Post by : Rameen Ariff

US President Donald Trump has said his administration is seriously considering easing federal restrictions on marijuana by reclassifying it as a less dangerous drug. The move could mark a major shift in the federal government’s long-standing approach to marijuana laws in the United States.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, President Trump confirmed that discussions are underway about changing the current classification of marijuana under federal law. When asked whether an executive order on marijuana reclassification was being considered, Trump responded that the idea is actively being reviewed by his administration.

Trump said many people support marijuana reclassification because the current legal status limits scientific research. He explained that strict federal rules prevent researchers from fully studying marijuana, and reclassification could open the door to more medical and scientific research in the future.

At present, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This category is reserved for drugs that are considered to have a high risk of abuse and no accepted medical use. Other drugs in this category include heroin and LSD. Because of this classification, marijuana faces the strictest federal controls.

Despite its federal status, marijuana laws across the United States vary widely at the state level. Dozens of states have already legalized medical marijuana, while many others allow recreational use. In total, small amounts of marijuana are legal for recreational use in 24 US states and Washington, DC, highlighting the growing gap between state laws and federal policy.

According to reports, President Trump is expected to push for marijuana to be moved to Schedule III. Drugs in this category are considered to have medical value and a lower risk of abuse. Schedule III substances include drugs such as ketamine and anabolic steroids.

Reclassifying marijuana would not mean full legalization or decriminalization at the federal level. However, it would significantly reduce restrictions. Experts say this could make it easier to conduct clinical research, as Schedule I drugs require multiple layers of approval before studies can begin.

The change could also have major financial implications for the legal cannabis industry. Companies that grow and sell marijuana legally could benefit from lower taxes and fewer regulatory barriers if marijuana is reclassified.

It is important to note that the US president cannot reclassify a drug on his own. Any change would require federal agencies to take formal steps. Reports indicate that Trump is expected to sign an executive order directing these agencies to begin the reclassification process.

The issue of marijuana reclassification is not new. The previous administration had also explored changing marijuana’s federal status, but the process stalled and was not completed before Trump took office in early 2025.

The United States continues to have a patchwork system of marijuana laws, with each state setting its own rules on possession, cultivation, and commercial sales. Trump’s comments suggest that federal marijuana policy could soon move closer to reflecting the laws already in place in many states.

If pursued, marijuana reclassification could become one of the most significant drug policy changes in recent years, with wide-ranging effects on research, business, and federal enforcement.

#Global News