Speakers and Sessions

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Saturday, January 31  |  10:00–11:00am  |  Room 3.110

Cannabis is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential, but responsible use and clear communication remain essential. This discussion will focus on evidence-based, measured and fact-driven education about real but uncommon risks—such as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, cannabis-induced psychosis, and cannabis use disorder—along with the importance of doing all we can to limit youth access and establishing recall procedures as well as consumer complaints so we can track adverse effects. This will lead to better public health outcomes and ensure accountability when products cause harm.

Speaker: Nishi Whiteley

Saturday, January 31  |  10:00–11:00am  |  Room: Under the Oaks

This panel will examine the local costs of enforcing cannabis prohibition, including testing to distinguish between hemp/marijuana, constituent support for prioritizing other crimes, and lawsuits from the state challenging local decriminalization efforts.

Speakers: Sara Stogner; Councilman Adam Bazaldua; Mike Siegel

Moderator: Katharine Harris, PhD

Saturday, January 31  |  11:15am–12:15pm  |  Room 3.122

As cannabis products become increasingly mainstream, their economic footprint continues to grow. This session looks at national and state-level market trends, the intersection of cannabis and traditional industries like alcohol, and the implications of normalization for Texas’ economy, consumers, and public policy.

Speakers: Brandi Townsend; Corey Coleman; Jeromy Sherman

Moderator: Shawna Seldon McGregor

Saturday, January 31  |  2:00–2:45pm  |  Room 3.110

As the cannabis and hemp industries mature, accountability is key to maintaining public trust. This session discusses analytical testing methods, the complex nature of hemp-derived cannabinoids, regulatory enforcement, and why consistent application of existing laws is critical to ensuring consumer safety, product integrity, and a fair marketplace.

Speaker: Christopher Hudalla, Ph. D.

Saturday, January 31  |  2:00–2:45pm  |  Room: Under the Oaks

Federal cannabis reform remains a moving target. From rescheduling and FDA oversight to evolving court decisions, this session analyzes the latest developments and what they mean for states like Texas. Add to the mix the recent federal “hemp ban” that may go into effect in November 2026. Attendees will gain insight into the shifting federal landscape and opportunities for alignment.

Speakers: Eric Berlin; Lisa Pittman; John Harloe, JD, PhD

Moderator: Scott Seder

Saturday, January 31  |  3:00–4:00pm  |  Room: Under the Oaks

This session will bring the conference to a close by focusing on what comes next for cannabis in Texas—and how medical marijuana and hemp can coexist within a coherent regulatory system. Panelists will discuss scientific and economic realities, the need for regulatory parity, and the challenge of navigating shifting federal policies. Centered on trust, accountability, and sustained engagement with lawmakers and regulators, the discussion will highlight the risks of fragmentation and the power of unity in shaping durable, effective cannabis policy.

Speakers: Heather Fazio; Chelsie Spencer; Susan Hays, Esq.; John Harloe, JD, PhD