DEA's Resistance To Cannabis Rescheduling Ignites Policy Clash

A recent article in The Wall Street Journal has shed light on escalating tensions between the White House and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) over proposals to reclassify marijuana. The pushback from some DEA officials stems from doubts about cannabis’s medicinal benefits and its potential for addiction.

Clash With Health Department Findings

This resistance is notably in conflict with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) findings from January, which acknowledged cannabis as having an accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. The HHS documents also suggested that cannabis has a lower abuse potential than substances in Schedules I and II, a stance that contrasts with the DEA’s apprehensions.

DEA’s Concerns And Independent Review

The DEA has voiced concerns over the THC potency in cannabis, sparking debate among marijuana advocates who are calling into question the motives behind these anonymous assertions. Despite the lack of a public stance against the HHS recommendation, DEA administrator Anne Milgram confirmed the agency is conducting its review, according to the Journal.

Potential Impacts Of Rescheduling

Rescheduling cannabis might not legalize it federally but could significantly benefit the cannabis industry by allowing businesses to claim federal tax deductions, currently barred under IRS code 280E. It could also facilitate more scientific research into marijuana’s therapeutic uses.

Optimism From Analysts

Despite these hurdles, analysts like Aaron Grey from Alliance Global Partners and an upcoming speaker at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference remain optimistic. In a Morningstar research note, Grey stated that the DEA is likely to follow HHS’s recommendation to reclassify cannabis to a less restrictive category, citing the substantial evidence presented by HHS.

The ongoing debate and review process keep stakeholders and observers on edge as they await the DEA’s final decision on this contentious issue.

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Now Read: Cannabis On The Rise In Europe: Why Germany’s Legalization Is A Game Changer For The Ecosystem

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