Trump’s Attorney General Would Form A Marijuana Commission To Prepare For Federal Legalization Under New Senate Bill

OG article by Tom Angell

December 23, 2025

Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO) has introduced the Preparing Regulators Effectively for a Post-Prohibition Adult-Use Regulated Environment Act (PREPARE Act). This bipartisan-supported legislation requires the U.S. Attorney General to establish a Commission on the Federal Regulation of Cannabis within 30 days of enactment. The commission's primary task is to develop a comprehensive federal regulatory framework for cannabis by studying existing alcohol and tobacco models. Key areas of focus include product safety standards, accurate labeling requirements, measures to prevent youth access, guidelines for crop production and trade practices, banking access for the industry, removal of research barriers, efficient revenue collection systems, and harmonious coexistence between the hemp and high-THC cannabis sectors. Additionally, the commission must evaluate the disproportionate impacts of historical marijuana criminalization on minority communities, low-income populations, and veterans.

The 30-plus member panel would comprise representatives from numerous federal agencies, including Health and Human Services, Justice, Agriculture, Treasury, FDA, IRS, and others. It also includes slots for experts such as a formerly incarcerated individual for non-violent cannabis offenses, substance use disorder specialists, historians of criminalization, cannabis researchers, and state-level regulators. Appointments ensure partisan balance. The commission has 12 months to deliver a detailed report to Congress. The bill's introduction coincided with President Trump's executive order rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III, signaling shifting federal policy. A House companion bill exists, reflecting growing momentum for structured federal oversight.