Oregon Cannabis Regulators Announce Key Listening Session for January 28, 2026
Oregon regulators are set to host a significant cannabis listening session. This important event will take place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) is organizing the session. It aims to gather crucial input from stakeholders. This session is part of ongoing efforts to shape the future of the cannabis industry in Oregon.
Unpacking the Agenda and Purpose
The listening session is scheduled to occur from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. It will be held at the OLCC Headquarters in Portland. A Microsoft Teams link will also be available for remote participation. The meeting agenda covers several vital topics. These include an update on the seed-to-sale contract with Metrc. It also details the review of Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes. The OLCC’s budget process and timeline for the 2025-2027 biennia are on the schedule. Furthermore, discussions will address burglary updates and the moratorium process for new license types. A strategic plan update is also planned. Additionally, the session will cover diversion cases and law enforcement reports. A significant point on the agenda is the federal reclassification of marijuana. Lastly, a hemp registry update is expected. The OLCC aims to foster open dialogue on these critical issues.
National Context: Rescheduling Efforts
This Oregon event occurs amid significant national cannabis news. In December 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order. It directed the Attorney General to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. This move has been a priority. However, the DEA clarified on January 6, 2026. The rescheduling process is still pending. It requires administrative steps before becoming legally effective. This federal development has broad implications for the cannabis industry. It could significantly impact taxation and research. Schedule III classification suggests a lower potential for abuse. It also implies recognized medical use. This is a notable shift from its Schedule I status.
Oregon’s Cannabis Market Dynamics
The state of Oregon’s cannabis market faces its own unique challenges. Oversupply has driven prices down. Average prices for marijuana declined nearly 40% by the end of 2025. This oversupply impacts tax revenues. Colin Hobbs, chair of the Cannabis Industry Alliance of Oregon, noted this issue. He stated that Oregon growers produce more than residents can consume. New legislation, like House Bill 4121, requires statewide registration for cannabinoid hemp products. This rule became effective January 1, 2026. The OLCC provides a grace period until June 1, 2026. This emphasizes the ongoing regulatory evolution. Licensing restrictions are also in place. They are linked to per capita limits. These limits are expected to persist for several years. This restricts new market entry.
Implications for Industry and Policy
The listening session in Oregon is crucial. It allows regulators to hear directly from businesses. They can discuss challenges and potential solutions. The federal rescheduling news adds another layer of complexity. It could affect Oregon’s market access and investment landscape. Industry leaders hope for regulatory modernization. They also seek clearer pathways for growth. For instance, cannabis tourism is a growing trend in 2026. Travelers seek private, cannabis-friendly accommodations. Destinations like Oregon are ideal for nature-focused trips. This highlights the potential economic benefits of a stable, well-regulated industry.
Looking Ahead
The January 28, 2026, listening session is a key moment. It represents Oregon’s commitment to understanding its cannabis sector. The discussions will inform future policy decisions. They will also consider national regulatory shifts. The OLCC aims to ensure a responsible and sustainable cannabis market. This news underscores the dynamic nature of cannabis policy. It also shows its impact on state economies and public health. The Oregon cannabis news cycle continues to evolve.
