Trump Signs Executive Order: Marijuana Reclassification for Veterans and Research

Trump Administration Reschedules Marijuana, Citing Medical Benefits and Veteran Needs

WASHINGTON – In a move that could reshape the landscape of cannabis policy in the United States, President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug. The decision, lauded by medical professionals and veterans’ groups, acknowledges the potential medical benefits of cannabis and aims to improve access for those who could benefit from its use.

Currently, Schedule I drugs are defined as having a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, placing marijuana in the same category as heroin and LSD. Rescheduling to Schedule III recognizes a potential medical use and a lower risk of abuse, a classification that includes substances like ketamine and anabolic steroids.

“This is a historic moment for patients, veterans, and responsible cannabis advocates across the country,” stated Dr. Emily Carter, a physician who attended the White House ceremony. “For too long, federal prohibition has stifled critical research and limited access to a medicine that can provide relief for a wide range of conditions.”

The executive order directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to implement the rescheduling process.This is expected to take several months, during which time the DEA will review the scientific and medical evidence supporting the change and draft regulations.

A key driver behind the decision was the compelling testimony from veterans’ groups who have advocated for cannabis as a potential option treatment for chronic pain,PTSD,and other service-related conditions.

“Our veterans deserve every prospect to heal and live full lives,” said General Mark thompson, a representative from a leading veterans’ association. “This rescheduling offers a pathway to explore cannabis as a safe and effective treatment option, without the stigma and legal barriers that have previously existed.”

While the rescheduling doesn’t legalize marijuana at the federal level, it removes important obstacles to research and could pave the way for increased access to medical cannabis for patients nationwide. It also allows for easier banking access for cannabis businesses and could lead to lower tax burdens.

The move is expected to face opposition from some conservative groups who remain concerned about the potential for increased substance abuse. though, the Trump administration argues that the benefits of rescheduling outweigh the risks, particularly when it comes to providing relief to those who need it most.

Trump Administration Moves to Reclassify Marijuana, Citing Medical Benefits for Veterans and Others

washington D.C. – December 19, 2025 – The Trump administration announced Thursday steps to expedite the reclassification of marijuana from a Schedule I to a schedule III controlled substance. This move, while not federally legalizing cannabis, aims to lower barriers to research and expand access for medical use.

President Trump highlighted the positive experiences of veterans with chronic pain who have found relief using cannabis as an alternative to opioid painkillers, acknowledging the risks of overdose and addiction associated with opioids. He directed the Attorney General to “expedite completion of the process of rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III of the Controlled Substance Act.” https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/12/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-is-increasing-medical-marijuana-and-cannabidiol-research/

currently, Schedule I drugs – including heroin and LSD – are defined as having a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. Reclassifying marijuana as a schedule III substance would acknowledge its potential medical value and legitimate medical applications.

“This action has been requested by American patients suffering from extreme pain, incurable diseases, aggressive cancers, seizure disorders, neurological problems and more – including numerous veterans with service-related injuries and older Americans who live with chronic medical problems that severely degrade their quality of life,” Trump stated during a White House ceremony attended by Cabinet officials, doctors, and representatives from veterans’ groups.

The President emphasized that the executive order does not legalize marijuana for recreational use. “I’ve always told my children, ‘Stay away from drugs. Young Americans are especially at risk. Just don’t do it,” Trump said, while adding that he recognizes cannabis’s potential medical benefits when administered carefully.

The declaration follows increased communication from advocacy and medical groups regarding the need for reclassification. The order itself does not immediately change the classification, but is intended to accelerate the administrative review process.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, were also present at the ceremony.