#090 - The Great Reshuffle: Hemp, Alcohol, and the Future of THC Access w/ Andrew Livingston

AnnaRae Grabstein and economist Andrew Livingston explore the economic impact of cannabis legalization across America and examines the complex regulatory challenges facing both cannabis and hemp businesses in today's market. Through analysis of state markets, policy trends, and business dynamics, Andrew reveals why some markets thrive while others struggle to compete with illicit alternatives.• Over $24.7 billion in cannabis tax revenue generated since adult-use legalization began• For cannabis markets to succeed, they need the "three A's": accessibility, affordability, and assortment of products• Texas attempting modest medical cannabis expansion while simultaneously banning hemp-derived THC products• The "alcoholization" of hemp beverages would integrate products into alcohol distribution systems but limit direct-to-consumer sales• Court cases like Canna Provisions vs. Garland may create a judicial path to cannabis reform alongside legislative efforts• The Farm Bill remains in continuing resolution, creating ongoing regulatory uncertainty for hemp businesses• Indigenous tribal governments represent an overlooked laboratory of democracy with over 100 cannabis and hemp programsLook out for Andrew Livingston's forthcoming report on indigenous cannabis programs across the United States. Indigenous communities have significant experience regulating products like tobacco, gaming and alcohol, providing valuable insights for cannabis regulation.Have a question for us? Send us a text. We may answer it in the next show!--High Spirits is brought to you by Vertosa and Wolf Meyer.Your hosts are Ben Larson and AnnaRae Grabstein.Follow High Spirits on LinkedIn. We'd love to hear your thoughts. Who would you like to see on the show? What topics would you like to have us cover? Visit our website www.highspiritspod.com and listen to all of our past shows.THANK YOU to our audience. Your engagement encourages us to keep bringing you these thought-provoking conversations. Remember to always stay curious, stay informed, and most importantly, keep your spirits high.