Trump administration moves to ease restrictions on medical marijuana
NBC News • • business
Key Points:
- The Justice Department announced it is rescheduling FDA-approved and state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, easing restrictions and enabling expanded research and treatment options.
- Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an executive order for the immediate rescheduling and ordered an expedited hearing on June 29 to evaluate broader changes to marijuana's federal classification.
- Schedule III classification reflects that marijuana has a moderate to low potential for dependence, contrasting with Schedule I drugs like heroin and LSD, which are considered more dangerous and strictly regulated.
- The move follows President Trump's December executive order aimed at fast-tracking cannabis reclassification to improve medical research without legalizing marijuana federally.
- Advocates hope the change will enhance research into marijuana’s medical benefits, while critics warn of potential risks related to brain development and long-term effects, including fertility concerns.
