US Justice Department takes step to make marijuana use a less serious crime

US Justice Department takes step to make marijuana use a less serious crime

The U.S. Justice Department is moving to make marijuana use a less serious federal crime by recommending it be reclassified as a schedule three drug with lower penalties. This shift could bridge the gap between state and federal cannabis laws, leading to more research, medical use, lighter criminal penalties, and increased private investment in the cannabis sector. President Joe Biden initiated a review of the drug’s classification, and public support for marijuana legalization has significantly increased. Reclassifying marijuana could also benefit cannabis businesses by allowing their shares to be listed on major stock exchanges, receiving more generous tax deductions, and facing fewer restrictions from banks.

Biden administration takes step to make marijuana use a less serious crime

Biden administration takes step to make marijuana use a less serious crime

The U.S. Department of Justice is considering reclassifying marijuana as a schedule three drug, which would indicate a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence. This potential policy change could be the biggest shift in federal cannabis policy in 40 years.