Trump says his administration is looking at reclassifying marijuana

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Trump Says Administration Is Considering Reclassifying Marijuana

Former President Donald Trump recently stated that his administration is exploring the possibility of reclassifying marijuana under federal law. This announcement, made during a discussion about his 2024 campaign priorities, signals a potential shift in the federal approach to cannabis policy. While Trump did not provide specific details, the remarks have reignited debates about drug scheduling reform and its implications for legalization, research, and criminal justice.

Current Federal Classification of Marijuana

Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970, a category reserved for drugs deemed to have “no accepted medical use” and a “high potential for abuse.” This classification places cannabis in the same tier as heroin and LSD, stricter than fentanyl and cocaine, which are Schedule II. Critics argue this status has hindered medical research, limited state-legal cannabis businesses, and perpetuated disproportionate criminal penalties for minor possession.

Potential Reclassification to Schedule III

Trump suggested his team is evaluating moving marijuana to Schedule III, which includes substances with “moderate to low potential for dependence” and recognized medical applications, such as ketamine and anabolic steroids. This change would not legalize cannabis federally but would ease restrictions on research, allow pharmacies to dispense medical marijuana prescriptions, and exempt businesses from IRS code Section 280E, which prohibits tax deductions for cannabis companies.

  • Research Opportunities: Reduced regulatory barriers for clinical studies on medical benefits.
  • Economic Impact: Tax relief for state-legal cannabis businesses.
  • Criminal Justice: Potential reduction in federal sentencing for marijuana offenses.

Political and Public Reaction

Advocates for cannabis reform have welcomed the discussion but emphasized that reclassification alone is insufficient. “Schedule III is progress, but millions still face criminal records for nonviolent offenses. Full descheduling is necessary,” said a spokesperson for the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). Conversely, some conservative groups oppose any changes, citing concerns about public health and youth access.

Notably, the Biden administration has separately initiated its own review of marijuana’s Schedule I status in 2022, which remains ongoing. Trump’s remarks position cannabis policy as a potential wedge issue in the 2024 election, with both parties seeking to appeal to voters in states where legalization is popular.

Challenges and Uncertainties

Reclassifying marijuana would require coordination between the Department of Justice, the DEA, and the Department of Health and Human Services. Legal experts caution that the process could face delays or legal challenges. Additionally, a Schedule III designation would not resolve conflicts between federal law and the 38 states that have legalized medical or recreational cannabis, leaving businesses in a regulatory gray area.

Conclusion

Trump’s comments highlight the growing bipartisan momentum to reconsider federal marijuana policy. While reclassification could mark a historic step toward reform, advocates stress that broader legislative action—such as the proposed SAFER Banking Act or full descheduling—is needed to align federal law with evolving public opinion and state-level legalization efforts.

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