Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the City of Dallas over Proposition R, a measure decriminalizing certain marijuana offenses. The state argues the measure conflicts with Texas law, which criminalizes marijuana possession, and seeks to nullify it. The lawsuit is part of broader state efforts to challenge local marijuana policies, as Texas maintains strict marijuana laws despite some local attempts at reform. The outcome could impact future marijuana legislation in Texas, where past reform efforts have stalled in the conservative legislature.

The Senate has introduced a draft of the Farm Bill, proposing significant changes to federal hemp regulations. Spearheaded by Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow, the bill aims to close loopholes that allow the production and sale of intoxicating hemp products. The draft distinguishes between hemp and industrial hemp, setting clear THC thresholds and introducing a pilot program for certified hemp seed varieties. While the bill has received mixed reactions from industry stakeholders, it reflects a bipartisan effort to regulate intoxicating hemp products. The final version of the Farm Bill is expected to be addressed in 2025.

Donald Trump's cabinet appointments signal a strong pro-Israel stance, with key figures like Marco Rubio and Mike Huckabee advocating for Israeli interests. This approach may strain US relations with other Middle Eastern actors, such as Gulf countries, who demand a more balanced policy. Trump's focus on loyalty over expertise could lead to deeper US involvement in regional conflicts, despite his stated goal of reducing wars. The administration's transactional approach may hinder progress on initiatives like the Abraham Accords, as US influence wanes in the face of stronger Gulf ties with Russia and China.

Matt Gaetz, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for U.S. Attorney General, is known for his pro-marijuana stance, advocating for federal reforms while opposing state-level recreational measures. His nomination has revived scrutiny over past allegations, with lawmakers seeking the release of Ethics Committee findings. Gaetz's potential influence on federal marijuana policy could lead to significant changes, especially with upcoming DEA hearings on marijuana rescheduling. His complex position reflects a blend of advocacy for reform and cautious opposition to certain state initiatives.

David Heldreth, CEO of Panacea Plant Sciences, has filed a lawsuit against the DEA, alleging legal violations in the marijuana rescheduling process. The lawsuit claims the DEA ignored Native American tribes, sidelined small businesses, and used unconstitutional practices. The DEA's decision to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III could impact tribal law enforcement and small cannabis businesses. The lawsuit seeks to halt the DEA's rulemaking process until these issues are addressed. The DEA has not commented on the lawsuit, and the rescheduling process continues amid political changes following the recent U.S. election.

Dikembe Mutombo, renowned as one of the NBA's top defensive players, has passed away at the age of 58 after battling brain cancer. The article highlights his significant contributions to basketball and his legacy within the NBA.

Syrian refugees in Lebanon face increasing hostility, violence, and deportations amid the country's economic crisis. Despite international aid, Lebanon's government and some citizens scapegoat refugees for the nation's problems. Human rights organizations criticize Lebanon's forced deportations and the harsh treatment of refugees, including torture and arbitrary detentions. The situation is exacerbated by political tensions and violence, with calls for international recognition of safe zones in Syria to facilitate refugee returns. The article underscores the dire conditions and human rights violations faced by Syrian refugees in Lebanon.

A study by Lake Superior State University reveals that cannabis rolling papers may contain unsafe levels of heavy metals like copper, chromium, and vanadium, posing health risks to users. The research analyzed 53 commercially available rolling papers, finding that around one-quarter exceeded recommended copper levels for inhaled pharmaceuticals. The study highlights the lack of regulation and significant disparities in acceptable heavy metal levels across different states. Researchers suggest that manufacturing processes, especially those using copper-based inks, exacerbate exposure risks and recommend eliminating such practices to reduce health hazards.

A study published in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction suggests that CBD could be a promising treatment for crack use disorder, showing fewer adverse effects compared to standard pharmaceutical treatments. Conducted in Brazil, the study involved a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with 90 participants, comparing CBD to a combination of fluoxetine, valproic acid, and clonazepam. Results indicated that while both groups showed similar efficacy in reducing crack use, CBD had milder side effects. The study highlights CBD's potential as a safer alternative for treating substance use disorders.

The investigation into the JuicyFields cannabis investment scam, estimated at nearly $700 million, has led to nine arrests across multiple countries. Europol coordinated the operation, which involved over 400 officers executing arrest warrants and conducting searches. The scam, which defrauded 186,000 investors, primarily in Europe, involved false promises of high returns from cannabis cultivation. Legal actions are being led by Swedish lawyer Lars Olofsson. The investigation also resulted in the seizure of significant assets, including cash, cryptocurrencies, and real estate. The case highlights the risks associated with the rapidly growing cannabis industry, which has attracted both legitimate investments and fraudulent schemes.