By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Trump signed an executive order to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III drug, a significant change in federal policy that aligns with many states’ stances. This reclassification, similar to a proposal by his predecessor, would move cannabis away from its current classification alongside heroin. The shift could alter regulation and reduce taxes for the cannabis industry, though it wouldn’t legalize recreational use nationwide. Despite this move, some Republicans oppose the change, citing concerns about safety and potential impacts.
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The switch would move marijuana away from its current classification as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD. Instead, cannabis would be reclassified as a Schedule III substance, similar to ketamine and some anabolic steroids. This is a pretty significant shift in how the federal government views and regulates marijuana. The current drug laws are, frankly, a bit of a mess, and it’s hard to argue they’re based on actual harm potential.
Now, let’s unpack this a little. The news, as it stands, is that Trump is ordering a reclassification. However, it’s worth noting that Biden, over a year ago, already initiated the process of reviewing marijuana’s scheduling. So, this isn’t exactly a brand-new initiative. It’s more like Trump is trying to take credit for something that was already in motion. Effectively, it’s a request to the DEA to speed up a process they were already working on.
Let’s be clear, this move is likely designed to deflect from other, potentially more damaging, news. The Epstein files, for example, have been a hot topic. A lot of people are seeing this reclassification as a smokescreen, a way to shift the narrative and try to get some positive press. There’s a strong sentiment that this move is motivated by self-interest and not a genuine desire to help anyone.
Here’s the kicker: An executive order isn’t the same as a law. According to federal law, marijuana is still a Schedule I narcotic, at least for the moment. Reclassification by the DEA won’t automatically legalize recreational use nationwide. However, it could change how the drug is regulated and, importantly, reduce the tax burden on the cannabis industry. So while it may not seem like a huge deal at first glance, it could have some practical implications, especially for the businesses involved.
Why is he doing this? Probably, it’s just about cutting taxes for some rich people. And, of course, this is happening right after they closed the loophole for hemp-derived THC gummies. This might not be anything truly beneficial, beyond making some people a lot of money. The general feeling seems to be that he’s taking credit for something already happening.
The potential for positive change is there. This is a very rare move which is a welcomed change. This doesn’t mean everything he does is a good idea. However, many people also feel that this has some questionable motivations. It’s likely intended to distract from something else, and it’s easy to be skeptical of the underlying reasons.
There’s also a sense of frustration that this might make it easier to access and distribute pot than essential medications. This move is essentially an acceleration of a plan put in motion by the Biden administration.
But what does this actually mean for the average person? Even if reclassified, you can still get arrested for possessing it illegally, even in states where it’s legal. While this may eventually bring some changes, there are still many other legal hurdles to clear. Even a “broken clock” is right twice a day. The reclassification would not change the legal status immediately. It is just another order that doesn’t have any true merit behind it.
The question of why this is happening right now, of course, looms large. Is it a distraction? Is it to gain favor? It is probably related to the upcoming release of the Epstein files.
The fact remains that this is an attempt to appear to be taking action, when, in reality, there’s not a lot changing. This does nothing for the casual consumer. It’s like Trump is stealing Biden’s orders, and calling him names while he does it. It feels like he is trying to “win the war on drugs.” A lot of people are not going to be thrilled about this, even if they like the outcome.