The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has postponed its cannabis rescheduling hearings, originally slated for January 21, 2025, following legal challenges from pro-reform participants. The delay, expected to last at least three months, stems from allegations of improper communications and biased witness selections by the DEA. Advocates argue these actions reveal the agency’s opposition to the Biden administration’s proposal to reclassify cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act.

While a motion to remove the DEA from the proceedings was denied, Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney allowed an appeal of that decision, prompting the stay. This development highlights ongoing tensions between federal agencies and reform advocates over cannabis policy.

For further details, see the full report in Dentons’ Cannabis Client Alert: Week of January 20, 2025.