Federal Health Agency Urges Marijuana Reclassification for Lower Risk

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recommended to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that marijuana be reclassified as a lower-risk, Schedule III controlled substance, a move that could lead to a significant shift in federal policy on cannabis. While this would not outright legalize marijuana at the federal level, it could boost the regulated marijuana industry in states where it is legal and facilitate more scientific research into the drug's effects. The recommendation aligns with President Biden's efforts to reshape marijuana policies, and if accepted by the DEA, it would mark a historic step in cannabis reform. However, advocates for full legalization argue that the recommendation doesn't go far enough and that cannabis should be treated similarly to tobacco and alcohol.