A day after the DEA’s announcement regarding marijuana rescheduling, Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) is gearing up for a legal battle against the reform.

Rescheduling Legal Defense Fund

SAM reaches out to supporters, requesting donations for its newly established “Rescheduling Legal Defense Fund,” intended to fuel legal challenges against marijuana’s Schedule III recommendation.

Concerns Over Consequences

SAM expresses concerns about the potential consequences of rescheduling marijuana, warning of the normalization of high-potency THC drugs and tax benefits for the cannabis industry.

Opacity of Government Review

Critics, including SAM’s president Kevin Sabet, question the government’s review process, accusing the Biden administration of starting with the decision and working backward to justify it.

White House Response

The White House defends the rescheduling decision as part of President Biden’s campaign promise to address marijuana policy and reduce incarceration rates for cannabis offenses.

Legal Process Ahead

While the DOJ has confirmed the completion of its review, the proposed rule for marijuana rescheduling is expected to undergo further review by the White House Office of Management and Budget before being published for public comment.

Biden’s Stance on Cannabis

Despite Biden’s past support for marijuana decriminalization and mass pardons for federal cannabis offenses, rescheduling alone does not legalize or decriminalize marijuana. The administration has reiterated its commitment to evidence-based policymaking.

Election Dynamics

With the upcoming November election in mind, both Biden and Vice President Harris have increased their public statements regarding marijuana policy reform, signaling potential shifts in federal cannabis policy.

As SAM prepares to challenge the DEA’s decision, the future of marijuana rescheduling remains uncertain amidst evolving political dynamics and ongoing legal processes.