Cannabis Laws, Science, and Politics

This webinar provides an interdisciplinary look at the global changes observed in the laws, standards and politics around the cannabis plant and its products. An overview will be provided on the history of medical and adult use cannabis laws, federal cannabis laws, and the conflict between state and federal laws. Participants will learn about the public health effects of cannabis laws, incorporating aspects of how cannabis research is conducted under current federal regulations. The webinar is designed to give individuals a foundation of key laws, standards and other issues pertaining to cannabis and hemp businesses, as well as the regulations that govern day to day operations and oversight. Webinar attendees will learn how cannabis laws were created, where standards for products come from, and the science that informs policy decisions, technology, and medical utility. Students will develop an understanding of the public health consequences of unregulated cannabis products.  Attendees will also understand the difference between legal and illegal cannabis products and the impact on abuse potential.

Learning Objectives:

1. Summarize how cannabis laws, regulations, and/or standards have changed over the last few decades.

2. Discuss standards for cannabis operations and the products they produce.

3. Describe the major differences between cannabis, hemp, and illicit marijuana products