Cannabis Means Business (CMB), formerly CWCBExpo
Exhibit
Register
Press/Media
Get Updates
Formerly CWCBExpo

Cannabis Means Business – Conference & Expo
June 4 - 5, 2025
Javits Convention Center
New York City

Linkedin Instagram Facebook Youtube

Tag: Federal News Update

By CWCBExpo

Federal Cannabis News Update, November 2022: Election Results Edition

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient regional news round-up highlighting significant developments in federal cannabis policy. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Adult-use legalization was on the ballot in South Dakota, North Dakota, Arkansas, Missouri and Maryland during the 2022 midterms. And as millions headed to the ballot box to vote on the issue, federal regulators continue to grapple with policy changes that have the potential to impact the cannabis industry. Here’s what you need to know about federal cannabis policies in November 2022.

Maryland, Missouri vote yes for adult-use cannabis

Maryland and Missouri are the latest states to legalize adult-use markets in their states.

In Maryland, voters weighed in on a constitutional amendment that would allow possession of up to 1.5 ounces of cannabis or personal cultivation of two cannabis plants. Question 4 was overwhelmingly approved, with 65.5% voting in favor of the measure as of Nov. 9th, 2022 vote tallies. The nearly 2-to-1 margin mirrors New Jersey’s 67% approval when voters there opted to create an adult-use cannabis program in November 2020.

In Missouri, Amendment 3 passed by a healthy margin. As of the morning of Nov. 9th, 2022, the vote tally stood at 53% in favor and 47% against. The measure authorizes the sale of adult-use cannabis in the state and allows Missouri regulators to begin setting rules for a future program. The measure also approved the creation of an automatic expungement program for select cannabis-related offenses. The earliest adult-use cannabis can be sold in the state is February 2023.

The Dakotas, Arkansas vote against adult-use cannabis

Out of five states to vote on legal adult-use cannabis measures in the 2022 midterm elections, three of them did not vote to move forward with creation of these programs. North Dakota, South Dakota, and Arkansas’s failed ballot measures were soundly defeated at the ballot box. 

South Dakota previously voted to legalize both medical and adult-use cannabis in November 2020, but a state ruling, the result of a legal fight instigated by Gov. Kristi Noem (R),  prevented the adult-use program from launching.

All three states have medical cannabis programs. Arkansas has approximately 77,000 registered patients, while North Dakota has around 5,000 patients, according to the Marijuana Policy Project. South Dakota has around 4,000 patients.

FDA explains involvement in DEA’s substance classification system, talks reevaluation of cannabis

On the heels of the executive branch’s announcement Oct. 6th to explore a potential descheduling or rescheduling of cannabis, an official with The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) says that the agency may have some “flexibilities” when it comes to the scheduling review.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has the final say on how substances are classified according to the U.S. Controlled Substances Act (CSA). As part of the reevaluation process, FDA principal deputy commissioner Janet Woodcock said that the agency is involved with an eight-factor check that helps the DEA make its final decision. If the FDA finds in its investigation that cannabis offers medical value, that would directly contradict cannabis’ current classification as a Schedule I substance. Schedule I classification means the federal government considers it to have no medical value and a high possibility of addiction. 

The Biden administration’s announcement to reexamine cannabis provided new hope for the advancement of cannabis on a federal level. The Schedule I classification has had a direct or indirect impact on all aspects of the emerging cannabis industry, from interstate trade to banking to the ability to conduct research on the plant, something the FDA noted is “very difficult” to do now.

Cannabis conviction histories getting a closer look

The U.S. Sentencing Commission (USSC), a federal agency that tracks and issues recommendations in regards to sentencing disparities, has made it a priority in its 2022-2023 session to study the impact of cannabis possession on how jail time is assessed. This priority was added to their agenda after the Biden administration announced executive action last month to pardon those with federal simple possession charges on their records.

If the USSC determines that cannabis possession should not be an enhancing factor, or should not be considered as highly as it is now, it could have significant impacts in courtrooms throughout the country.

Cannabis arrests account for more than half of all drug-related arrests made in the United States, according to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). A significant majority of those arrests are for simple possession. Racial disparities are significant as well, with Black individuals arrested at 3.73 times the rate of white individuals.

Keep up with the latest federal cannabis news headlines

Even in an industry where so much happens on the state level, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to keep an eye on federal trends. Although interstate commerce may not be a reality as of yet, tracking how cannabis policy moves elsewhere helps to make good business decisions.

By CWCBExpo

October 2022 Federal Cannabis News: Biden Takes Crucial and Promising Federal Action

Governmental Building with American Flag

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

This month’s federal cannabis news update covers a variety of recently introduced cannabis legislation, and key action President Joe Biden took at the beginning of October. Read on for more information about recent happenings in the cannabis industry and how the news could impact your business.

Biden pardons those with federal cannabis possession charges, instructs review of status of cannabis

Thousands of individuals will have their cannabis possessions pardoned, thanks to the actions of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. (D) on Oct. 6th.

Around 6,500 individuals will be impacted by the decision, which Biden said was important for “remov[ing] the burden” such a charge can place on someone looking for employment, housing, or educational opportunities. It’s expected that an additional several thousand D.C. residents will be impacted by the policy change as well.

Only individuals with simple cannabis possession charges on their federal records are affected, although Biden called on U.S. governors to follow suit on the state level.

