Bipartisan Pennsylvania Senators File Bill To Let Medical Marijuana Patients Grow Their Own Plants
Originally Published 6 months ago on July 31, 2023 By Kyle Jaeger
Bipartisan Pennsylvania senators have introduced a bill that would expand the state’s medical cannabis program by giving patients 21 and older the right to grow their own plants for personal use.
The legislation, filed on Thursday by Sens. Sharif Street (D) and Dan Laughlin (R), along with six other senators, would allow registered patients to cultivate up to six cannabis plants.
Medical marijuana dispensaries would be able to sell cannabis seeds to patients, who could then grow them in their own residence in an enclosed and locked location that’s outside of “ordinary” public view.
CDC says teen pot use declined in Washington after legalization
If a person doesn’t own their property, they would need to receive permission from the owner to grow marijuana.
The bill, which has been referred to the Senate Law and Justice Committee, doesn’t appear to set limits on the total number of plants that a household with more than one registered medical cannabis patient could have.
“Since the passage of Act 16 in 2016, Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana (MMJ) program has offered lifesaving medicine to communities across the Commonwealth,” the two senators wrote in a memo seeking cosponsors for the new bill. “However, there are still inefficiencies around MMJ that are well known, especially as it relates to cost and access.”
“The PA Department of Health indicated that patients in some counties must travel more than two hours in order to reach a dispensary,” they said. “This is simply not feasible for many Pennsylvanians. In addition, patients have also been vocal on the fiscal challenges around the rising costs of medicine and affordability.”
“It is critical that policy meet people where they are. By allowing medical marijuana patients to grow cannabis plants at home, we can help ease the cost and accessibility burdens for this important medicine. This legislation would go a long way towards helping everyday Pennsylvanians meet their health needs and ensuring everyone is treated equitably and fairly under Act 16.”
An individual who cultivates more than the allowable number of plants under the bill, or who gives away plants or cannabis products, would be subject to penalties, including the loss of their home grow rights.
Street and Laughlin also recently unveiled a separate bill to legalize marijuana for adult use.
The two senators previously sponsored a legalization bill that was not ultimately enacted last session, but they say that the newly filed proposal represents a significant improvement that they hope to advance.
In a co-sponsorship memo seeking support for the legalization legislation from colleagues, the senators emphasized that polling shows adult-use legalization “is supported by two-thirds of Pennsylvanians and has majority support in rural, suburban, and urban legislative districts.”
They also pointed out that legalization is estimated to bring in $400 million to $1 billion in tax revenue to the state.
Meanwhile, in May, Pennsylvania House lawmakers filed separate bills to legalize marijuana sales through state-run stores and to provide permits for farmers and small agriculture businesses to cultivate cannabis once adult-use sales are allowed.
Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) supports enacting cannabis reform and proposed to legalize and tax adult-use marijuana as part of his 2023-2024 budget request in March.
A Complete History of the King Cake
Step into the rich history of culinary history, where each bite tells a story of tradition, celebration, and community. Today, we embark on a journey through time to uncover the origins and evolution of the beloved King Cake, a symbol of festivity and camaraderie. From ancient rituals to modern-day revelry, let's delve deep into the layers of this iconic confection.
The roots of the King Cake stretch back to ancient times, tracing its origins to the pagan festivals of Saturnalia and Lupercalia in Rome. During these celebrations, round cakes adorned with symbols of fertility and rebirth were shared among friends and family.
Did you know the King Cake has Christian Influences? With the spread of Christianity, the tradition of the King Cake evolved to coincide with the feast of Epiphany, commemorating the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus. In France, this day became known as "La Fête des Rois" (The Feast of the Kings), and the cake became synonymous with the Three Kings.
The Twelfth Night: In medieval Europe, the celebration of Epiphany extended into the Twelfth Night, marking the end of the Christmas season. During this time, revelers partook in lavish feasts and crowned a "king" and "queen" to preside over the festivities. The King Cake, with its hidden trinket symbolizing a lucky charm or the Christ child, became a centerpiece of these joyous gatherings.
Now lets look at the Mardi Gras Tradition: As European settlers brought the tradition of the King Cake to the Americas, it became intertwined with the festivities of Mardi Gras, particularly in New Orleans. Here, the cake took on vibrant colors of purple, green, and gold, symbolizing the three gifts the Magi brought the infant Jesus, Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh; also for justice, faith, and power, respectively. The addition of a hidden fava bean or plastic baby, representing the Christ child or luck, added an element of surprise and merriment to the celebration.
Today, the King Cake remains a cherished tradition across cultures and continents, symbolizing unity and prosperity. From Louisiana to Latin America, each region puts its own unique twist on the recipe, incorporating local flavors and customs into the mix. Whether enjoyed on Epiphany, Mardi Gras, or any festive occasion, the King Cake continues to bring people together in the spirit of joy and togetherness.
