Updated May 24, 2026
This page tracks current cannabis news most useful to Washington DC shoppers, patients, and local search engines. It summarizes public guidance from DC ABCA, the Mayor's office, and DEA.
Mayor Bowser introduced the Medical Cannabis Beverage Product Amendment Act of 2026 to let licensed medical cannabis manufacturers partner with local breweries and distilleries on alcohol-free cannabis beverages. The proposal requires DC-licensed lab testing and limits sales to registered medical cannabis patients through licensed medical cannabis retailers.
ABCA and MPD announced that DC reached its 100th illegal cannabis business closure in January 2026. ABCA says the enforcement effort supports public safety and the regulated medical cannabis market.
ABCA guidance says DC residents can apply for patient registration, adults 21+ may self-certify, and temporary digital registrations can be used while applications are reviewed. ABCA also lists licensed retailers and internet retailers for registered patients and caregivers.
DEA's 2026 regulatory actions moved FDA-approved marijuana products and state-licensed medical marijuana products into Schedule III and restarted a formal process for broader marijuana rescheduling. That does not make all cannabis federally legal.
Sources: DC Mayor's Office, ABCA enforcement update, ABCA licensed retailer list, ABCA patient registration guidance, DEA rescheduling actions.