US President Donald Trump Signs Order to Relax Federal Marijuana Regulations
In a move that could significantly alter the country’s stance on marijuana, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the relaxation of federal regulations on the drug. This decision comes after decades of strict policies aimed at curbing the use and distribution of marijuana.
The order instructs the Attorney General to expedite the reclassification of marijuana, which would place it alongside common painkillers, ketamine, and testosterone as a less dangerous drug. This change would have far-reaching implications for the cannabis industry, unlocking billions in research funding and opening doors to banks and investors that have long been closed.
While some lawmakers, including Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, welcomed the move, many Republicans in Trump’s own party criticized the decision. Despite this, Trump emphasized the need for some patients to have access to the drug, acknowledging that it remains illegal federally and subject to a patchwork of local laws across the country.
Industry experts have noted that congressional action is still necessary to create more stable regulation, and that the executive order alone may not be enough to bring about significant change. Nevertheless, the move marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to marijuana and could pave the way for further reform in the future.
