics at Cannabinoid receptors, and even changes in genetics and cannabinoid variation in plants. CB1 receptors are involved in gastric secretion, sensation, motility, inflammation, and lipogenesis. The activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors has been suggested as the possible cause of CHS.Risk FactorsCHS can occur after acute or acute on chronic use but many report daily 3-5x cannabis use cannabis use over one year and many over at least two years. Median age 24 years. Interesting factsMedical visits for inhaled cannabis are more likely associated with CHS while edibles are more likely for acute psychiatric reactions.Also, CHS is a paradoxical effect since cannabis and cannabinoid receptor agonists are known antiemetics (as seen in nabilone and dronabinol (synthetic analogs of THC)) and prescribed by some physicians to combat chemotherapy effects.Clinical Features of CHSCyclical pattern with abdominal pain, severe nausea, and vomiting up to 30 episodes daily. Pain is intense and even referred to as “scromiting” due to its intense nature, causing patients to scream and vomit concurrently.Typically, it presents with 2 or more episodes over a 6-month period with no symptoms in between. It starts within 24 hours of last cannabis use (differentiating from cannabis withdrawal) and occurs at day or night. There is a gradual symptom resolution of nausea and vomiting after several days of cannabis cessation. Some patients had symptoms 2 days to 2 weeks after cessation. Diagnosis of CHSClinical diagnosisRule out neurological symptoms such as migraine headaches, acute abdomen, motion sickness, and medications, such as recent antibiotics and chemotherapy.Often the diagnosis is discovered with a thorough history reporting a decrease in symptoms with hot showers/baths.Management of CHS AcuteRehydrate with Fluids Dopamine Antagonists– Droperidol (0.625 or 1.25mg) /Haloperidol (0.05 to 0.1mg/kg with max dose of 5mg initially) favored over typical antiemetics like Zofran or Reglan.If needed, combine with an antiemetic like metoclopramide IM or ondansetron IV and consider patients' dehydration status likely requiring US-guided IV.Topical capsaicin cream 0.025 – 0.1% on the abdomen. Long term97% resolution of symptoms completely in a systematic review of patients who stopped cannabis use.Reinforce it may take several weeks of abstinence for symptoms to resolve and symptoms can worsen if cannabis is resumed. It is unknown if a reduction in use can prevent recurrence.Approaches in the clinicEducate patients on the etiology of their symptoms with complete cessation of cannabis use.Consider referral to counseling for cannabis use disorder and abstinence support for treatment-seeking cannabis users. Approach topics such as changing one's environment, seeking social support, and using self-help techniques to non-treatment-seeking individuals.Consider referring patients with polysubstance use and significant comorbidities to a supervised withdrawal management setting. Conclusion: Cannabis use is increasing with legalization and commercialization across the United States. With increased use, Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome incidence increases. Often it can be diagnosed with a thorough history including chronic cannabis consumption and symptomatic relief by showers. Physicians will need to develop counseling approaches to better understand CHS patients and how to approach an often-difficult topic.Even without trying, every night you go to bed a little wiser. Thanks for listening to Rio Bravo qWeek Podcast. We want to hear from you, send us an email at RioBravoqWeek@clinicasierravista.org, or visit our website riobravofmrp.org/qweek. See you next week! _____________________References:Angulo MI. Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. JAMA. 2024;332(17):1496. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.9716. Link: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2824833#:~:text=Cannabinoid%20hyperemesis%20syndrome%20(CHS,last%20less%20than%201%20week.Backman, Isabella, Marijuana: Rising THC Concentrations in Cannabis Can Pose Health Risks, Yale School of Medicine, August 30, 2023. https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/not-your-grandmothers-marijuana-rising-thc-concentrations-in-cannabis-can-pose-devastating-health-risks/Buchanan, Jennie A and George Sam Wang, Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, Up To Date, updated July 17, 2024. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/cannabinoid-hyperemesis-syndromeTheme song, Works All The Time by Dominik Schwarzer, YouTube ID: CUBDNERZU8HXUHBS, purchased from https://www.premiumbeat.com/.

Minimum Competence
Legal News for Thurs 12/19 - Mangione Extradition Hearing, DOJ Lawsuit Against CVS Over Opioids, Trump and Musk Threaten Shutdown and IRS Rule Delays for RMDs

Minimum Competence

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 8:02


This Day in Legal History: A Christmas Carol is PublishedOn December 19, 1843, Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol, a novella that became one of the most enduring works of English literature. While it is often celebrated as a heartwarming holiday tale, its themes had significant social and legal resonance in Victorian England. Through its portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly businessman, and his transformative journey, Dickens cast a stark light on the grim realities of poverty, inequality, and labor conditions during the Industrial Revolution.The novella emphasized the moral obligation of society's wealthy to care for the impoverished, contrasting Scrooge's initial indifference with the dire circumstances of the Cratchit family. By humanizing the struggles of the working poor, A Christmas Carol drew public attention to issues such as child labor, inadequate housing, and exploitative working conditions—concerns that were increasingly debated in Parliament and social reform circles.The story's publication coincided with the rise of the Chartist movement, which advocated for political and legal reforms, including universal male suffrage and better labor protections. It also aligned with growing public support for legislation like the Ten Hours Act (passed in 1847), which limited the working hours of women and children in factories. Dickens himself was a vocal critic of the Poor Laws, a legal framework that often penalized poverty rather than addressing its causes, and his novella reinforced calls for a more humane approach to social welfare.While A Christmas Carol was not directly responsible for specific legal changes, its immense popularity helped shift public attitudes. By embedding its critique of social injustice within a compelling and widely accessible narrative, Dickens inspired empathy and bolstered movements advocating for legal reforms to improve the lives of the poor and working class. This fusion of storytelling and social commentary ensured the novella's enduring influence on both culture and conscience.Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealth Group executive Brian Thompson, is set to appear in a Pennsylvania court for two hearings related to his extradition to New York. Mangione was arrested on December 9 in Altoona, Pennsylvania, five days after Thompson was fatally shot outside a Manhattan hotel in what authorities describe as a premeditated act of terrorism. A New York grand jury has indicted Mangione on 11 counts, including first-degree murder and murder as an act of terrorism.At the time of his arrest, Mangione was found with a self-assembled 9mm handgun, a homemade silencer, and multiple fake IDs, one of which was allegedly used to check into a hostel near the crime scene. Pennsylvania police have charged Mangione with forgery and illegal possession of an unlicensed firearm, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for these charges. Following this, a second hearing will address his extradition to New York.Under Pennsylvania law, Mangione can consent to extradition by waiving his rights in court. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has indicated that Mangione is unlikely to contest the transfer. Prosecutors allege the killing was intended to intimidate or coerce, qualifying it as terrorism under New York law. Mangione has been held in custody since his arrest, and his defense team has declined to comment.UnitedHealth executive murder suspect to appear in court over New York extradition | ReutersThe U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against CVS, accusing the pharmacy chain of filling illegal opioid prescriptions and billing federal health programs, actions allegedly contributing to the opioid crisis. Unsealed in a Rhode Island federal court, the complaint claims that from 2013 to the present, CVS violated the Controlled Substances Act by filling excessive or dangerous prescriptions, including from doctors running "pill mills." The lawsuit alleges CVS's performance-driven culture ignored warning signs and led to overdoses, with some patients dying shortly after filling prescriptions.The DOJ claims CVS pharmacists were pressured to prioritize speed over safety, ignoring red flags and internal warnings about questionable prescribers. For example, CVS continued filling prescriptions for an Alabama doctor under investigation in 2015, who was later arrested in 2016, and for a Pennsylvania doctor accused of dispensing opioids without seeing patients. The lawsuit also highlights deaths linked to 10 individual patients who received illicit prescriptions from CVS.CVS disputes the allegations, asserting it has cooperated with the DOJ's four-year investigation and strongly disagrees with the claims. This lawsuit follows CVS's 2022 agreement to pay nearly $5 billion to settle similar opioid-related claims, without admitting wrongdoing. The DOJ lawsuit originated as a whistleblower complaint from a former CVS employee, who criticized the company's assembly-line approach to dispensing medications. The case reflects ongoing accountability efforts in the face of a crisis that has claimed over 800,000 lives since 1999.US accuses CVS of filling, billing government for illegal opioid prescriptions | ReutersPresident-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk have strongly opposed House Speaker Mike Johnson's proposed spending bill to avert a government shutdown before the holidays, creating significant turmoil within the Republican Party. Johnson's plan, which requires bipartisan support, aims to fund the government through next year and includes $100 billion in disaster aid and other provisions. However, Trump and Musk have denounced the measure, with Musk advocating for a shutdown unless deeper spending cuts are made. Trump has threatened to campaign against Republicans who support the proposal.The drama unfolded as Johnson attempted to negotiate a compromise, acknowledging he needed Democratic votes to pass the measure. Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance pushed for incorporating the debt ceiling into the discussions, a contentious issue not expected to arise until 2025. Johnson's speakership, held since October, now appears precarious as criticism mounts from both Republican hardliners and representatives from disaster-hit states.The White House criticized the threat of a shutdown, warning it would harm families during the holidays and disrupt critical services. This political maneuvering mirrors a similar 2018 standoff under Trump that resulted in the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. With the new Congress set to convene on January 3, Johnson's ability to maintain his leadership is uncertain, as tensions within the GOP continue to escalate. Meanwhile, Musk declared victory as Johnson's bill faltered, claiming it reflected the public's voice.Trump, Musk Threaten US Shutdown and Shake Up Republican PartyThe IRS announced it is delaying until 2026 the implementation of a regulation that aims to address a loophole in required minimum distribution (RMD) rules for retirement accounts. This loophole created confusion for workers born in 1959 due to inconsistencies in the SECURE 2.0 Act, which Congress passed in 2022 to allow employees to keep money in tax-advantaged accounts longer. The Act gradually raises the RMD age from 72 to 75, with workers born after 1960 starting withdrawals at age 75, while those born before 1959 begin at 73.However, the law's drafting inadvertently assigned 1959-born individuals conflicting RMD start dates of both 73 and 75. The proposed regulation was intended to clarify this, but its effective date has now been postponed. The broader rule increasing the RMD age remains set to begin phasing in on January 1, 2025.Additionally, the delayed regulations clarify that withdrawals from Roth accounts cannot satisfy RMD requirements, making such distributions eligible for rollovers. The delay gives affected workers and financial institutions more time to adjust to these complex changes while the IRS finalizes guidance.Regular readers may recall that I wrote a column back in August advocating for a change to how required minimum distributions are handled. In that piece, I argued that instead of raising the RMD age, the IRS should implement an estate tax on retirement accounts left untouched at death. This approach would simplify the system, discourage using retirement accounts as tax-free inheritance vehicles, and ensure their intended purpose: funding retirement. IRS Delays Proposal to Close 401(k) Withdrawal Age Rule LoopholeIRS Should've Put an Estate Tax on Inherited Retirement Accounts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

The Adam and Dr. Drew Show
Heroin Addict Mom (The Adam and Dr. Drew Show Classics)

The Adam and Dr. Drew Show

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2024 70:17


Adam and Drew discuss Adam's problems with pet food storage and take calls on heroin addiction, the Controlled Substances Act, and teenage pot use.

