Episode
Schedule 3, Hemp Bans, and Cannabis Law with Thomas Howard
- Podcast
- BIOACTIVE
- Published
- Feb 6, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3898
- Processing state
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Summary
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes cannabis attorney and legalization advocate Tom Howard to unpack the complexities of cannabis law and regulation in the United States. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience, Tom shares how he helps clients navigate licensing and application processes for dispensaries and cannabis businesses across multiple states. Together, they explore how state-by-state regulatory systems function, the challenges of securing permits, and the financial barriers facing cannabis entrepreneurs, particularly social equity applicants. The conversation also examines the federal effort to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, discussing what rescheduling could mean for taxation, scientific research, and cannabis operations nationwide. Additional topics include the recent hemp ban and its impact on THCA products, seed sales, and interstate commerce, ongoing banking challenges in the cannabis industry, advocacy organizations pushing for reform, and legal strategies for remaining compliant in a shifting regulatory environment. Tom also offers insight into his work with Cannabis Legalization News before the episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on the future of legalization and cannabis policy. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Bioactive Podcast 00:36 Tom Howard's Journey in Cannabis Law 01:17 Navigating State Regulations and Applications 03:46 Challenges and Legal Complexities 06:24 Financial Hurdles in the Cannabis Industry 15:13 The Impact of Federal Law and Rescheduling 30:27 Advocacy and Future of Cannabis Legislation 34:17 THCA and Synthetic Cannabinoids Ban 34:41 Congressional Actions and Implications 37:14 Banking Challenges for Cannabis Businesses 38:53 Project 2025 and Political Climate 40:22…