Why it matters: A group of Republican legislators is urging the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to reject the recent recommendation to reschedule cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance. They argue that the recommendation is not based on science and that marijuana has a high potential for abuse.
What they are saying: The Republican legislators state that marijuana should remain a Schedule I substance and cite the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s report on marijuana use disorder and the rise in THC levels as reasons to reject rescheduling. They also claim that marijuana does not have a currently accepted medical use, only mentioning a few FDA-approved cannabis-derived and synthetic drugs.
The big picture: This letter highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the rescheduling of cannabis. While some legislators argue for its medical benefits and the need for reform, these Republican politicians push back, emphasizing the potential risks and lack of scientific evidence for rescheduling.
What to watch: The DEA will conduct a scientific review of the recommendation to reschedule cannabis. This review will be significant in determining the future classification of cannabis.
My take: The Republican legislators’ arguments against rescheduling cannabis seem outdated and ignore the growing body of evidence supporting its medical benefits. While it is important to consider potential risks, dismissing the potential benefits of cannabis for numerous conditions and the implications of its Schedule I status is a disservice to those who could benefit from its use. Full descheduling of cannabis, as advocated by NORML, may be a more appropriate approach.