The Trip Report
Special Dispatch: Regulatory Plasticity with Matt Zorn

The Trip Report

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2024 60:57


Welcome to another Special Dispatch from The Trip Report Podcast, a production of Beckley Waves. Today, I am speaking with Matt Zorn, a litigator and partner at Yetter Coleman. With a practice spanning antitrust, competition, IP, and a deep focus on controlled substances and drug regulation, Matt brings a unique perspective to the shifting landscape of drug policy and health agency reform.What makes this discussion especially relevant today is the backdrop of the recent political realignment in the U.S., with RFK Jr.'s role within a Trump administration and the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) initiative looming over the political landscape.As a result, we find ourselves at a unique inflection point to reassess drug policy and, perhaps, a pivotal moment of mental health, psychedelics, and regulatory processes.Matt's insights don't shy away from the complex history and challenges facing the psychedelic movement and broader healthcare reform. He argues that the FDA's structure itself may not be fit for purpose in modern mental health treatment.In our conversation, we explore:* The origins and inefficiencies of current drug regulation processes.* Why the Controlled Substances Act and FDA efficacy requirements may hinder real-world applications.* How reforming clinical trial processes or even fundamentally changing statutory requirements could reshape the space.* Concrete ideas for reforming the system, including lessons drawn from MDMA's recent regulatory struggles.* How drug development pathways intertwine with controlled substances law, patent incentives, and the broader economic landscape of pharmaceuticals.Without further ado, I bring you my conversation with Matt Zorn.Listen to the episode on Substack, Spotify, Google or Apple.Credits:* Hosted by Zach Haigney * Produced by Zach Haigney, Erin Greenhouse, and Katelin Jabbari* Find us at thetripreport.com* Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTubeTheme music by MANCHO Sounds, Mixed and Mastered by Rollin Weary This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thetripreport.com

The Ketamine StartUp Podcast
Episode 23 - Mastering Compliance: Insights with Retired DEA Agent Dennis Wichern

The Ketamine StartUp Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2024 53:33


In this episode, Sam welcomes Dennis Wichern, a retired DEA special agent who now runs Prescription Drug Consulting, to discuss various aspects of compliance and regulatory guidance essential for running a ketamine infusion clinic. Dennis shares his extensive background in federal law enforcement and provides valuable insights into the DEA's procedures for audits, record keeping, and security. The episode also covers the historical context of the DEA, the impact of telehealth on controlled substance regulations, and advice for clinicians on risk mitigation and best practices.Friendly reminder: this podcast is for educational purposes only. The views expressed in this episode are those of the speaker and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with a professional before making decisions for your business or medical practice.What You'll Learn in This Episode:• Understanding DEA Audits: Learn about what triggers a DEA visit and the focus areas of these audits.• Record Keeping Essentials: Discuss the critical elements of record keeping and how to avoid common pitfalls.• Advice for New Clinicians: Practical advice for clinicians new to the field, focusing on compliance and ethical practice.Episode 23 show notes:00:00 Teaser - When The DEA Visits You…00:22 Welcome to the Ketamine Startup Podcast00:35 Meet Dennis Wichern: DEA Special Agent Turned Consultant01:45 Dennis Wichern's Career Journey with the DEA03:13 Transition to Pharmaceutical Control and Consulting06:27 Understanding the DEA's Role and Regulations08:08 The Banking Model Metaphor for DEA Regulations12:29 Key Elements of Record Keeping and Security15:22 Risk and Penalties for Ketamine Clinics23:25 Red Flags and DEA Audits27:14 Free Ketamine Clinic Startup Checklist27:58 State-Level DEA Enforcement Variations31:25 Advice for Clinicians on Inventory Management33:31 Witnessing and Documentation in Small Clinics35:47 Online Ketamine Therapy and DEA Perspectives40:51 Political Influence on DEA Regulations44:20 Starting a Ketamine Clinic: Key Advice50:40 Rapid Fire Questions and Contact Information52:53 Closing remarksThanks for listeningConnect with Dennis:LinkedInPrescription Drug Consulting WebsiteEmail: dennis.wichern@prescriptiondrugconsulting.comPhone: (312) 859-2430Selected links and references:Ryan Haight ActThis doctor prescribed ketamine from his home. DEA shut it down.Missoula doctor settles alleged Controlled Substances Act recordkeeping violations for $85,000✅ Want to fast track launching your ketamine clinic? If so, download our free checklist.

We Get Work
Navigating Cannabis Rescheduling: Key Insights for Healthcare

We Get Work

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 27:38


Earlier this year, the DEA responded to President Biden's directive to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. This pivotal change, if finalized, would reclassify marijuana as a drug with moderate to low potential for dependence, strictly for medical use.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Workplace Issues and Cannabis Rescheduling 05:06 Understanding the Rescheduling Process of Cannabis 09:48 Implications of Rescheduling for Employers 15:07 Legal Challenges and Considerations for Healthcare Employers 19:50 Navigating Drug Testing and Employee Policies 24:51 Conclusion and Future Considerations

Cannabis Legalization News
DEA Rescheduling Hearing Report Deep Dive

Cannabis Legalization News

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2024 37:00


Send us a textDeep Dive into the DEA's December 2nd Hearing: Cannabis Rescheduling and Legal BattlesIn this episode, we explore the upcoming DEA hearing scheduled for December 2nd. News broke on Halloween regarding this hearing with a preliminary order and several associated papers filed by the DEA. We delve into the 10-page preliminary order issued by the administrative law judge and examine who gets to testify and the rules surrounding their participation. The hearing has implications for marijuana rescheduling under the Controlled Substances Act, with many interested parties set to testify, including law enforcement, medical professionals, and cannabis industry associations. We also anticipate further discussions and live-streaming on November 12th. Don't miss our detailed analysis, and make sure to subscribe for updates.00:00 Introduction and Overview01:44 Preliminary Order and Legal Context04:55 Discussion on Interested Parties and Legal Definitions12:13 Upcoming Hearing and Procedural Details20:50 Legal Definitions and DEA Compliance22:52 Key Players and Their Interests28:03 Opposition and Their Arguments35:12 Upcoming Hearings and Final ThoughtsSupport the show

Supreme Court Opinions
Brown v. United States

Supreme Court Opinions

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 53:25


Welcome to Supreme Court Opinions. In this episode, you'll hear the Court's opinion in Brown v United States.      In this case, the court considered this issue: Does the "serious drug offense" definition in the Armed Career Criminal Act incorporate the federal drug schedules that were in effect at the time of the federal firearm offense? The case was decided on May 23, 2024. The Supreme Court held that a state drug conviction counts as an ACCA predicate if it involved a drug on the federal schedules at the time of that conviction. Justice Samuel Alito authored the 6-3 majority opinion of the Court. First, Precedent and statutory context support the Government's interpretation—that the federal and state definitions of a drug must match when the state crime was committed. ACCA is a recidivist statute that looks backward at a defendant's prior convictions to gauge their culpability and dangerousness. Treating state and federal drug offenses differently based on later changes to drug schedules would lead to strange results. Second, the Government's interpretation best fulfills ACCA's objectives. A defendant's prior serious drug convictions indicate a risk of future dangerousness, even if the drug is later considered less dangerous. The fact of the earlier conviction, not the legislature's subsequent judgment, is what matters for ACCA's purposes. Jackson's reliance on the reference canon and the principle that the law setting the penalty is the law in place when the crime was committed is misplaced. ACCA's reference to the Controlled Substances Act is specific, not general, and treating Jackson's prior convictions as ACCA predicates is consistent with the current law. Additionally, Brown's textual argument based on ACCA's use of the present tense, noting that this was likely a stylistic choice. Brown's reliance on the Schooner Peggy principle is misplaced because ACCA itself has not changed during the litigation. While the Government's interpretation may have some limitations, such as not capturing pre-1970 drug convictions, this is not absurd given the comprehensive regulatory scheme introduced by the Controlled Substances Act in 1970. The rule of lenity does not apply because the statute is not grievously ambiguous after considering context, precedent, and statutory design. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson authored a dissenting opinion, in which Justice Elena Kagan joined in full and Justice Neil Gorsuch joined in part, arguing that, notwithstanding the majority's contrary contention, the text of 18 U.S.C. § 924(e)(2)(A)(ii) definitively answers the question presented here, establishing that courts should apply the drug schedules in effect at the time of the federal firearms offense that triggers ACCA's potential application. The opinion is presented here in its entirety, but with citations omitted. If you appreciate this episode, please subscribe. Thank you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/scotus-opinions/support

Great Moments in Weed History w/ Abdullah and Bean

The fate of our favorite plant hangs in the balance as America decides whether to elect a woman committed to legalizing cannabis federally and de-scheduling it out of the Controlled Substances Act, or a guy who openly admires a murderous dictator's approach to the Drug War,,, and by the way didn't lift a finger to stop the 1 million weed arrests that happened during his four years in office. Cry all you want MAGA weed bros, but thems the facts. As you will hear in this interview with Chris Goldstein, a longtime weed activist who's been arrested on federal charges for leading a massive monthly smoke out next to the Liberty Bell, once planted weed on the lawn of the statehouse in New Jersey, and oh yeah, earlier this year, sat down with Vice President Kamala Harris to talk cannabis reform in the Roosevelt Room of the White House.  Please light one up, have a listen, and then make sure you're registered to vote. PATREON Please support Great Moments in Weed HIstory on Patreon. Supporters get exclusive access to video versions of this podcast and private seshes, plus cool rewards like a signed book. And it truly helps us make the best show possible  EPISODE ARCHIVE Visit our podcast feed for 120+ episodes of Great Moments in Weed History, and subscribe now to get a new weekly podcast every Weednesday.