As we continue our journey through the accounts of history, we are reminded of the enduring power of tradition and the simple pleasures of sharing a slice of cake with loved ones. The King Cake, with its storied past and timeless appeal, serves as a reminder of the bonds that unite us across generations and cultures.
Lets all work together and make our world a better place!
Do an act of kindness for a stranger!
Articulating over 100 years of experiences between Michael and me is going to be an exciting feat for us to attempt to deliver. Be prepared to jump from the present events we are involved in and share our past that we can recall and the sharing of our very distant family history as we uncover our past. That is after all what makes us; us.
Firstly we would like to share bit about my spiritual upbringing in the rural town of Arcadia Louisiana…Alabama Baptist Church is where I first was introduced to the Word of God as a very young child. To my recollection; Mom, Dad, my brother and I would begin our Sunday Mornings with breakfast then dress in our Sunday’s best dress for first our Bible study in Sunday School. This was in the 1970’s. The church was filled with young ones and new families that filled the classes and greater congregation. The ministers would deliver the sermons in the morning then we were back Sunday evening then there was Wednesday Prayer meeting and us boys would attend RA’s (Royal Ambassadors.) The Purpose of Royal Ambassadors is to involve boys in missions. Involvement in missions is living one's faith daily: personal experience in witness and ministry and giving and praying to support persons involved in missions. The Royal Ambassador program helps boys to become aware of the needs of people around the world and to respond to those needs.
I guess by now you have realized currently we are living on the East Coast and that is a place as a child I never thought I would be able to visit much less live here. Right now we will stick to the Spiritual journey and weave some more personal experiences that will be related OR just mention as a bit of useless tidbits you might fine as entertaining, disturbing, useful and thought provoking.
Now, let's shift gears as my ADHD kicks in! (I Promise ALL the dots eventually connect!) Okay... swiftly transitioning with us to discussions about our businesses—The Peaceful Kingdom Farms, Project Lagniappe, and the Lagniappe Podcast. We kindly invite you to explore our websites and delve into the "About Us" sections, where you can familiarize yourself with our background, values, and aspirations outlined in our Mission Statements.
We are so blessed to be at Pennsylvania University( where Michael is an alumnus) and were approached by, and are clients of Happy Valley Communication which conducted a comprehensive SWOT analysis of our businesses . Among the commendations, transparency emerged as a cornerstone in our business practices. Transparency, as defined by the Cambridge Dictionary, refers to a situation where business and financial activities are conducted openly, without secrets, fostering trust in the fairness and honesty of our operations. This commitment to transparency is a cherished aspect of our businesses, resonating deeply with our principles.
We often find ourselves immersed in conversations with students, faculty, staff, and visitors about the shared yearning for a spiritual home, a sense of belonging in the realm of faith, even if our paths might be considered "Different."
These insightful dialogues, coupled with the recent passing of my Mom, Charlotte, have served as the catalyst for me to wholeheartedly embrace my calling into Priesthood.
We invite you to follow Michael and me on my "Pathway to Priesthood."
Now here is the information we promised about Bishop Gene Robinson “God Called Me Out of the Closet”
In 2003 he became the first openly gay bishop in all of Christendom, when the Episcopal Church consecrated Gene Robinson the 9th bishop of New Hampshire. Death threats followed, but so did a shift in the relationship between the LGBTQ community and the church. "Sunday Morning" senior contributor Ted Koppel talks with Bishop Robinson about his quest to live an authentic life; and with other gay bishops serving today whom Robinson calls his legacy.
YouTube channel: / cbssundaymorning
We invite you to become a part of our extended family, to laugh with us, shed tears with us, and join us for a journey marked by inspiration, insight, reflection, faith, and unwavering love. Together, let us affirm that amidst life's trials and tribulations, family and love have the power to conquer everything. Welcome to "Metamorphosis," where our story becomes a shared tapestry of resilience and triumph.
Welcome to the Lagniappe Podcast, where hosts Michael and Seamus engage in spirited discussions about the latest episodes and exciting updates, all now conveniently available on YouTube and Pandora. Join the dynamic duo as they explore a myriad of topics, bringing you fresh perspectives, insights, and plenty of laughter along the way.
But this podcast isn't just about Michael and Seamus – it's about you, the listener, being an integral part of the Lagniappe community. They encourage you to actively participate by sending in your clips, sharing special events, and making important announcements. Your voice matters, and they want to amplify it through the airwaves.
In the spirit of collaboration, Michael and Seamus invite everyone to come together and contribute to making the world a better place. Whether it's through sharing uplifting stories, discussing meaningful topics, or simply spreading kindness, they believe in the power of collective action.
