The act is "the first standalone marijuana-related bill approved by both chambers of the United States Congress".

[4] A new bill with minor changes was introduced in House on July 21, 2022, by four Republicans and two Democrats; Rep. Earl Blumenauer of Oregon was the lead sponsor.

[6] On November 16, 2022, the Senate passed the House bill by voice vote and sent it to the President to be signed into law.

[7] The act requires the Drug Enforcement Administration to register researchers and suppliers of cannabis for medical research in a timely manner, who will then be able to legally manufacture, distribute, dispense and possess the substance.

"[9][a] It also requires the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate the medical utility of cannabis and barriers that exist to conducting research, and requires the Attorney General to conduct an annual review to ensure that cannabis is being adequately produced for research purposes.