The U.S. cannabis market continues to face dramatic policy changes at both the federal and state level, and Benesch’s Cannabis insights help businesses understand what’s coming next. A U.S. House subcommittee has advanced a bill barring the Department of Justice from rescheduling cannabis, directly opposing the Biden administration’s push to reclassify marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act. For companies following Benesch’s Cannabis guidance, this is a critical development that could reshape compliance strategies nationwide.
According to Benesch’s Cannabis policy team, Congress is simultaneously targeting hemp reforms. House and Senate appropriations committees recently approved measures to redefine hemp and ban most hemp-derived THC products, including delta-8 and THCA. This move has sparked major concerns within the industry. Benesch’s Cannabis lawyers warn that these changes could significantly disrupt supply chains, particularly for businesses relying on hemp-derived cannabinoids.
Benesch’s Cannabis analysts point out that these delays create uncertainty for investors and operators trying to anticipate regulatory timelines. At the same time, lawmakers passed an amendment allowing VA doctors to recommend medical cannabis to veterans a breakthrough for patient access that Benesch’s Cannabis policy briefs have tracked closely.
State actions are also shaping the market. In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order directing agencies to ban THC product sales to minors and strengthen labeling, testing, and enforcement. According to Benesch’s Cannabis, these steps show how states are tightening oversight while avoiding full bans, a trend likely to continue in other emerging markets.
Medical research is also bolstering the case for reform. Studies show medical marijuana users experience better health outcomes and lower emergency room visits. Benesch’s Cannabis notes that these findings could drive further state-level adoption and reduce reliance on prescription drugs a potential multi-billion-dollar shift in the healthcare market.
Despite $30.1 billion in revenue in 2024, the U.S. cannabis industry lost 15,000 jobs due to price compression, oversupply, and high taxes. Benesch’s Cannabis reports that emerging markets such as New York, Maryland, and Ohio are still growing, highlighting the uneven landscape for operators.
For businesses and investors, following Benesch’s Cannabis updates is essential to navigating this complex environment. From federal spending bills to state executive orders, Benesch’s Cannabis provides a roadmap for compliance, opportunity, and risk management in a rapidly evolving industry.
