Changing political climate threatens US cannabis research

Medical cannabis et pills.

Source: VOISIN/PHANIE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Trump administration reverses rule protecting states with legalised marijuana

The current uncertainty plaguing US cannabis policy could deter companies across the country from pursuing R&D on plant extracts or teaming up with academia to develop medicines, marijuana research industry advocates are warning. Earlier this month, US attorney general Jeff Sessions rescinded guidance issued by the Obama administration that set priorities for federal prosecutors that allowed states with legalised marijuana to face minimal federal interference.