🇺🇸 DEA Opens Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing With Strong Defense of Schedule III Proposal

The DEA began its highly anticipated marijuana rescheduling hearing by making clear that the federal government supports moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, presenting testimony from FDA officials and scientific experts to argue that marijuana has a currently accepted medical use and warrants less restrictive treatment under federal law. Although only anti‑rescheduling participants were invited to formally challenge the proposal, DEA attorneys emphasized that the proceeding is focused on regulation rather than legalization and on evaluating the scientific basis for reclassification. The hearing, which runs through July 15, is widely viewed as one of the most consequential federal cannabis policy reviews in decades and could significantly reshape the legal and business landscape for the industry if the Schedule III recommendation is ultimately adopted. (Cannabis Business Times)

🫀 Harvard Review Says Cannabis Heart Risks Remain Unclear but Deserve Caution

A Harvard Health review of recent research found mixed evidence on whether cannabis use increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, coronary artery disease and heart failure, making it difficult for researchers to draw firm conclusions about its cardiovascular effects. The strongest and most consistent finding across studies was a link between cannabis use and heart rhythm abnormalities, while THC was noted to increase heart rate, blood pressure and the heart’s oxygen demand. Researchers say differences in product types, consumption methods, usage frequency and concurrent use of substances such as tobacco and alcohol make cannabis difficult to study, but they conclude that the remaining uncertainties warrant caution, particularly as use continues to rise among both younger and older adults. (Harvard Health)

🍺 DEA and FDA Say Marijuana Is Safer Than Alcohol and Opioids During Rescheduling Hearing

During the opening day of the federal marijuana rescheduling hearing, DEA attorneys and an FDA official argued that cannabis has recognized medical benefits and generally poses lower day‑to‑day risks than substances such as alcohol and opioids, supporting the proposal to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. FDA testimony indicated that cannabis is associated with fewer overdose deaths and less severe withdrawal symptoms than many comparison substances, with alcohol and opioids presenting substantially greater health risks in several measures reviewed by federal regulators. The testimony marked a significant shift in the federal government’s public stance on cannabis and serves as a central part of the case for broader federal reclassification.

👉 Read The Full Study Here

⚽ First World Cup Hosted in Legal Cannabis Markets Could Boost Sales and Global Awareness

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first in history to be hosted across countries and cities where cannabis is legal or decriminalized in some form, creating a unique opportunity for U.S. and Canadian cannabis businesses to reach millions of international visitors who may be encountering regulated cannabis markets for the first time. Retailers in several host cities report increased foot traffic and first-time customers, anticipating a short-term sales boost as tourists explore legal dispensaries and cannabis products. Industry observers believe the event’s most significant impact may be long-term, exposing a global audience to regulated cannabis commerce and potentially influencing future public policy and legalization discussions around the world. (MJBiz Daily)

🗓️ Continued Cannabis News & Events

• Millions of New Yorkers consume cannabis; far fewer understand details, such as content and dosage

• The Government is Now Making the Case for Cannabis

• A Major Cannabis Growth Opportunity May Already Be On The Shelves

• Millions Have Fatty Liver Disease. Scientists Say These 2 Cannabis Compounds May Help