Carr Maloney's Cannabis Legal Blog Archive

President Trump’s executive order reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III marks a major shift in federal policy. While cannabis remains federally illegal, rescheduling could bring significant tax relief, improved research opportunities, and potential banking access for cannabis businesses. For DMV operators, this change signals progress, but also ongoing regulatory complexity.

Virginia is preparing major legislative changes to launch a regulated adult-use cannabis market. The proposal focuses on transparency, equity, and expanding opportunities for small businesses through new license types and strict oversight. If adopted, the framework could reshape cultivation, processing, and retail operations, with retail sales potentially beginning in late 2026.

The D.C. Court of Appeals denied ANC 2C and Commissioner Thomas Lee’s challenge to the approval of DC Smoke’s medical cannabis retailer license, finding the ANC lacked standing and filed too late. The Court held that ANCs cannot initiate court actions under D.C. Code § 1-309.10(g), and individual residents—not ANCs—may seek judicial review of Board decisions.

The D.C. Council has approved an emergency resolution extending conditional medical cannabis licenses for another year, giving local businesses more time to meet compliance requirements and transition to full licensure. The move comes amid record legal sales and rapid market growth, providing operators with crucial breathing room to secure financing, finalize buildouts, and strengthen D.C.’s regulated cannabis industry.