On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at expediting the reclassification of marijuana. This move is designed to facilitate increased research into the medical applications of cannabis, though it stops short of legalizing the drug entirely.
Key Details of the Executive Order
- Date Signed: Thursday
- Purpose: Expedite research on marijuana’s medical use
- Current Classification: Schedule I drug
- Future Classification: Schedule III drug
During the signing, Trump emphasized the importance of the reclassification. He stated, “This reclassification order will make it far easier to conduct marijuana-related medical research, allowing us to study benefits, potential dangers, and future treatments.” He described the potential impact of the order as “tremendously positive.”
Background and Context
Marijuana is currently listed as a Schedule I drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), alongside substances like heroin and LSD. Drugs in this category are deemed to have no acceptable medical use. The reclassification to Schedule III is significant, as it implies a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.
Trump’s decision follows a significant lobbying effort from the cannabis industry. He remarked, “The facts compel the federal government to recognize that marijuana can be legitimate in terms of medical applications when carefully administered.” He further noted that cannabis could serve as a substitute for addictive opioid painkillers.
Implications of the Order
- This executive order does not legalize marijuana at the federal level.
- Recreational use remains unaffected; the order focuses solely on medical research.
- No provisions for changes in criminal justice policies have been included.
The order also tasks White House aides with collaborating with Congress to improve access to suitable full-spectrum CBD products. Furthermore, it directs the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate methods for expanding access to hemp-derived CBD products.
This development marks a significant shift in the federal approach to marijuana research. As the situation develops, more updates will follow on El-Balad.
