Democratic Lawmakers Push for DEA to Reschedule Marijuana

A coalition of Democratic senators and representatives has urged the DEA to downgrade marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III, highlighting its medical use and lower abuse potential.

20 Democratic lawmakers, including Senators Elizabeth Warren and John Fetterman, have called on the DEA to reschedule marijuana, emphasizing its widespread use and fewer adverse effects compared to alcohol.
The push comes after the Department of Health and Human Services recommended the rescheduling of cannabis to Schedule III, which acknowledges its medical benefits.
Despite the recommendation, the DEA has not yet acted, eight months after the review, prolonging severe penalties and legal conflicts.
President Joe Biden's administration has been criticized for slow progress on cannabis reform, despite campaign promises to decriminalize its use.
Rescheduling cannabis could reduce criminal penalties that disproportionately affect Black and brown communities but would not address all issues related to its current classification.