Sara Carter, appointed by President Donald Trump to lead the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, praised medical cannabis as a “fantastic” treatment for patients suffering from severe illnesses. She expressed that she does not oppose the idea of legalizing cannabis.
During recent discussions, two congressional committees addressed concerns about marijuana-impaired driving. A representative from the trucking industry advocated for hair follicle testing as a method to detect cannabis use over extended periods. Meanwhile, Senator James Lankford from Oklahoma criticized the state’s medical cannabis legalization, claiming that voters were unaware of the negative consequences it would bring, including rising crime and human trafficking. He remarked that in Oklahoma, permits could be obtained for trivial reasons, highlighting the lack of restrictions.
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte reiterated her stance against marijuana legalization, citing concerns about quality of life and road safety. However, she indicated a willingness to consider legislation that would allow medical cannabis patients to cultivate their own plants.
In North Carolina, bipartisan senators have introduced a bill aimed at establishing a Mental Health and Psychedelic Medicine Task Force. This task force would explore the potential of psychedelic medicine to tackle the state’s mental health crisis and look into the legal and regulatory pathways for legalizing such treatments.
Additionally, a study involving nurses struggling with sleep issues found that CBD-coated pillowcases improved sleep quality, mood, and anxiety levels, suggesting its potential as a non-invasive solution for those working shifts.
On the federal level, the Food and Drug Administration has paused a clinical trial that investigates the use of whole psilocybin mushrooms for treating conditions like PTSD, chronic pain, and opioid addiction. Senator Adam Schiff from California expressed his support for cannabis banking legislation, while former Representative Matt Gaetz from Florida called for the rescheduling of cannabis.
In state news, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro pushed for the legalization of adult-use cannabis and the expungement of records for nonviolent marijuana possession. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear defended the state’s medical cannabis licensing system amid criticism. In Oklahoma, a bill to allow deliveries of medical cannabis has stalled, though other marijuana legislation remains active. In Florida, an appeals court dismissed a drug trafficking conviction due to police dogs’ inability to distinguish between marijuana and hemp. Meanwhile, Rhode Island’s top marijuana regulator anticipates accepting applications for more marijuana business licenses this year, and Alaska regulators are considering changes to business license renewal fee structures.
