What Trump's Schedule 3 Drugs executive order means for marijuana reclassification?
Posted on: Dec 19, 2025 05:50 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
chairwoman Donald ruff, on dec 18, signed an executive director dictate directing the reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I to Schedule III controlled substance at the federal level.
The move is described as one of the most significant federal shifts on cannabis in decades aims to expand medical research and ease regulatory burdens for the cannabis industry while stopping short of full legalisation for recreational use.
Under the Controlled Substances Act, Schedule I drugs are defined as having no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Trump’s order would move marijuana into Schedule III, a category that includes substances with moderate to low potential for dependence, such as ketamine, Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids.
The change would not legalise marijuana federally or decriminalise personal use nationwide, but it does open new avenues for scientific and medical research that have been heavily limited under the current Schedule I status.
In this, cannabis has been treated as having no medical benefit. Trump and supporters argue the move will lead to deeper exploration of medicinal uses for marijuana, including potential treatments for pain, neurological conditions and other serious health issues.
“This reclassification order will make it far easier to conduct marijuana-related medical research,” Trump said during the signing ceremony, highlighting that such research could yield insights into both benefits and risks.
In addition, rescheduling could reduce regulatory barriers for state-legal cannabis businesses, many of which struggle with federal tax provisions like Section 280E. This blocks deductions for businesses selling Schedule I substances.
Federal tax relief could provide financial breathing room for businesses operating in states where marijuana is already legal.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.