WeedMan 420 Chronicles
Ep 218 - Cannabis Prohibition, a Crime Against Our Nation! A Perspective On The Controlled Substances Act

WeedMan 420 Chronicles

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024 105:45


Send us a Text Message.Yo, yo, yo, welcome to the show all you Vipers!  Mr & Mrs Weedman are back with a loaded episode and they're getting normal with some fresh Strawberry Gorilla flower from their fan & friend @matygant815og. Together they touch on recent events and ongoings in their lives then they dive into delivering all sorts of cannabis news, research and opinions. This episode, Mr Weedman talks about the new emergence of odorless weed, a scientific review finding cannabis as a possible treatment for Tourette syndrome, and a solid perspective on the real factors that influence your high. Mrs Weedman shares a "how-to" on rolling joints, she explains the science behind nano technology in cannabis consumables, and she delivers 2 heavy hitting articles from the same journalist - the deceptions of cannabis prohibition and the tyranny of the controlled substances act.  Of course we've got cannabis news and hot topics from all around the world too.  Enjoy the show! Want us to cover a particular topic?  Have questions or requests for us?  Reach out, we'd love to hear from you ~ TWITTER: @weedman420podIG: @weedman420chronicles2.0YouTube: Weedman420 ChroniclesEMAIL:  weedman420chronicles@gmail.comSHOP: www.eightdecades.comIG: @eightdecadesEMAIL: eightdecadesinfo@gmail.com#ImHigh #Cannabis #StomptheStigma #HomeGrow #FreethePlant #Stoners #Burners #rosin #liverosin #Potheads #Vipers #CannabisEducation #CannabisResearch #Weed #Marijuana #LegalizeIt #CannabisNews #CBD #Terpenes  #Podcast #CannabisPodcast #eightdecades #LPP #Lifestyle #HealthyLifestyle #NaturalMedicine #PlantMedicine #News #Research #MedicalMarijuana #Infused #420 #Education #Health #Wellness #WorldNews #Gardening #budtender #kief #hemp #dabs #hash #joints #edibles #gummies #tincture #vapes #esters #pauliesayssmokesmartArticle Links:* https://cannabis.net/blog/news/weed-that-has-no-smell-is-now-a-thing-low-odor-and-oderless-cannabis-helps-you-stay-discreet-ev* https://www.greenstate.com/lifestyle/tips-to-roll-the-best-joints/* https://www.marijuanamoment.net/medical-marijuana-is-a-promising-treatment-for-tourette-syndrome-new-scientific-review-concludes/* https://cannabisnow.com/what-is-nano-thc/* https://cannabis.net/blog/opinion/the-marijuana-prohibition-narrative-has-fallen-on-deaf-ears-with-younger-americans* https://cannabis.net/blog/opinion/cannabis-prohibition-in-a-tyranny-of-science-a-crime-against-the-nation-argues-new-law-paperCOPYRIGHT 2021 WeedMan420Chronicles©

Emerging Litigation Podcast
False Claims Act, Health Care Whistleblowers, and Whistling in the Wind with Justin Lugar

Emerging Litigation Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 34:17


The DOJ's annual report for 2023 revealed that the agency's Health Care Fraud Unit was its busiest criminal enforcement section, responsible for convicting more than $3.8 billion in False Claims Act and whistleblower claims. There has reportedly been an uptick in whistleblower work among law firms and a record number of whistleblower cases. Still, some healthcare providers and hospital systems tend to hide their heads in their scrubs after being served.  Today we're going to talk about how whistleblower cases come about, the benefits of rewarding whistleblowers, how things are done differently outside the U.S., what's driving the acceleration of this area of law, and best practices when your company is served.  Drawing on his background as both public servant and private practitioner, my guest, Justin M. Lugar, counsel with WoodsRogers in Roanoke, Virginia, is going to walk through these issues and others. Justin represents clients in all types of government investigations. He's obviously well suited for the task. Prior to WoodsRogers he was Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Virginia, where he led the Affirmative Civil Enforcement team managing dozens of fraud investigations, many of which had parallel criminal investigations under the False Claims Act and related state statutes. Justin served as the Department of Justice's Civil Health Care Fraud Coordinator, Affirmative Civil Enforcement Coordinator, and Civil Rights Coordinator for the Western District of Virginia. Justin was recently recognized by the Drug Enforcement Agency for his efforts enforcing the Controlled Substances Act, leading to the largest fine assessed against a hospital system in the United States at the time.  When he was a  federal prosecutor, Justin led investigations involving numerous state and federal agency partners, from the FBI to the IRS to the Department of Energy to the FDA and the Defense Department.  Justin started his career at a major global firm in London, conducting international investigations around the globe.  But my favorite part of his background is – when he was a religious studies major in college – he lived at a Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in Kathmandu, Nepal. Not to brag, but I just returned from Vermont. There is more to Justin's background, like his LLM in international dispute resolution, which he earned at the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London, his J.D. from Liberty University School of Law, and his B.A. from the University of Virginia.  *******This podcast is the audio companion to the Journal of Emerging Issues in Litigation. The Journal is a collaborative project between HB Litigation, a brand of Critical Legal Content (a custom legal content service for law firms and service providers) and the vLex Fastcase legal research family, which includes Full Court Press, Law Street Media, and Docket Alarm.If you have comments, ideas, or wish to participate, please drop me a note at Editor@LitigationConferences.com.Tom HagyLitigation Enthusiast andHost of the Emerging Litigation PodcastHome PageFollow us on LinkedInSubscribe on your favorite platform. 

Talking Tax
More States Welcome Cannabis Business Tax Deductions

Talking Tax

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 12:07


Nearly 75% of cannabis businesses operate at a loss, and many in the industry point to a feature of the Internal Revenue Code as the reason why. Cannabis companies are prohibited from deducting ordinary business expenses—like rent or payroll—from their federal taxes as long as marijuana remains under the most restrictive portion of the Controlled Substances Act. That could change if marijuana is moved from Schedule I to Schedule III of the act, as the Biden administration has proposed. But in the meantime, 22 states plus Washington, D.C., have allowed medical or recreational cannabis businesses to take some deductions on their state returns, by decoupling their tax codes from Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, which imposes the federal ban. Pennsylvania was the most recent to make that change with a state budget adopted last month. In this episode of Talking Tax, Bloomberg Tax reporters Angélica Serrano-Román and Owen Racer talk about their recent look into how states are increasingly decoupling their tax from 280E at the state level. Do you have feedback on this episode of Talking Tax? Give us a call and leave a voicemail at 703-341-3690.

The Ricochet Audio Network Superfeed
The Federalist Society's Teleforum: The Law, Policy, and Politics of Rescheduling Cannabis

The Ricochet Audio Network Superfeed

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024


The legal status of cannabis has been a controversial issue ever since the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA) prohibited its distribution under federal law. That act classified cannabis as a Schedule I drug, a category for drugs that have no legitimate medical use and cannot be used safely even under medical supervision. Schedules II-V […]

Teleforum
The Law, Policy, and Politics of Rescheduling Cannabis

Teleforum

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2024 58:54


The legal status of cannabis has been a controversial issue ever since the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA) prohibited its distribution under federal law. That act classified cannabis as a Schedule I drug, a category for drugs that have no legitimate medical use and cannot be used safely even under medical supervision. Schedules II-V are for drugs that have a legitimate medical use and pose a decreasing risk of harm. Congress placed cannabis in Schedule I but authorized the attorney general, in consultation with the Secretary of (what is now) Health and Human Services, to reschedule it. Recently, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that the Biden Administration has decided to recategorize cannabis and place it into Schedule III. That announcement raises numerous legal, policy, and political issues. Our panelists—Harvard Medical School Professor Bertha Madras and Ohio State Law School Professor Douglas Berman—will discuss them.Featuring:Prof. Douglas Berman, Newton D. Baker-Baker & Hostetler Chair in Law, Moritz College of Law, The Ohio State UniversityDr. Bertha K. Madras, Professor of Psychobiology, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School(Moderator) Paul James Larkin, Jr., Senior Legal Research Fellow, the Center for Legal and Judicial Studies, The Heritage Foundation

Cannabis Legalization News
Congress Schedule III News: Appropriations & New Amendments to Federal Marijuana Laws

Cannabis Legalization News

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2024 11:33 Transcription Available


Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how the latest Congressional maneuvers could impact the future of cannabis legalization? This episode unpacks the recent actions during the appropriations season, where Republicans have introduced new budget sections aimed at blocking funding for rescheduling marijuana. We analyze the implications of these proposals on medical marijuana programs and discuss the Robacher-Farr amendment, which shields state laws from federal interference. It's a deep dive into the glaring contradictions in the conservative stance on states' rights and how these legislative moves could influence medical marijuana dispensaries near schools and colleges.Join us as we tackle the intense politicization of cannabis, highlighting the significant changes in the Agricultural Committee's 2024 Farm Bill, including a potential ban on quantifiable THC amounts. We also scrutinize Governor Ron DeSantis' veto of the hemp ban in Florida, exploring the political undercurrents, including a substantial donation from a hemp grower that may have tipped the scales. This episode underscores the critical role of public advocacy, urging listeners to voice their opinions to the DEA for cannabis legalization. We also highlight recent Supreme Court decisions that reshape presidential powers and the Controlled Substances Act, providing a comprehensive view of the evolving landscape of cannabis legislation.Support the Show.

