President Donald Trump on Monday confirmed he and his administration are considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug.
Trump told reporters that it was early in the process but that he hoped to make a decision on the matter within the coming weeks.
Trump was in the briefing room to announce a federal takeover of Washington’s police force and deployment of the National Guard to deal. He was asked at the news conference if reclassifying marijuana would send mixed messages as his administration says it wants to “clean up” crime in the nation’s capital and potentially other cities.
Currently, marijuana is classified as a Schedule 1 drug, alongside dangerous substances like heroin and LSD, with no “currently accepted medical use” and a high potential for abuse. In contrast, Schedule 3 drugs, such as ketamine and anabolic steroids, are recognized as having medical value and only moderate risks for dependence.
Trump acknowledged that the issue is complex but emphasized that the decision would be made carefully, with the goal of doing what’s best for the country. “We’re looking at reclassification and we’ll make a determination over the next few weeks,” Trump said. “It’s very complicated, but it’s something we’re going to get right.”
This move reflects the president’s willingness to break away from outdated policies and make decisions that reflect the reality of modern America. The reclassification would ease burdens on law enforcement and the judicial system while ensuring that marijuana is regulated in a way that acknowledges its growing medical applications.
Trump on Monday said he’s heard good and bad things regarding the drug.
“I’ve heard great things having to do with medical, and I’ve had bad things having to do with just about everything else. But medical, and, you know, for pain and various things,” Trump said.
“Some people like it, some people hate it,” the president said.
With the administration’s focus on “cleaning up” cities, this move could help focus resources on more serious crimes while providing clarity and fairness in marijuana-related regulations.
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Many of my friends from my High School years, (83 grad) embraced pot and never grew up.
Basically useless and unstable.
While those of us had to grow up and go to work, they only lived to pay for pot and blame others for their failures.
I don’t recommend this course.