The Trump administration has announced plans to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Substances Act, marking a significant shift in federal drug policy.
Details of the Proposal
The proposed rule, submitted by the Department of Justice, would recognize marijuana's accepted medical use and lower potential for abuse compared to drugs like heroin and LSD, which remain in Schedule I. Schedule III substances include ketamine and anabolic steroids, which are subject to less stringent regulations.
Impact on Research and Business
Reclassification would ease restrictions on marijuana research and allow cannabis businesses to deduct business expenses under federal tax law, addressing a long-standing grievance. However, it would not legalize recreational use federally. States would retain authority over their own cannabis laws.
Attorney General William Barr, who previously expressed support for rescheduling, stated that the change aligns with scientific and medical evidence. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will conduct a public comment period before finalizing the rule.
Reactions
Advocates for cannabis reform praised the move as a step toward rational policy, while critics argued it could lead to increased use and health risks. Some Republican lawmakers expressed concern about federal inconsistency with state laws.
The proposal comes amid growing bipartisan support for cannabis reform, with several states legalizing recreational use. President Trump has not taken a public stance but has signaled openness to states' rights on the issue.
