Vermont Gov. Scott Opposes Drug Safe Consumption Sites, Virginia's Cannabis 'Surveillance System' And More Updates

Vermont Gov. Scott To Weigh On Drug Safe Consumption Site Bill And More

Vermont’s House of Representatives recently gave a green light to a measure that would set up a psychedelic-assisted therapy working group. Its eight members would be tasked with providing recommendations on regulation of legal access to substances like psilocybin and MDMA, reported Marijuana Moment.

The bill, from Sen. Martine Larocque Gulick (D), which was already passed in the Senate, prior to several changes, stipulates that the Psychedelic Therapy Advisory Working Group would "review the latest research and evidence of the public health benefits and risks of clinical psychedelic-assisted treatments" and "examine the laws and programs of other states that have authorized the use of psychedelics by health care providers in a therapeutic setting."

The legislation now has to undergo a concurrence vote in the Senate before ending up on Governor Phil Scott's (R) table.

See also: Psychedelics Update: Task Forces In Three States, Decrim No-Go, Arizona Psilocybin Centers, Utah And More

On a different note, Gov. Scott expressed a strong opposition against H.72, which seeks to both legalize and fund a facility based in the city of Burlington, which is meant to offer those using prohibited drugs it in a medically supervised environment, according to Marijuana Moment.

"I'm sure I'll end up vetoing that, and we'll see if there's an override," he said on Wednesday during a press conference. "That one is something that I am opposed to. We'll see if they have the votes."

Following the potential veto, the measure proposing the creation of an overdose prevention center (OPC) would need a two-thirds supermajority in the legislature to override it.

Virginia's ‘Surveillance System' To Track ‘Adverse Events' Related To Cannabis Use

In Virginia, officials are trying to keep cannabis away teens and children. In a recent letter to health care providers State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton raised concerns around numerous reports of minors getting sick from products containing CBD and THC, reported Virginia Mercury.

“Reported symptoms for these adverse events have included vomiting, hallucinations, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, altered mental status and anxiety," Shelton wrote in the letter, highlighting that "some hospitalizations have occurred."

To address the issue, the state has set up a "special surveillance system." Additionally, there's also an online portal where those who have experienced adverse effects of cannabis can submit a report to the state's health agency.

The Virginia Department of Health's (VDH) staff would "collect information about the illness(es), possible exposures, and laboratory results," once cannabis-related hospitalizations in those younger than 18 and any "clusters of adverse events" in minors are identified, the letter said.

See also: Virginia Gov. Vetoes Bill That Would Protect Parents Who Use Marijuana From Child Neglect Accusations, Citing ‘Non-Existent Problem’

Cannabis Advocate Continues to Fight In Kansas As Thousands Obtaining Medical Marijuana From Neighboring Missouri

In the meantime, according to a report by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services obtained by Kansas City Star, nearly 2000 Kansans are holders of a medicinal marijuana license in Missouri.

More precisely, 1,834 Kansans, as per agency spokesperson. The data are a said remainder that Kansas is on track to face another year without the prospect of legalizing medical marijuana or expanding its Medicaid program.

Why? Republican state senators blocked cannabis reform efforts last month, leaving supporters of medical marijuana frustrated.

That said, a new PAC dubbed the Cannabis Justice Coalition, is pushing for electing bipartisan, pro-cannabis candidates in the upcoming election. Igna Selders, the executive director of the coalition urged Kansans to use their voice at the ballot box.

"We are putting the pressure on everybody up for reelection right now," she said. "Because they've been avoiding the topic, and at this point, it hasn't been front and central. Our biggest mission is to make cannabis legislation the central issue this election cycle."

Illinois' New Measure To Regulate Hemp-Derived THC Products

Illinois lawmakers have introduced a measure that seeks to regulate hemp-derived THC, including delta-8 products, reported Illinois Senate Democratic.

Senate Bill 776 from Senate Majority leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D) was prompted by a study from the Journal of the American Medical Association that found that 11% of high school seniors said they are using delta-8.

Being crafted by how the state regulates cannabis, possession over 500 milligrams of cannabis or hemp concentrate-derived THC products would not be allowed.

"We are working diligently to protect consumers of all ages, help our cannabis industry flourish, keep the promise to our social equity communities, and not stifle reputable hemp business establishments," Lightford said. "Effective regulation is about safeguarding public health and fostering a sustainable, trustworthy market."

By descheduling cannabis and with federal regulations put in place public health and safety would be protected. If you want to understand what it would mean for the future of the industry and hear directly from top executives, investors and policymakers, come join us at the 19th Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference. The event returns to Chicago this Oct. 8-9. Get your tickets now before prices surge by following this link.