The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is moving to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, recognizing its medical uses and lower potential for abuse. This historic shift could have ripple effects across the country, but marijuana would not be legalized for recreational use.
Key Points
DEA's proposal to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III
President Biden's call for a review of federal marijuana law
Potential positive effects on criminal justice system and research
Pros
Recognition of medical uses of cannabis
Acknowledgment of its lower potential for abuse
Potential for positive impact on criminal justice system
Cons
Marijuana would still be a controlled substance under Schedule III
Some critics argue against the need for rescheduling