HI HCR170

Urges the Governor to obtain a controlled substance exception from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for Hawaii's registered medical cannabis patients under 21 CFR section 1307.03.

Requests DEA registration waivers for state-licensed medical cannabis dispensaries under 21 USC section 822(d) to allow intrastate production and distribution of medical cannabis.

Notes that Hawaii was the first state to create a legislative medical cannabis program through Act 228 in 2000, creating ongoing conflict between state and federal cannabis regulations.

Responds to President Trump's December 18, 2025 Executive Order 14370 directing expedited federal rescheduling of marijuana to Schedule III, requiring action to protect Hawaii's medical cannabis program.

Requires the Governor to submit quarterly progress reports to the Legislature on efforts to harmonize federal and state cannabis regulations.