The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced on Monday that it will delay its decision on rescheduling marijuana, pushing any action until after the 2024 election. This decision came after the DEA received over 40,000 requests for a hearing on its proposed rule making, which aimed to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
The DEA’s proposed reclassification, if successful, would significantly impact the cannabis reform landscape. It would reduce federal restrictions on marijuana, potentially opening new avenues for research and lessening penalties associated with its use.
The scheduling of the hearing in December, just months before the election, has raised concerns about the political implications of the decision.
The DEA’s hearing will gather factual evidence and expert opinions to determine the appropriateness of reclassification. The agency emphasizes that this hearing reflects its standard practice of seeking public input on major regulatory changes.
DEA Administrator Anne Milgram stated that after assessing the notices of intent to participate in the hearing, a presiding officer will be designated to oversee the proceedings. This officer will have the authority to conduct a fair hearing, maintain order, and take necessary action to avoid delays.
Stakeholders interested in participating or offering testimony at the hearing, which is scheduled to take place at 700 Army Navy Drive in Arlington, Virginia, must register in advance.
