17 Comments

I don’t live in California, but I have been following your writing for …I don’t know decades? So what is the “logic“ behind this ban? Did he just ban ALL CBD products? Or just some? I don’t get it can somebody please explain to me what exactly has been banned and why?

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A bit of education for those asking (I got most of this from the advocacy material written by CW):

Newsom and the legislature recognize the need to protect children from Delta-8 THC and other intoxicating products being deceptively marketed to them. However, they have conflated these harmful substances with natural, non-intoxicating hemp-derived CBD. The unintended consequences of the regulations are catastrophic for some of California’s most vulnerable citizens—the disabled, chronically ill, veterans, and their families. These communities already face unimaginable challenges. Many cannot walk to the corner store, attend school, or maintain employment. For these families, the ability to safely choose non-intoxicating, natural hemp CBD products is not a matter of preference—it is often a matter of survival. These products are not misleading, candy-like items marketed to children. They are carefully chosen, third-party tested options used to help support seizure control, pain management, and in some cases, keeping individuals out of emergency rooms.

This means recognizing that zero THC is not a viable option for everyone. The federal standard of less than 0.3% THC is non-intoxicating and is backed by science, safety protocols, and experience. By eliminating even trace amounts of THC, you would not only defy established medical research, but also risk the well-being of countless individuals whose well-being is best managed with these specific products.

Additionally, requiring these products to be sold only in dispensaries creates a new barrier for families already struggling. Dispensary pricing is often unaffordable, and for many, traveling to a dispensary that may not even stock the products they need is simply impossible. The consumer seeking CBD for therapeutic purposes is vastly different from the typical dispensary consumer. This policy shift would price out those who depend on these products for everyday functioning and survival.

There is a common-sense solution: follow the example set by states like Colorado and Virginia, where reasonable THC limits aligned with federal guidelines are in place. These states have successfully balanced the need for regulation with the needs of vulnerable populations.

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Ahhh now I get it, the Delta-8 thing. This is ridiculous and Newsome is an idiot for failing for this subterfuge. Thanks for the explanation Elizabeth. Hopefully you have another way to access the good effective medicine for Sophie. It’s available where I live, in Maine. If I can be of any help let me know!

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Thank you so much, TJ. For all your support and loyalty. I would love to visit Maine -- it's one of the only states I haven't visited, and it looks so beautiful!

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I am sick about this Elizabeth! what a sellout Gavin Newsom is! And the kids, like your beautiful daughter, suffer.

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This is beyond terrible and so dumb. Infuriating!

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This is beyond infuriating. I'm so, so sorry that this struggle is ongoing. Hoping for a better outcome for Sophie and everyone else affected by this senselessness. Wish it didn't have to be a continuous battle.

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This makes me so angry.

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Heartsick for Sophie and you and all who love her and care for her. I wish you the health and stamina to keep fighting on her behalf, and for all the others adversely harmed by this senseless and totally misinformed legislation.

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This is devastating. I am only glad that the Dem cohort who were angling to have Newsom to step in for Biden did not succeed, but that does you no good in California. I know you will prevail, but why should you have to fight so hard for Sophie's right to optimal health care? I can barely see straight I'm so angry. I wrote Newsom, even though I'm not sure they take out of state emails into account.

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How could Gavin Newsom not be moved by those photos of Sophie, especially the one of her with her brother? How could he sleep at night? Sending love always to you, Sophie, and all who are affected by this ban.

Without saying a word, Sophie speaks eloquently with her eyes.

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The greasy haired guy made a big mistake.

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Newsom is a total shit.

You and your family have my sympathy. Newsom has had my outrage from the moment he told Californians at the start of the pandemic to stay home, and if they must go out, wear a mask. Then he waltzed out to a fancy restaurant to play with his rich pals, all of them mask-less. I agree with Rebecca--follow the money--because we can be sure that the emergency ban was not out of his concern for anyone.

Elizabeth, I am so sorry! Sending love to you and your family.

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This pisses me off so much it makes it hard to breathe. What kind of monster denies people life saving medicine? The answer is in the money. Fuck Newsom and his greedy cronies and the pharmaceutical giants he has in his pocket. Love you. Rebecca

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Newsome is definitely slick. I never liked him. This is outrageous.

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This is just cruel. How dare he?

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You have every right to be angry at Newsome. I am angry too and will never support him again either. So sorry this is happening. Sending love. N2

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