Let’s Talk About That.
As federal cannabis policy continues to evolve, even opponents of legalization are weighing in on how cannabis today is talked about.
In a recent KATV article, Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton—known for his cautious stance on cannabis reform—said:
“A lot of times, these stories get ahead of the actual decision. But I will say, marijuana today is nothing like it was in the 1960s. The THC content is much higher, much more potent, and poses greater risks, especially for kids.” KATV
That quote came as part of broader coverage of a possible historic shift in federal cannabis policy, including a proposal to reclassify cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the federal Controlled Substances Act—one of the most significant changes in drug policy in decades. KATV
Rescheduling would not legalize marijuana nationwide, but it would:
Acknowledge that cannabis has lower abuse potential than its current category suggests. High Times
Open the door for expanded medical research and easier access for clinical studies. King & Spalding
Potentially affect federal prosecutions and business regulations. KATV
Let’s add some context.
Yes — on average. But averages don’t tell the whole story.
Cannabis flower in the 1960s often tested much lower in THC when samples were later analyzed, but that doesn’t mean higher-potency cannabis didn’t exist. Concentrated forms like hash, resin, and oils have been used for centuries across cultures — they simply weren’t part of mainstream American data collection or public conversation.
What’s different today isn’t just potency — it’s measurement.
Modern cannabis is tested, labeled, and standardized. We can now see numbers that were previously invisible.
There are measurable differences between what was available decades ago and what is available now—especially in terms of labeled THC percentages. But simply saying “it’s stronger” doesn’t fully capture the scientific or policy context.
1. Today’s testing and labeling make potency visible.
In the 1960s and 70s, cannabis potency wasn’t tracked systematically. Modern testing provides data that simply didn’t exist before, making it seem like “stronger cannabis” is new, when in fact it’s just now measurable.
2. Rescheduling reflects scientific evaluation—not just potency claims.
A federal review process involving the Department of Health and Human Services and the DEA has recommended moving cannabis to Schedule III based on its medical use and lower abuse potential compared with Schedule I substances. Moritz College of Law
3. Potency alone isn’t the same as risk.
Risk is shaped by dose, frequency, method of use, and education—not simply THC percentage. Higher THC figures on labels don’t necessarily tell the whole story about how products affect real people.
4. Federal policy is changing for reasons beyond “strength.”
The shift toward Schedule III acknowledges medical relevance while still keeping cannabis regulated. This highlights that policymakers are beginning to recognize nuance beyond simplistic talking points. High Times
This is where the conversation usually stops too early.
Risk is influenced by:
Dose, not just percentage
Frequency of use
Method of consumption
Age of the consumer
Presence of other cannabinoids like CBD
Education and supervision
A higher-THC product used intentionally and sparingly by an informed adult does not automatically pose more risk than a lower-THC product used excessively without guidance.
This distinction matters.
This is the part where nearly everyone agrees.
Cannabis is not for children, and responsible cannabis businesses, parents, and advocates have said that consistently. Age limits, child-resistant packaging, education, and clear labeling exist precisely because modern cannabis policy acknowledges developmental science.
But here’s the key point often left unsaid:
Education and regulation reduce youth risk far more effectively than fear-based messaging.
History shows us that when substances are driven underground, they become harder — not easier — to keep away from kids.
The most significant difference isn’t THC levels — it’s knowledge.
Today we understand:
How THCa converts to THC
How other cannabinoids shape effects
How terpenes influence experience
How to dose intentionally
How to label products accurately
That understanding allows adults to make informed choices — and allows parents, educators, and policymakers to have more honest conversations about safety.
We believe:
Protecting kids and respecting adults are not opposing goals
Information is more effective than alarm
Cannabis policy should be rooted in science, not nostalgia or fear
Cannabis today isn’t “nothing like” cannabis of the past.
What’s different is that we finally talk about it openly — with data instead of whispers.
And that’s progress worth protecting.
Cannabis didn’t suddenly become something alien or mysterious. What has changed is our ability to measure, understand, and talk openly about the plant. That’s progress, and it’s worth celebrating.
Stay informed. Ask better questions. Stay Jam’n.
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