Compass

Policies and Regulations

The legal and regulatory landscape for both cannabis and industrial hemp research is complicated and continually evolving. Changes in California laws have decriminalized the sale, possession, distribution, and cultivation of cannabis but Federal law still classifies cannabis and its compounds as Schedule I controlled substances regulated under the Controlled Substances Act. This conflict and other inconsistencies between federal and state regulations mean that federal law guides UC policies regarding research on and use of cannabis.

The pages in this section summarize applicable laws, regulations, and UC policies related to cannabis and industrial hemp research.

  • Regulations: Overview of federal and state regulations on cannabis and industrial hemp.
  • Policies: The policies of the University of California that relate to research and teaching of cannabis and industrial hemp.