Story perspectives

Acting AG Moves Medical Marijuana to Schedule III, Sparks GOP Criticism

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an order moving licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
The Justice Department said the change will boost research, provide a tax deduction, speed DEA registration, and shield researchers from criminal penalties.
A DEA hearing is set for June 29 after President Donald Trump’s December executive order.
Twenty-two Republican senators and anti-legalization advocates criticized the move as confusing and industry-benefiting.

History

Historical Context

The Controlled Substances Act of 1970 classified marijuana as a Schedule I substance, limiting its medical use and research. Despite a 1972 report advocating decriminalization, federal policy remained unchanged until August 2023, when the Department of Health and Human Services recommended rescheduling it to Schedule III. This shift reflects evolving public opinion and may influence future drug policy reforms across the United States.

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Story summary

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an order moving licensed medical marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.
The Justice Department said the change will boost research, provide a tax deduction, speed DEA registration, and shield researchers from criminal penalties.
A DEA hearing is set for June 29 after President Donald Trump’s December executive order.
Twenty-two Republican senators and anti-legalization advocates criticized the move as confusing and industry-benefiting.

1 / 2