This Week In Cannabis: Rescheduling Delays, The DEA, Biden's Clemency, Philip Morris' New Bet And More

The cannabis industry continues to evolve amidst regulatory challenges, expanding markets and innovative product launches. This week’s updates span U.S. federal reform delays, Florida's renewed push for legalization, international developments in Europe, corporate acquisitions and cutting-edge products reshaping the market.

Politics And Policy

DEA Hearing Postponed Amid Allegations Of Misconduct

The federal process to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act faced a setback this week. Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney postponed a pivotal hearing, citing allegations of misconduct within the DEA.

Advocates had accused the agency of improper communications with anti-cannabis groups and defying court orders on evidence submission. Mulrooney described the allegations as “disturbing and embarrassing,” but noted they do not irreparably taint the process. The hearing, initially scheduled for Jan. 21, will be delayed by at least three months.

This development prolongs the cannabis industry's wait for reforms that could enable tax deductions, better banking access and enhanced industry credibility.

Biden Grants Clemency To Thousands Of Drug Offenders

President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of nearly 2,500 non-violent drug offenders this week, emphasizing the need to rectify sentencing disparities tied to outdated laws. However, the clemency excluded cannabis-specific prisoners, leaving advocates questioning the administration’s commitment to addressing marijuana-related convictions.

Florida Launches New Legalization Campaign

Following a narrow defeat in 2024, Safe & Smart Florida filed a new ballot initiative to legalize recreational cannabis in 2026. The campaign, which raised over $150 million in its previous attempt, faces renewed challenges under Governor Ron DeSantis, who recently called for stricter petition signature regulations.

Markets And Business

New York Court Rules Against Warrantless Cannabis Raids

New York’s cannabis enforcement strategy faced scrutiny as a judge ruled that warrantless raids by the NYC Sheriff's Office and the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) violated constitutional rights. Licensed hemp businesses had products seized without evidence-based testing, with the court ordering the return of goods and stricter guidelines for future inspections.

High Tide Enters German Medical Cannabis Market

High Tide Inc. HITI announced its acquisition of a 51% stake in Germany-based Purecan GmbH for €4.8 million ($4.94 million). With Germany poised to become a €1 billion medical cannabis market by 2028, High Tide's move positions the company as a key supplier for Canadian imports.

Würk Partners With Green Check To Expand Cannabis HCM Solutions

Workforce management provider Würk partnered with Green Check to streamline compliance and analytics for cannabis operators. The collaboration aims to alleviate challenges in payroll and benefits management amidst inconsistent federal regulations.

Philip Morris Expands Medical Cannabis Portfolio

Philip Morris International (PMI), through its subsidiary Vectura Fertin Pharma, partnered with Avicanna AVCNF to advance cannabinoid-based medicine. The deal underscores PMI's strategic focus on medical cannabis as part of a broader shift away from tobacco.

Science And Research

CBD Does Not Impair Driving, Spanish Study Confirms

Spanish researchers found that CBD use does not impair driving performance. The study, published in “Addiction,” adds to growing evidence dispelling myths about CBD's impact on psychomotor skills, reinforcing its safety for medical and recreational use.

Teen Cannabis Use Drops In Legal States

A new report from the Marijuana Policy Project shows significant declines in youth cannabis use in states with adult-use legalization. In Colorado, high school cannabis consumption has dropped 42% since legalization, supporting arguments for regulated markets reducing illicit access.

Innovation And Product Launches

STIIIZY Launches Hemp-Infused Seltzers

Leading U.S. cannabis brand STIIIZY debuted its first hemp-infused seltzers, featuring four strain-inspired flavors. With 5mg of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC per can, these alcohol-free beverages cater to the growing market for cannabis-based social and lifestyle products.

Zone Vapor Introduces High-Tech Cannabis Vape

Zone Vapor launched the Zone Opto, a vaporizer featuring user customization modes, puff tracking and flavor control. Developed by former PAX and tobacco industry experts, the product sets a new standard for cannabis vaping technology.

Global Developments

Czechia To Regulate Low-THC Cannabis

Starting July 2025, the Czech Republic will regulate cannabis products with up to 1% THC and permit medical cannabis prescriptions through general practitioners. Advocates continue to push for broader adult-use legalization.