As a special call to action, the hosts encourage all listeners to perform acts of kindness for strangers. Let's create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a brighter, more compassionate place. Join the Lagniappe Podcast community, where discussions are lively, connections are meaningful, and together, we can make a difference.
In a world where love knows no boundaries, Michael and Seamus(Mickey & Scooter) stand as a testament to the enduring power of commitment and heritage. Almost nine years into their matrimonial journey, the couple is about to embark on a unique adventure that pays homage to their shared Scottish roots—the donning of matching kilts. But these kilts aren't just a fashion statement; they are woven with the threads of history, connecting Michael and Seamus to The Wallace Clan and 18th-century Glasgow, Scotland.
For Michael and Seamus, the journey into their Scottish heritage is not just a shared interest but a tapestry that weaves through their individual family histories. Each can trace their roots separately, leading back to The Wallace Clan and the bustling streets of Glasgow in the 1700s. The rich cultural tapestry of Scotland is etched into the fabric of their lives, and it's this shared connection that makes their upcoming venture all the more special.
To share their unique story, Michael and Seamus have invited listeners to join them on "The Lagniappe Podcast." This platform promises an unfiltered glimpse into their lives—every laugh, every tear, and every shocking event. The podcast is a candid exploration of their journey, a real-life chronicle that invites both the curious and the committed to experience the highs and lows of their relationship.
While Michael and Seamus promise unfiltered reality, they also assure listeners that their podcast is family-friendly. In a world saturated with content that may not be suitable for all audiences, "The Lagniappe Podcast" aims to provide a genuine and authentic narrative without compromising on values. It's a celebration of love, heritage, and the beauty found in the unpredictability of life.
The matching kilts that they will soon don hold a significance beyond mere aesthetics. They are a tangible representation of the intertwining threads of their Scottish lineage, a symbol of unity that transcends time and tradition. As they prepare to step into the past through the lens of their ancestors, the couple invites everyone to witness the beauty of shared history and the strength it brings to their union.
They are more than just a couple preparing for a fashion-forward adventure; they are storytellers, weaving a narrative that spans centuries and continents. As they embark on their journey in matching kilts, listeners are sure to be captivated by the raw and unfiltered reality of their lives, all while celebrating the beauty of love, heritage, and the unexpected moments that shape our stories. So, buckle up and tune in to "The Lagniappe Podcast"—a voyage into the hearts and history of two souls united by love and a shared Scottish legacy.
Join Mickey and Scooter for another delightful hour filled with unexpected surprises and laughter. In this episode of the Lagniappe Podcast, the dynamic duo shares amusing anecdotes, explores quirky corners of life, and sprinkles in a dash of humor that's sure to brighten your day. From hilarious mishaps to heartwarming tales, Mickey and Scooter bring you a lagniappe—an extra helping of joy to savor. Tune in for an hour of lighthearted banter, spontaneous fun, and the camaraderie that makes every moment special. It's another hour to share with you, so grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and enjoy the extra dose of merriment with the Lagniappe Podcast!
When you shop at thepkfarms.com, you're not just getting high-quality products from The Peaceful Kingdom Farms, you're also contributing to a world-changing cause! With each purchase, ProjectLagniappe.org will surprise you with a FREE gift crafted from the goodness of agricultural hemp ingredients! It's an act of kindness that keeps on giving, and we believe it can spread exponentially! Let's make a difference together!
Join the Global Entrepreneurship Project!
Calling all creative minds!
ProjectLagniappe.org is on a mission to revolutionize the world through their "Global Entrepreneurship Project."
They're diving into the emerging Cannabis sativa industry and combining it with cutting-edge 3D printing technology to create structures with Hemp Crete.
Imagine using this amazing 3-D Technology to print emergency shelters and buildings that can house aqua phonics facilities that will feed under-served and disaster-stricken areas around the globe!
Fostering Change Through Mentorship and Education! But it's not just about buildings; it's about fostering mentorship, stewardship, education, and financial literacy. ProjectLagniappe.org believes in empowering communities for a sustainable future.
How Can You Get Involved? Are you a creative mind eager to make a positive impact? Volunteer for ProjectLagniappe.org.org's "Global Entrepreneurship Project" and be a part of this groundbreaking initiative! Together, let's create a world where kindness, innovation, and sustainability go hand in hand!
Tag a friend who needs to know about this incredible journey and let's make a difference together! #ProjectLagniappe #ThePeacefulKingdomFarms #GlobalEntrepreneurship #SustainabilityRevolution #SpreadLoveWithLagniappe
We wanted to share another narrative on just how Hemp (Cannabis sativa) can save our planet!
thepkfarms.com
Projectlagniappe.org
Call 988 if you are in mental Crisis or you can reach out to us if you just need to talk. YOU are NOT ALONE!