420 Policy Update: The Future of Marijuana, Hemp, and CBD

Presented by Cat Packer, Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), Director of Drug Markets & Legal Regulation, Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Drug Enforcement and Policy Center, Cannabis Policy Practitioner In Residence, Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition (CRCC), Special Advisor, this webinar is part of an ongoing AFDO Cannabis, Hemp, and Natural Psychedelics Committee webinar series.

Stay tuned for more webinars in this series.

Speaker Name: Cat Packer

Date: April 17, 2026

Time: 2 to 3:15 p.m. ET

Abstract: With President Trump’s Executive Order on marijuana and CBD, the related anticipated rescheduling of marijuana to Schedule III, and recent changes to the federal definition of hemp set to take effect on November 12, 2026, represents a pivotal moment for stakeholders across government, industry, and advocacy. This timely 420 Cannabis Policy Update will provide a clear, policy-focused briefing on the latest federal developments shaping the future of marijuana, hemp, and CBD regulation.

Led by Cat Packer, Director of Drug Markets & Legal Regulation at the Drug Policy Alliance, this session will unpack the Executive Order with a focus on the ongoing administrative process to reschedule marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act and the anticipated next steps.

The session will also examine the practical implications of a potential move to Schedule III — what it would change, what it would not, and how it may impact research, taxation, criminal enforcement, and state-regulated markets. It will also explore the broader question of descheduling marijuana — what it would take to get there, how it could work, and whether it’s a viable option.

In addition, attendees will receive an overview of evolving federal policy discussions related to hemp-derived cannabinoids and CBD, as well as key cannabis legislation introduced in the 119th Congress.

Join to learn more about where federal cannabis policy stands today — and where it may be headed next.