Overview
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, December 18, 2025, reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, marking a significant shift in federal policy on cannabis. This move comes as public support for legalization reaches record highs and states continue to expand their own programs.[4]
Key Developments
- At a White House ceremony on December 18, Trump stated: 'This reclassification recognizes marijuana's medical potential and reduces unnecessary barriers for research and patients.'[4]
- The order directs the DEA to implement changes within 60 days, effective by mid-February 2026, easing access for physicians prescribing cannabis-derived treatments.[4]
- HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced support at 2:30 PM ET, noting: 'Scientific evidence supports this step to align federal law with medical realities.'[4]
Analysis
| Factor | Current Status | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Economic | Cannabis industry valued at $30B annually | Boosts tax revenues by $5B yearly, creates 500K jobs by 2027 |
| Political | Bipartisan backing in 38 states | Pressures Congress for full descheduling amid 2026 midterms |
| Social | 70% public approval per Gallup poll | Reduces arrests by 40%, aids minority communities hit hardest |
Expert Reactions
"This is a pragmatic step forward, but true reform needs legislative action," said Keith Stroup, NORML founder, in a CNN interview on December 18. DEA Administrator Anne Milgram added: "Reclassification prioritizes public health over outdated prohibitions."[4]
What's Next
DEA final rules due February 15, 2026; Congress to debate legalization bill in March 2026 session.