Federal Cannabis Policy Sees New Developments in Research and Beverage Regulation

The classification of cannabis as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act has long hindered comprehensive research into its medical applications. This classification denotes substances with “no accepted medical use” and a high potential for abuse, placing cannabis alongside drugs like heroin and MDMA. Despite this, numerous states have legalized cannabis for medical and recreational use, creating a disconnect between federal and state policies.

Simultaneously, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, leading to a surge in the production and sale of THC-infused beverages. These products have gained popularity as alternatives to alcoholic drinks, prompting discussions about their regulation and place in the market.

In May 2025, Representatives Dina Titus and Ilhan Omar introduced the Evidence-Based Drug Policy Act of 2025 (EBDPA). This bill aims to ease federal restrictions on researching Schedule I substances, including cannabis. Key provisions of the EBDPA include:

Advocates argue that the EBDPA would enable policymakers to craft informed legislation by allowing research into areas such as youth consumption, health outcomes, and the socio-economic impacts of cannabis legalization. While the bill has the potential to attract bipartisan support due to its focus on evidence-based policy, the current political climate presents challenges to its passage.

THC-infused drinks, derived from hemp, have seen increased popularity across the United States. States like Minnesota and Hawaii have enacted laws permitting the sale of these beverages in venues such as liquor stores. The appeal of THC drinks lies in their potential as alternatives to alcohol, offering consumers a different kind of social lubricant.

However, these beverages present unique challenges:

As the market for these products grows, questions arise about their regulation, especially concerning driving safety and their role in potentially replacing alcohol in social contexts.