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 significant step, calling it “an important move toward reversing longstanding inequities.”
This decision represents a major shift 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 shift the classification of the drug from Schedule I to Schedule III. This change would place cannabis in a category with a lower risk of abuse, alongside substances like anabolic steroids and ketamine.
The reclassification could have far-reaching implications, potentially boosting the legal cannabis industry by allowing easier access to banking services and outside investments. It could also provide a crucial boost to President Biden’s re-election bid, particularly as he seeks to rally young and minority voters.
The proposal to reclassify cannabis will now undergo a lengthy approval process, starting with a 60-day public comment period. If approved, this change could have a significant impact on drug policy in the United States, signaling a major shift in the country’s approach to marijuana.