A Research Agenda to Inform Cannabis Regulation: How Science Can Shape Policy

Area of Science:

• Cannabis Science and Policy
• Regulatory Science
• Public Health Research

Background:

• US cannabis policy evolution has outpaced scientific knowledge regarding cannabis effects and policy impacts.
• Federal drug scheduling and other policies create significant barriers to conducting essential cannabis research.
• This hinders evidence-based regulation, market development, and scientific advancements crucial for policy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a research agenda addressing critical knowledge gaps identified by cannabis regulators.
• To prioritize research areas vital for informed cannabis policy and regulation.
• To provide a voice for regulators in advocating for practical, impactful cannabis research.

Main Methods:

• The research agenda is informed by formal and informal discussions among cannabis regulators within the Cannabis Regulators Association (CANNRA).
• It synthesizes the practical needs and identified knowledge gaps from government agencies implementing cannabis policies.
• Focuses on regulator-identified priorities rather than a comprehensive review.

Main Results:

• Identified six critical research areas: medicinal use, product safety, consumer behaviors, equity and disparities, youth prevention/public health, and illicit market reduction.
• Highlights the unique perspective of on-the-ground regulators in shaping relevant research.
• Emphasizes the need for research that directly informs practical policy implementation.

Conclusions:

• A regulator-driven research agenda is essential for advancing effective cannabis policy and public health.
• Addressing identified knowledge gaps will support evidence-based regulation and mitigate harms associated with cannabis.
• Prioritizing this research will bridge the gap between policy changes and scientific understanding.