President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order that could change how marijuana is classified at the federal level. This move aims to lower its classification from Schedule I to Schedule III. Currently, Schedule I drugs are labeled as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. On the other hand, Schedule III drugs are recognized for having a moderate potential for dependence.
This reclassification may open doors for more research on marijuana’s medical benefits. Medical professionals like Dr. Nora Volkow, head of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, have long argued that easier access to research could lead to breakthroughs in treating various conditions, such as chronic pain or anxiety disorders. Recent studies have shown that nearly 30% of Americans believe marijuana can effectively treat health issues like these.
Trump hinted at this decision on Monday, expressing strong interest in making changes. He noted, “A lot of people want to see it.” His initiative comes as he seeks to connect with younger voters who largely support marijuana legalization. In fact, a survey by Gallup found that around 68% of Americans now favor legalizing marijuana, a stark contrast to just 25% in 1996.
A year ago, Trump claimed that his return to the White House would bring new opportunities for marijuana access. He expressed a desire for states to have more freedom in pursuing legalization and for marijuana companies to access banking services. This sharper focus on marijuana policy aligns with broader political shifts: many states have already legalized marijuana for recreational use, reflecting changing public attitudes.
In his home state of Florida, Trump announced plans to support a measure to legalize recreational marijuana. He assured residents that as president, he would prioritize research into medical uses and facilitate the rescheduling of marijuana.
Internally, the White House has been discussing marijuana classification for much of 2025. A meeting in December saw Trump and his team exploring how to proceed with rescheduling marijuana. The discussions reflect the increasing urgency around this issue as states and voters push for change.
While the executive order will not fully legalize marijuana, experts believe it could significantly impact availability and research. This marks a notable shift in federal policy, and many are watching closely to see how it unfolds.
As the conversation about marijuana continues to evolve, ongoing research and public sentiment may drive further changes in the future.
