The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is considering a significant shift in federal drug policy with the potential rescheduling of marijuana. However, a decision will not be reached until after the upcoming presidential election in November. This delay means the issue could become a focal point in the election campaign, with candidates likely to be questioned on their stance regarding the reclassification. The proposed change, which involves moving marijuana to a less dangerous drug category, aims to reflect its medical uses and reduced abuse potential compared to current Schedule I drugs like heroin. While proponents see this as a step that could align federal policy with many state laws, opposition remains, citing insufficient data to support such a move.

Political figures have varied in their responses, with Vice President Kamala Harris expressing support for decriminalisation, while former President Donald Trump has shown conditional openness to state-level legalisation. The DEA’s decision-making process involves a public hearing set for December, pushing any final decision potentially into the next administration.

Source: AP News