Good evening. Here's what's moving in the world of medical cannabis today.
House-approved US funding bill includes medical cannabis access for veterans
The US House of Representatives has approved a Fiscal Year 2027 funding bill that includes a provision allowing veterans to access medical cannabis through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The measure would permit VA doctors to recommend medical cannabis in states where it is legal, and would remove existing barriers that prevent veterans from receiving such recommendations.
The bill now advances to the Senate, where lawmakers will decide whether to retain the provision in the final appropriations package. Advocates have long argued that current federal policy unfairly restricts veterans from discussing or accessing medical cannabis as a treatment option, despite its legal status in many states.
Virginia governor vetoes adult-use cannabis sales legislation
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has vetoed legislation that would have established a regulated adult-use cannabis market in the state, according to NORML. The veto represents a significant setback for advocates who had hoped to move cannabis sales from the illicit market into a legal, regulated framework.
NORML described the veto as "a profound disappointment" to voters who supported the governor based on her campaign promises to back a regulated market. Virginia legalised personal possession and cultivation of cannabis in 2021 but has yet to create a system for legal retail sales.
Federal memo clarifies cannabis rescheduling does not change drug testing rules for transport workers
A memo from the US Department of Transportation has confirmed that the recent federal rescheduling of marijuana does not alter existing drug testing rules for safety-sensitive transportation workers. The memo states that "marijuana use under state marijuana programs or other non-prescription uses remains prohibited."
The clarification affects millions of workers in aviation, trucking, rail, and maritime industries, and underscores the ongoing tension between evolving state and federal cannabis policies.
New study: cannabis use associated with reduced anxiety in chronic pain patients
A longitudinal study of chronic pain patients using medical cannabis found not only significant pain reduction but also notable decreases in anxiety and depression scores—reinforcing the interconnected nature of chronic conditions and mental health.
The week ahead
Cannabis Europa London begins next week, bringing together policymakers, clinicians, and industry leaders from across Europe. Key topics on the agenda include UK prescribing reform, Germany's expanding model, and the growing evidence base for cannabinoid medicines.
