In a significant move for cannabis reform, top Democrats from influential House committees are pushing the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to expedite the process of rescheduling cannabis. Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ), ranking members of the Judiciary and Energy & Commerce Committees, respectively, sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, urging immediate action following a scientific review by the Biden administration.
In their letter, the lawmakers argue that cannabis has “less potential for abuse than other drugs” and serves an “accepted medical use in treatment.” This sentiment aligns with recommendations from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Justice, which have both called for reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
Nadler and Pallone applaud the Biden administration for initiating the review, emphasizing the need for the DEA to “swiftly complete this process and transfer marijuana to schedule III.” This would loosen some federal restrictions on cannabis, allowing for greater access to medical and recreational use.
While the immediate focus is on rescheduling to Schedule III, the legislators also advocate for continued reform. They suggest further assessment to determine if Schedule IV, Schedule V, or even descheduling – removing cannabis from the CSA entirely – may be appropriate. This aligns with the goals of many cannabis advocates and lawmakers, including Nadler, who has previously sponsored the MORE Act, a bill aimed at full legalization.
This push for cannabis reform comes as the issue takes center stage in U.S. election politics, with both major parties positioning themselves on the topic ahead of the 2024 presidential election. While the DEA has scheduled an administrative hearing on the matter for December 2, final action on rescheduling is not expected until after November. This hearing will allow for further input from experts and stakeholders before the agency potentially makes its final decision.
The movement to reschedule cannabis highlights the growing acceptance of its medicinal benefits and the evolving understanding of its potential for harm. As the DEA considers its options, the eyes of the nation will be watching, eager to see how the future of cannabis policy unfolds.
