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Joint Motion Filed to Disqualify DEA from Rescheduling Marijuana
“Filing asserts that the DEA failed to maintain a complete record and ensure fairness and transparency.”
“Filing also asserts DEA is compromised and should be barred from participation in these proceedings.”
“Parties move that the Department of Justice replace the DEA as proponent of the Proposed Rule.”
ORLANDO, Fla. and VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Nov. 19, 2024 — Village Farms International, Inc. and Hemp for Victory have jointly filed a motion aimed at disqualifying the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) from its role in defending the Proposed Rule to change the classification of marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
The motion seeks to replace the DEA with the Department of Justice (DOJ) as the lead advocate for the Proposed Rule. Additionally, it requests the inclusion of all relevant hearing requests and participant designations, as well as any ex parte communications involving the DEA and external parties. Village Farms and Hemp for Victory have also urged the preservation of records by Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) and the DEA, asserting that existing evidence indicates misconduct that has further tainted the DEA’s involvement in this matter.
Shane Pennington, an attorney representing Village Farms and Hemp for Victory, expressed concerns regarding the DEA’s ability to objectively champion the Proposed Rule. He stated that the DEA has demonstrated a clear opposition to the rescheduling of marijuana, suggesting its actions have compromised its role throughout the administrative process. Pennington emphasized that allowing the DEA to support this rule would contravene the Administrative Procedure Act and DEA regulations, undermining the integrity of the proceeding.
Robert Head, a retired Army infantryman and Chair of Hemp for Victory, highlighted the importance of increasing access to alternatives like cannabis for American citizens, particularly veterans. He pointed to a growing body of evidence supporting cannabis as a means for veterans to address mental and physical health challenges linked to their service, asserting that bureaucratic hurdles should not obstruct progress.
Michael DeGiglio, a retired Navy captain and the CEO of Village Farms, reiterated the company’s commitment to advocating for cannabis as a viable alternative to traditional pharmaceutical solutions. He noted the extensive regulatory challenges that inhibit patient access to cannabis and the necessary clinical research, expressing pride in being part of a group advocating for a more open and inclusive process for all stakeholders involved.
The full text of the motion filed on November 18, 2024, can be found on the FAQ section of Village Farms’ website at www.villagefarms.com/investors-faq.
About Hemp for Victory
Hemp for Victory is a non-profit organization focused on public awareness about the benefits of cannabis for veterans. The organization aims to educate both veterans and the general public on the advantages of using cannabis as a therapeutic alternative, particularly in managing the effects of military service.
About Village Farms International
Village Farms is a leader in controlled environment agriculture, providing high-quality plant-based consumer packaged goods. The company has established a strong presence as a major supplier of fresh produce across North America and is actively expanding into the cannabis and CBD markets. In Canada, its subsidiary Pure Sunfarms operates one of the largest cannabis facilities globally, producing products that are well-received both locally and internationally. Additionally, Village Farms is committed to sustainability through its initiatives in clean energy, further reinforcing its dedication to innovative and responsible practices in agriculture.
Source
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