Up Next: The Debate over Marijuana Reclassification

September 05, 2024

A key discussion about reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I drug is likely to take place later this year.

Last week, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced a hearing to receive input on a proposal to change the drug from Schedule I to Schedule III, a move that has been watched closely by policy and public health officials in health care and other sectors.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Hearing date:  The DEA will take feedback during a hearing on December 2. The hearing is part of the Department of Justice’s rulemaking process to reschedule the drug.
• Driving the trend:  During August 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services published a letter ultimately recommending the drug be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III based on a review of potential and current patterns for abuse; pharmacological effects; state of research; and public health risks.
  • “Schedule III drugs are classified as having a potential for abuse less than the drugs or other substances in Schedules I and II, a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence that may result from their use,” HHS wrote in its analysis.
• Potential implications:  There are different regulatory controls for Schedule I and Schedule III controlled substances.
• In health care:  The reclassification of the drug may help address key questions surrounding patient care, while offering the FDA the opportunity to provide guardrails on how products are approved for use.
• In detail:  Earlier this year, HAP’s Regulatory Roundup (login required) highlighted the key questions for hospitals related to the state’s medical marijuana program.

HAP continues to monitor the latest public health developments and provide updates to members. Additional information about the upcoming hearing is available online.