Trump Considers Reclassifying Marijuana: Implications and Concerns

President Donald Trump is contemplating a significant change in federal marijuana policy, potentially reclassifying the drug as less dangerous under U.S. law. During a White House briefing on August 11, 2023, Trump indicated that a decision could be announced within weeks. Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I substance, which is reserved for drugs considered highly dangerous, addictive, and lacking accepted medical use.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) proposed in 2024 to downgrade marijuana to Schedule III, a category that includes substances like ketamine and testosterone. This shift could have widespread implications for research and medical applications of cannabis.

Medical Benefits vs. Societal Risks

Trump acknowledged the complexity of the decision, suggesting that it involves weighing the medical benefits of marijuana against potential societal impacts. “Some people like it, some people hate it,” he stated. This perspective is echoed by experts in the field. Raphael Cuomo, a biomedical scientist and professor of medicine at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, noted that rescheduling marijuana would facilitate greater scientific inquiry into its benefits and risks.

Cuomo emphasized that such a change could enhance the understanding of dosing and drug interactions, particularly in oncology, pain management, and palliative care. He also pointed out that improved classification could lead to better quality control for FDA-approved cannabinoids and expedite high-quality clinical trials.

Despite these potential benefits, concerns about public health persist. Cuomo warned that reclassifying marijuana might be misconstrued as a “safety endorsement,” especially in light of rising rates of heavy and daily use. A 2024 study published in the journal Addiction revealed that in 2022, marijuana use among individuals increased to an estimated 17.7 million daily or near-daily users, surpassing the 14.7 million daily drinkers. The study also noted that from 1992 to 2022, the rate of reported daily or near-daily marijuana use rose 15-fold.

Health Risks and Recommendations

Research has indicated that long-term or heavy cannabis use may lead to adverse brain and mental health effects, including memory issues and psychotic disorders. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, cannabis can irritate the lungs, causing chronic cough and bronchitis, and may pose cardiovascular risks. Additionally, a condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome can occur in heavy users, leading to severe vomiting that ceases only upon discontinuation of cannabis use.

If the administration moves forward with the reclassification, Cuomo advocates for robust public messaging that includes warnings regarding youth consumption, pregnancy, driving, and individuals with a history of psychosis. “Risk perception often moves faster than policy,” he noted, highlighting the need for informed public discourse as regulations evolve.

The potential reclassification of marijuana represents a pivotal moment in U.S. drug policy, with significant implications for both medical research and public health. As discussions continue, the balance between scientific advancement and societal responsibility will be critical in shaping the future of cannabis legislation.