Will Marijuana Be Reclassified Federally As a Less Dangerous Drug? Here’s Where President Trump Stands

The national conversation around marijuana is once again heating up, this time at the federal government level. President Donald Trump has publicly confirmed that his administration is reviewing whether to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous substance under federal law. If this move goes forward, it could represent one of the most significant shifts in U.S. drug policy in decades, with wide-reaching impacts for states like Ohio, where marijuana is already legal.

Marijuana’s Current Federal Status

Right now, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, meaning the federal government considers it to have “no accepted medical use” and a high potential for abuse. This puts it in the same category as heroin and LSD, stricter than even fentanyl or methamphetamine, which are Schedule II.

A move to Schedule III, which is under consideration, would place marijuana alongside substances like ketamine and certain steroids. While this wouldn’t make marijuana legal nationwide, it would mark a major acknowledgment of its medical value and significantly reduce barriers for patients, researchers, and providers.

What President Trump Has Said

President Trump recently confirmed that his administration will decide on rescheduling marijuana “over the next few weeks.” He noted that the review is actively underway, and the Department of Justice is weighing recommendations from federal health agencies.

At the same time, lawmakers from both parties have urged him to take action. A group of bipartisan congressional representatives recently sent letters encouraging the rescheduling of events, citing medical benefits, public support, and the need for fairer federal policy.

What Rescheduling Would Mean

If marijuana is moved to Schedule III, several changes would take effect immediately:

• Medical Research Expansion: It would be easier for scientists to study marijuana’s effects and benefits.

• Tax Relief for Businesses: Cannabis operators would finally be able to take normal business deductions that are currently blocked under IRS rule 280E.

• Reduced Criminal Penalties: While marijuana would remain controlled, penalties for possession and distribution under federal law could lessen.

• Healthcare Access: Recognition of marijuana’s medical use at the federal level would strengthen state programs like Ohio’s and could allow for insurance or prescription pathways in the future.

It’s important to note that rescheduling does not equal legalization. Even if marijuana is moved from Schedule I to Schedule III at the federal level, recreational use would remain legal in Ohio as it is today, but it would not become legal federally. Ohioans could continue to purchase, possess, and grow marijuana under state law, while federal prohibition for recreational use would still apply outside of state jurisdiction.

Political and Public Reactions

Supporters argue that rescheduling would modernize outdated laws and align federal policy with the majority of Americans who support reform. In nearby states like Indiana, Republican Governor Mike Braun has said that federal rescheduling could add “fire to the legalization push” at the state level, highlighting how this decision could ripple across the Midwest.

Opponents, however, caution that rescheduling without clear regulations could create confusion around enforcement and interstate commerce.

What This Means for Ohio Patients

For Ohio’s medical marijuana patients, the potential change is encouraging. While the state already operates a legal medical program, federal recognition could mean more research, more treatment options, and potentially more affordability over time. It could also reduce stigma for patients who rely on marijuana as part of their care.

Looking Ahead

The Trump administration has said a final decision on marijuana’s federal status is coming soon. If rescheduling happens, it would be a historic step forward, but just one part of the broader national debate over marijuana reform.

For now, Ohio patients can continue accessing marijuana through the state’s program, both medically and recreationally. And if marijuana is officially moved to Schedule III, it could open the door to expanded access, improved research, and a stronger foundation for the future of patient care.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Having a medical marijuana card in Ohio offers numerous benefits over recreational use. With your medical card, you gain access to higher-quality, lab-tested products, personalized care from knowledgeable physicians, and exclusive dispensary discounts, ensuring you receive safe, effective, and affordable relief. Not to mention, the tax savings are significant when you have your medical card. 

Ohio’s medical marijuana program is tailored to prioritize patients’ needs, with evolving qualifying conditions and a commitment to improving access. Whether you’re managing chronic pain, anxiety, or another condition, your medical card empowers you to shop at licensed dispensaries with confidence, knowing you’re receiving products designed specifically for therapeutic use.

Thanks to telemedicine, obtaining your card is simple, quick, and convenient. With an Ohio Marijuana Card, you can complete your evaluation and receive a recommendation on the same day, all from the comfort of home! Schedule your appointment today!

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Relief You Can Trust

At Ohio Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Ohio’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.

Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (866) 457-5559 or schedule your evaluation today, and take advantage of the many benefits a medical card has to offer!