Trump Administration Considers Reclassifying Marijuana: Potential Impact on Research and Federal Policy

The United States president does not have the authority to unilaterally reclassify drugs under federal law.

President Donald Trump announced on Monday that his administration is exploring the possibility of relaxing federal restrictions on marijuana by reclassifying it as a less dangerous substance.

When asked by reporters whether an executive order regarding marijuana reclassification was under consideration, Trump confirmed, "We are considering that."

Trump elaborated on the potential benefits, stating, "A lot of people are advocating for reclassification because it would enable significant research opportunities that are currently impossible without changing the classification. We are examining this option very carefully."

Currently, marijuana remains classified at the federal level as a Schedule I substance, placing it in the same category as heroin and LSD. The federal government designates Schedule I drugs as having high potential for abuse with no accepted medical applications.

Despite federal classification, numerous states across America have already implemented legal medical marijuana programs, with many also permitting recreational use.

According to recent reporting by The Washington Post, the Trump administration is considering reclassifying marijuana to Schedule III—a category for substances recognized to have medical value and reduced abuse potential, which includes medications like ketamine and anabolic steroids.

It's important to note that rescheduling is distinct from legalization or decriminalization. However, easing federal restrictions could have widespread effects, including reducing barriers to scientific research by simplifying the approval process for clinical studies that currently require multiple levels of authorization for Schedule I substances.

Such reclassification could also significantly impact taxation policies for businesses legally cultivating and selling cannabis products.

While a president cannot independently reclassify a controlled substance, The Washington Post reported that Trump is expected to sign an executive order directing relevant federal agencies to pursue the reclassification process.

The Biden administration had previously initiated efforts toward reclassification, but these measures stalled and remained incomplete before Trump assumed office in early 2025.

The United States currently operates under a complex network of state-level regulations governing commercial distribution, recreational possession, and personal cultivation of cannabis.

Recreational marijuana use in small quantities is already legal in 24 states across the country as well as Washington DC.