Trump Administration Initiates Federal Marijuana Rescheduling Amid Broad Public Support

The Trump administration has officially begun the process to federally reschedule marijuana, citing overwhelming public support and the potential benefits for patients who rely on cannabis for medical purposes. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the move reflects both public polling and feedback from within and outside the administration. "If you do look at the public polling on this issue, it is overwhelmingly popular with the vast majority of Americans," Leavitt stated, emphasizing the administration's responsiveness to widespread demand for reform

President Trump himself has spoken out about the medical advantages of cannabis, recounting stories of individuals who have found relief through its use. During a recent Oval Office event, Trump noted, "A lot of people are suffering from big problems, which this seems to be the best answer. They’re very happy about it. So the rescheduling is starting, and that’s a big thing, rescheduling." Trump also called on Congress to act swiftly on related hemp-derived CBD regulations to protect consumers and support farmers

The Department of Justice, under Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, is overseeing the phased rescheduling process. An initial order moves state-regulated medical marijuana products and FDA-approved cannabis products to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. A new expedited administrative hearing process will begin on June 29 to consider broader rescheduling, with a conclusion expected by July 15. This move comes after delays and legal challenges that stalled the process during the previous administration

While the rescheduling will not fully legalize cannabis at the federal level, it will have significant implications for research and the cannabis industry. State-licensed marijuana businesses stand to benefit from the ability to take federal tax deductions previously denied under IRS code 280E. The Department of the Treasury and IRS have announced plans to issue updated tax guidance in response to the rescheduling. Additionally, researchers will now be able to obtain marijuana products from state-licensed businesses for studies, an unprecedented change in federal policy

Public reaction to the Trump administration's rescheduling directive has been largely positive, with a recent poll from NuggMD indicating that 83 percent of respondents support the executive order. However, some lawmakers remain cautious, with Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) stating, "Obviously, there’s things that look promising—to end generations of injustice. I really want to wait and see." Attempts by some GOP senators to block the rescheduling failed to gain traction, and federal agencies continue to navigate the complex regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis reform

From the OG Lab newsroom perspective, this development marks a pivotal moment for the U.S. cannabis industry. The move to reschedule marijuana at the federal level signals growing mainstream acceptance and could pave the way for expanded research, industry growth, and further legislative action. Stakeholders should closely watch how regulatory agencies implement these changes and how Congress responds to calls for broader reform