In a recent episode of Regulated Roots, host Kimberly Simms and guest Eric Goepel, founder and CEO of Veterans Cannabis Coalition and a government affairs professional, shed light on the nuanced and complicated landscape of cannabis legalization in the United States.
Simms stated, “Over the course of this conversation, we are going to talk politics. Eric is going to shed some light on how this election cycle could reshape the legal and regulatory environment. And we will explore the very profound impact of the upcoming elections on federal cannabis reform.”
She continued, “Politics and policy are obviously intrinsically linked and understanding this dynamic is a really critical part for anyone that is involved in the cannabis sector. So please join us, tune in as we uncover the strategic maneuvers, the legislative shifts that could redefine the industry. And whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious observer, I know that this episode will provide some really interesting insight into the power of politics and how it crafts the laws that govern our cannabis world.”
The Limited Impact of Rescheduling on Criminalization
The conversation covered the topic of rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. Goepel pointed out that rescheduling would do little to alleviate the criminalization concerns for communities historically targeted by cannabis laws. The Schedule I designation has often been cited as a barrier to research, especially within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), which serves millions of veterans. However, Goepel clarified that the VA could already conduct research on Schedule I substances, as evidenced by ongoing studies on psychedelics. Thus, rescheduling might simplify some regulatory hurdles, but it wouldn’t necessarily advance the VA’s research capabilities to a significant degree.
Financial Barriers and the Push for Banking Access
Simms and Goepel also explored the ongoing struggles of cannabis businesses to access banking services, a saga that has dragged on for over a decade. The SAFE Banking Act, which would permit cannabis operators to utilize traditional banking, has faced years of legislative roadblocks. Despite the industry’s maturity and expansion to numerous states, Goepel lamented the lack of significant progress, noting the inefficiencies and financial burdens created by operating in a cash-only environment.
Legislative Pathways and Political Realities
As for possible paths toward federal cannabis reform, Eric discussed two major legislative vehicles. For Republicans, the STATES Act, championed by Rep. David Joyce, aims to protect state-level legalization without fully endorsing nationwide reform. On the Democratic side, the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA), supported by Senators Schumer, Booker, and Wyden, offers a more comprehensive approach. While both bills are far from perfect, they serve as platforms for dialogue and negotiation. Yet, with cannabis reform still a divisive issue, Goepel underscored that achieving a Democratic trifecta in government could be the most realistic way forward.
A Call to Action and the Road Ahead
Closing the discussion on an optimistic note, Simms and Goepel stressed the importance of civic engagement. Voting in local and national elections remains crucial, especially as cannabis policy continues to evolve through grassroots activism. Goepel reminded listeners that, regardless of who holds office, real change will depend on collective action from patients, consumers, industry workers, and advocates.
With hopes pinned on a more unified push for reform, the episode encapsulated both the complexities of legislative efforts and the enduring spirit of the cannabis community. The episode covers more aspects of cannabis legalization, so listen to the full episode here.
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