This executive action also instructs government officials to review the status of cannabis as a Schedule I substance, which classifies it as something with great potential for addiction with no known medical value. Biden said the classification “makes no sense.”

“Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana,” said Biden. “It’s time that we right these wrongs.”

Biden discusses descheduling with Senate candidate John Fetterman

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, an outspoken cannabis advocate who is running for U.S. Senate in the Keystone State, caught up with Biden in Pittsburgh to discuss the descheduling of cannabis as a Schedule I drug. The conversation came just days after Fetterman publicly urged President Biden to federally decriminalize and deschedule cannabis using his executive authority.


Although the exact details of their discussion have not been revealed, Fetterman’s communications director Joe Calvello told Marijuana Moment that the two discussed cannabis’s status under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act, and Fetterman “continued to advocate for the President to use his executive authority to begin the process of rescheduling marijuana so that people convicted of nonviolent offenses can go on with their lives.”

While not outwardly connected to the conversation with Fetterman, the subject was evidently on the president’s agenda. Biden made an announcement a short time after the conversation with Fetterman that the federal government will review the classification of cannabis as a Schedule I drug.

House approves measure to help seal cannabis convictions

Members of the United States House Judiciary Committee, led by Chairman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), approved two bills to help seal cannabis convictions in an effort to alleviate the residual effects of the War on Drugs.

Sponsored by Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), The “Clean Slate Act” establishes a framework for sealing records related to particular federal criminal offenses. Specifically, it would mandate the automatic sealing of criminal records for certain non-violent, federal cannabis convictions. It would also provide relief to people who have been arrested for other offenses that did not result in a conviction.

Similarly, the Fresh Start Act or H.R. 5651, sponsored by Rep. David J. Trone (D-MD), would provide millions of dollars in federal funding to help states facilitate the automatic expungement of convictions for cannabis-related violations and other offenses as well.

“Criminal record expungement and sealing is a pathway to employment opportunities for individuals with a criminal record and enable them to participate fully in their communities at a time when many industries continue to face labor shortages,” Nadler said. “These are pathways that are desperately needed.”

Both bills are promoted by Democrats but have also seen support from some Republicans. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) has been urging his colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to take action on the measure since 2020.

“Efforts such as the Clean Slate Act show we can be tough on crime while also being smart on crime,” Rep. Reschenthaler expressed in a 2020 press release. “In reducing recidivism, we are eliminating future crimes and making our communities safer and stronger.”

SHIP Act would allow small-scale cultivators to sell across state lines

Reps. Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) introduced legislation that would give small cannabis cultivators the ability to ship and sell products directly to consumers — rather than retailers only — within and across state lines.

The bill, titled the “Small and Homestead Independent Producers (SHIP) Act,” is a post-legalization bill, meaning it would only go into effect after the descheduling and legalization of cannabis at a federal level. Currently, legal cannabis businesses are prohibited from engaging in interstate commerce, even between two legalized states, due to the federal government’s continued prohibition of cannabis.

While larger, multi-state operations are already prepared for expansion should federal legalization occur, the SHIP Act addresses the difficulties smaller businesses may face in competing with such large corporations.  According to Huffman’s press release, the legislation specifically aims to support the smallest family farmers by allowing them to sell directly to consumers everywhere once the federal prohibition is lifted. While larger companies may have more funding and resources, only small businesses would be permitted to take advantage of shipping directly to consumers pending future federal legalization.

“It is a daunting business environment that they’re facing [as] markets are consolidating,” Rep. Huffman told Marijuana Moment ahead of the bill’s introduction. “The huge multinational corporations are certainly going to do very well, but we want to make sure that the smaller operations have a chance to compete and succeed.”

The industry is still unsure of when to expect federal legalization.

Stay in the loop with national cannabis news

With cannabis remaining federally illegal, it’s no secret that laws and regulations will constantly change. Staying in the loop on current trends and legislation is crucial to success in this industry. CWCBExpo’s federal updates and annual business-to-business trade show are here to help you stay up to date and in the know on the ever-changing market. 

By CWCBExpo

September 2022 Federal Cannabis News: Cannabis Grows in Popularity While Regulations Change 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

This month’s federal cannabis news update covers newly introduced cannabis bills, changes to U.S. Air Force cannabis regulations, and the plant’s surging popularity among the public. Read on for more information about the latest cannabis happenings and how the news impacts the industry.

Bipartisan cannabis research bill filed in Congress

A bipartisan duo of congressional lawmakers has filed a bill to set an agenda for federal cannabis research and dedicate federal grant money to universities with cannabis study programs.

Sponsored by Reps. Scott Peters (D-CA) and Dave Joy (R-OH), the “Developing and National Key Cannabis Research Act,” referred to as the “DANK” bill, would authorize the Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to designate “institutions of higher education as Centers for Excellence in Cannabis Research for the purpose of interdisciplinary research related to cannabis and other biomedical, behavioral, and social issues related to cannabis.”

In other words, the bill would designate funding for clinical cannabis research and allow the NIH to collaborate with other agencies and institutions to develop a “national cannabis research agenda that addresses key questions and gaps in evidence.”

Under current laws, cannabis remains federally illegal, and researchers are prohibited from clinical evaluations of any state-licensed products without explicit permission from the federal government. The DANK bill would appropriate $50 million for fiscal years 2024 to 2028 to 10 designated research centers.

