Trump leans toward reclassifying marijuana

"Under the plan, Trump would reclassify marijuana, which under federal law is banned and faces the same restrictions as heroin, as a less-dangerous drug. That would ease regulations and make it easier for pot-related medicinal research to be done and create tax breaks for cannabis companies. The Washington Post first reported on the expected move. A White House official said Thursday that no final decision had been made."

"Trump's team has been reviewing survey numbers showing growing support for reclassification. Tony Fabrizio, a senior Trump strategist, has been doing work for the pro-cannabis lobby. The background: Trump in September posted a video on Truth Social which advocated for Medicare coverage for hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD). In August, Trump confirmed a Wall Street Journal report that he was considering reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III drug, meaning that it would have low abuse potential."

"A number of individual states have taken steps to loosen restrictions on weed use. Two dozen states, three U.S. territories and D.C. have outright legalized it. By the numbers: Public sentiment on pot use has been shifting for the past half-century, with Americans increasingly in favor of it. According to a recent Gallup poll, 64% support legalization, up from 58% in 2015 and 36% in 2005. Behind the scenes: Cannabis companies have been courting Trump, including by filling his political operation's coffers."

The plan would move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal law, reducing regulatory barriers and enabling more medicinal research and tax relief for cannabis companies. The change would allow easier interstate transfer of cannabis products but would not federally legalize recreational use. Growing public support for legalization and polling data have influenced consideration of the reclassification. Pro-cannabis groups and companies have actively courted the administration, including donations to Trump-aligned political entities. No final decision has been announced, and the administration continues to review surveys and lobbying input before determining next steps.

Read at Axios