WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressmen Dave Joyce (OH-14) and Brian Mast (FL-21), the Republican Co-Chairs of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, applaud President Trump’s Executive Order to direct the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to move cannabis from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.
“President Trump’s executive order to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III is a meaningful step forward, and I applaud the Administration for following through on this commitment. This action is reflective of the growing body of scientific evidence and medical research. For too long, Schedule I status has blocked research, distorted markets, and denied patients, especially veterans and seniors, access to treatments that could improve their quality of life. Rescheduling opens the door to responsible regulation, evidence-based medicine, and a safer, more transparent cannabis market. It will help close the gap in information needed to support informed doctor–patient choice.”
“We must continue fighting to build on the President’s efforts to expand access to medical cannabis for the millions of patients, such as veterans and seniors, who could benefit. Congress should follow suit and establish a clear, safe regulatory and banking framework that protects patients and public health. My bipartisan legislation, the PREPARE Act, would help support that work by establishing a fair, transparent process for developing effective regulations. I look forward to working with President Trump, the appropriate agencies, and my colleagues in Congress to advance these priorities as rescheduling is implemented,” said Congressman Joyce.
“President Trump can change the stigma around marijuana that fails to reflect its proven benefits, especially for veterans. By rescheduling, he will expand patient access and advance the America First agenda at a pivotal moment. From its ability to ease chronic pain to its critical help for veterans healing from both visible and invisible wounds, I applaud President Trump’s decision to reschedule marijuana and improve the quality of life for so many,” said Congressman Mast.
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