The bill would facilitate research into all of the following:

  • The efficacy and safety of cannabis for various medical conditions, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis-related spasticities, chemotherapy-induced pain, and discomfort
  • The effect on high-risk populations, including children, older individuals, and pregnant or breast-feeding women
  • The non-therapeutic impacts of use over both the short-term and long term
  • The long-term effects of cannabis use, including the dose-response relationship and the connection between cannabis use and behavioral health
  • The appropriate dosages and modes of delivery of cannabis
  • Public safety considerations related to cannabis including variation in the potency and youth access

Cannabis may no longer disqualify U.S. Air Force applicants

A possible change in policy by the Air Force Recruiting Service would no longer disqualify prospective applicants who test positive for THC from joining the U.S. Air Force or Space Force. The change seems to be prompted by the ongoing legalization of cannabis in states across the U.S. and a 2021 FDA-regulated study revealing promise for cannabis as a treatment for veterans with PTSD.

“If applicants test positive for THC when they go to the Military Entrance Processing Stations (MEPS), they’re permanently barred from entering the Air Force or the Space Force,” recruiting boss Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas told Air Force Times in a recent interview. “But as more states legalize cannabis, there is an increased prevalence of THC-positive applicants.”

The organization is exploring options to grant waivers for those who test positive for THC. Applicants who are otherwise qualified to serve but test positive for THC could be considered for a waiver if the Air Force believes they act appropriately and forgo cannabis consumption while in service.

Members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) are allowed to consume cannabis as long as it is in accordance with Canadian federal, provincial, territorial, and municipal laws. Members are, however, prohibited from cannabis consumption during the 8 hours before any known or expected performance of duty.

Cannabis consumers officially outnumber cigarette smokers

Americans officially consume more cannabis than cigarettes for the first time in history. According to a new Gallup poll, 16% of American adults say they currently consume cannabis, while nearly 50% have tried it at some point in their life. On the contrary, just 11% reported being cigarette smokers.

When the poll was first taken in 1969, only 4% of respondents said they had tried cannabis, while 40% said they had smoked cigarettes. By 1985, 33% said they had tried cannabis, while 40% said they had smoked a cigarette in the past week.

“Smoking cigarettes is clearly on the decline and is most likely to become even more of a rarity in the years ahead,” Gallup senior scientist Dr. Frank Newport said. “This reflects both public awareness of its negative effects and continuing government efforts at all levels to curtail its use.”

According to a different Gallup poll from July, 62% of participants aged 18 to 34 said that cannabis had positive effects on society. With legalization spreading across the country, it’s not completely surprising to see cannabis use continue to rise as cigarette smoking declines.

Stay up to date on federal cannabis news

Staying in the loop on industry trends and changes to legislation is absolutely essential to launching or maintaining a successful cannabis business. CWCBExpo’s federal and regional updates are here to help you stay up to date on all things cannabis on the East Coast and beyond, so you can keep up with the ever-changing market. 

By CWCBExpo

August 2022 Federal Cannabis News: Federal Cannabis Reform Efforts Continue to Grow 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

This month’s federal cannabis news update details pending federal reforms to cannabis advertising rules, arrest and conviction record expungement, and more. Read on to learn more about what’s changing in August 2022 and how these trends impact the cannabis industry.

House votes to allow cannabis advertising on TV and radio

The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation in July that would permit cannabis advertisements on broadcast television and radio. Introduced by Sen. Ban Ray Luján (D-NM), the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Advertising Act is a part of the Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill for the Fiscal Year 2023.

As of June 2022, local TV and radio stations are not permitted to accept ads that promote cannabis. In fact, the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) has the power to revoke licenses from broadcasters that air advertisements for federally illegal products, including cannabis, even in states that have passed laws legalizing cannabis. While some states have already updated advertising rules to accommodate legal cannabis, the SAFE Advertising Act would effectively prevent the FCC from denying broadcasting license renewals for airing cannabis advertisements in states where cannabis is legal.

The legislation also calls for a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study and report that includes “an evaluation of whether cannabis-related legitimate businesses that are small business concerns or are owned by a socially and economically disadvantaged individual face systemic barriers to access service providers compared to other cannabis-related legitimate businesses.”

“I’m proud to introduce this legislation with the support of broadcasters across New Mexico and the country,” Luján said in a statement. “With health and safety measures in place, this legislation will allow broadcasters to accept cannabis advertisements in accordance with state laws.”

This legislation has caught the interest of cannabis marketers, who face restrictions from multiple platforms in advertising cannabis products and adjacent services. You can learn more about cannabis and marketing with our cannabis marketing guide.

Schumer files Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) filed his highly-anticipated bill for federal cannabis legalization in the Senate. If passed into law, Schumer’s Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) would end the federal ban on cannabis by removing it from Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act.

In addition to decriminalizing cannabis on a federal level, CAOA would prioritize social equity as part of a federal regulatory framework, as well as ensure that state-legal cannabis businesses could access financial services. If passed, the CAOA would also expunge federal cannabis convictions and require more federal research into the impacts of cannabis on health and public safety.

While many cannabis advocates doubt that CAOA will pass the Senate given the 60-vote threshold required, Schumer said on the Senate floor that he is committed to working with bipartisan offices to get “something” done on cannabis reform “this year.” With only 48 Democrats in the Senate, at least eight Republican senators and both independents will need to vote in favor of the CAOA for it to pass. It’s possible that certain provisions attached to the new legislation could serve as a building block for alternative cannabis reform packages as well.

