DEA clarifies HHC as Schedule I Substance
Drug Enforcement Administration issued a Federal Register announcement clarifying the DEA’s position on synthetic cannabinoid hexahydrocannabinol. It classified it as a Schedule I Substance. According to a report by, the DEA did not believe that HHC was legal hemp. The agency assigned it a drug code unique for federal purposes. Marijuana Moment.
Hemp and Cannabis Regulatory Developments on a State-Level
Texas Hemp Product Rulings
Texas’ legal framework for hemp products is evolving. The sale of smokable THCA hemp flower, as well as other products related to it, can continue due to a temporary order issued by a state judge. Injunction to be in force until July 27, at the very least. Separately the Texas Supreme Court has upheld that state regulators can restrict delta-8 products.
California License Transition Streamlining
California Department of Cannabis Control streamlined its process for companies to convert their recreational licenses to medical. This initiative was designed to help operators who want to benefit from the legal benefits of Trump Administration’s federal de-scheduling. Businesses can adapt their business models as a result of the adjustment.
Other state regulatory updates
- Connecticut: The current THC caps for marijuana are being maintained by lawmakers, in spite of legislative attempts to increase or eliminate the potency limits.
- New Jersey The employment consequences of legal cannabis were addressed by a state court ruling that police officers cannot be terminated for marijuana usage while off duty.
- Missouri and Maine Missouri officials announced that marijuana products had been recalled after failing an aspergillus test. Maine regulators also issued a warning about marijuana products that contained dangerous levels of mold, yeast and piperonylbutoxide. The actions taken by regulators in Maine and elsewhere are part of a continuing effort to ensure product quality, safety, and control.
- Nevada: After its federal classification, state regulators will likely reschedule cannabis under their laws.
- Massachusetts: The regulators have published guidance on the recently passed changes in laws that govern financial thresholds for marijuana businesses.
Industry Business and Legal Actions
A Missouri class-action lawsuit was filed by two marijuana companies. According to the lawsuit, a network formed “a cartel” which “unlawfully” seized “control of Missouri retail dispensary markets” by allegedly fixing prices, forming agreements with suppliers and product providers, and coordinating exclusionary practices. This lawsuit highlights current regulatory and competition challenges facing the cannabis industry.
Curaleaf Holdings, Inc., a corporate entity, completed the purchase of its share in Four 20 Pharma GmbH. Verano Holdings Corp. also authorized a repurchase up to $20 Million in shares.
Federal Legislative and Scientific Research updates
Andy Barr, R-KY, is planning to introduce a hemp legislation bill on the federal agenda. White House Office of National Drug Control Policy also prepares to release a new drug control strategy in the coming week.
Cannabidiol, or CBD as it is also known in the scientific community, may function as a naturally bioactive compound capable of inhibiting tumor cell growth and causing apoptosis among breast cancer cells. The findings of another study highlighted that phytocannabinoids are good candidates to develop non-opioid painkillers.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Hemp Gazette makes no medical diagnoses or recommendations. Consult a healthcare professional before you make any decision regarding your health. Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia has not evaluated statements about the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoid products, hemp or cannabis. TGA regulations allow Australians to access medical cannabis through prescription.