The Justice Department announced a significant shift in federal drug policy on Thursday, rescheduling certain marijuana products to a lower drug classification and initiating a process for broader reclassification. This action fulfills a promise made by President Trump.

Rescheduling and Presidential Directives

Authorized by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, the decision moves FDA-approved marijuana-containing products and those operating under state medical marijuana licenses into Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. Blanche emphasized this fulfills President Trump’s commitment to broaden access to medical treatment options for Americans.

This move stems from a December executive order issued by President Trump, directing the Attorney General to begin the rulemaking process for rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III. On Saturday, President Trump also signed an order to bolster research and ease restrictions on psychedelics, including ibogaine.

Expedited Review Process

The Justice Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are launching an expedited administrative hearing process to evaluate the potential for a more comprehensive rescheduling of marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. This hearing is scheduled for late June.

Understanding the Drug Schedules

Schedule I is the most restrictive classification, reserved for drugs with a ‘high potential for abuse.’ Schedule III drugs have a ‘moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.’ This category currently includes ketamine, anabolic steroids, and Tylenol with codeine.

Scope of the Rescheduling

The Justice Department’s order applies to marijuana, marijuana extracts, and marijuana-derived compounds like delta-9 THC, provided they are part of an FDA-approved drug or covered by a state medical marijuana license. Any marijuana not included in these categories will remain a Schedule I controlled substance.

Those handling FDA-approved marijuana products will now adhere to regulations for Schedule III drugs, including DEA registration and security protocols. State-licensed medical marijuana businesses will have a streamlined process for federal registration with the DEA.

Industry Response

Adam J. Smith, Executive Director of the Marijuana Policy Project, praised the Trump administration’s move but advocated for complete descheduling of cannabis. He expressed hope for increased medical research, improved patient access, and fairer tax treatment for the industry. Smith argued, however, that Schedule III is insufficient and doesn’t address ongoing arrests and federal-state conflicts.

President Trump’s initial directive acknowledged the historical neglect of medical marijuana’s potential and the need for research into its safety and efficacy, aiming to better inform patients and doctors.