In a groundbreaking development, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has made a formal recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to reclassify marijuana. This move, coming almost a year after President Joe Biden ordered a comprehensive review of marijuana, marks a significant shift in US drug policy.
From Schedule I to Schedule III: Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, placing it alongside substances like heroin and LSD. This classification indicates that it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. The HHS recommendation is to move marijuana to Schedule III, aligning it with substances considered to have a low potential for dependency and abuse, such as some medications containing codeine.
Notable Implications: The shift from Schedule I to Schedule III holds promising implications for both the cannabis industry and users. It could eliminate IRS restrictions that prevent marijuana-related businesses from claiming tax deductions, potentially saving the industry substantial sums. Furthermore, this move could open doors for more research into the medical applications of cannabis.
“The federal government currently classifies marijuana as a Schedule I substance,” Biden said at the time, “the same as heroin and LSD and more serious than fentanyl. It makes no sense.
DEA's Authority: While the HHS has made its recommendation, the DEA has the ultimate authority over drug scheduling. The agency will now initiate its review, and the timing of the decision remains uncertain.
Public Opinion and Legalization: Public opinion polls indicate that a majority of Americans support some form of marijuana legalization. Currently, 23 states permit adult recreational use of cannabis, while 38 states allow it for medical purposes.
This development is a significant step towards revising federal marijuana regulations, potentially paving the way for greater acceptance and research into the benefits of this plant.
Sources:
BBC - US health department recommends looser restrictions on cannabis
NBC News -U.S. health agency recommends easing federal restrictions on marijuana
Forbes - Federal Health Agency Calls For Easing Restrictions On Marij
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