The Drug Report

Could the defeat of Florida's marijuana legalization measure signal a turning tide in drug policy across America? Despite an avalanche of financial backing and celebrity endorsements, Florida's initiative fell short, leaving many to question the power dynamics at play. Join us as we unpack the surprising outcome, delving into the influential role of grassroots campaigns and bipartisan voices, such as the powerful advocacy from former congresswoman Donna Shalala. Discover how "Don't Let Florida Go to Pot" captured the public's attention and vote, challenging the narrative that financial clout guarantees success in the ballot box.

Explore the broader shift in drug policy attitudes nationwide, as marijuana legalization efforts face unexpected setbacks in states like North and South Dakota. These defeats highlight the power of community coalitions and parental advocacy in steering public opinion. With concerns over youth usage and black market proliferation, the narrative that marijuana legalization is an unstoppable force is being rewritten. Celebrate these grassroots victories as we spotlight the relentless efforts of local communities standing up to well-funded legalization campaigns.

Look to Massachusetts, where the conversation takes a fascinating turn towards psychedelic legalization in progressive hubs like Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville. Uncover the state's storied connection to psychedelics and the surprising voting patterns that emerged. Meanwhile, in Colorado Springs, a significant ban on marijuana sales underscores a commitment to public health priorities. We acknowledge the unwavering dedication of organizations like SAM and the Foundation for Drug Policy Solutions, whose work has been instrumental in these recent victories, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for sensible drug policies.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

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Discover the complexities of today's drug policy landscape with insights from around the globe. We promise an enlightening journey as Kevin Sabat and I unpack the highlights from the recent Lisbon Addictions Conference. We bring you the latest updates and debates on harm reduction versus legalization, spotlighting data-driven discussions from regions like Oregon and British Columbia. As we shift focus to the United States, uncover the stories behind various drug policy ballot measures, including marijuana legalization efforts in Florida and the Dakotas. The challenges New York faces in its legalization journey serve as a cautionary tale, and we even touch on an intriguing psychedelics measure in Massachusetts, hinting at the evolving dynamics in drug policy.

In a special segment, Kevin joins me to highlight the importance of staying informed through resources like newsletters from learnaboutsamorg and thedrugreportorg. We emphasize the value of evidence-based policies and encourage robust discussions among our listeners. Make sure to engage with us by subscribing to these newsletters for the latest updates and leave a review to help amplify the conversation. Tune in for a comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping the future of drug policy around the world.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Is federal marijuana legalization truly a win for Black men, or are there hidden pitfalls? Join us as we take a hard look at Vice President Kamala Harris's proposal, focusing on its goal to dismantle systemic barriers and whether it achieves this when it poses new public health risks. With insightful commentary from Will Jones of SAM, we unravel the intricate dynamics between promising business opportunities and the risks of corporate exploitation in the marijuana industry. By drawing parallels with historical public health challenges like the tobacco industry's impact, we critically question whether this federal move could inadvertently harm the communities it seeks to empower.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Can marijuana regulation backfire on public health? Join us on the Drug Report podcast as we celebrate International Recovery Day and tackle this provocative question with insights from experts like Michael Botticelli and John Kelly. We'll share highlights from a global webinar focused on the mechanisms and societal support necessary for successful recovery. We'll also respond to Robert Gebeloff's Washington Post column advocating for federal marijuana regulation, raising concerns about big tobacco's potential entry into the marijuana market and the resulting public health issues. Plus, you'll hear a detailed recount of the recent debate on Florida's Amendment 3 for recreational marijuana legalization, shedding light on the ongoing complexities in drug policy reform.

Are veterans being misled about marijuana's effects on PTSD? In a crucial segment of this episode, Kevin Sabet and I dismantle the misinformation spreading within veteran communities. Drawing on recent studies, including research from Yale University, we reveal that marijuana may actually worsen PTSD symptoms, contradicting popular belief. We underscore the importance of distributing accurate information to better support our veterans and encourage our listeners to help by leaving a five-star rating and writing a review. Gain valuable insights and join the conversation on drug policy and recovery by tuning in to this thought-provoking and informative episode.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Can the FDA really pull THC-infused edibles off the shelves? We'll take you inside a gripping congressional hearing where FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, James Jones, found himself in the hot seat, interrogated by Congresswoman Kathy McMorris-Rogers. Unravel the complexities of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and understand the real-world implications of the Blumenauer Amendment, which ties the FDA's hands when it comes to medical marijuana dispensaries that also sell recreational products.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Can a balanced approach to harm reduction and recovery really save lives? Join us in a thought-provoking conversation with Tom Wolf, a member of the Recovery community from San Francisco, offering a raw and unfiltered critique of today's drug policies. We scrutinize Vancouver's harm reduction model and its alarming overdose death rates, while Tom passionately argues for recovery-focused solutions in the face of new proposals advocating "safe" drug-use spaces and other radical drug provisions. This episode sheds light on the crucial need to integrate more sensible harm reduction interventions with prevention, treatment, and recovery initiatives for a more humane and effective drug policy.

