In recent years, there’s been growing debate over cannabis rules for professional athletes. Sports commissions in Nevada and California are updating their policies, reflecting changing views on cannabis use and its effects on athletes.
Nevada’s New Approach to Cannabis Regulation
The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) oversees unarmed combat sports like boxing and MMA. Last year, they took steps to amend cannabis regulations, sending a proposal to the governor and completing the process in May through a formal vote. This week, the NSAC finalized updated rules allowing fighters to use cannabis without penalty, even while keeping other banned substances in line with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) standards.
Now, the proposal heads to the state’s Legislative Commission, a group from both the Senate and Assembly, for a final decision. Notably, NSAC has already been waiving penalties for THC since 2021. The updated regulations specifically allow cannabis use in Nevada, regardless of restrictions elsewhere.
Shifting Anti-Doping Standards
This policy change signals a shift in anti-doping attitudes. Under the new NSAC rules, cannabis use won’t be a violation in Nevada, which aligns with a broader re-evaluation of marijuana’s impact on athletes. Still, conflicts remain: nationally, leagues like the NFL continue to penalize players who test positive for THC, despite agreeing to research cannabinoids in 2020. NFL players have even been fined for using synthetic THC prescribed for medical conditions.
California’s Cautious Stance
In California, regulators have taken a more conservative approach. Ahead of a recent UFC event, California’s athletic commission stated it would stick with WADA’s cannabis guidelines, showing that attitudes vary by state. While Nevada has relaxed its rules, California adheres to stricter, globally recognized standards.
Athlete Challenges
Athletes competing across states and countries face confusion with these varied cannabis rules. U.S. runner Sha’Carri Richardson’s suspension in 2021 sparked controversy, questioning marijuana’s classification as a performance enhancer. Her case prompted WADA to review its cannabis stance, following requests from U.S. anti-doping officials and the White House.
Organizations like WADA continue to enforce cannabis bans, while reform advocates argue it’s not a performance enhancer. Influential voices in the sports world are calling for greater transparency on marijuana’s impact and updated policies to reflect modern science.
Future of Cannabis in Sports
As more sports commissions revisit their cannabis rules, regulations will likely keep evolving. Athletes, coaches, and officials will need to stay informed as the anti-doping landscape shifts. A unified set of rules could provide clarity and fairness, especially for athletes who compete across multiple jurisdictions.
Moving Toward Unified Policies
There’s a push for consistent cannabis policies across sports to simplify regulations. Standardized guidelines could reduce confusion for athletes who compete in different states and promote fairer treatment. Regulators must find a balance between maintaining sports integrity and recognizing advances in cannabis policy. By addressing these issues, sports authorities can create a more equitable, clearer landscape for all.
Rita Ferreira
Rita is a seasoned writer with over five years of experience, having worked with globally renowned platforms, including Forbes and Miister CBD. Her deep knowledge of hemp-related businesses and passion for delivering accurate and concise information distinguish her in the industry. Rita's contributions empower individuals and companies to navigate the complexities of the cannabis world, and her work remains a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of its potential.
