How We Got Here
The classification of cannabis as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act has long hindered comprehensive research into its medical applications. This classification denotes substances with “no accepted medical use” and a high potential for abuse, placing cannabis alongside drugs like heroin and MDMA. Despite this, numerous states have legalized cannabis for medical and recreational use, creating a disconnect between federal and state policies.
Simultaneously, the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, leading to a surge in the production and sale of THC-infused beverages. These products have gained popularity as alternatives to alcoholic drinks, prompting discussions about their regulation and place in the market.
Legislative Efforts to Facilitate Cannabis Research
In May 2025, Representatives Dina Titus and Ilhan Omar introduced the Evidence-Based Drug Policy Act of 2025 (EBDPA). This bill aims to ease federal restrictions on researching Schedule I substances, including cannabis. Key provisions of the EBDPA include:
- Repealing sections of the Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 1998 that prohibit federal funds from being used for research on Schedule I substances.
- Removing mandates that require the Office of National Drug Control Policy to oppose any attempts to legalize Schedule I substances.
Advocates argue that the EBDPA would enable policymakers to craft informed legislation by allowing research into areas such as youth consumption, health outcomes, and the socio-economic impacts of cannabis legalization. While the bill has the potential to attract bipartisan support due to its focus on evidence-based policy, the current political climate presents challenges to its passage.
The Rise of THC-Infused Beverages
THC-infused drinks, derived from hemp, have seen increased popularity across the United States. States like Minnesota and Hawaii have enacted laws permitting the sale of these beverages in venues such as liquor stores. The appeal of THC drinks lies in their potential as alternatives to alcohol, offering consumers a different kind of social lubricant.
However, these beverages present unique challenges:
- Delayed Onset: Unlike alcohol, the effects of THC drinks can take over an hour to manifest, which may affect their appeal in social settings.
- Taste and Formulation: Manufacturers are working to improve the taste profiles of these drinks to make them more palatable to a broader audience.
- Pricing: THC-infused beverages often come at a higher price point compared to traditional alcoholic drinks, potentially limiting their market penetration.
As the market for these products grows, questions arise about their regulation, especially concerning driving safety and their role in potentially replacing alcohol in social contexts.
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