President Donald Trump is reportedly considering reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous substance, a move that could ease federal restrictions and open the door for expanded medical marijuana research.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Trump shared his interest in pursuing this change at a recent $1-million-a-plate fundraiser held at his Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey.
Several high-profile attendees from the cannabis industry, including Kim Rivers, CEO of Trulieve — a major marijuana company — were present and reportedly encouraged the president to move forward with the reclassification and support more extensive research into medical uses for marijuana.
Marijuana currently remains classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This classification places it alongside substances deemed to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, such as heroin.
Reclassifying marijuana to a lower schedule would reduce federal restrictions, potentially allowing for easier access, increased research opportunities, and broader legal protections for marijuana-related businesses and consumers.
The Wall Street Journal report notes that pot companies have invested millions into Trump-aligned political groups and hired influential lobbyists and advisers in Washington to push for reforms, a strategy that appears to