The prospects and perils of reclassifying cannabis as a less dangerous controlled substance

The impending decision by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous controlled substance marks a significant shift in federal drug policy. Reliable reports confirming the DEA’s intent to move cannabis from a Schedule I drug — the strictest category of controlled substances — to Schedule III all but assure this outcome. The implications are profound, bringing obvious benefits but also potential drawbacks that may be consequential enough to require congressional action.