Consumer Brands & Retail
Cannabis 2026: Schedule III and the Hemp Split
Federal cannabis policy is bifurcating in 2026. Acting AG Todd Blanche's April 22 order moves FDA-approved and state-licensed medical marijuana into Schedule III. The November 12 hemp definition change is expected to push most intoxicating hemp-derived products outside the legal definition. A separate DEA hearing on June 29 will decide whether adult-use follows. The communications reset for operators, investors, and regulators.