Member Blog: What Schedule III Could Bring

The reclassification of cannabis to Schedule III would acknowledge its accepted medical use and lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule I substances. This shift would bring cannabis more in line with other prescription medications, necessitating rigorous standards for quality control and safety. For cannabis testing labs and product manufacturers, this means heightened scrutiny and the need for stringent compliance with federal regulations.

Because medical cannabis under a Schedule III change would be under federal jurisdiction, it would be regulated by the FDA and enforced by the DEA just like any other controlled substance. However, recreational cannabis industries would not comply with federal schedule III status and would, therefore, remain under sole state jurisdiction. In this blog, we anticipate state governments will update their regulations to align with federal Schedule III requirements. This harmonization means testing labs and product manufacturers must be prepared for consistent standards across federal and state levels. “We anticipate a two-pronged access approach for cannabis products,” says Troiani. “Schedule III-regulated sales via pharmacies and state-regulated over-the-counter access via dispensaries.” This dual system will require labs and manufacturers to navigate differing compliance landscapes, ensuring that products meet the necessary standards for both distribution channels.

According to Troiani, with the reclassification of cannabis to Schedule III, there is significant potential for the federal government to assume regulatory oversight of state cannabis testing labs. This transition would bring cannabis testing under the same stringent regulatory framework that governs pharmaceutical products, ensuring uniformity and consistency in testing standards nationwide. Such a move may require labs to meet rigorous standards, including detailed documentation, quality control measures, and regular audits. We are prepared to help labs navigate this potential shift, ensuring seamless compliance with FDA regulations and maintaining the highest quality and safety standards.

Read the full article from Digamma Consulting here.