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The future of cannabis holds promise as societal attitudes shift, but it’s been hampered by federal restrictions that have limited its medicinal exploration. This predicament has dissuaded institutions from conducting research due to fears of jeopardizing their federal funding. Despite these barriers, the landscape is evolving explains Joshua Bauchner, Chair of the Cannabis and Psychedelics practice group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC.

The Challenge of Federal Prohibition

Cannabis has been constrained by federal prohibition in the United States for decades. This restriction has discouraged many research institutions and hospitals from engaging in comprehensive studies on its medicinal properties. Although the University of Mississippi was granted a federal mandate for cannabis research, most institutions chose to abstain, fearing funding repercussions.

Breaking the Mold

Despite these challenges, some have chosen to explore cannabis’s potential. Joshua Bauchner, Chair of the Cannabis and Psychedelics practice group at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, highlights the importance of these initiatives in uncovering cannabis’s untapped potential.

The Remarkable Cannabinoid System

The human body possesses the endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors and molecules that interacts with cannabis. Bauchner emphasizes the ongoing research into cannabinoids and terpenes (flavors in cannabis), revealing promising findings.

Customized Cannabis Solutions

As the field of cannabis research expands, the prospect of tailored cannabis solutions becomes more plausible. In the future, individuals seeking relief from various ailments may find specialized cannabis products available at dispensaries, catering to their specific needs.

Federal Legalization:

Bauchner predicts that federal legalization of cannabis could be within reach in the next 5 to 10 years, contingent on the evolving political landscape. This change could normalize cannabis use, opening doors for medical treatments and research. However, Bauchner highlights the importance of addressing historical injustices tied to cannabis-related incarcerations.

A Path Forward

Criminalization of cannabis has disproportionately affected minorities. Bauchner calls for reconciliation, including expunging prior cannabis-related convictions and giving priority to justice-involved individuals, minorities, women, and veterans in the emerging cannabis industry.

The future of cannabis holds promise as societal perceptions shift, but federal restrictions have limited its exploration. Joshua Bauchner’s insights shed light on the potential benefits and challenges ahead. As federal legalization looms on the horizon, the future of cannabis appears brighter, with opportunities for medical advancements and addressing past injustices.