In a progress point for US narcotics regulations, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has declared a hearing to weigh expert perspectives on the Justice Department’s idea to federally alter the classification of marijuana. This process is set to take place post the forthcoming November election.
The Justice Department initiated the idea of upgrading cannabis to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act, earlier in March. This triggered a 60-day public opinion period, receiving over 40,000 responses. Following the assessment of these comments, the DEA agreed to conduct an administrative hearing as demanded by various supporters and critics of the reform. The hearing is slated for December 2, with official circular regarding the same to be issued in the Federal Register.
Significance and Outcomes of the Upcoming Hearing
Substantial regulatory proposals that engage public attention often lead the DEA to organize such hearings, thus calling a hearing to review cannabis classification is an anticipated move by many. This signifies the first revision of cannabis classification in more than half a century, adding to the importance of the occasion. But, the event’s timing introduces some certain uncertainties, stirring concerns that the rule-making process may not wrap up before January.
According to DEA’s recent filing, if the shift to Schedule III gets approved, the existing marijuana-specific charges would continue to align with Schedule III substances’ regulatory controls. The production, distribution, dispensing, and ownership of marijuana would still be monitored under the guidelines of the Controlled Substances Act.
Further, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, who wasn’t the signer of the original proposed rescheduling rule, outlined the following procedure. Parties likely to be negatively affected by the policy change must submit an intent to participate in the hearing within 30 days of the formal notice. Post receipt and review of these notices, a presiding officer would be designated to head the hearing.
Meanwhile, numerous legislators have aired their views on the proposed reform subsequent to the Schedule III announcement. Senators such as Chuck Grassley and Bill Cassidy shared their apprehensions over the reasoning behind the Biden administration’s recommendation to reschedule marijuana. At the last RNC convention, GOP legislators had mixed reactions on how the rescheduling process might be influenced if Donald Trump secured victory in the November Election.
The hearings and the discussion surrounding the reclassification of marijuana are central to the DEA marijuana rescheduling and cannabis Schedule III debate.