“As more states legalize cannabis and work towards reversing the many injustices the failed War on Drugs levied against Black, Brown, and low-income people, the federal government continues to lag woefully behind,” co-author Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) said in a statement. “With strong restorative justice provisions for communities impacted by the drug war, support for small cannabis businesses, and expungement of federal cannabis offenses, this bill reflects long overdue, common-sense drug policy.”

Bipartisan Congressional bill would expunge federal cannabis records

Reps. Troy Carter (D-LA) and Rodney Davis (R-IL) sponsored a new bipartisan House bill that would create a process to expunge federal misdemeanor cannabis convictions and allow courts to recommend presidential pardons for eligible cases.

The Marijuana Misdemeanor Expungement Act (MMEA) bill lays out specific criminal codes that would constitute an “expungeable event,” including current statutes criminalizing possession and distribution of small amounts of marijuana without remuneration. Other expungeable events include “any other federal misdemeanor, petty offense, infraction, or civil penalty involving marijuana, including marijuana-related drug paraphernalia,” which did not involve violence.

To be considered eligible for expungement, the proposal states that at least one year must have passed since the arrest or the last non-technical docket filing. Courts may only process the expungement if they haven’t been notified by federal authorities that the given case is ongoing or that the person involved has evaded prosecution.

Data from a 2019 FBI report revealed that police arrested 545,602 people for cannabis-related crimes that year, which was 9% higher than the number of people arrested for violent crimes. Given that 92% of those arrests were for simple possession, Rep. Carter and cannabis advocates see a federal expungement program as a necessary component to restore justice to those who have most severely suffered the consequences of the War on Drugs.

“These misdemeanors – even without a conviction – can result in restrictions to peoples’ ability to access educational aid, housing assistance, occupational licensing and even foster parenting. Delivering justice for our citizens who have been impacted by marijuana-related misdemeanors is a key component of comprehensive cannabis reform,” Rep. Carter said in a statement.

Stay tuned for more cannabis industry news

CWCBExpo releases our federal update each month to help keep industry professionals in the loop. By remaining aware of both federal and regional updates, businesses can ensure that they are prepared and compliant with the fast-growing legal market. Stay tuned next month for up-to-date news on industry developments all across the U.S.

By CWCBExpo

July 2022 Federal Cannabis News: National Push for Regulations, Reform, and Access

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation.

The federal government may still consider cannabis an illegal Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, but there are signs that the groundwork for a post-prohibition future is already being laid on Capitol Hill.

The growth of legal cannabis markets at the state level have set the stage for cannabis reform and federal legalization. In D.C., there are numerous efforts underway to pave the way for a legal industry. This month, we’re looking at some of these attempts to help establish a regulatory framework and infrastructure upon which a federally legal cannabis industry might soon be built.

NIDA announces $1.5M for medical cannabis registry

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) announced plans to provide $1.5 million in funding to researchers who can develop a national cannabis registry to track patients’ purchases, consumption, and health habits.

The registry would maintain reports on medical cannabis patients’ reasons for consumption, the products they consume, and the associated medical outcomes. The purpose of the database is to “inform research, policy, and clinical recommendation practices” on medical cannabis and related conditions and outcomes, according to NIDA’s announcement.

The registry would also aim to diversify the variety of conditions that currently qualify a patient for a medical card. Because these qualifying conditions currently vary significantly from state to state, NIDA hopes this expansion of research will result in a more standardized list.

“As many patients are already using cannabis products for medicinal applications, it is important to identify the evidence that exists and as it evolves, and to harmonize and coordinate this information to maximize the potential benefits to patients,” the statement said.

This announcement comes at the heels of news shared last month that the agency is searching for partners to supply cannabis for research purposes.

Bill pushes for increased cannabis access for veterans

A bipartisan bill to provide military veterans with access to medical cannabis, the Veterans Equal Access Act, was reintroduced to Congress by Reps. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Brian Mast (R-FL)  on Thursday, June 23.

If passed, the bill would require the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to authorize physicians and other health care providers employed by the department to provide recommendations and opinions on the use of medical cannabis to veterans living in areas where use is legal under state law. This bill would also require health care providers for the VA to document such recommendations in the veteran’s health records.

Co-chairs of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, Blumenauer and Mast are the chief sponsors of the Veteran Equal Access Act. They continue to push for the measure, despite several unsuccessful attempts. Both sponsors shared the importance of legal cannabis access for veterans in a Dear Colleagues letter shared with Marijuana Moment. 

“Most states with state-legal medical cannabis programs require some sort of recommendation or approval from a medical provider for patients to enroll in the program,” the letter says. “However, VA policy prevents VA physicians and care providers from any participation, including helping with the required paperwork or forms. This forces veterans to seek care outside of the VA system to receive their medical cannabis recommendations, which can interrupt continuity of care, lead to mistakes or gaps in care, and require veterans to pay out of pocket for additional physician visits.”

New cannabis banking act introduced in the House

Last month, U.S. Representatives Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) introduced the Capital Lending and Investment for Marijuana Businesses (CLIMB) Act. If passed, the CLIMB act would enable cannabis businesses to access a broader range of banking services, including credit cards, money transfers, and savings accounts. It also provides protection to lenders and government agencies, promoting the economic growth of the industry.  

