This Week In Cannabis: Rescheduling Delays, The DEA, Biden’s Clemency, Philip Morris’ New Bet And More
The cannabis industry continues to evolve amidst regulatory challenges, expanding markets and innovative product launches. This week’s updates span U.S. federal reform delays, Florida’s renewed push for legalization, international developments in Europe, corporate acquisitions and cutting-edge products reshaping the market.
Politics And Policy
DEA Hearing Postponed Amid Allegations Of Misconduct
The federal process to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act faced a setback this week. Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney postponed a pivotal hearing, citing allegations of misconduct within the DEA.
Advocates had accused the agency of improper communications with anti-cannabis groups and defying court orders on evidence submission. Mulrooney described the allegations as “disturbing and embarrassing,” but noted they do not irreparably taint the process. The hearing, initially scheduled for Jan. 21, will be delayed by at least three months.
This development prolongs the cannabis industry’s wait for reforms that could enable tax deductions, better banking access and enhanced industry credibility.
Biden Grants Clemency To Thousands Of Drug Offenders
President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of nearly 2,500 non-violent drug offenders this week, emphasizing the need to rectify sentencing disparities tied to outdated laws. However, the clemency excluded cannabis-specific prisoners, leaving advocates questioning the administration’s commitment to addressing marijuana-related convictions.
Florida Launches New Legalization Campaign
Following a narrow defeat in 2024, Safe & Smart Florida filed a new ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis in 2026. The campaign, which …