Why it matters:
This article discusses the ongoing debate surrounding the rescheduling or descheduling of cannabis in the U.S. It highlights the push by several lawmakers, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, to deschedule cannabis altogether, arguing that rescheduling it to a lower controlled substance category does not go far enough.
What they are saying:
Sen. Elizabeth Warren appeared on The Late Show to discuss the letter she and other lawmakers sent to the DEA, urging them to deschedule cannabis entirely. Warren argues that marijuana’s current classification as a Schedule I drug is outdated, out of touch with public opinion, and hinders research on the plant.
The big picture:
The debate over rescheduling or descheduling cannabis has significant implications for cannabis policy and industry in the U.S. Descheduling cannabis would remove criminal penalties and essentially legalize it, while rescheduling it could alleviate some research barriers and allow cannabis businesses to take federal tax deductions. However, concerns remain about the potential influence of Big Pharma in a rescheduled cannabis market.
What to watch:
The decision by the DEA on whether to reschedule cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III is eagerly anticipated. Advocates and consumers are waiting to see if the DEA will go further and deschedule cannabis altogether. The outcome of this decision will have a significant impact on cannabis policy and legalization efforts at the federal level.
My take:
The debate over rescheduling or descheduling cannabis is a crucial step towards reforming cannabis policies in the U.S. While rescheduling cannabis to a lower controlled substance category would be a step in the right direction, descheduling would be a more comprehensive solution. Descheduling cannabis would align federal law with the growing number of states that have legalized marijuana, remove criminal penalties, and allow for greater research opportunities. However, it remains to be seen whether the DEA and the Biden administration will take this bold step.
