US Health Department Urges Reclassifying Marijuana to Lower Risk Category

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has recommended a significant policy shift regarding marijuana, a drug currently classified as a Schedule I substance, putting it on par with heroin and LSD. Responding to President Joe Biden's request, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra stated that the agency had swiftly carried out a scientific evaluation and offered a scheduling recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on Twitter's platform known as "X".

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer applauded the HHS's move, revealing that the recommendation called for marijuana to be reclassified as a Schedule III controlled substance. This change would have substantial implications, potentially reducing or eliminating criminal penalties for possession. The current classification of Schedule I drugs implies they lack accepted medical use, have an absence of safety under medical supervision, and hold a high potential for abuse.

A rescheduling to Schedule III would imply a lower potential for abuse, moderate or low physical dependence, and high psychological dependence. The class already includes substances like ketamine and specific anabolic steroids. President Biden initiated this review in October 2022 while pardoning individuals convicted of "simple possession" of marijuana under federal law.

While some, like Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, advocate for a complete de-scheduling of marijuana, the HHS's recommendation for a Schedule III classification is still seen as a significant stride toward sensible drug policies. The U.S. Cannabis Council also expressed their enthusiasm for the news, stating that rescheduling could signal reduced criminal priority and extend crucial economic support to the cannabis industry.

This development marks a crucial step towards aligning cannabis policies with evolving societal perceptions and scientific understanding. As the DEA contemplates potential changes, the outcome could reshape the landscape of marijuana regulations, ultimately influencing not only law enforcement but also the economic and medical aspects of the burgeoning cannabis sector.

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