This document, compiled by the Council on Governmental Relations (COGR), serves as a comprehensive educational resource for research administrators navigating the complex legal, regulatory, and policy landscape of cannabis and hemp research in the United States. Given the federal classification of marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), research involving marijuana is highly regulated and generally requires a DEA Schedule I registration. Researchers must also comply with applicable federal, state, and institutional policies, and ensure IRB or IACUC approvals for human or animal studies, respectively. Despite increasing societal debate and state-level legalization, federal law maintains strict prohibitions, and non-compliance can jeopardize federal funding for research institutions.
The document distinguishes marijuana from industrial hemp, the latter defined by the Farm Bill as Cannabis sativa L. with a THC concentration not exceeding 0.3% on a dry weight basis. Research on industrial hemp is subject to different regulations, often tied to state-run pilot programs permitting cultivation and study for academic or agricultural purposes. The FAQ outlines various scenarios, including the permissibility of certain observational studies, funding source restrictions, and protocols around material transfers and consulting activities. It highlights the University of Mississippi’s unique role as the federally authorized supplier of marijuana for research, and offers guidance on processes, definitions, and permissible activities for both marijuana and hemp research. The document consistently advises researchers to seek institutional and legal counsel to ensure compliance and underscores the importance of adhering to evolving legal and policy frameworks. A list of helpful resources for further exploration of cannabis research policies is also provided.
