Today, Explained

Legal weed’s half-baked promise

Oct 17, 2022
Paige St. John, an investigative reporter at the Los Angeles Times specializing in the marijuana industry, reveals the stark realities of California's legal cannabis market. Contrary to proponents' hopes, the state’s illegal market is thriving, fueled by loopholes in legalization. St. John discusses how the surge of illegal operations threatens licensed growers and leads to violence. The conversation also highlights the environmental damage and labor exploitation linked to cannabis cultivation, emphasizing the need for consumer awareness and a cohesive federal regulatory framework.
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INSIGHT

Intertwined Markets

  • California's legal and illegal marijuana markets are intertwined.
  • The illegal market uses legalization as a cover and thrives due to reduced penalties.
ANECDOTE

California's Cannabis History

  • California has a long history with cannabis, starting with the Emerald Triangle's small grows.
  • The state struggled with legalization, with conflicting views on its impact.
INSIGHT

Green Rush Backfires

  • The "green rush" after legalization led to a surge in illegal outdoor grows.
  • The expectation that the legal market would outcompete illegal growers proved false.
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