US: Marijuana Downgraded – Path Opens for Medical Use

The United States government, under Donald Trump, is proceeding with the reclassification of marijuana, moving it from the strictest category of substances to Category III.

The decision, implemented through the US Department of Justice, marks a shift in the treatment of cannabis, recognizing its medical value at the federal level.

Until now, marijuana was in Category I of the Controlled Substances Act, alongside substances such as heroin. With the new decision, it is moved to Category III, which includes substances with lower risk and accepted medical applications.

This change does not equate to full legalization at the national level. Recreational use is regulated by the states and remains illegal at the federal level. However, in approximately 40 states where medical use is already legal, the new categorization significantly strengthens the institutional framework.

The reclassification creates the conditions for more extensive scientific research, which until now has been limited due to strict regulations.

The decision also has economic implications, reducing the tax burden for companies in the sector and facilitating their access to bank financing. Companies such as Canopy Growth, Tilray Brands, and Trulieve Cannabis are expected to benefit.