Agent Survival Guide Podcast
Amazon RxPass Expands to Medicare Beneficiaries

Agent Survival Guide Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 16:12


  The Friday Five for June 21, 2024: AHIP 2024 Certification Down, CY 2025 Coming Soon Medicare Part D Creditable Coverage in Employer Plans Biden Administration Proposes Rule on Medical Debt Done Telehealth & The CDC Advisory on Stimulant ADHD Meds Amazon RxPass Expands to Medicare Beneficiaries   Contact the Agent Survival Guide Podcast! Email us ASGPodcast@Ritterim.com or call 1-717-562-7211 and leave a voicemail.   Resources: 2025 Medicare Advantage & Part D Certification Info: https://ritterim.com/blog/2025-medicare-advantage-and-part-d-certification-info/     Are You Self-Sabotaging Your Insurance Sales Success? https://ritterim.com/blog/are-you-self-sabotaging-your-insurance-sales-success/ 5 Things About Prepping for the Insurance License Exam: https://link.chtbl.com/ASGF20240607   Developing a Retention Mindset ft. Blake Amos (Cigna Healthcare): https://link.chtbl.com/2024BlakeAmos Join Us at the Summits! https://ritterim.com/blog/join-us-at-the-summits/ Training Opportunities for Insurance Agents at Ritter Insurance Marketing: https://link.chtbl.com/ASG437   AHIP 2024 Certification Down, CY 2025 Coming Soon: Medicare + Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Training: https://www.ahip.org/courses/medicare-fraud-waste-and-abuse-training What Is AHIP Certification and How Do I Get It? https://ritterim.com/blog/what-is-ahip-certification-and-how-do-i-get-it/   Biden Administration Proposes Rule on Medical Debt: CFPB Proposes to Ban Medical Bills from Credit Reports: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-proposes-to-ban-medical-bills-from-credit-reports/ Even if Medical Debt Isn't on Your Credit Report, It Can Drag Down Your Credit: https://money.usnews.com/credit-cards/articles/even-if-medical-debt-isnt-on-your-credit-report-it-can-drag-down-your-credit In sweeping change, Biden administration to ban medical debt from credit reports: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/sweeping-change-biden-administration-ban-medical-debt-credit/story?id=110997906 Will CFPB's Ban On Medical Debts From Credit Reports Help Patients? https://www.forbes.com/sites/gebai/2024/06/16/cfpbs-ban-on-medical-debts-from-credit-reports-will-harm-patients/     Done Telehealth & The CDC Advisory on Stimulant ADHD Meds: CDC warns access to ADHD meds may be disrupted after arrests of health-care startup executives: https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/13/health/cdc-adhd-medication-alert/index.html  Disrupted Access to Prescription Stimulant Medications Could Increase Risk of Injury and Overdose: https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2024/han00510.asp#print FDA Drug Shortages Portal: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/drug-shortages Feds arrest Adderall telehealth CEO under Controlled Substances Act: https://www.theverge.com/2024/6/13/24178049/done-adhd-telehealth-controlled-substances-act-doj-fraud Founder/CEO and Clinical President of Digital Health Company Arrested for $100M Adderall Distribution and Health Care Fraud Scheme: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/founderceo-and-clinical-president-digital-health-company-arrested-100m-adderall-distribution Telehealth startup Done's CEO and clinical president arrested, charged with fraud: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/health-tech/telehealth-startup-dones-ceo-and-clinical-president-arrested-charged-fraud     Amazon RxPass Expands to Medicare Beneficiaries: Amazon Pharmacy expands RxPass subscription service to Medicare patients: https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/health-tech/amazon-pharmacy-expands-rxpass-subscription-service-medicare-patients Amazon RxPass: https://pharmacy.amazon.com/rxpass   Follow Us on Social! Ritter on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RitterIM Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ritter.insurance.marketing/ LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritter-insurance-marketing TikTok, https://www.tiktok.com/@ritterim X (fka) Twitter, https://twitter.com/RitterIM and Youtube, https://www.youtube.com/user/RitterInsurance     Sarah on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjrueppel/ Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/thesarahjrueppel/ and Threads, https://www.threads.net/@thesarahjrueppel  Tina on LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-lamoreux-6384b7199/

The Drug Report
Understanding Drug Scheduling: Marijuana Rescheduling, Safety Concerns, and Public Perception

The Drug Report

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2024 41:11 Transcription Available


Join us for this audio version of last week's zoom webinar on rescheduling,  a deep dive into the intricate world of drug scheduling and addiction with our esteemed guests: Kevin Sabet, President and CEO of SAM, CADCA  policy consultant Sue Thau, and Dr. Russ Kamer. We kick things off by breaking down the history and impact of the 1970 Controlled Substances Act, using relatable analogies to dispel common misconceptions about drug classification. This sets the stage for a compelling discussion on public perception, medical use, and the complexities of drug policy reform.Get ready for an eye-opening analysis of President Biden's efforts to reschedule marijuana. Starting with a review by the Department of Health and Human Services in October 2022, the process reached an unexpected climax in August 2023. We dissect the irregularities of potentially moving marijuana to Schedule 3 and consider the implications for tax obligations, FDA oversight, and research opportunities. Our panelists bring their unique perspectives to unravel the complexities and uncertainties surrounding this significant policy shift.Public safety and health implications of rising marijuana use are our final focus. Learn how marijuana's prevalence compares to alcohol and why it's crucial to address misconceptions about its safety. We delve into the challenges of measuring marijuana impairment and emphasize the urgent need for reliable testing methods. With insights from Kevin Sabet, Sue Thau, and Dr. Russ Kamer, we encourage you to engage thoughtfully in the regulatory process and consider the broader implications of these monumental changes in drug policy. Tune in and stay informed!Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:https://learnaboutsam.org/https://gooddrugpolicy.org/https://thedrugreport.org/On X: https://twitter.com/learnaboutsamhttps://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicyhttps://twitter.com/KevinSabethttps://twitter.com/LukeNiforatosOn Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Overdrive Radio
What marijuana as a Schedule III controlled substance could mean for truckers

Overdrive Radio

Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2024 19:43


The Department of Justice's Drug Enforcement Administration on May 20 officially published its notice of proposed rulemaking that, if finalized, would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I controlled substance to Schedule III: https://www.regulations.gov/document/DEA-2024-0059-0001 The Biden Administration signaled its intent to move forward with such a proposal earlier this month, and the NPRM's publication formalized that effort. The DEA's proposal said moving marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act would be “consistent with the view of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that marijuana has a currently accepted medical use, as well as HHS's views about marijuana's abuse potential and level of physical or psychological dependence.” That, ultimately, is the difference between the two scheduling levels, as previously reported. Schedule I drugs are defined in the Act as “drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Those include heroin, LSD, ecstasy and, at least for now, marijuana. Schedule II drugs, in the terms of the legislation, show “high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence,” and are considered dangerous. These include combination products with less than 15 milligrams of hydrocodone per dosage unit (Vicodin), cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, fentanyl and more. Drugs classified under Schedule III, how DEA is looking to classify marijuana, are those “with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence,” and have a lower abuse potential than Schedule I and Schedule II drugs. Currently, these include products containing less than 90 milligrams of codeine per dosage unit, like Tylenol with codeine, as well as ketamine, anabolic steroids, testosterone and more. Typically, according to Brandon Wiseman, attorney and president of Trucksafe Consulting and guest for this week's Overdrive Radio podcast, Schedule III drugs “are still controlled in the sense that they require a prescription.” As such, having a Schedule III drug in your system is not necessarily a disqualifying factor in DOT drug testing. The driver must have a valid medical prescription for that drug, and the medical review officer (MRO) that validates the results of the drug test has to be comfortable that the use of that drug won't impact the driver's ability to safely operate a truck. “Some prescription drugs will inhibit a driver's ability to safely operate a truck,” Wiseman said in the podcast. “And so we just weed those drivers out. Those drivers aren't going to be physically qualified. They're not going to be able to get a med card, for example, to be able to operate.” Hear much more from Wiseman in the podcast, and read Matt Cole and Alex Lockie's reporting on the rescheduling subject via these links: Cole: https://www.overdriveonline.com/15676307 Lockie's early two-part feature: **https://www.overdriveonline.com/15670141 **https://www.overdriveonline.com/regulations/article/15670542/marijuana-legalization-trucking-and-the-future-of-drug-testing

Science Friday
Using A Lab On Wheels To Study Weed From Dispensaries

Science Friday

Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2024 17:57


Cannabis is legal in some form or another in over half of US states. But federally, it's illegal and has no accepted medical use. However, the Biden administration is moving to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous drug under the Controlled Substances Act.Studying strictly controlled drugs like cannabis is a major challenge for scientists, because they have to meet specific registration and sourcing requirements. And researchers can't give commercially available cannabis from dispensaries to study participants, or bring it onto campus at all. But questions around the health impacts of these widely available products continue to mount.A team of scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder is driving around these federal roadblocks by bringing a mobile lab—nicknamed the CannaVan—to people, so they can consume weed in their own homes and then come outside for some routine tests.SciFri producers Emma Gometz and Rasha Aridi visited the CannaVan last year and join Ira to unpack how this research gets done, what the CannaVan has taught us about weed, and how reclassifying cannabis might affect research.Transcripts for each segment will be available after the show airs on sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Cannabis Man
Untitled EpisodeStretching Your Flower: Vaporizing Tips, Hemp Regulation Updates, and Cannabis Global Expansion

Cannabis Man

Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 35:54


Text Cannabis Man!In this episode, Don Kleppin explores the benefits of the new M7 dry herb vaporizer from DynaVap, packed with Apples and Bananas flower from Simply Herb. Vaporizing has helped him stretch his flower supply further, even amidst the sleepless nights and stress of new parenthood.In the News Joint Wrap, Don covers the latest updates on hemp-derived product regulations in Illinois, where an amendment could ban Delta-8 and other synthetic cannabinoids. He discusses the implications of this regulation and shares his thoughts on ensuring safety in the market.Nationally, Don highlights a proposal in the U.S. House to ban hemp products, which could lead to a new prohibition era. He suggests forming committees to review and license hemp products on a case-by-case basis.Exciting news from KANHA edibles entering the Japanese market and their plans for further expansion in Europe and Asia is also on the agenda. Don then explores a Delaware bill allowing medical cannabis operators to apply for a "license conversion" for adult-use sales.Finally, Don discusses the opening of the public comment period for the rescheduling of cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, encouraging listeners to make their voices heard.Don't miss his recommendation to check out Split Rock Coffee and stay tuned for more cannabis news and insights. Rate, review, and subscribe to Cannabis Man to stay updated!Support the Show.Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram!Shop for great products Don thinks you might like at the Vouch Store!And if you're looking for cannabis products, check out 420 pipes and use the promo code: CANNABISMAN for 10 percent off your order! Blaze on!

