DOJ Welcomes Public Comments on Cannabis Rescheduling
The Biden administration has recently taken significant and historic steps toward changing federal policies on marijuana. On the heels of such a move, the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have also published a proposed rule to reschedule marijuana, moving it from Schedule I to a lower classification. This move is a monumental shift in the law, as all previous rescheduling petitions have been rejected.
Without a doubt, the rescheduling of marijuana strives to reflect the growing body of evidence supporting its medical use and the changing public perception of cannabis. It also depicts the changing attitudes that surround marijuana use as so many states have now legalized the substance for both recreational and medical usage.
Public Comments and Influence Concerning Marijuana Rescheduling
With the publication of this proposed rule, the DOJ has opened a public comment period. This is a critical time for supporters and opponents to come forward about cannabis reform to voice their opinions.
At this time, key reform groups are actively preparing to influence the process by submitting detailed comments that focus strongly on the medical benefits of marijuana and the need for more rational drug policies.
Reform advocates argue that rescheduling marijuana would facilitate more research into its medical benefits, reduce the legal risks associated with its use, and potentially lead to broader legalization efforts.
Read More: The Ripple Effects Of Rescheduling Cannabis: Guns, Banking, Credit Cards, Risks
However, on the other hand, opponents raise concerns about the potential for increased misuse and the societal impacts of further decriminalization.
The public comment period is expected to bring forth a wide range of responses from both sides that will reflect the polarized views on cannabis reform. The comment period will run until July 22, 2024.
To leave comments on the proposed rule for the rescheduling of marijuana, visit the Federal Register website at the specific document page. On this page, you’ll find detailed information about the rule, including the context and implications of the proposed changes.
To submit your comments, scroll down to the section titled “Addresses” where you will find instructions for submitting comments electronically.
Click on the link provided for the Federal eRulemaking Portal, which directs you to the appropriate page on regulations.gov. Here, you can enter your comments directly into the provided text box or upload a document containing your comments. Be sure to reference the docket number DEA-2024-0059-0001 in your submission to ensure it is considered part of the public record for this proposal.
All comments are considered public, so avoid including any confidential information in your submission. If you prefer, you can also mail your comments via regular or express mail to: the Drug Enforcement Administration, Attn: DEA Federal Register Representative/DPW, 8701 Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 22152.
The Legal Trap of Oversharing with the DEA
While the public comment period presents an opportunity for individuals and organizations to influence marijuana policy, it also carries potential risks. One significant concern is the inadvertent self-incrimination by those who provide too much information about activities that remain illegal under federal law.
Cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I substance, which means its production, distribution, and use are illegal under federal law, despite varying state laws.
Individuals and businesses involved in the cannabis industry may feel compelled to share their experiences and insights during the public comment period. However, they must be cautious about revealing details that could expose them to legal repercussions. The entire situation is a catch-22 in many regards.
The DEA’s request for public comments is a double-edged sword. While it offers a platform for advocacy, it also serves as a potential trap for those unaware of the legal boundaries.
Providing excessive information about illegal activities could lead to investigations or legal actions against those individuals or entities. Therefore, commenters should consult legal counsel before submitting their comments to ensure they do not inadvertently incriminate themselves.
Conclusion
The proposed rescheduling of marijuana marks a dramatic and impressive step toward reforming federal cannabis policies. Without a doubt, it is a milestone that many believed would never come.
Everyone should remember that the public comment period is a vital part of this process, allowing diverse perspectives to be heard from both those for and against marijuana reform. However, it is essential to tackle this opportunity with caution, particularly regarding the legal implications of sharing information about activities that remain illegal.
As the conversation around cannabis reform continues to evolve, the input from the public will play a vital role in shaping the future of marijuana policy in the United States. If you want to contribute…
Marijuana should be delisted, not rescheduled. Why does Federal keep fighting to control this, departmental loss of budgeting? It should be delisted and controlled just as tobacco and liquor are.
I’ve have mixed emotions on legalizing pot, but it should never have been in the same class as other illegal substances. I’d like to know if being impaired on pot or impaired from drinking. I’ll take pot everytime.
Reschedule quick. It helps my hips, back, and my anxiety.
There are so many benefits derived from this amazing plant and one thing for sure is it needs to be grown legally and ethically!
Kudos to the United States Federal Government to move forward with finally rescheduling cannabis!…especially since almost half the United States already allow adult use and over 2/3 of the nation allows for medical use. REscheduling will allow for more research to add to the research we have so far showing the many benefits of Cannabis. We need to assure we are selling healthy plants to the MILLIONS of United State’s citizens who consume it daily in a variety of products. Also, we need to remove the 280 E tax laws so business can survive, especially the small business guy (or gal). We also need to allow for safe banking so dispensaries don’t become targets for thieves.
PLEASE reschedule cannabis! Thanks for listening! Tammy
This reschedule just allows Big Pharma to take advantage of it and remove it from our hands. It will all end in tears.
At the very least make it so that those of us that are currently Medical MJ users can travel with it just like any other prescription.
Rescheduling it across the board is helpful but making it legal would be best.
Free the marijuana it has gone on for to long. It is medicine