Unlike the SAFE Banking Act that has been continuously introduced and shot down in Congress, the CLIMB Act would also allow for the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq and other national securities exchanges to list cannabis businesses. Because U.S. cannabis companies cannot currently list on U.S. exchanges, this change would significantly increase liquidity from institutional investors providing market support and decreased volatility.

“The bipartisan CLIMB Act is a huge opportunity to bring equity and equal opportunity into our nation’s burgeoning cannabis industry,” Congressman Carter noted in a press release. “It’s clear that access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to entry and to success in the industry. By bringing symmetry into the business ecosystem with the CLIMB Act, we can help communities that have long been harmed by the criminalization of marijuana move to now be leaders in the business sphere.”

With federal prohibition intact, state-legal cannabis businesses do not currently have safe and protected access to banking services. Both the SAFE Banking Act and the CLIMB Act are reform measures aimed at resolving access to banking and lending for state-compliant cannabis businesses.

Staying in the know about national cannabis news

It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by all the news the national cannabis industry generates every day. If you want to stay up to date without your head spinning, our monthly news updates offer quick hits of the headlines you need to know as you grow your cannabis business. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

By CWCBExpo

June 2022 Federal Cannabis News: Research Expands and Arrests Decline

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

As the cannabis industry rapidly evolves, staying up to date on news and developments is essential to any entrepreneur looking to establish themselves in the legal market. From lawmakers pushing for the improvement of employment policy to the advancement of research, new information is coming into the cannabis space on a near-daily basis.

That’s why CWCBExpo created our monthly news round-up to keep you up to date on all things federal cannabis. Read on to learn more about the June 2022 developments and how they may affect your cannabis business.

Global cannabis market predicted to drive $35 billion in sales in 2022

According to a recent report from BDS Analytics, the global cannabis industry will drive $35 billion in sales this year, up from a total of $29 billion in 2021. That growth is expected to continue through 2026, when market analysts anticipate sales will eclipse $61 billion.

In addition, the report offers insights into key market segments, the latest drivers and trends, and projections on upcoming changes in consumer behavior. Aside from the growing legalization and normalization of cannabis, the report notes a steep rise in medical cannabis access for diabetes patients, cancer patients, and people suffering from chronic pain resulting from car accidents or sports injuries. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased sales in various states, as noted by a study in the International Journal of Drug Policy.

Currently, North America is the world’s leading region of the legal cannabis market, with legal sales topping $25 billion in 2021, according to data from Bank of America. And despite the industry’s challenges, 2021 was the fifth consecutive year with an annual job growth rate of 27% or higher.

National drug agency wants more suppliers for cannabis research

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is looking for new partners to supply cannabis products for research purposes.

According to a notice from NIDA, partners would need to “produce or procure cannabis, cannabis extract and other cannabis-derived materials for basic and clinical research, and conduct a quantitative and qualitative analysis, stability determination, and recommended storage conditions for these products for approved research.”

In addition to common cannabinoids such as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD), partners of the NIDA would be expected to supply generally under-researched compounds, like Cannabichromene (CBC) and Cannabigerol (CBG). Though the NIDA has not yet named how many suppliers they will need, a complete list of criteria for potential partners can be found in the May 2022 notice.

Historically, advocates have been frustrated by the lack of federal research into cannabis. Prior to this announcement, the NIDA relied on just one supplier at the University of Mississippi due to strict rules by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The addition of new suppliers to federal research efforts would mark an important milestone in the normalization of cannabis nationwide.

Federal cannabis arrests are on the decline

Federal cannabis arrests have declined significantly as more states have moved toward legalization. According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), arrests have dropped an average of 11% each year between 2010 and 2020. While more than 8,000 cannabis-related arrests were made in 2010, that number shrunk to 2,576 by 2020. Further, 47% of all federal prisoners in 2020 were incarcerated for drug-related crimes compared to 53% in 2010.

While state-wide legalizations may be the reason for this decline in arrests, the report also acknowledged the COVID-19 pandemic as a leading cause for the decline. For example, there was an 81% drop in federal arrests and a 77% drop in court cases related to cannabis charges from March 2020 to April 2020. It ‘s also important to consider the current Attorney General Merrick Garland’s hands-off approach to federal cannabis prosecution. Though the decline is a positive step forward, these declines are not guaranteed to remain consistent without legislative cannabis reform.

“Marijuana law enforcement is becoming less of a federal priority in an age where the majority of Americans believe that cannabis ought to be legal,” said Paul Armentano, NORML’s Deputy Director, in a statement on the group’s website. “It is vital that Congress takes action to amend federal law in a manner that comports with this reality.”

Lawmaker urges amendments to the Department of Transportation’s drug policy

In a letter dated May 16, 2022, U.S. Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) asked the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to change their federal cannabis policy regarding truck driver drug testing. The goal of the policy change, Blumenauer writes, would be to reduce the impact to the supply chain caused by unnecessary driver suspensions.

Amongst the requests in Blumenauer’s letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is a call to implement oral fluid testing as a potential alternative to the current urinalysis method used for those in the transportation industries. Urinalysis drug testing detects cannabis in the system up to weeks after consumption. In contrast, oral fluid alternatives would only detect much more recent drug use, thereby acting as a more effective way to determine if drivers were under the influence behind the wheel.

