Regulating Hemp and Cannabis-Based Products.

(1)Different state agencies often regulate the hemp and cannabis industries separately. (2) Pharmaceutical products derived from cannabis are currently in clinical trials for approval in the U.S. and other countries. One product is already approved for use in 29 countries, but not in the U.S. (3) In August 2017, NCSL unanimously approved a policy position supporting federal legislation to define industrial hemp as a distinct agricultural crop (containing 1 percent or less of THC) and allow states to regulate commercial hemp farming.

Benefits and Limits of Abuse-Deterrent Painkillers.

Abuse of opioid prescription products, meant to reduce pain, has been making headlines in recent years as a growing problem not only in rural and urban areas, but also across population groups. Policymakers looking for effective ways to reduce such abuse are employing various strategies, including setting up prescription drug monitoring programs. Another approach gaining attention involves encouraging or requiring the use of prescription drug formulas that can help deter abuse of opioid painkiller products.

Electronic cigarettes and alternative nicotine products.

(1) Electronic cigarettes currently are not regulated by the FDA. (2) Ingredients and design of electronic cigarettes and vaporizers vary. (3) States are taking action to regulate electronic cigarettes in various ways.

Treating hepatitis C.

(1) New treatments for hepatitis C are curing more people than before. (2) Baby boomers make up an estimated 75 percent of all cases of hepatitis C. (3) Medicare and some insurance plans cover screening for hepatitis C as a preventive service without a copayment.

Drug assistance from drug makers.

Although money problems are limiting the development of new, large scale, state pharmaceutical assistance programs, some legislators are finding out what can be done at little of no state expense