DEA Hearing Ends: What Happens Next? | TDR Cannabis in 5
The Most Consequential Cannabis Hearing in US History?
Overview of the Hearing
- The hearing, which began on June 29 and concluded on July 15, is considered pivotal for federal cannabis policy.
- It has potential implications for the cannabis industry's tax future and upcoming legal battles.
Key Moments from Week One
- The DEA defended its proposed rule to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III, surprising many observers.
- Dr. Dominique Chiapperino from the FDA testified that cannabis has accepted medical use and lower abuse potential than Schedule I and II substances.
- Opponents criticized the FDA's new two-factor test for medical use, claiming it was a strategic shift due to cannabis's inability to meet previous standards.
Opposition Strategy
- All seven designated participants opposed rescheduling; no industry advocates were allowed to testify, raising concerns about bias in testimonies.
- The ALJ restricted public access by refusing live streaming, despite significant national interest.
Week Two Developments
- From July 2 onward, opponents presented their arguments focusing on neuroscience claims related to cannabis use disorder and impaired driving.
- SAM's Kevin Sabet described the hearing as surreal given the DEA’s historical stance against cannabis.
Government Positioning
- The DOJ filed a brief opposing attempts by certain groups to pause the hearing, indicating a commitment to moving forward with rescheduling efforts.
Emerging Insights from the Hearing
- Three key takeaways emerged:
- The DEA is committed to supporting Schedule III status for cannabis.
- Opponents are preparing for litigation based on challenges to FDA's medical use criteria.
- The evidentiary record is heavily skewed towards prohibitionist perspectives.
Future Implications
- If Schedule III is finalized, it could eliminate IRS Section 280E restrictions, significantly lowering effective tax rates for operators in the industry.
Conclusion of Hearings
- Despite criticisms regarding balance and fairness, this hearing marked a historic moment where federal support for cannabis’s medical legitimacy was publicly acknowledged.