Wine Institute’s Cannabis Policy Principles

Updated Dec. 10, 2024

Wine Institute supports federal and state regulation and taxation of cannabis that ensure the integrity of the marketplace and safety of consumers and communities. Therefore, we support the following recommendations:

• These principles should apply equally to intoxicating products regardless of whether they contain cannabis- or hemp-derived cannabinoids.
• Individuals should be prohibited from purchasing or consuming intoxicating cannabis or hemp products at licensed alcohol beverage premises.
• Prohibit the infusion of cannabis into alcohol beverages: California prohibits the infusion of alcohol products with cannabis. Cannabis contains cannabinoids, including CBD and THC. Because the science is inconclusive, we oppose infusion of cannabis.
• Regulate cannabis and alcohol beverages through separate primary state agencies.
• Develop standardized roadside testing for cannabis-induced driving impairment.
• Mandate a 21-year-old legal purchase and use requirement for cannabis. This is already law in California.
• Prohibit cannabis products and marketing efforts that are appealing to minors.
• Cannabis Health Claims in advertisements and labels should be regulated as stringently as they are for alcohol.