Leslie K. Danks Burke, J.D., is a lawyer, adjunct Professor of Law at Cornell Law School, and adjunct full Professor in Cornell University’s School of Integrative Plant Science, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS). Her career in tax, international dispute resolution, and human and civil rights led her to increasing concern about political polarization and damage to the democratic republic arising from tax and economic inequity. Professor Danks Burke transitioned into policy advocacy in rural economic development. Her anti-corruption work has been featured on NPR, and for three years, she provided weekly commentary for the NBC affiliate broadcasting across the rural Twin Tiers of New York and Pennsylvania. Professor Danks Burke holds a B.A. from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School. On a personal note, Professor Danks Burke’s parents farm corn and wheat in eastern Colorado.
Cannabis Law and PolicyCornell Certificate Program
Overview and Courses
In today’s rapidly evolving cannabis sector, staying ahead of legal changes is crucial. With laws and policies frequently changing, it’s essential not only to understand what to look for but also to know how to find the most up-to-date information relevant to your role in the industry.
This certificate program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the legal landscape of high-THC cannabis. You will explore federal regulations as well as New York State's unique regulatory structures compared to other states, analyze strategic business entity choices, delve into taxation nuances, and examine the dynamic field of medical cannabis legalization.
Upon completing this certificate program, you will be equipped with the knowledge required to make informed decisions, implement responsible practices, and successfully navigate the growing cannabis industry.
The courses in this certificate program are required to be completed in the order that they appear.
Note: Cornell University, as a federally funded institution, cannot accept payment directly from cannabis companies. This program contains information about cannabis, a federally illegal substance, and is intended for individuals aged 21 and above.
Course list
The legal landscape of high-THC cannabis production, agriculture, and investment is continually evolving. The intersection of rapidly changing legislation and the expanding cannabis industry requires a comprehensive understanding of federal legislation, providing a foundation for informed decision making, responsible practices, and strategic investments.
In this course, you will review federal regulation and how it affects the various cannabis industry roles, including how each role may come with their own set of federal rules and regulations. You will explore the relationship between state and federal laws, as well as how federal and state laws can sometimes conflict with each other. You will also be introduced to the concept of federal decriminalization and what federal decriminalization of high-THC cannabis could mean for those in the industry.
Upon completion of this course, you will feel better equipped to discern the different aspects of federal law that impact various sectors of the cannabis industry.
New York legalized high-THC cannabis for medical use in 2016, decriminalized possession in 2019, and, in 2021, became the 15th state to legalize high-THC cannabis for adult recreational use. How did New York get to this point, and what does the future of NYS regulation look like?
In this course, you will explore the varying regulatory structures for medical, recreational, and industrial cannabis use in New York. You will examine the current landscape of New York State laws, look at the intersection of state law and municipal law, and consider what might change in the near future.
Whether you are a cultivator, a farmer, a producer, a grower, or an investor, upon completion of this course, you will understand how to identify the regulatory structures that apply to your position in the cannabis market in order to stay on top of a brand-new framework that is still evolving, even as it's being applied in real life.
You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:
- Understanding Federal Cannabis Regulation
Every business structure has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and that holds true in the cannabis industry. When operating in a developing market, it is especially important to understand the nuances of various business entities and discover the perfect framework tailored to your unique venture.
In this course, you explore options for structuring your New York State cannabis industry business and gain insights to empower your decision making. You will examine how to identify the best business entity for you, whether you are cultivating cannabis or processing it, or you are a retail seller or an investor. You will also consider how to set up a flexible entity that not only survives but thrives in the face of long-term shifts.
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to make informed decisions about structuring your New York cannabis business to endure, adapt, and succeed moving forward.
You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:
- Understanding Federal Cannabis Regulation
Navigating the complexities of taxes can be challenging in any line of business, especially given the unique intricacies of individual tax situations. When discussing taxation in relation to the cannabis industry, taxes can appear even more daunting if one doesn't know the right questions to ask.
This course is designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently tackle tax-related challenges within the evolving cannabis industry. You will explore key topics of the tax landscape and the public policies they inform as well as state and municipal tax responsibilities. You will also examine the tax cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 then continue with an in-depth background on the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA) along with the proposed effects CAOA will have on federal regulation.
Upon completion of this course, you will not only have a solid understanding of these complex tax matters but also be able to identify resources that will aid you in making well-informed tax decisions.
You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:
- Understanding Federal Cannabis Regulation
As societies and medical paradigms evolve, so does the approach to healthcare and therapeutic interventions. Medical cannabis has proven to be a pivotal development in the healthcare industry, and it operates under a separate legal framework.
In this course, you will examine the historical context in which medical cannabis legalization has unfolded along with the potential shifts in its regulatory framework. You will explore comparative analysis of New York State's regulations and draw parallels with other states that have embraced the legalization of medical cannabis.
Upon completion of this course, you will have a better understanding of the evolving legal landscape surrounding medical cannabis and be better equipped to make informed predictions on the impact legalization will have on adult-use cannabis.
You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:
- Understanding Federal Cannabis Regulation
In today's dynamic world, individuals engaged in the cannabis sector bear the responsibility of staying informed about the constant changes to laws and policies. In order to navigate this evolving legal landscape, it's crucial to understand how change happens as well as how to stay informed and updated.
In this course, you will explore recent law and policy changes and look at how to stay apprised of changes going forward. You will also discover how historical shifts have shaped the current regulatory framework and gain insights into emerging trends that will influence the future of the industry. From addressing issues like the illicit cannabis market to tackling safety and health concerns, you will examine the pressing challenges facing policymakers today.
Upon completion of this course, you will possess the tools and strategies necessary to stay informed and updated on changing laws and policies.
You are required to have completed the following courses or have equivalent experience before taking this course:
- Understanding Federal Cannabis Regulation
How It Works
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Faculty Author
Key Course Takeaways
- Prepare for new regulations within the cannabis industry
- Identify the legal and business structures you need to put in place to develop a cannabis business
- Understand how a cannabis business will be taxed and by whom
- Discover the history of legalizing medical marijuana and the impact of the potential legalization of cannabis
- Explore the rules and laws surrounding the economic development of cannabis
What You'll Earn
- Cannabis Law and Policy Certificate from Cornell’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- 60 Professional Development Hours (6 CEUs)
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Who Should Enroll
- Entrepreneurs
- Cannabis-industry business leaders
- Cannabis growers, producers and hobbyists
- Farmers
- Investors
- Cannabis industry marketers
- Lawyers
- Healthcare professionals
- Current students in law, public policy, or agriculture
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Cannabis Law and Policy
| Select Payment Method | Cost |
|---|---|
| $3,750 | |