Congressman Introduces Federal Bill That Would Reclassify Marijuana

U.S. Representative Greg Steube introduced to Congress the “Marijuana 1-to-3 Act” last week. The bill would federally reclassify marijuana from a Schedule 1 drug to Schedule 3.

It was sent to both the House Judiciary Committee and U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee, according to Sunshine State News. The bill already has support from Rep. Matt Gaetz as a co-sponsor.

“As marijuana is legalized for medical and recreational use across the United States, it is important that we study the effects of the substance and the potential impacts it can have on various populations,” said Congressman Steube. “By rescheduling marijuana from a schedule I controlled substance to a schedule III controlled substance, the opportunities for research and study are drastically expanded. With this rescheduling, researchers can now access federal funds to research this substance and determine its medical value.”

Reclassifying marijuana would remove many barriers currently in place that restrict research on the plant.

Steube also said, “We hear every day about the positive health benefits of marijuana. Whether it’s young children with seizure disorders or veterans suffering from chronic pain, it is clear that there are medical benefits to marijuana and I think it’s time we remove the bureaucratic red tape that prevents us from thoroughly studying this substance.”

It’s unknown when the bill will receive a hearing or a vote.