The Night Light with Joshua Johnson
Cannabis in America: how far will legalization go?

The Night Light with Joshua Johnson

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2024 83:49


A major new study out today shows more Americans use cannabis daily than drink alcohol daily. That may be no surprise in a nation that's slowly moved past its “Reefer Madness” days toward embracing the bud. Florida will vote this November on legalizing recreational marijuana, and the Biden Administration just released plans to lower cannabis's federal restrictions under the Controlled Substances Act. I'll break down what's at stake and consider what other risks the marijuana industry faces. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nightlightjoshua/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nightlightjoshua/support

The Night Light with Joshua Johnson
Cannabis in America: how far will legalization go?

The Night Light with Joshua Johnson

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2024 83:49


A major new study out today shows more Americans use cannabis daily than drink alcohol daily. That may be no surprise in a nation that's slowly moved past its “Reefer Madness” days toward embracing the bud. Florida will vote this November on legalizing recreational marijuana, and the Biden Administration just released plans to lower cannabis's federal restrictions under the Controlled Substances Act. I'll break down what's at stake and consider what other risks the marijuana industry faces. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nightlightjoshua/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nightlightjoshua/support

Cannabis School
Cannabis 101: Why Cannabis Became Illegal

Cannabis School

Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 76:47


In this captivating episode of Cannabis School, Brandon and Jesse take you on a journey through time to uncover the tangled web of events that led to cannabis prohibition. The Origins: Discover how cannabis, once a widely accepted plant for its medicinal and industrial uses, began its journey towards illegality in the early 20th century. The Role of Racism: Learn about the racial and political motivations that fueled the anti-cannabis movement, including the infamous propaganda campaigns. Key Legislation: Dive into the pivotal laws and regulations, such as the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 and the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, that cemented cannabis's illegal status. Cultural Shifts: Explore how shifting public perceptions and cultural changes in the 1960s and beyond influenced cannabis legislation and enforcement. Modern Repercussions: Understand the long-lasting effects of cannabis prohibition on society, criminal justice, and the economy. Join us for a fascinating discussion that not only reveals the dark history behind cannabis prohibition but also sheds light on the ongoing battle for legalization and reform. Don't miss this deep dive into one of the most controversial topics in cannabis history! Tune in now to get the full story and expand your cannabis knowledge with Cannabis School! Support the show on PatreonSend us a voice messageVisit our website Check out more on Chillhop YouTube Instagram Email Stay informed, stay enlightened, and keep exploring the world of cannabis with Cannabis School! Episode Highlights:Music by Psalm Trees, James Berkeley - "Ah Yeah" --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cannabisschool/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/cannabisschool/support

Cannabis Man
Illinois Cannabis Updates, Justice Department moves, and Exposing Cannabis Misinformation

Cannabis Man

Play Episode Play 36 sec Highlight Listen Later May 17, 2024 51:36


Text Cannabis Man!In this episode of the Cannabis Man Podcast, we kick things off with a message from a listener. Our News Joint Wrap covers the latest Illinois Senate Bill impacting numerous cannabis operators, a new qualifying condition for state medical cards, and details about the upcoming Illinois Cannabis Convention (NECANN). This week's featured strains are Sunshine Sherbet Dogwalkers and Simply Herb's Apples and Bananas flower. Nationally, we discuss South Dakota's cannabis initiative making it to the November ballot and the U.S. adult-use cannabis industry's impressive $20 billion tax revenue milestone. Major news includes the Justice Department's move to reclassify cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, launching a 60-day public comment period. We also address troubling influencers spreading misinformation and dangerous behaviors that threaten the progress of legal cannabis. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the show, follow us on social media, and reach us via the new text line in the description notes!Support the Show.Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram!Shop for great products Don thinks you might like at the Vouch Store!And if you're looking for cannabis products, check out 420 pipes and use the promo code: CANNABISMAN for 10 percent off your order! Blaze on!

The Assignment with Audie Cornish
The Power and Promise of Psychedelics in Therapy

The Assignment with Audie Cornish

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2024 37:39


Bad trips, anti-drug PSAs, and the crackdown under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 helped stigmatize psychedelics in the U.S. But now, there's renewed clinical inquiry into whether these drugs can ease emotional trauma. To understand the future of psychedelics, Audie calls up Ernesto Londoño, reporter at the New York Times and author of the new book, “Trippy: The Peril and Promise of Medicinal Psychedelics.” They discuss his own mental health and psychedelic journeys and why he thinks there's good reason for both hope and skepticism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rated G with Gary G. Garcia and Brian Licata
203: DEA Moves to Reschedule Cannabis: A Game-Changer in Drug Policy?

Rated G with Gary G. Garcia and Brian Licata

Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2024 108:58


In a pivotal episode of the Rated G Podcast, join hosts Gary and Brian as they explore the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's historic proposal to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This episode provides a deep dive into what this significant shift means for medical research, legal frameworks, and everyday Americans. The hosts will discuss the historical context of marijuana prohibition, analyze the DEA's decision against the backdrop of current scientific understanding and societal needs, and evaluate the potential health benefits and risks associated with cannabis use. Chapters: 00:00:00 - Welcome to Rated G with Gary G. Garcia & Brian T. Licata 00:07:37 - The Mystery of the 27 Club: Why Do Celebrities Die Young? 00:14:25 - Hilarious Off-Topic Banter 00:21:00 - Tech Talk: The Oddities of Modern Wi-Fi 00:28:21 - The Untold Stories of Prince and His Battles 00:35:09 - Worst Dispensary Stories: When Expectations Meet Reality 00:41:27 - How Drug Use Shapes Our Communities 00:48:46 - The Visible Effects of Public Drug Use 00:55:30 - The New Apartment Adventure: Tips & Stories 01:02:00 - Aging Gracefully: Honest Talks and Laughs 01:08:40 - Behind the Scenes: Protests at Columbia University 01:15:04 - Do Hunger Strikes Work? A Deep Dive 01:21:40 - Unforgettable Experiences: The True Smell of Strip Clubs 01:28:27 - The Art of Random Conversations: Unscripted Gems 01:35:26 - Parenting in the Digital Age: When to Hand Over the Phone 01:41:50 - Wrapping Up with Random Fun and Laughs Further, the discussion will cover how this reclassification could affect the legal inconsistencies between state and federal laws and what it means for patients and consumers across the country. Gary and Brian will also touch on the economic implications, including the impact on cannabis businesses grappling with taxation and banking restrictions under previous classifications. The episode will highlight expert opinions, including those from law, medical, and policy professionals, to provide a well-rounded perspective on the potential outcomes of this reclassification. Listeners are encouraged to join the conversation by sharing their views and experiences related to cannabis use and legislation in the comments section. How do you think this change will impact social justice issues, medical access, and the stigma surrounding cannabis use? Your insights are valuable as we unpack the complexities of this drug policy reform. Stay tuned as we navigate through these changes together, providing you with the latest information, thoughtful analysis, and engaging discussions on one of today's most pressing topics. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to keep up to date with all our content on important developments like this. ⁠A Brian T. Licata Production⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠See Gary Live⁠⁠⁠⁠

The Mitch Albom Show
DEA is seeking to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act

The Mitch Albom Show

Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2024 15:12


May 3, 2024 - Scott Chipman is the Vice President of Americans Against Legalizing Marijuana. He joins Mitch and the crew to talk about the DEA seeking to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act.

Cannabis Man
Shifting Sands: DEA Reschedules Cannabis and Federal Legislation Surges Forward

Cannabis Man

Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2024 26:16


In this revolutionary episode, we dive into the DEA's recent decision to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This significant move signals a shift towards recognizing public sentiment and the medicinal value of cannabis. We also explore the resurfacing of the CAOA bill, aiming for federal legalization, and Vice President Kamala Harris's support for full legalization. Additionally, we discuss a revealing study showing declines in teen alcohol and e-cigarette use in states where cannabis is legal, and projections that the global cannabis market could reach $496 billion by 2025. Amidst these discussions, join us in a celebratory nod to Star Wars Day, sharing personal anecdotes and the magic of introducing the iconic saga to the newest member of our family.Support the Show.Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram!Shop for great products Don thinks you might like at the Vouch Store!And if you're looking for cannabis products, check out 420 pipes and use the promo code: CANNABISMAN for 10 percent off your order! Blaze on!

Psychedelics Today
PT508 – The Veteran Community and Operator Syndrome: Psychedelics and Redefining Pain Management, with Tommy Aceto

Psychedelics Today

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2024 73:30


In this episode, Joe and special guest, Court Wing, interview Tommy Aceto: former Navy Seal and trauma medic, NCAA athlete, Michigan State Champion Wrestler, and now, psychedelic advocate and ambassador for the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition. He discusses his journey from childhood to wanting to become a SEAL, and the toll that military life and its programming can take on a person: how a life built on high levels of endurance, deprivation, and constantly surviving in a fight-or-flight mindset often manifests in Operator Syndrome, chronic pain, depression, and addiction. Veterans are seeing the potential of psychedelics to rewire their brains and allow them to process pain differently, by allowing them to feel emotions they were trained to turn off: “You've got to feel to heal.” Aceto discusses: The affirmation and approval many who join the military seek, and how that often translates into needing to stay at certain levels of risk to truly feel alive The similarities between soldiers and professional athletes and high performers Dealing with chronic pain, and how forcing movement is often the best tactic The Controlled Substances Act and how opioids became a business Why the most important thing vets can do today is to tell their healing stories and more! For links, head to the show notes page. 