Dive deep into the broader debate on drug policy strategies as we question advocates' desire to legalize all drugs, scrutinize the opioid crisis, and expose the cultural influence of big corporations on advocacy. With Tom's powerful insights, we explore how recovery voices must lead the way in policymaking. Listen as we highlight real-life advocacy successes from San Francisco and discuss the vital role of individuals in recovery in shaping policies that truly address addiction. This episode is a comprehensive examination of the pressing issues in drug policy, offering a blueprint for a balanced and recovery-centric approach.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Can marijuana use really be costing businesses millions? In this episode of the Drug Report Podcast, we unpack a revealing study from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine that draws a stark connection between cannabis use disorder and rising workplace absenteeism. From the financial strain on employers to the ripple effects on the economy, we analyze the true cost of marijuana in the workplace. We also bring to light alarming data from Quest Diagnostics, showing a surge in marijuana positivity rates, particularly following workplace accidents. Join us as we discuss the crucial need for robust drug prevention and treatment policies to sustain a safe and efficient work environment.

But that’s not all—we also expose a worrying trend within Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program. Through a gripping story from a Pennsylvania series, we uncover how doctors with checkered pasts, including drug dealing and revoked medical licenses, are still issuing medical marijuana cards. This revelation prompts us to question the integrity of medical marijuana programs and the potential for similar issues nationwide. We emphasize the vital role of media in shining a light on such misconduct and discuss the broader implications for the medical community and public trust. Tune in for a comprehensive look into these critical issues affecting workplace dynamics and public health.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

This episode of the Drug Report podcast unpacks the FDA's recent decision to reject Lykos' psilocybin product intended for treating PTSD, a move that has sparked fierce debate. We also delve into the significant fallout for Lykos, from massive layoffs and leadership upheavals to the company's uncertain future. Plus, the tragic case of Matthew Perry is intertwined with broader concerns about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic treatments.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

Can marijuana legalization really dismantle our overcrowded prisons? Find out in today's episode as we unravel the myths and misconceptions about marijuana possession and imprisonment. We begin by examining the widely held belief that legalizing marijuana will significantly reduce prison populations. Using President Biden's historic federal pardons as a case study, we expose the reality: no one was serving federal prison time for simple marijuana possession and the impact of these pardons was far less extensive than most believe.

In the second half, our focus shifts to the real data behind marijuana-related imprisonment in states like Michigan and Florida, revealing that very few people are incarcerated solely for minor marijuana offenses. We also bring to light the health risks associated with regular marijuana use, with a significant study from the University of Southern California showing a three to five-fold increased risk of developing head and neck cancers among daily users. As we draw parallels to the historical impact of tobacco, we stress the importance of informed public awareness to prevent a similar health crisis. Stay informed, stay engaged, and thank you for your continued support.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam

What if the very strategies intended to reduce harm from drug use are actually endangering the very people they aim to protect? This episode of the Drug Report promises to tackle the complexities and controversies surrounding research into harm reduction in drug policy. With significant federal funding now backing harm reduction research, we stress the critical importance of reputable science in shaping effective policies. Hear our nuanced critique on the growing influence of drug normalization in policy-making, through revealing case studies like the Greater Harlem Coalition's experience with pro-drug Yale researchers.

But that’s not all. We dive into the murky waters of ethical concerns surrounding drug research, spotlighting the scandal involving Lykos (formerly MAPS) and its contentious clinical trials for psychedelic drugs. The Wall Street Journal's reports on unreported suicidal ideation among trial subjects raise alarming questions about participant safety and research ethics, echoing historical parallels with the tobacco industry. Finally, don't miss out on our exciting announcement about the TDR newsletter, brimming with insightful articles and a compelling editorial piece. Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we hope you find this episode as thought-provoking as we do.

Follow the work of SAM and FDPS below:

https://learnaboutsam.org/
https://gooddrugpolicy.org/
https://thedrugreport.org/

On X:
https://twitter.com/learnaboutsam
https://twitter.com/GoodDrugPolicy
https://twitter.com/KevinSabet
https://twitter.com/LukeNiforatos

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learnaboutsam