President Donald Trump signed a groundbreaking executive order on December 18, 2025, reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, signaling a major shift in U.S. drug policy and opening the door for greater medical research and regulation.
This reclassification aims to acknowledge the therapeutic potential of cannabis, facilitating Medicare reimbursement for certain cannabis-derived products and easing the path for medical studies.
While advocates heralded the move as a significant victory for cannabis reform, it faced a backlash from conservative lawmakers, who voiced concerns over public safety and potential increases in drug use.
Senator Ted Budd publicly challenged Trump, alleging misleading statements regarding Republican opposition to the reclassification, highlighting the intra-party tensions surrounding the issue.
The executive order does not legalize recreational marijuana at the federal level, but it reflects changing attitudes toward cannabis use, with many states already embracing legalization for medical and recreational purposes.
As the cannabis industry adjusts to this pivot, stock market reactions indicate both excitement and uncertainty, underscoring the economic implications of loosening federal restrictions on marijuana.
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