Trump Nears Major Federal Marijuana Policy Decision: Reclassification Weeks Away

President Donald Trump has indicated a significant federal shift on marijuana policy could be imminent, stating he expects to decide in the coming weeks whether to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous substance. This potential move would align federal regulations more closely with the growing number of states that have already embraced medical or recreational marijuana use.

The reclassification under consideration would involve moving marijuana from a Schedule I drug, alongside highly restricted substances like heroin and LSD, to a Schedule III substance, which includes drugs such as ketamine. While this change would not legalize recreational marijuana nationwide, it promises substantial implications for the burgeoning cannabis industry. Businesses operating legally in states where marijuana is permitted could see significant tax savings, as current federal law prohibits income tax deductions for expenses related to Schedule I or II drugs. Furthermore, the reclassification could simplify the process for conducting crucial medical research on cannabis, which is currently hampered by its Schedule I status.

This renewed focus on federal marijuana policy follows a prior attempt by the Biden administration to propose similar reclassification. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had been reviewing nearly 43,000 public comments on the proposed change but had not reached a decision before President Trump assumed office in January, leading to a re-evaluation of the policy.

President Trump acknowledged the complexity of the issue, citing “great things having to do with medical” use while also noting “bad things having to do with just about everything else.” Support for reclassification comes from marijuana advocacy groups, who have long pushed for federal reform. However, the move faces opposition from some conservative factions and law enforcement agencies, including the National Sheriffs’ Association, which has raised concerns about abuse potential and public safety.

Currently, 40 states and the District of Columbia permit medical marijuana use, and 24 states plus D.C. have legalized recreational use. National polls indicate strong public support for nationwide legalization, with a 2024 federal survey reporting that over 64 million Americans aged 12 and older used marijuana in the past year, reflecting a significant increase in usage.

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