Currently, federal law mandates commercially licensed drivers to undergo drug testing before hire, following accidents, and randomly throughout employment. This policy has resulted in the suspension of over 119,000 in just three years, with over half failing due to past cannabis consumption – according to a DOT drug-testing clearinghouse from March 2022. 

It’s also important to note that DOT’s “return to duty” program for suspended truck drivers can be daunting. According to the New York Post, of the 72,000 drivers suspended since January 2020, more than half never attempted to complete the return process. 

“To date, 48 states have enacted laws that, to varying degrees, relax their prohibitions against the use of marijuana,” wrote Blumenauer to Buttigieg. “Nevertheless, your department’s zero-tolerance policy sweeps up drivers who were unimpaired, drivers who have not used cannabis for weeks or even months, and drivers who have used federally-legal CBD oils. Blanket disqualifications are unjust, unfair, and cause widespread economic and social damage. Thousands of positions are unfilled, compounding our supply chain woes. Penalizing safe drivers who comply with the cannabis laws harms both the drivers and the supply chains they support.”

While Buttigieg did promote the legalization of cannabis while running for president in 2020, he has not specifically weighed in on the DOT’s drug testing policy.

Stay tuned for more cannabis industry news

Our monthly federal update was created as an easy and convenient way to keep yourself in the cannabis industry loop. By staying aware of changes and updates on a national level, businesses can ensure that they are prepared and compliant with the fast-growing legal market. Stay tuned next month to learn more about cannabis news and developments all across the U.S.

By CWCBExpo

May 2022 Federal Cannabis News: More Americans Support Cannabis Legalization Than Ever Before 

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

Establishing a legal cannabis business in the U.S. is no cakewalk. With new trends and regulations almost daily, staying in the loop on new developments and national news updates is critical for entrepreneurs and industry leaders to establish themselves.

CWCBExpo’s monthly federal update is here to keep you up to date on national cannabis news and everything you need to know to prepare for the legal market. Today, we are excited to share what’s going on on Capitol Hill and beyond – what you need to know as you kick off May 2022.

 

Biden issues first pardons of presidency  

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has officially issued pardons or commutation of sentencing for 78 individuals. Nine of these individuals were imprisoned on federal charges related to cannabis. This is the first time Biden has used his clemency powers since stepping into office in January 2021.

“America is a nation of laws and second chances, redemption, and rehabilitation. During Second Chance Month, I am using my authority under the Constitution to uphold those values by pardoning and commuting the sentences of fellow Americans,” Biden said in a statement.

However, it’s essential to note that just nine sentencing commutations were granted to individuals with cannabis convictions. And while a pardon would have expunged their records, the commutations will only lower or remove the punishment. The conviction will remain on their records unless otherwise noted.

Advocacy groups, such as the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) continue to urge the president to take further action.

“While granting clemency to nine individuals for federal marijuana offenses is the right thing to do, it is woefully inadequate when there remain over 10,000 individuals who still suffer under the weight of a federal charge on their criminal record, NORML Executive Director Erik Altieri noted in a recent statement.

 

Study identifies less impaired driving in states with legal cannabis

According to a recent study, states that have enacted cannabis legalization are seeing fewer instances of impaired driving as compared to prohibition states. 

The study found that the risk of self-reported Driving Under The Influence of Cannabis (DUIC) was significantly lower in recreational and medical states than in states which offered neither.

“Current cannabis users in recreational and medical-only cannabis states were significantly less likely to report driving within three hours of getting high in the past 30 days, compared to current users living in states without legal cannabis,” states the study.

One potential explanation for this is the access or information and knowledge regarding cannabis use in legal states. In states where cannabis is legal, consumers may receive more information surrounding the risks of impaired driving, compared to those in prohibition states.

Further, products purchased from licensed operators are presumed to have labeling which clearly states that operation of a vehicle after consuming the product is dangerous, illegal, or both.

“States that have not legalized cannabis cannot regulate the labeling of cannabis products, while many recreational and medical states require warning labels and instructions on products,” the researchers wrote. “Some edible cannabis products contain warnings about driving within a few hours of consumption.”

 

A majority of American support federal legalization 

A CBS News/YouGov poll released on April 20th found that 66% of Americans want recreational marijuana use to be legalized both under federal law and in their state. This is double the support that the legal industry received in 2000, and an especially significant increase from a 1969 Gallup poll, when only 12% of Americans voted in favor of cannabis legalization.

As expected, those who use cannabis – 37% of respondents – were more likely to favor legalization as compared to those who say they never use cannabis. Amongst both consumers and non-consumers alike, however, just 3 in 10 said they would oppose the opening of a licensed recreational cannabis business in their area. The majority say they would favor it or wouldn’t mind.

The survey also found that among political parties; Democrats, liberals, independents, and Moderates are most likely to support legalization. Republicans, however, are still split–with 51% saying that cannabis should remain federally illegal. This number seems to be While 59% of republicans under age 45 are back for federal cannabis legalization, 56% of Americans over age 45, do not.

Stay tuned and learn more with CWCBExpo

With cannabis remaining a federally illegal substance, it’s imperative that entrepreneurs and businesses within the industry are aware of nationwide changes to trends and regulations. Following CWCBExpo’s federal and regional news updates each month is a quick and convenient way to keep yourself in the know and ensure that your business is remaining relevant and aware of every available opportunity. Check out the CWCBExpo blog to see past editions of our monthly federal news update.

