Washington: President Donald Trump has signed a groundbreaking executive order to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I narcotic to a Schedule III narcotic. This move places marijuana in the same category as common painkillers, ketamine, testosterone, and cough syrup containing codeine, recognizing its medical benefits and marking a significant shift in federal marijuana policy.
According to Thai News Agency, this reclassification signifies federal recognition of marijuana's medical potential and represents one of the most substantial federal policy changes regarding marijuana in decades. The decision has the potential to transform the industry, reduce criminal penalties, and pave the way for billions of dollars in research funding. It also opens doors previously closed to banks and investors interested in the marijuana sector.
However, the order does not equate to full legalization of cannabis. Cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, subject to varying local laws across the country. The use of cannabis is still under strict restrictions and criminal penalties. Additionally, cannabis products may face stricter scrutiny from the Food and Drug Administration in the future to comply with Schedule 3 drug standards.
Supporters of cannabis legalization in the United States view this regulatory easing as a significant initial step but continue to advocate for its complete removal from the list of controlled substances. They aim for cannabis to be treated similarly to alcohol or tobacco. In contrast, some senators express concerns that this relaxation could impact public safety and send the wrong message to youth.
Marijuana remains the most widely used illegal drug globally and in the United States, with nearly one in five Americans using it annually, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Millions of Americans have faced arrest for marijuana possession, even as numerous publicly traded companies sell marijuana-related products.