In a landmark decision, President Joe Biden announced the reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under federal law, marking a significant shift in the United States’ approach to cannabis regulation. This decision, driven by extensive scientific research and analysis, aims to address the inconsistencies in drug classification and pave the way for new research opportunities.
“Many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana,” President Biden stated. “So today, @thejusticedept is taking the next step to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under federal law. Here’s what that means: Right now, marijuana has a higher-level classification than fentanyl and methamphetamine – the two drugs driving America’s overdose epidemic. That just doesn’t add up.”
The President’s decision comes after a thorough review by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). Guided by scientific evidence, these agencies examined marijuana’s medical use and its potential for abuse and dependency. Their findings supported the reclassification, which will remove barriers to critical research and offer a more rational framework for marijuana regulation.
“At my request, and guided by science and evidence, HHS and DOJ have studied the drug’s medical use and abuse and dependency potential and are recommending rescheduling – concluding reclassification would remove barriers to critical research,” Biden explained.
This move is part of President Biden’s broader effort to rectify the consequences of past marijuana policies, which have disproportionately impacted marginalized communities. By reclassifying marijuana, the administration aims to reduce the stigma associated with its use and support individuals who have been unjustly penalized.
“No one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana,” Biden emphasized. “Today’s announcement builds on the work we’ve already done to pardon a record number of federal offenses for simple possession of marijuana. I’m committed to righting those historic wrongs. You have my word.”
The reclassification to Schedule III, which includes drugs with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence, such as anabolic steroids and ketamine, signifies a substantial shift from its previous status alongside heroin and LSD. This change is expected to facilitate more extensive research into the medicinal benefits of marijuana and its potential role in pain management, epilepsy treatment, and other medical conditions.
The decision has garnered support from various advocacy groups, researchers, and lawmakers who have long argued for the medical potential of marijuana and the need for reform in its regulation. Critics of the previous classification pointed out the contradictions in federal policy, where marijuana was deemed to have no accepted medical use despite growing evidence to the contrary.
By aligning marijuana’s classification with contemporary scientific understanding and societal attitudes, President Biden’s administration is taking a progressive step towards a more balanced and evidence-based approach to drug policy. The reclassification is expected to have wide-ranging implications for the legal and medical landscapes surrounding marijuana, fostering an environment that encourages further research and more equitable legal treatment.
View this post on Instagram
Like Newport Buzz? We depend on the generosity of readers like you who support us, to help with our mission to keep you informed and entertained with local, independent news and content. We truly appreciate your trust and support!