In addition to our news roundups, you can stay up to date with what’s changing and trending by attending local events like our Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition. A great and convenient way to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, tickets for our upcoming June 2-4, 2022 B2B exposition are available – secure your spot now.

By CWCBExpo

April 2022 Cannabis News: Is Federal Legalization A Possibility?

Each month, Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition (CWCBExpo) offers a convenient roundup of the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging across the nation. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.


Staying up to date on social, political, and financial developments within the federal cannabis industry is essential for anyone looking to establish themselves. CWCBExpo’s monthly federal news update is your one-stop shop for national cannabis news and everything you need to know to prepare for a fully legal market. This month, we cover everything from recent advances towards federal legalization to continued advocacy for cannabis banking reform.


U.S. House votes to federally legalize cannabis

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 220 to 204 to federally legalize cannabis and promote social equity in the industry. Only three Republicans supported the measure, and just two Democrats opposed it.

 

Sponsored by Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY), The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act would deschedule cannabis by removing it from the list of federally banned drugs under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). However, it would not require states to legalize cannabis and would leave a level of regulatory discretion up to the states.

 

The MORE act also focuses on building social equity within the industry. In addition to decriminalizing cannabis federally, it would expunge the records of people previously convicted of nonviolent cannabis offenses.

 

To become law, the legislation still needs approval from the Senate and the signature of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. before going into effect. If passed by both, the legislation would establish a national tax on cannabis products and prohibit federal agencies from denying individuals public benefits based solely on the use or possession of cannabis or past juvenile conviction for a cannabis offense.

 

Since the Senate Democrats would need the full support of all members of their party and 10 Republicans to reach the 60 vote threshold, it’s unclear whether the bill would pass if brought to the floor for a vote.

More than half of Americans want to see cannabis banking legislation

According to a survey released by the American Bankers Association (ABA), more than half of respondents want Congress to pass cannabis banking legislation. The survey reported that 65% of respondents support cannabis businesses having access to banking services, such as checking accounts and payroll services, in states where cannabis is legal. Further, 68% of respondents say that Congress should pass legislation so that cannabis businesses can “access banking services and products in states” where it is legal.”

 

Because cannabis currently remains illegal on a federal level, many financial institutions are unwilling to work with cannabis-related businesses due to fear of legal, operational, and regulatory risk. According to a survey from earlier this year by Whitney Economics, 70% of cannabis businesses see the lack of access to banking or investment capital as their biggest challenge – even licensed cannabis-related businesses face difficulties.

 

The Secure and Face Enforcement (SAFE) Act, a federal bill that has repeatedly passed in the House of Representatives and died awaiting a vote in the Senate, would protect financial institutions that provide services “to or for the benefit of a legitimate cannabis-related business and the business associates of a legitimate cannabis-related business.” If passed, it would offer legitimate cannabis businesses easier access to financial services such as checking accounts. However, the SAFE Banking Act has languished in Congress since it was first introduced in 2013.

 

“Consumers clearly agree that now is the time to resolve the ongoing conflict between state and federal law so banks can serve legal cannabis and cannabis-related businesses,” Rob Nichols, the CEO of the American Bankers Association, said in a press release. “Doing so will help banks meet the needs of their communities while enhancing public safety, increasing the efficiency of tax collections, and improving the financial transparency of the cannabis industry.”

Bipartisan cannabis research bill passes the U.S. house

Just a week after the MORE Act passed the House, a bill that would allow scientists to study cannabis from state-legal dispensaries passed that same legislative body.

 

According to Marijuana Moment, the bipartisan legislation, called the Medical Marijuana Research Act, passed the House in a 343-75 vote. The aim of the policy is to ease access to medical cannabis for research purposes. One of the biggest obstacles to cannabis research in the United States is a lack of access to the plant.

 

The legislation was championed by an unlikely duo: Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), who has a lengthy history of pro-cannabis activity in the House, and Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), who does not have a pro-cannabis voting record and has been at odds with activists in his home state for prior anti-cannabis stances.

Business growth rooted in knowledge

Cannabis laws are ever changing, so staying in the loop on the national policies and trends is essential to running a compliant and successful business. Cannabis businesses and leaders can stay up to date on trending topics and politics across the entire nation with our monthly regional and federal news updates.

 

B2B expositions run by Cannabis World Congress & Business Exposition are an excellent way to meet fellow entrepreneurs and stay in the loop of industry trends. To attend the next expo June 2 through June 4 in New York City, register for tickets here.

 

By CWCBExpo

National Cannabis News: Federal Policy in Flux; Advocates Gear Up for 2022

Each month, Cannabis World Congress offers a convenient roundup on the biggest cannabis news stories and hemp headlines emerging from Capitol Hill. Get these updates in your inbox by subscribing to our email newsletter, or follow up on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter to get the most recent edition when it’s published.

 

For entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry, it’s important to understand the who, what, when, where, and the why of federal cannabis news to take full advantage of both emerging opportunities and challenges ahead. After all, 2022 could hold some major developments when it comes to federal cannabis policy, and your business will need to be ready to take full advantage.

 

To that end, CWCBE presents this first installment of our monthly federal news round-up, which will keep you informed about major developments in the industry and the movement for cannabis legalization in the U.S.

