DEA and FDA Push to Reschedule Marijuana, Emphasizing Medical Use and Lower Harms

Opening day of a cannabis rescheduling hearing features DEA and FDA arguing that marijuana has medical benefits and lower day-to-day harms than alcohol or opioids, supporting moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III. Testimony describes real-world pain management benefits and relatively mild withdrawal, while opponents criticize the analysis and allege shifting precedent. The process continues through July 15 amid lawsuits and broader regulatory implications, including tax guidance, workplace rules, and updates to related federal forms and enforcement.