Full Breakdown
Trump Expected to Sign Executive Order Rescheduling Marijuana
12/18/2025, 3:59:32 AM
Overview of the Executive Order
President Donald Trump is anticipated to sign an executive order that would reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This significant policy shift is expected to occur on December 17, 2025, and aims to ease federal restrictions on marijuana, which is currently classified alongside substances like heroin and LSD. The reclassification would officially recognize marijuana's medical value, allowing for broader research and potential medical use, although it would not legalize the drug at the federal level.
Implications of Rescheduling
The reclassification to Schedule III would indicate that marijuana has a "moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence," which could facilitate more extensive research into its medical applications. This change is anticipated to reduce regulatory barriers for cannabis research and allow for FDA-approved cannabis medicines to be prescribed nationwide. Additionally, it may provide tax relief for cannabis businesses, as current tax laws under Section 280E apply only to Schedule I and II drugs, limiting business expense deductions.
Background and Context
The push for rescheduling marijuana has gained momentum over the years, particularly as public support for legalization has increased. A Gallup poll indicated that 64% of U.S. adults believe marijuana should be legal. The Biden administration initiated a review of marijuana's classification in 2022, which has remained unresolved. Trump's administration is now poised to finalize this process, reflecting a broader political consensus that the current classification does not align with medical evidence or public opinion.
Official Statements & Responses
Trump has expressed strong support for the reclassification, stating, “A lot of people want to see it — the reclassification, because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can’t be done unless you reclassify.” However, critics argue that while the executive order represents progress, it does not address broader issues such as the decriminalization of marijuana or the expungement of records for individuals incarcerated for minor cannabis offenses. Senator Ron Wyden criticized the move, suggesting it is merely an attempt to boost Trump's approval ratings without substantial reform.
Criticism & Opposition
Opposition to the executive order includes concerns from some lawmakers who argue that Trump lacks the authority to unilaterally change marijuana's classification without congressional approval. Representative Mike Lawler stated, “I think rescheduling marijuana is wrong,” citing concerns about its potential as a gateway drug. Additionally, advocates for cannabis reform, such as Adrian Rocha from the Last Prisoner Project, emphasize the need for complementary actions, including clemency for those imprisoned for cannabis-related offenses.
What's Next
The anticipated executive order is expected to be signed at a public event, marking a pivotal moment in federal marijuana policy. Following the signing, the Department of Justice will be tasked with implementing the new classification, which may include a public comment period and further administrative processes. The cannabis industry and advocates are closely monitoring the situation, as the implications of this order could reshape the landscape of marijuana regulation and research in the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are considering that because a lot of people want to see it — the reclassification, because it leads to tremendous amounts of research that can’t be done unless you reclassify.” — President Donald Trump
- “This would be the most significant federal policy change related to cannabis,” — Meredith Schneider, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Cannabis Coalition
- “, who has pushed for legislation to decriminalize cannabis, said that if Trump's expected executive order does not go far enough and called it "an attempt to boost his pathetic approval ratings.” — Senator Ron Wyden
This executive order represents a critical juncture in the evolving conversation around marijuana policy in the United States, with potential ramifications for public health, legal frameworks, and the cannabis industry.