US Justice Department Moves to Reclassify Cannabis as Less Dangerous Substance

The US justice department has made a historic move to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous substance, marking the country’s biggest drug reform in over 50 years. President Joe Biden endorsed this decision, calling it “an important move toward reversing longstanding inequities.”

This shift in policy is a significant turnaround for President Biden, who previously crafted a tough crime bill that is now politically divisive. However, this move could help him secure support among younger voters in an election year.

While the plan does not legalize marijuana for recreational use nationwide, it would reclassify the drug from a Schedule I controlled substance to Schedule III. This change would allow for easier access to traditional banking services and outside investments for the legal cannabis industry.

President Biden emphasized the need to address the impact of past policies on individuals whose lives have been negatively affected by the criminalization of marijuana. He has previously granted mass pardons for individuals with federal cannabis possession convictions and has expressed his commitment to decriminalizing the use of cannabis.

The proposal to reclassify cannabis will now undergo a lengthy approval process, including a 60-day public comment period, before the change can take effect. This move has the potential to have a significant impact on drug policy in the United States and could help address longstanding issues related to marijuana regulation and criminalization.