"The Bud Bowl"

The Super Bowl 56 game is the first to take place in a legalized state (California) and offered significant moments for marijuana.

This is a first for Super Bowl history. The Los Angeles Rams versus the Cincinnati Bengals championship took place in Los Angeles where recreational marijuana has been legalized for patrons 21 years of age and older without the requirement of a license. Not only were fans allowed to partake, but there were other developments that took place during the game, such as commercials, that make this a monumental moment for marijuana.

State Legalization

California has legalized recreational use since the state vote in 2016. In November of 2016, Proposition 64 was passed that allowed "the possession, cultivation, and use of marijuana for personal use". Then in January of 2018, the Proposition was updated and "allowed for the sale and taxation of recreational marijuana".

Promotion by Former NFL stars

There were a number of former NFL stars to note that used their platforms to promote marijuana usage and legalization. Ricky Williams relaunched his "Highsman" brand of cannabis. Marshawn Lynch's image was used in Gorilla RX ads; a Los Angeles dispensary urging fans to "stock up".

Commercial Advocacy

One of the reason many people tune into the Super Bowl is it's renowned half-time show, including the performances and unique ads. Such an ad that captured fan's attentions was the Sketchers' commercial featuring the icon Willie Nelson. In a not-so-subtle manner, Nelson had a back and forth with the director about the "legalization" of Sketchers since they provide great comfort and "help so many". He starts off the commercial by saying he's "fought for the legalization of the one thing that can bring comfort to millions" and although he follows up by saying "Sketchers", knowing his history as one of the first weed advocates, it's not a hard line to follow what is being insinuated.

"I wouldn't be alive. It saved my life, really." - Willie Nelson in a Rolling Stone Interview when asked where he'd be without weed

NFL Contribution

Prior to the Super Bowl, the NFL had already made steps towards the advocacy of marijuana. A $1 million dollar contribution was made to two teams of medical researchers on February 1st, 2022. The subject of interest: "effects of cannabinoids on pain management and neuroprotection from concussion in elite football players." This is a big step for marijuana as it is still currently an illegal substance for NFL players along with other professional athlete leagues. The research will take three years to complete, but nonetheless, the steps taken into potentially acknowledging its benefit for treatment of pain and injuries in athletes is a huge step forward.

Take-Aways

There has been continuing censorship regarding marijuana in the media, but with the mainstream portrayals it got this past weekend, it may start to be more widely accepted--at least to talk about. Even in places where marijuana has been legalized for years, there is still this discrepancy between what is understood and allowed and what isn't. Reach out today for a consultation to help clarify your dope needs.