Federal Cannabis Policy: New Developments in Research and Beverage Regulation

Where We Are Now

Cannabis’ classification as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act hinders comprehensive medical research. The classification of cannabis as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act places it alongside other drugs such as heroin and MDMA. In spite of this, many states have made cannabis legal for both medical and recreational purposes, resulting in a mismatch between state and federal policies.

The 2018 Farm Bill also legalized products made from hemp that contained less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. This led to an explosion in production and sales of THC-infused drinks. As an alternative to alcohol, these products are gaining in popularity. Discussions have been prompted about the regulation of THC-infused beverages and their place on the market.

Cannabis Research: Legislative Initiatives

Dina Titus, a Representative from Minnesota and Ilhan Oma introduced in May 2025 the Evidence-Based Drug Policy Act of 2025. The EBDPA aims to relax federal restrictions on research into Schedule I drugs, such as cannabis. The EBDPA includes the following provisions:

• Abrogation of sections of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization act of 1998 which prohibits federal funds being used to conduct research on Schedule I drugs.
• Remove the mandate that requires the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to oppose attempts at legalizing Schedule I substances.

The EBDPA, say advocates, would allow policymakers to create informed legislation, allowing them research in areas like youth consumption, the health effects, and socioeconomic impact of legalizing cannabis. While this bill could attract bipartisan backing due to the fact that it is based on evidence, its current political climate makes passage challenging. 

THC Infused Drinks are on the Rise

The popularity of THC-infused hemp drinks has increased in the United States. Minnesota and Hawaii, for example, have passed laws allowing the sale of THC-infused drinks in liquor stores. THC beverages are attractive because they can be used as an alternative to alcohol. They offer a new kind of social fluid.

But these drinks present unique challenges.

• Delayd OnsetContrary to alcohol, THC drinks may take up to an hour before their effects are felt, which can affect the appeal of these drinks in social settings.
• Taste and formulationManufacturers work to improve these drinks’ taste profiles to attract a larger audience.
• PricingTHC-infused drinks are often more expensive than traditional alcohol beverages, which could limit their market penetration.

Questions arise as the market grows for these products, particularly in relation to driving safety, and about their potential role in replacing alcohol.