A Conversation on Cannabis: Are Challenges or Changes Coming?

This episode was originally released on September 25, 2023 | In this episode of the "Eyes on Washington" podcast series by Holland & Knight's Public Policy & Regulation Group, Healthcare and Life Sciences attorneys Michael Werner and Sara Klock discuss recent developments in marijuana, particularly federal legislation and the regulation of cannabis products in the United States. This conversation focuses on the possible rescheduling of marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the impact that change could have on the industry at large, especially in states where marijuana use is already legal. While the timeline isn’t explicit, Mr. Werner and Ms. Klock emphasize that the regulatory environment is likely to undergo a number of changes in the next couple years and beyond. They also explain how the rescheduling process works and which regulatory bodies and federal agencies play a major role. The discussion concludes with insightful recommendations for industry stakeholders, including growers, distributors, state governments and researchers.