Trump to Sign Executive Order Reclassifying Marijuana, Easing Restrictions
President Donald Trump is poised to sign an executive order that could significantly change the federal stance on marijuana. This order aims to reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III classification. This potential change would ease federal restrictions while not fully legalizing the substance.
Executive Order to Reschedule Marijuana
Scheduled for Thursday, the executive order seeks to recognize marijuana as having a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. Currently, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies it as a Schedule I drug, which means it is viewed as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
Implications of the Reclassification
The reclassification could pave the way for increased research into marijuana’s medical applications. However, a senior official from the White House cautioned that the signing date may shift.
- Current Classification: Schedule I
- Proposed Classification: Schedule III
- Potential Benefits: Easier access for research, medical use.
Trump’s Stance on Marijuana
Trump has indicated a strong interest in rescheduling marijuana, stating that it could facilitate essential research. He emphasized the need for reclassification in a recent interaction with reporters. “We are considering that because a lot of people want to see it,” he mentioned in the Oval Office.
A year prior, Trump suggested his potential return to the White House could usher in a new era for marijuana policy. His statements during the 2024 presidential race reflected an effort to connect with younger voters, many of whom favor legalization and safer access to marijuana products.
Future Research and Legalization Efforts
Trump also expressed intentions to support the legalization of recreational marijuana in Florida and encouraged universities to investigate its medical uses. He suggested that his administration would focus on research to explore marijuana’s benefits if it were reclassified.
The White House has been actively researching the feasibility of rescheduling marijuana throughout 2025. Discussions among Trump and aides had taken place in December 2023, although a final decision had not been reached at that time.
- Timeframe for Decision-Making: Ongoing discussions since December 2023.
- Focus Areas: Research, accessibility for companies, and state legalization efforts.
The evolving landscape of marijuana policy embodies both the challenges and opportunities present in shifting federal regulations. As the White House continues to deliberate, the implications of these decisions could potentially reshape the marijuana industry and research landscape in the U.S.