SBS Persian - اس بی اس فارسی
مصرف مواد افیونی در استرالیا: آیا محدودیت های دولت استرالیا از بحرانی که ایالات متحده با آن مواجه است جلوگیری کرده است؟

SBS Persian - اس بی اس فارسی

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2024 9:17


شاید بسیاری از ما با اصطلاح «جنگ با مواد مخدر» آشنا باشیم. در ایالات متحده، از دهه ۱۹۷۰، زمانی که رئیس جمهور وقت ریچارد نیکسون «قانون مواد مخدر کنترل شده» (Controlled Substances Act) را امضا کرد و سوء مصرف مواد مخدر را به عنوان "دشمن عمومی شماره یک" اعلام کرد، آغاز شد. اما امروزه، این داروهای غیرقانونی نیست، بلکه داروهای تجویزی است که ایالات متحده با آن مبارزه می‌ کند و مرگ و میر ناشی از داروهای مخدر تجویزی به سطح بحران رسیده است. مقامات استرالیا همواره مشتاق بوده اند از یک وضعیت اضطراری مشابه در این کشور جلوگیری کنند و محدودیت هایی را در سال ۲۰۲۰ برای محدود کردن عرضه آن اعمال کرده اند. در این گزارش SBS به این می پردازد که این تغییرات تا کنون چقدر موثر بوده اند و چه کارهای دیگری باید انجام شود.

SBS World News Radio
First Nations people especially vulnerable to drug-related deaths

SBS World News Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2024 13:58


The so-called 'war on drugs' has been waged in the US since at least the 1970s, when then President Richard Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act and declared drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” In Australia, there have been similar efforts to battle drug trafficking and use. As prescription opioids overtake heroin as a public health emergency, those efforts have expanded to restrict the control and supply of those substances too. First Nations people have been much more heavily impacted by substance issues and official responses than the non-Indigenous population. In this Episode of The Too Hard Basket, and in the final story of a three part series on drugs in Australia, we look at how these issues play out for Indigenous communities.

SBS World News Radio
Opioid use in Australia: have government restrictions avoided the crisis faced in the USA?

SBS World News Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 11:46


Most of us might be familiar with the term 'the war on drugs'. In the US, it's been waged since the 1970s, when then President Richard Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act and declared drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” But today, it's not so much illicit drugs but prescription medication that the US is fighting, with deaths from prescription opioids reaching crisis levels. Authorities in Australia have been keen to avoid a similar emergency here, introducing restrictions in 2020 to limit their supply. In this episode of the Too Hard Basket series, SBS looks at how effective these changes have been so far - and what else needs to be done. This is the first in a three-part series investigating drugs in Australia.

SBS World News Radio
Is Australia winning 'the war on drugs'?

SBS World News Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 13:42


Most of us might be familiar with the term 'the war on drugs'. In the US, it's been waged since the 1970s, when then President Richard Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act and declared drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” In Australia, there have been similar efforts historically to battle drug trafficking and drug use. On today's episode of The Too Hard Basket, we look at how state and federal governments are now handling these issues, and if a hardline approach is still the answer. This is the second story in a three part series on drugs in Australia.

Psychedelics Today
PT502 – Preserving Psychedelic Legacies: Shulgin Farm and the Shulgin Archive Project, with Keeper Trout

Psychedelics Today

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 57:44


In this episode, Joe interviews Keeper Trout: archivist, author, photographer, co-founder of the Cactus Conservation Institute, and creator of Trout's Notes, a website compiling personal research and collected data to help ethnobotanical researchers. From an interest in cactus taxonomy, Sasha Shulgin urged Trout to go through his files, resulting in a friendship, and eventually, an 8-year project of digitizing all of these files into the ever-evolving Shulgin Archive. Trout discusses: His relationship with Sasha and The Shulgin Farm project, which aims to make the farm a community resource for therapy, research, events, and more The messiness of cactus taxonomy, and how he believes we're nearing the end of being able to properly identify plants The perception of LSD as unnatural and why the natural vs. synthetic argument is largely political Why repealing the Controlled Substances Act is the path we should take over decriminalization or legalization and more! For links and more, head to the show notes page. 

Blunt Business
Assessing Biden Administration Attempts for Cannabis Reform

Blunt Business

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2024 38:10


We continue our discussion with Cat Packer, Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation, Drug Policy Alliance about the Biden Administration's proposal to reschedule cannabis from schedule one to schedule three under the Controlled Substances Act, arguing that while this move is significant, it falls short of the promise of decriminalization made by President Biden. We also the federal government's recent analysis acknowledging the medical uses of marijuana, but also emphasized the need for further action to address the ongoing stigma surrounding marijuana use. We also discuss strategies for ensuring equity in cannabis licensing, including prioritizing social equity applicants, providing resources and education, and addressing predatory practices.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Cannabis Man
In the Weeds: DEA Delays, Public Voices, and New York's Bold Leap

Cannabis Man

Play Episode Play 50 sec Highlight Listen Later Mar 29, 2024 26:41


In this episode, we delve into the DEA's sluggish pace in re-evaluating cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, despite a clear directive and mounting public pressure. With over six months gone by, we explore why this delay might be more than just bureaucratic red tape. We also dissect a recent Pew Poll revealing a staggering 88% of Americans support the decriminalization or legalization of cannabis, showcasing a rare unity in public opinion. Plus, we shine a spotlight on New York's groundbreaking decision to waive cultivation fees until 2026, opening doors for aspiring cultivators. And for a lighter note, we dive into the 10 Most Popular Cannabis Strains in the U.S. – do your favorites make the list? Join us as we navigate these green waters, and don't forget to share your thoughts and top strains with us on social media!Support the showFollow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram!Shop for great products Don thinks you might like at the Vouch Store!And if you're looking for cannabis products, check out 420 pipes and use the promo code: CANNABISMAN for 10 percent off your order! Blaze on!

Stanford Legal
"Beware Euphoria: Unraveling America's Drug War"

Stanford Legal

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2024 30:43


Dive into the complex history of America's drug war with George Fisher, former Massachusetts Attorney General and acclaimed scholar of criminal law. In his latest book, "Beware Euphoria," Fisher explores the moral and racial dimensions of drug prohibition, challenging conventional narratives. Join the conversation on Stanford Legal as Fisher discusses the impact of racial justice movements on drug policy, including the legalization of cannabis, offering profound insights into a contentious issue shaping legal and social discourse.Connect:Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast WebsiteStanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn PageRich Ford >>>  Twitter/XPam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School PageStanford Law School >>> Twitter/XStanford  Law Magazine >>> Twitter/XLinks:George Fisher >>> Stanford Law School PageBeware Euphoria: The Moral Roots and Racial Myths of America's War on Drugs(00:00:00) Chapter 1: The Origins of Drug Prohibition Podcast guest, George Fisher, traces the history of drug prohibition, highlighting the departure of cannabis use from medical preservation. He also discusses the 19th-century roots of drug prohibition, particularly the moral concerns driving the anti-drug laws.(00:11:42) Chapter 2: Racial Narratives and Mass IncarcerationRich Ford discusses the common narrative linking mass incarceration to the war on drugs and its alleged racial motivations. Fisher challenges this narrative, arguing that early drug laws were about protecting whites' moral purity rather than targeting people of color. The conversation explores the racial dynamics of early drug laws, emphasizing the racism of indifference rather than explicit targeting.(00:20:20) Chapter 3: Moral Valence of Mind-Altering Drugs Fisher delves into the historical moral perceptions of mind-altering drugs, tracing back to Early Christian notions of reason and morality.He explains why certain drugs, like opium and later marijuana, were seen as threats to moral character, while alcohol was treated differently due to its varied uses.(00:26:15) Chapter 4: Legalization of Marijuana and Racial Justice The conversation shifts to the legalization of marijuana, highlighting its historical bans and recent movements towards legalization. Concerns about the increasing potency of marijuana and its potential backlash are explored, suggesting a need for careful regulation and messaging.(00:30:19) Conclusion: Closing RemarksRich Ford wraps up the conversation with George Fisher discussing insights and emphasizing the importance of discussing the ongoing struggle with drugs and intoxicants.

Minimum Competence
Legal News for Tues 3/12 - WilmerHale and Harvard, InfoWars Bankruptcy Nonsense, Walmart Ducks Much of Opioid Suit, TikTok Divestment Bill and Global Minimum Tax

