Ascend Wellness (AAWH-U.CN) filed applications with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to register certain state-licensed medical cannabis operations under the expedited registration pathway established in connection with the rescheduling of medical marijuana to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act, it said in a statement on Tuesday.
The company said the applications cover dispensary operations supporting medical cannabis patients across its core markets.
"Further reform will help establish a more level playing field for cannabis operators and could align the industry with more economic opportunities and regulatory frameworks available to traditional businesses," said Ascend Wellness chief executive Sam Brill.
Shares of the company closed down 6% to C$0.47 on Monday on the Canadian Securities Exchange.