Cannabis plant grows in the Amsterdam Cannabis College on February 7, 2007 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Credit: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, D.C. - A new bill introduced by Mayor Muriel Bowser would allow cannabis-infused beverages to be produced in Washington, D.C., through partnerships with local breweries and distilleries.
What we know:
The proposed legislation, called the Medical Cannabis Beverage Product Amendment Act of 2026, would create a legal pathway for licensed cannabis manufacturers to work with DC-based brewers and distillers.
Under the plan, these partnerships would produce cannabis-infused, alcohol-free beverages for registered medical cannabis patients.
Officials say the bill is designed to expand product options while also supporting local businesses.
"This is an opportunity to support two local industries and to keep business in D.C.," Bowser said. "We have fantastic local brewers and distillers in our city, we have a robust medical cannabis market, and this is a new opportunity for those two markets to collaborate and create a safe and smoke-free alternative for patients in DC."
WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 11: Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks at a press conference after President Donald Trump announced a federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department at the Wilson Building on August 11, 2025 in Washington, DC. P …
How it would work
The legislation would allow licensed breweries and distilleries to receive special endorsements to manufacture cannabis-infused drinks.
It would also allow cannabis manufacturers to import certain non-intoxicating cannabinoids for production.
All products would be required to undergo testing at DC-licensed laboratories before being sold.
Restrictions:
The bill keeps several limits in place:
- All beverages must be alcohol-free
- Sales would be restricted to licensed medical cannabis retailers
- Only registered medical cannabis patients could purchase the products
- Sales at bars, restaurants or grocery stores would not be allowed
Big picture view:
City officials say the proposal could help grow D.C.’s cannabis and craft beverage industries while offering patients a smoke-free alternative.
"It makes sense to allow partnerships between the District’s medical cannabis and alcohol manufacturing industries to produce medical cannabis beverages," said Fred Moosally, director of the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration.
What's next:
The bill will now go before the DC Council for consideration.
The Source: This article was written using information from the Office of the Mayor of Washington, D.C.