Minimum Competence

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2024 10:27


This Day in Legal History: Janet Reno Sworn in as U.S. Attorney GeneralOn March 12, 1993, a groundbreaking moment in the annals of American legal and political history unfolded as Janet Reno was sworn in as the first female U.S. Attorney General. Appointed by President Bill Clinton, Reno's confirmation by the Senate marked a significant milestone, shattering a glass ceiling in the highest echelons of the U.S. justice system. Her tenure, which lasted until January 20, 2001, remains the longest in the 20th century for this pivotal role. Reno was known for her straightforward approach and her commitment to addressing complex issues directly, which earned her both admiration and criticism.Reno's time in office was characterized by her involvement in some of the most contentious and high-profile cases of the 1990s. She oversaw the prosecution of the 1993 World Trade Center bombers and the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, demonstrating her dedication to combatting domestic terrorism. Her decisions, such as the authorization of the armed seizure of Elián González, a Cuban boy embroiled in international custody and immigration controversy, and her handling of the Branch Davidian siege in Waco, Texas, were sources of national debate, highlighting the challenges and pressures of her role.Despite the controversies, Reno's contributions to justice and her trailblazing role as the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney General had a lasting impact on the legal landscape. Her tenure helped pave the way for future generations of women in law and public service, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers in these fields. Janet Reno's legacy is a testament to her resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice, marking March 12 as a notable date in legal history for celebrating her historic swearing-in and the doors it opened for women in the legal profession.An anonymous ethics complaint has been filed against William Lee, a distinguished attorney from WilmerHale, urging the Massachusetts attorney general's office to delve into the firm's interactions with Harvard University. Lee, who also served on Harvard's governing board for over a decade, and WilmerHale represented Harvard in its legal fight to maintain its race-based admissions policy, a battle ultimately lost at the Supreme Court. Additionally, the firm prepared former Harvard president Claudine Gay for a congressional hearing on antisemitism, which contributed to her resignation. Despite these incidents highlighting the connections between WilmerHale and Harvard, experts like Stephen Gillers from NYU suggest there's no apparent wrongdoing based solely on Lee's dual roles.The complaint alleges Lee may have breached conflict of interest regulations for public entities due to his position at Harvard and his involvement in its legal affairs, especially the affirmative action litigation. WilmerHale defended its legal representation of Harvard, stating Lee recused himself from any school decisions regarding the case, and Harvard, in a 2018 statement, claimed Lee received no payment for his work on the affirmative action case or any related revenue from the firm's billing to Harvard. Legal ethics professionals note that Lee's actions, including his decision to recuse himself, likely didn't violate any rules, though questions about compensation remain partially unanswered.Lee's role in WilmerHale's relationship with Harvard during the legal challenges to its admissions policies has drawn scrutiny, especially considering the firm's substantial legal fees from Harvard during this period. However, both Harvard and WilmerHale have maintained that Lee's involvement and the firm's compensation practices were ethical and transparent. Lee's significant contributions to both Harvard and WilmerHale, including his leadership in a pivotal lawsuit and his recusal from fiduciary duties related to the case, illustrate the complexities of navigating legal ethics in high-profile cases.WilmerHale's Work for Harvard Scrutinized in Ethics ComplaintThe parent company of Alex Jones' Infowars, Free Speech Systems LLC, amidst its bankruptcy proceedings, has obtained court approval to change its legal representation as it faces a pivotal phase that could lead to either a restructure or a systematic shutdown. This decision was sanctioned by Judge Christopher Lopez from the US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, emphasizing that this switch in counsel should not decelerate the ongoing case. The approval came after stakeholders in the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, filed under a special chapter for small businesses separate from Jones himself in 2022, consented to the replacement of lead attorney Ray Battaglia with the O'ConnorWechsler PLLC firm.This strategic move is part of broader efforts to navigate through bankruptcy while addressing over $1.5 billion in judgments against Jones and Infowars for defaming Sandy Hook victims' families. Jones had previously called the tragedy, where 26 were killed in Newtown, Connecticut, a hoax perpetrated by "crisis actors." The trustee overseeing the bankruptcy highlighted concerns about the viability of Free Speech Systems' reorganization and suggested that the court might need to consider converting the case to a Chapter 7 liquidation. This comes as litigation continues against PQPR Holdings, an Infowars vendor implicated in insider payments, suggesting an intricate web of financial and legal challenges as the company seeks to resolve its liabilities and navigate through bankruptcy.Infowars Parent Gets New Lawyer Amid Bankruptcy Case ConcernsIn a significant development in the ongoing opioid crisis litigation, Walmart Inc. achieved a partial victory when a federal judge dismissed two of the three charges against it brought by the US government. Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly of the US District Court for the District of Delaware ruled in favor of Walmart by dismissing charges that accused the retail giant of failing to report suspicious orders of controlled substances and not adhering to standard pharmacy practice in filling prescriptions. These dismissals were grounded in interpretations of the Controlled Substances Act, with Connolly stating that the act does not deem the failure to comply with reporting requirements or to adhere to standard pharmacy practices as unlawful, nor does it subject violators to civil penalties.However, Walmart's motion to dismiss a third charge was denied. This charge alleges that Walmart, through its agents and employees, knowingly dispensed controlled substances on prescriptions that were not issued for legitimate medical purposes or were outside the usual course of professional treatment. The decision to keep this charge intact was influenced by precedent from the Third Circuit, underscoring that knowledge of wrongdoing by any employee is attributable to the corporation itself. This mixed ruling leaves Walmart partially vindicated but still facing serious allegations related to its handling of opioid prescriptions, highlighting the complexities of legal responsibilities in the context of the opioid epidemic. Walmart has yet to comment on the judge's rulings.Walmart Scores Partial Win in Opioid Crisis Suit Brought by USLegislation aimed at compelling TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app or face a U.S. ban is gaining momentum in Congress, despite former President Donald Trump's recent remarks questioning the necessity of a ban. The bipartisan bill, led by House China Committee Chairman Mike Gallagher, seeks to prohibit app stores and ISPs like Apple and Google from hosting TikTok unless ByteDance divests it within six months. This legislative effort received a unanimous vote of approval from the Energy and Commerce Committee. Trump's shift in stance, from previously attempting to ban TikTok due to national security concerns to now suggesting Meta's Facebook poses a greater threat, introduces a complex variable for Republican lawmakers. FBI Director Christopher Wray and the annual report from the Office of the Director for National Intelligence have reiterated significant national security risks associated with TikTok, citing instances of China's alleged use of the platform to influence U.S. politics. TikTok has countered these allegations by denying any data sharing with Beijing and by investing over $1.5 billion to safeguard its U.S. operations, including a partnership with Oracle for oversight. The bill's future in the Senate remains uncertain, though some senators have expressed potential support. TikTok has mobilized efforts to oppose the bill, including enlisting Republican figures. Meanwhile, voices within Congress advocate for broader internet data protection measures rather than focusing solely on TikTok. This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of addressing cybersecurity, data privacy, and the influence of social media on public discourse.TikTok Divestment Bill Moves Ahead in House as Trump WaversIn my column, I delve into the urgent need for the United States to adopt a global minimum tax as a means to combat rampant corporate tax avoidance, a situation exacerbated by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. Despite the act's promises, its aftermath has primarily seen the institutionalization of tax evasion practices rather than the anticipated economic growth. I argue that President Joe Biden's proposal for a global minimum tax of 21% on multinational earnings in each jurisdiction is a critical step towards halting the detrimental race to the bottom in corporate tax rates, thus leveling the playing field for U.S. businesses.My analysis points out that following the TCJA, many corporations have paid significantly less in taxes than intended, with a study showing an effective tax rate of just 14.1% for 342 of the most profitable companies. This starkly contrasts with the act's reduced rate of 21%, underscoring the policy's failure to curb tax evasion effectively. I contend that revisiting the advocacy for a global minimum tax is not only timely but essential for the integrity of the corporate tax framework, especially as Biden's administration's tax policies face uncertainty with the approaching presidential election.I emphasize the necessity of tax transparency in achieving equitable corporate taxation. This involves mandating standardized disclosures of taxes paid across jurisdictions and the specifics of tax benefits and credits received, thereby allowing tax authorities, the public, and stakeholders to scrutinize corporations' tax strategies more effectively.Further, I discuss the broader context of the global minimum tax initiative led by the G20 and OECD, which the U.S. has yet to join. This reluctance leaves the U.S. missing out on potential revenue from the global minimum tax rate of 15% agreed upon by over 140 countries, which could support critical domestic investments. I challenge the arguments against the global minimum tax, highlighting the benefits of discouraging harmful tax competition and simplifying compliance for multinational corporations.In sum, I tried through my column to underscore the imperative for the U.S. to embrace the global minimum tax as a robust solution to corporate tax avoidance, fostering fairness, equity, and the necessary fiscal resources to invest in the nation's future.US Must Adopt Global Minimum Tax to Fight Corporate Tax Avoidance Get full access to Minimum Competence - Daily Legal News Podcast at www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

Lancaster Farming Industrial Hemp Podcast
The Rise of ‘Red State Weed' and What to Do About It

Lancaster Farming Industrial Hemp Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2024 55:29


This week's podcast guest is Robert Hoban, a cannabis attorney and industry leader. Hoban recently published a five-part series at Forbes.com in which he takes a deep dive on some of the most controversial issues in the hemp industry today. Hoban has had a full-spectrum cannabis career, having worked extensively on both sides of the marijuana/hemp divide. A few years before the 2014 Farm Bill opened a legal pathway for hemp in the U.S., Hoban was approached by a company that wanted to sell CBD, which at the time was a relatively unknown substance. “I was asked a very direct question,” he said. “Is CBD legal under the Controlled Substances Act?” He was only vaguely familiar with CBD at the time, and so he didn't know the answer. “I said, ‘Give me three weeks. I'm going to do the deepest dive I could possibly do,' and I did,” he said. The legal opinion he wrote based on his analysis was widely shared and ultimately was a contributing factor to the meteoric rise of CBD. “Based on the definition of marihuana, spelled with an H under our Controlled Substances Act, it was quite clear to me that certain elements of the plant, and certain variations of the plant grown internationally, were indeed lawful under our Controlled Substances Act,” he said. “And CBD is not and was never a scheduled substance.” It's not hard to draw a line between the overproduction of CBD after the 2018 Farm Bill and the recent market explosion of substances like Delta-8 THC or THC-0. “Because of all this biomass, the lack of FDA action, and good ole American entrepreneurialism, we saw the rise of intoxicating hemp derivatives,” Hoban writes in his Forbes article. Hoban refers to the derivatives, or IHDs, as “red state weed” because “much of this hemp derivative activity has become popular in so-called red states,” Hoban writes, where as Democratic-majority blue states are more likely to have avenues for legal marijuana through medical dispensaries or recreational shops. Red state weed has created headaches for lawmakers who are trying to figure out the best way to deal these substances. Should they be regulated? Should they be banned? Because Hoban has worked closely with both the hemp industry and the marijuana industry, he has watched with concern as these two sectors of the larger cannabis industry go to war over these derivatives. “When I started to see the finger pointing back and forth, I just wanted to shed some light on what was happening and bring some perspective to it,” he said. “And this was on the heels of fighting a policy battle in the state of Colorado, where the marijuana sector was very deliberate in its intention to shut this sector down.” Some argue that the rise of IHDs was due to a loophole in the language of the Farm Bill. But Hoban said this is no loophole and the cannabis industry as a whole should be embracing these substances, not trying to ban them. The demand for these products does not go away simply because a state government bans them. It only makes consumer safety an issue, Hoban said. Read Robert Hogan's articles on Forbes.com https://www.forbes.com/sites/roberthoban/ News Nuggets Hemp sampling protocol changed in Pennsylvania https://www.farmprogress.com/hemp/hemp-sampling-protocol-changed-in-pennsylvania Oklahoma's industrial hemp potential: Unveiling benefits and new task force formation https://ktul.com/news/local/oklahomas-industrial-hemp-potential-unveiling-benefits-and-new-task-force-formation-farmers-thc-oklahoma-cbd-marijuana-plant-people-growing-batteries-bill-rian-graphene-cannabinoids-states-field-products-grow Advocates celebrate inclusion of hemp in USDA's Census of Agriculture https://mjbizdaily.com/advocates-celebrate-inclusion-of-hemp-in-usda-census-of-agriculture/ ‘It's almost carbon-negative': how hemp became a surprise building material https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/15/its-almost-carbon-negative-how-hemp-became-a-surprise-building-material Thanks to our Sponsors! IND HEMP https://indhemp.com/ Mpactful Ventures https://www.mpactfulventures.org/ Forever Green, distributors of the KP-4 Hemp Cutter https://www.hempcutter.com/

