In an unprecedented address, President Joe Biden touched upon marijuana reform during an annual State of the Union address last Thursday night. Although it was only a brief mention, the acknowledgement of the cannabis industry’s significance sent a ripple of anticipation through members and advocates of the industry. However, there was no update provided regarding cannabis rescheduling status, keeping the community in suspense.
A High-Level Recognition
Hailed as a ‘historic’ speech, it marked the first time a sitting President has openly addressed the once-taboo subject of marijuana reform on such a formal and significant platform. His words indicated a shift in the official stance at the very top, reflecting the changing public sentiment towards marijuana, particularly for its medicinal value.
The Need for Rescheduling
The question mooted by many industry leaders and advocates is about the rescheduling status of marijuana. Currently classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law—which means it is considered to have no medical use and a high potential for abuse—the rescheduling or descheduling of marijuana would have far-reaching implications for the industry. It can pave the way for more research, medicinal use, and even broader legalized recreational use.
Uncertainty Prevails
Nonetheless, it was the absence of a definitive statement on the rescheduling of marijuana that has left the industry in a cloud of uncertainty. Throughout his campaign trail, President Biden had promised a more progressive approach towards marijuana, including decriminalization, rescheduling, and expunging the records of those convicted for use. His silence on Thursday has left these promises hanging in the air, at least for now.
The Impact on Medical Marijuana
While the federal government continues to debate on rescheduling marijuana, the medical cannabis community waits with bated breath. Several states have recognized the medicinal benefits of cannabis and have made provisions for citizens to access it legally. For instance, medical marijuana cardholders in California can use MMJ.com to renew their cards and procure marijuana for medicinal purposes. A change in federal policy would be a significant catalyst for increased acceptance and usage nationwide.
- Medical research: More relaxed laws could promote more extensive research into marijuana’s potential medicinal properties, leading to more common and accepted use in treating various health conditions.
- Legal access: If marijuana is rescheduled or descheduled, it could broaden legal access for patients in states where medical marijuana is yet to be legalized.
- Industry growth: The cannabis industry has experienced unprecedented growth in recent years. This momentum can only increase with further relaxation of federal laws.
Despite the lack of definitive action, President Biden’s mention of marijuana reform in a State of the Union speech is a historic step forward. It remains to be seen what measures the government will take towards comprehensive reform. In the meantime, the cannabis community continues to organize and advocate for change at both the state and federal levels.
