Will Marijuana Be Classified As A Less Dangerous Drug?

President Trump Considers Rescheduling Marijuana

In a news conference on August 11, President Trump stated that his admin is considering reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Substances Act and that a determination will be made in the next few weeks.

The idea of rescheduling marijuana was introduced under the Biden administration in 2022, but saw no action before Biden left office. Trump’s willingness to reexamine the issue was part of his 2024 presidential campaign. If enacted, this move would be one of the most significant changes to marijuana policy in the U.S. in decades, aligning with a wave of growing bipartisan support of cannabis reform and legalization at the state level.

What Does Making Marijuana A Schedule III Substance Mean?

Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I substance, alongside heroin and LSD, which means it is considered to have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Reclassifying it to Schedule III would acknowledge its potential medical benefits and put it in the same class as anabolic steroids and ketamine.

It’s important to note that rescheduling would not legalize recreational marijuana use at the federal level; however, reclassification would come with benefits, including easier prescription access, expanded research opportunities, and eased restrictions on cannabis businesses.

Currently, 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for recreational use, while 40 states and D.C. permit it for medical use. Even with this federal shift, states would continue to decide the legality and restriction of marijuana in their state.

Proponents Are Excited For Potential Medical Benefits

Proponents have long proclaimed the potential therapeutic value of cannabis. Studies have shown that marijuana may be beneficial in treating:

• Chronic pain
• Epilepsy
• Multiple sclerosis
• PTSD symptoms

Additional studies are being done to investigate marijuana’s potential in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and certain mental health conditions, like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Proponents argue that reclassifying marijuana would finally help break down the barrier that has kept U.S. marijuana research behind for decades and would allow for accelerated clinical trials, improved product safety and regulation, and expanded patient access to treatment.

Opponents Raise Concerns Over Marijuana Risks

Critics of the rescheduling are quick to point out that marijuana use is not without risk. A 2023 study found associations between cannabis use and increased risk for:

• Psychosis
• Substance dependence
• Cognitive impairment
• Respiratory issues, when marijuana is smoked

These risks are higher for certain vulnerable populations, particularly teenagers and pregnant individuals. Cannabis use has been shown to interfere with brain development in adolescents. It has been linked to lower birth weights and developmental challenges for infants whose mothers’ used marijuana while pregnant. There have also been studies linking marijuana use with increased risk for mental health problems like depression or anxiety.

Additional concerns have been raised by law enforcement, with the National Sheriffs’ Association among those submitting written opposition to the proposed marijuana policy change. They highlighted the dangers of driving while intoxicated and noted that marijuana use has been linked to slower reaction times and reduced motor coordination, affecting overall driving performance. They pointed out that cases of “extreme intoxication” from marijuana use had been a factor in many fatal vehicle accidents.

Whether the reclassification moves forward or not, these serious risks highlight the importance of stronger regulation and public awareness regarding marijuana use. If Trump moves forward with the rescheduling, it will be a step toward erasing the divide between state and federal marijuana laws and represent a major shift in American views on marijuana use.

Get Help Today

If you are struggling with marijuana dependence and feel as though you are ready to make a change, many marijuana treatment options are available. Online therapy can connect you with a licensed therapist who can provide evidence-based therapy in the comfort of your own home on your schedule. If your use is severe, you may benefit from an outpatient program. Browse our rehab directory to explore your treatment options and get started today.