US Moves to Reclassify Marijuana Under Federal Drug Policy
The Trump administration has moved to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, marking a significant shift in federal drug policy. However, the change would not legalize marijuana at the federal level.
If approved by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), marijuana would be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law. Schedule I includes substances considered to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, such as heroin and LSD. Schedule III drugs are considered to have a lower risk profile and accepted medical uses.
According to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the proposed change would improve scientific research into marijuana’s medical applications and support more informed healthcare decisions.
“These actions will enable more targeted, rigorous research into marijuana’s safety and efficacy,” Blanche said.
The policy shift follows a December executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which directed federal agencies to expand research into medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD). The order emphasized closing the gap between widespread usage and scientific understanding of its risks and benefits.
If implemented, the reclassification could ease restrictions on research and potentially reduce tax burdens on cannabis businesses operating in states where marijuana is legal. It may also improve access to capital for companies in the legal cannabis industry.
However, marijuana would remain illegal under federal law even if rescheduled, meaning full legalization is not part of the current proposal.
The DEA is expected to hold a hearing on the rescheduling request on June 29. Officials say the process will allow for a structured review of marijuana’s classification under federal law.
DEA Administrator Terry Cole stated that the agency is moving forward with the hearing process under direction from the administration to ensure consistency and regulatory oversight.
Public opinion on marijuana legalization remains broadly supportive. A recent Gallup poll found that 64% of Americans support legalization, although support has declined slightly compared to previous years, particularly among Republican voters.
The proposed rescheduling marks one of the most significant federal developments in marijuana policy in years, with potential implications for research, healthcare, and the growing cannabis industry.
