Report Urges CDC to Take Lead in U.S. Cannabis Policy Overhaul

A federal advisory panel calls for a health-focused approach as marijuana use rises and THC levels increase.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommends the CDC play a larger role in cannabis policy to prioritize public health.
An estimated 18 million Americans use marijuana daily or nearly daily, surpassing daily alcohol use.
The report highlights the increasing potency of cannabis, with THC levels rising from 5% to over 20% in recent years.
Recommendations include public health campaigns, monitoring cannabis impacts, and setting best practices for state regulations.
The panel also urges Congress to close loopholes in hemp product regulations and lift restrictions on studying cannabis legalization effects.