U.S. Drug Control Agency to Reclassify Marijuana as Schedule III, Signaling Lower Risk Classification.
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is in the process of reclassifying marijuana to a less severe category, prompted by a recommendation from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The proposed reclassification recognizes the medical benefits of marijuana and its comparatively lower potential for abuse compared to drugs currently classified under Schedule I.
Marijuana would be moved to Schedule III, which includes substances such as ketamine, indicating a lower perceived risk by the DEA.
Before finalizing the reclassification, there will be a public comment period, allowing stakeholders to provide input and feedback on the proposed change.
Critics contend that the DEA should maintain its stance on marijuana, arguing against rescheduling due to potential adverse effects.
Conversely, advocates propose removing marijuana from the controlled-substances list entirely and implementing regulations akin to those governing alcohol.
Federal drug policy has fallen behind state laws, as evidenced by 38 states legalizing medical marijuana and 24 permitting recreational use.
(Source: AP News)
