President Donald Trump has kept the nation guessing on marijuana policy, but fresh signals suggest a major change could hit soon. A top GOP lawmaker voiced strong hope for rescheduling cannabis, while a White House adviser hinted the move is nearly ready. This comes months after Trump promised a quick review, sparking buzz across states and industries.
A leading Republican in Congress recently shared his positive outlook on marijuana rescheduling at a public event. He called it a smart step that fits the party’s focus on states’ rights and cutting opioid addiction. This optimism points to rescheduling as a real possibility under Trump, potentially easing federal rules on cannabis for medical use.
The lawmaker stressed how rescheduling could open doors for research and business without full legalization. He noted that many states already allow marijuana, and federal policy needs to catch up. This view aligns with growing support among conservatives who see cannabis as a safer option than painkillers.
In a separate update, sources close to the White House say Trump has told allies he has a plan. An adviser claimed the administration is close to deciding, which could happen before key elections. This builds on Trump’s summer comments where he said he’d look into downgrading marijuana’s status soon.
Details remain scarce, but the talk centers on moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. That shift would recognize some medical value and reduce harsh penalties.
White House Review Drags On Amid Policy Debates
The process kicked off when Trump directed a review of marijuana’s federal classification. Back in 2023, health officials suggested the change, but it stalled. Now, with Trump back in office, the Drug Enforcement Administration is under pressure to act.
A White House staffer confirmed the review is still ongoing, three months after Trump’s promise of a fast decision. Delays stem from debates over how this affects law enforcement and business, but momentum is building for a positive outcome.
Critics worry about mixed messages. Trump’s team recently pushed prosecutors to enforce simple possession laws in some areas, reversing Biden-era leniency. Yet, supporters argue rescheduling would balance enforcement with reform.
Industry groups have mixed reactions. Some welcome the potential for easier banking and taxes for cannabis firms. Others fear it won’t go far enough without full descheduling.
Here’s a quick look at key differences in scheduling:
- Schedule I: No accepted medical use, high abuse risk – like heroin.
- Schedule III: Accepted medical use, moderate abuse risk – like some steroids.
This table shows potential impacts:
| Aspect | Current (Schedule I) | If Rescheduled (Schedule III) |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Research | Heavily restricted | Easier access for studies |
| Business Taxes | High deductions barred | Better tax breaks |
| Federal Penalties | Strict enforcement | Reduced for possession |
State Laws Clash with Federal Stance
Across the U.S., 38 states have legalized marijuana in some form, creating a patchwork that confuses users and businesses. Trump’s possible rescheduling could bridge this gap, letting states lead while federal rules loosen.
In places like California and Colorado, legal markets thrive, generating billions in revenue. A federal shift might boost these economies by allowing interstate trade. For everyday people, this means less fear of federal charges for medical use, potentially saving lives amid the opioid crisis.
One study from Johns Hopkins University in 2024 found states with medical marijuana saw a 25% drop in opioid overdose deaths. Researchers analyzed data from 2010 to 2023, linking access to cannabis with fewer prescriptions for dangerous pain meds.
However, not all news is positive. Trump signed a ban on certain hemp products this year, targeting intoxicating items sold as loopholes. Businesses have one year to adjust, which some see as a crackdown.
Advocates push for more. They want descheduling, removing cannabis from controlled substances entirely. But insiders say rescheduling is the likely first step, with studies on full removal to follow.
Industry and Public Reactions Heat Up
Cannabis stocks jumped on the latest rumors, with investors betting on policy wins. Companies like those in the MSOS exchange-traded fund saw gains as traders predicted a 26% chance of rescheduling by year’s end, per betting markets.
Public sentiment is split. Polls from Gallup in 2025 show 70% of Americans support legalization, up from 50% a decade ago. This widespread backing pressures Trump to act, especially with midterm elections looming.
Supporters highlight benefits like job creation. The industry employs over 400,000 people, according to a 2025 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, based on surveys from legal states.
Opponents warn of risks, like increased youth use. A 2024 CDC study tracked teen marijuana habits and found slight rises in states with lax laws, urging careful regulation.
Bullet points on potential benefits:
- Boosts medical access for veterans with PTSD.
- Cuts black market sales by supporting legal options.
- Generates tax revenue for schools and roads.
As debates rage, Trump’s team eyes a “game changer” for policy.
The push for marijuana rescheduling under President Trump marks a turning point that could reshape federal drug laws, ease burdens on states, and offer hope to millions seeking alternatives to opioids. It’s a story of evolving views, blending conservative values with public demand for change, and it leaves us wondering if this bold move will spark broader reforms.