Justice Department Reclassifies State-Licensed Medical Marijuana to Schedule III
The Justice Department has reclassified state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, facilitating research and acknowledging its medical use.
The Justice Department announced on Thursday the reclassification of state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act. This change acknowledges the medical use of cannabis and reduces regulatory barriers, facilitating research and allowing businesses to claim tax deductions.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the department is delivering on President Trump's promise to expand Americans' access to medical treatment options. He emphasized that the rescheduling action allows for research on the safety and efficacy of this substance, ultimately providing patients with better care and doctors with more reliable information.
The reclassification does not legalize marijuana at the federal level but legitimizes medical cannabis programs in 40 states. It also initiates an expedited hearing scheduled for June 29 to evaluate broader changes to marijuana's status under federal law.
Critics, such as Kevin Sabet of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, argue that the tax relief benefits large cannabis companies and sends a mixed message about the drug's risks. Supporters hail it as the most significant federal step for cannabis reform in decades.