 

1. Congress gets cold feet on the SAFE Banking Act – again

 

The SAFE Banking Act, which was added to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the fiscal year 2022, was removed from the bill in December 2021, just three months after it was once again up for a vote in Congress.

 

 

The SAFE Banking Act was written as a response to the dearth of financial services available to cannabis businesses. The bill was first introduced to congress back in May 2017, authored by Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-CO) as a way to insulate financial institutions from penalization for doing business with cannabis companies. The law would effectively codify existing federal regulations on banking with high-risk businesses for cannabis; it is designed to assure bankers they would not face government reprisal for working with the industry.

 

“As we begin our economic recovery, allowing cannabis businesses to access the banking system would also mean an influx of cash into the economy and the opportunity to create good-paying jobs,” Perlmutter said in a statement.

 

Up until this point, the SAFE Banking Act has passed in the U.S. House five times, most recently in September 2021 as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act for 2022.

 

And while the bill continues to be pushed around, advocacy for reform continues from all ends of the political spectrum.

 

The cannabis advocacy group NORML, for example, has started a letter campaign urging advocates to take action and share their support with legislators.

 

“No industry can operate safely, transparently, or effectively without access to banks or other financial institutions,” reads the group’s website. “Congress must move to change federal policy so that this growing number of state-compliant businesses, and their consumers, may operate in a manner that is similar to other legal commercial entities.”

 

While there is strong bipartisan support for the bill, some reform advocates, including The Drug Policy Alliance, have expressed that federal legalization would preempt the need for the reforms included in the SAFE Banking Act.

 

The group stated in a press release that the passing of a banking bill without federal legalization first will continue to perpetuate the effects of the War on Drugs – and noted the importance of tackling the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Education (MORE) Act first, which first passed the House in December 2020.

 

2. New decriminalization bill is introduced in Congress

 

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) proposed a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that would decriminalize cannabis on a federal level. The States Reform Act comes after skepticism over whether or not a Democratic-led bill will be able to pass without GOP support. The measure would federally decriminalize cannabis and regulate the substance in a similar manner to alcohol.

 

The States Reform Act also institutes a baseline 3 percent excise tax on all cannabis products to support community reinvestment, law enforcement, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) activities. It also features certain social equity provisions, including record expungements for those with non-violent cannabis convictions.

 

As noted by Congresswoman Mace, federally decriminalizing cannabis would grant states much more freedom for determining their own rules and regulation surrounding full legalization.

 

“The States Reform Act takes special care to keep Americans and their children safe while ending federal interference with state cannabis laws,” Mace explained in a statement on her website. “Washington needs to provide a framework which allows states to make their own decisions on cannabis moving forward. This bill does that.”

 

3. Marijuana Policy Project appoints new leadership

 

In December 2021, MPP appointed a new President and CEO. The title now belongs to Toi Hutchinson, a former Illinois state Senator and senior advisor to Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker on cannabis legalization. As the CEO of Marijuana Policy Project, Hutchinson will lead the group in reform initiatives pertaining to medical cannabis, federal legalization, and social justice advocacy.

 

The Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) started in 1995 with the goal of reducing penalties on marijuana cultivation, sales, and use. Today, MPP is the leading marijuana reform group in the United States, responsible for spearheading most major state-level reform initiatives including laws surrounding medical cannabis.

 

“I’m pleased to be joining the team at MPP, where I will continue my yearslong effort to develop and support cannabis legalization legislation that centers on equity,” Hutchinson said in a news release.

 

No stranger to cannabis, Hutchinson previously held the role of executive director of MPP since 2018 and is also the CEO of the U.S Cannabis Council, a role in which she will continue as she assumes President and CEO responsibilities at MPP. Hutchinson is also a member of the Chicago Federation of Women, the Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership, Links International, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

 

4. Green Wednesday is bigger than ever

 

A play on Black Friday, Green Wednesday has been marked with sales and special promotions by dispensaries for several years. In 2021, it had its biggest showing ever. Recently released Green Wednesday and Black Friday sales data shows those two days were the second and third highest sales days for legal cannabis in the U.S. Dispensaries brought in $98.2 million in sales, and Black Friday saw another $99 million in revenue for dispensaries nationwide.

 

While dispensaries last year saw a 40% increase in sales on Green Wednesday as compared to any other Wednesday in November, cannabis businesses in 2021 saw a 78% spike from daily averages between the dates of November 24th through 27th.

 

According to a survey conducted by the dispensary Ayr Wellness, 69% of cannabis consumers will use cannabis to deal with holiday-related stress, and nearly 8 in 10 people intended to consume cannabis they’d buy on Green Wednesday with family or friends. This statistic underscores the fact that the stigma around cannabis is receding and more people are accepting cannabis products as part of their four-day weekend celebrations.

 

New year, new insight

 

As the industry continues to expand, it’s important that businesses know what’s trending. With the right information, businesses can ensure that they are operating not only within regulations but in line with consumer trends. Following industry news, joining networking groups, and attending cannabis trade shows and expos are a great way to keep yourself informed.

 

June 4 - 5, 2025

Javits Convention Center

Linkedin Instagram Facebook Youtube
About
Conference
Sectors
Registration Info
Exhibiting & Sponsoring
Add-On Programs
Connect
Loading...
Skip to content
Loading...
Skip to content