HelixTalk - Rosalind Franklin University's College of Pharmacy Podcast
178 - Law & Order: Pharmacy Edition. A Concise Review of High-Yield Pharmacy Law Topics for the MPJE

HelixTalk - Rosalind Franklin University's College of Pharmacy Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2024 56:45


In this episode, we speak with Janeen Winnike, the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at Rosalind Franklin and a co-course director for the Pharmacy Law course at the university. We review some of the key points regarding federal and Illinois pharmacy law – a must-listen especially for graduates preparing for their MPJE exam after graduation! Key Concepts The FDA (via the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act) primarily regulates manufacturers. Most regulation for pharmacies and pharmacists is via the federal Controlled Substances Act and state-based regulations (acts and administrative codes). An IND (investigational drug application) is required to begin human clinical trials (phase I-III). An NDA (new drug application) is used for the FDA to consider whether a drug should be approved for use in the US. The Federal Controlled Substances Act outlines which drugs are scheduled I-V. State law can be more restrictive. C-II drugs have special regulations related to prescribing, ordering/distribution, refills, partial fills, etc. In Illinois, pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians are permitted to vaccinate patients aged 7 years and older (or temporarily 3 years and older per the PREP act for COVID-19 and influenza vaccines). Pharmacists can order and administer COVID-19 and influenza vaccines; other vaccines require a standing order or a prescription in order prior to administration in a pharmacy. References Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act (225 ILCS 85) https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=1318&ChapterID=24 Illinois Pharmacy Practice Act Administrative Code (Part 1330):  https://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/068/06801330sections.html Illinois Controlled Substances Act (720 ILCS 570) https://ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs5.asp?ActID=1941&ChapterID=53 Illinois Controlled Substances Act Administrative Code (Part 3100) https://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07703100sections.html Pharmacist's Manual: An Informational Outline of the Controlled Substances Act. Drug Enforcement Administration. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/GDP/(DEA-DC-046R1)(EO-DEA154R1)_Pharmacist%27s_Manual_DEA.pdf

Grey Matter with Michael Krasny
Dr. Nolan Williams - The Brain on Psychedelics

Grey Matter with Michael Krasny

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2024 58:53


Leading Stanford neurologist and psychiatrist Dr. Nolan Williams joined us for a deeper understanding of current scientific explorations into the growing use of psychedelics in relieving and curing mental health problems. Though not ignoring valid concerns over bad trips and underage usage, Dr. Williams demonstrated how FDA approved research with safeguards can lead to mental health cures. He spoke, too, of the history of the Controlled Substances Act, the brain's plasticity, and sacramental drugs such as Ayahuasca and Ibogaine as well as Psilocybin (magic mushrooms), MDMA (Ecstasy), ketamine, electroconvulsive therapy, EMDR and spaced learning. A renaissance in non-recreational psychedelic uses with some striking results!

SCOTUS Audio
Brown v. United States & Jackson, v. United States, Consolidated

SCOTUS Audio

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 84:49


The Armed Career Criminal Act provides that felons who possess a firearm are normally subject to a maximum 10-year sentence. But if the felon already has at least three "serious drug offense" convictions, then the minimum sentence is fifteen years. Courts decide whether a prior state conviction counts as a serious drug offense using the categorical approach. That requires determining whether the elements of a state drug offense are the same as, or narrower than those of its federal counterpart. If so, the state conviction qualifies as an ACCA predicate. But federal drug law often changes-as here, where Congress decriminalized hemp, narrowing the federal definition of marijuana. If state law doesn't follow suit, sentencing courts face a categorical conundrum. Under an earlier version of federal law, the state and federal offenses match-and the state offense is an ACCA predicate. Under the amended version, the offenses do not match-and the state offense is not an ACCA predicate. So the version of federal law that the court chooses to consult dictates the difference between serving a 10-year maximum or a 15-year minimum. The question presented is: Which version of federal law should a sentencing court consult under ACCA's categorical approach? The Armed Career Criminal Act mandates fifteen years in prison for federal firearm offenses where the defendant has three prior "violent felonies" or "serious drug offenses." The ACCA defines a "serious drug offense" as "an offense under State law, involving manufacturing, distributing, or possessing with intent to manufacture or distribute, a controlled substance (as defined in section 102 of the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802)), for which a maximum term of imprisonment often years or more is prescribed by law." 18 U.S.C. § 924(e)(2)(A)(ii) (emphasis added). Four circuits have unanimously held that § 924(e)(2)(A)(ii) incorporates the federal drug schedules in effect at the time of the federal firearm offense to which the ACCA applies. In the decision below, however, the Eleventh Circuit accepted the government's express invitation to reject those circuit decisions. In doing so, the Eleventh Circuit held that § 924(e)(2)(A)(ii) instead incorporates the federal drug schedules that were in effect at the time of the defendant's prior state drug offense. The question presented is: Whether the "serious drug offense" definition in the Armed Career Criminal Act, 18 U.S.C. § 924(e)(2)(A)(ii), incorporates the federal drug schedules that were in effect at the time of the federal firearm offense (as the Third, Fourth, Eighth, and Tenth Circuits have held), or the federal drug schedules that were in effect at the time of the prior state drug offense (as the Eleventh Circuit held below).1 1 A related question is presented in Altman, et al. v. United States (No. 22-5877) (response requested Nov. 16, 2022) and Brown v. United States (No. 22-6389) (docketed Dec. 23, 2022).

The Trip Report
#11: Matt Zorn - In the Weeds of Psychedelic Law and Policy

The Trip Report

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2023 47:40


Welcome back to The Trip Report Podcast, a production of Beckley Waves, a Psychedelic Venture Studio.Today, we're speaking with Matt Zorn.Matt is a partner at the law firm Yetter Coleman. His law practice is uniquely focused on regulatory law, and importantly for this conversation, he has been working on several psychedelic-related cases.I should warn you we get into the weeds straight out of the gates on this one as I ask Matt about his experience deposing the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)—and what that actually means.This is probably the most technical conversation we've had on the podcast, and so you'll hear me ask Matt to clarify or explain things several times.I would ask listeners to keep in mind while listening to this that the matter of illegality of psychedelics and the punishment mandated by the law was not established through science, public health, or respect for individual liberties– but rather, this state of affairs was established to consolidate political power.The Controlled Substances Act, established in 1970—more than 50 years ago—created the DEA and established formidable barriers to revising the government's position on psychedelics and other scheduled substances.Matt, along with a handful of other attorneys working in the field, are holding the DEA's feet to the flame, so to speak, and forcing the agency to clarify its position on several fronts and through this process—and this is my personal opinion— exposing that the emperor, in fact, is wearing no clothes.We discuss one specific area in which Matt and his colleagues are pushing the DEA for clarity; this is a trial AIMS vs the DEA where defendants are seeking clarity on the matter of whether psilocybin is eligible for terminally ill patients through The Right to Try Act.We also dive into:* Cannabis rescheduling* The Freedom of Information Act* How the FDA came to be the other federal agency involved in the drug classification schema and the concept of “Medically Accepted Use”* The legal concept of the Chevron Deference and* The differences between state-level legalization and decriminalization And, without further ado, I bring you my conversation with Matt Zorn.Listen to the episode on Substack, Spotify, Google or Apple.Credits:* Hosted by Zach Haigney * Produced by Zach Haigney, Erin Greenhouse, and Katelin Jabbari* Find us at thetripreport.com* Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube* Theme music by MANCHO Sounds, Mixed and Mastered by Rollin Weary This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thetripreport.com

The Permaculture Podcast
The News - 4 September 2023

The Permaculture Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2023 7:22


This Episode of The News includes two updates from the podcast, a look at rescheduling Marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act, concerns over the shrinking supply of freshwater in the United States, and close with an opportunity for permaculture practitioners. Visit Our Sponsor: RoofMaxx roofmaxx.info/podcast Schedule a Meandering Session Donate to the Backup Fundraiser Using PayPal: PayPal.me/PermaculturePodcast Via Venmo: @permaculturepodcast Show Notes Rescheduling Marijuana America is Using Up Its Groundwater Like There's No Tomorrow Enter the 2024 PINA Design Contest!

Morning Announcements
Friday, September 1st, 2023

Morning Announcements

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2023 6:02


Today's Headlines: In recent updates, former President Donald Trump entered a plea of not guilty in the Georgia criminal case centered on allegations of interfering with the 2020 election. This move was coupled with his waiver of arraignment, along with 18 co-defendants. Meanwhile, Georgia's Republican Governor Brian Kemp firmly declined calls to commence impeachment proceedings against Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, the prosecutor handling Trump's case, reiterating his dedication to responsible public service rather than political theatrics. In another development, two former leaders of the extremist group Proud Boys, Joseph Biggs and Zachary Rehl, received sentences of 15 and 17 years for their roles in the January 6th insurrection, while the sentencing of other Proud Boys members, including their leader Enrique Tarrio, is anticipated. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell obtained medical clearance to resume his routine after experiencing a recent health incident. Finally, the Department of Health and Human Services called for a reclassification of marijuana to a less restrictive category under the Controlled Substances Act, potentially affecting its legal status and commercial taxation. Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode: NY Times: Trump, Waiving Arraignment, Pleads Not Guilty in Georgia Case  AP News: Two ex-Proud Boys leaders get some of longest sentences in Jan. 6 Capitol attack AP News: Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell can continue with his work schedule, congressional physician says Bloomberg: US Health Officials Urge Moving Pot to Lower-Risk Category CNN: Clarence Thomas officially discloses private trips on GOP donor Harlan Crow's plane Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Amanda Duberman and Bridget Schwartz Edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices