US Reclassifies State-Licensed Medical Marijuana as Less Dangerous Drug

The Trump administration has reclassified state-licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, per an order signed April 23 by Acting U.S. Attorney General Todd Blanche. Since 1970, marijuana was a Schedule I drug alongside heroin, LSD, and MDMA. The change puts it on par with ketamine, anabolic steroids, and Tylenol with codeine. The policy does not legalize marijuana federally or affect recreational use. It applies only to state-regulated medical marijuana and FDA-approved products. Scientists will find it easier to study cannabis; Staci Gruber, a Harvard Medical School psychologist, hopes for larger investigations. State-licensed medical marijuana companies can now deduct business expenses and claim federal tax credits, potentially generating billions in new economic activity and tens of thousands of jobs, according to attorney Brian Vicente. Opponents like Kevin Sabet of Smart Approaches to Marijuana criticize the decision as a tax break for 'Big Weed.' Recreational marijuana is legal in 24 states and D.C., medical in 40 states. Previous reclassification attempts include former President Joe Biden's 2023 effort, which stalled. An expedited hearing starting in June will consider broader rescheduling. The policy follows Trump's executive order on psychedelic medication access.