DEA to Reclassify Marijuana as Less Dangerous Drug in Historic Shift

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will move to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, recognizing its medical uses and lower abuse potential. This historic shift in U.S. drug policy comes after President Biden called for a review of federal marijuana laws and has moved to pardon thousands of Americans convicted of simple possession.

The DEA's proposal, which still needs White House approval, would move marijuana from its current Schedule I classification, alongside drugs like heroin and LSD, to Schedule III, alongside substances like ketamine and some anabolic steroids. This change would acknowledge marijuana's medical benefits and lower potential for abuse, but would not legalize it outright for recreational use.

Why this matters: The reclassification of marijuana by the DEA signifies a meaningful step towards addressing the 'failed approach to marijuana' and 'righting these wrongs' as President Biden has stated. This policy shift could have wide-ranging effects across the country, including reducing barriers to research, employment, housing, and education for those with marijuana convictions.

The move follows a recommendation from the federal Department of Health and Human Services. Rescheduling marijuana could reduce the tax burden for businesses, make it easier to conduct research, and have a more muted effect on the criminal justice system, as federal prosecutions for simple possession have been rare in recent years.

However, critics argue that rescheduling is unnecessary and could lead to unintended consequences, such as requiring the roughly 15,000 cannabis dispensaries in the U.S. to register and fulfill strict reporting requirements with the DEA. Some advocates say marijuana should be removed from the controlled substances list entirely and regulated like alcohol.

The reclassification is likely to have ripple effects globally and could mark the end of a tax code that has led to a high tax burden for the marijuana industry. It will also reduce obstacles for cannabis researchers and lead to a more comprehensive research landscape.

While the full impact remains to be seen, the DEA's decision is viewed by many as a step towards ending the 'failed war on drugs.' However, the anti-legalization group Smart Approaches to Marijuana has announced plans to challenge the DEA's decision in the rule-making process and in court.

Key Takeaways

• DEA to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, acknowledging medical uses.
• Reclassification could reduce barriers to research, employment, housing, and education.
• Rescheduling may require cannabis dispensaries to register and report to DEA.
• Reclassification could mark the end of a high tax burden for the marijuana industry.
• Anti-legalization group plans to challenge the DEA's decision in the rule-making process.