The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is preparing to commence a hearing next month regarding broad federal cannabis rescheduling, drawing notices of intent to participate from both proponents and opponents of cannabis legalization. This development occurs as the hemp industry faces an impending federal recriminalization of certain hemp THC products, and publicly traded cannabis companies navigate market adjustments.
Federal Cannabis Rescheduling and Hemp Policy
Organisations including NORML, a cannabis legalization advocacy group, and Smart Approaches to Marijuana, an opposition group, have formally indicated their intention to participate in the DEA’s upcoming hearing. This hearing is a critical step in the ongoing process to potentially reclassify cannabis under the federal Controlled Substances Act.
Concurrently, the hemp sector is preparing for a significant regulatory shift. Leaders of the Marijuana Policy Project have stated that they do not anticipate Congress will reverse the federal recriminalization of hemp THC products, which is scheduled to take effect in November. While some adjustments to THC limits or regulations concerning beverages might occur, a broad reversal is not expected, according to a May 27, 2026, report from Marijuana Moment. This policy change has implications for manufacturers and distributors of hemp-derived products containing specific THC concentrations.
Regulatory Developments Across Jurisdictions
Regulatory frameworks for cannabis and hemp continue to evolve at state and international levels:
- United States State Policy: Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont signed budget legislation that transitions the state’s cannabis tax from a THC-based system to a 10.75 percent excise tax. In Rhode Island, Governor Dan McKee nominated a new chair for the Cannabis Control Commission. Oregon regulators have filed proposed changes to the state’s hemp registry application process, while Florida regulators are scheduled to hold a medical cannabis rules workshop.
- International Policy: In Nigeria, lawmakers are reportedly drafting legislation aimed at legalizing cannabis for both medical and industrial applications, indicating a potential expansion of regulated markets in Africa.
These varied regulatory actions highlight the ongoing adjustments by jurisdictions to manage the cultivation, sale, and taxation of cannabis and hemp products.
Market Activity and Medical Research
- Equities and Corporate News: Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. announced a one-for-three reverse stock split, a move the company stated is intended to facilitate uplisting to a U.S. stock exchange. Separately, TerrAscend Corp. has entered receivership in Michigan due to outstanding debts, as reported by Marijuana Moment. These events reflect ongoing financial and strategic adjustments within the publicly traded cannabis sector.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hemp Gazette does not provide medical recommendations, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any decisions regarding your health or any medical condition. Statements concerning the therapeutic uses of hemp, cannabis, or cannabinoid-derived products have not been evaluated by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medicinal cannabis products in Australia are accessed via prescription pathways under TGA regulation.
