A conservative group tied to President Donald Trump’s political allies is cheering his bold move to reschedule marijuana, saying it crushes the black market and opens doors for veterans and seniors in need. This executive order marks a huge shift in U.S. drug rules, sparking debates on health, economy, and law. What’s next could change lives across the nation.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order this month to fast-track marijuana’s shift from Schedule I to Schedule III under federal drug laws. This places cannabis alongside drugs like codeine mixtures, easing strict rules that once lumped it with heroin.
The order directs the Department of Justice and health agencies to wrap up the process quickly. Trump stressed this does not legalize marijuana but allows more research and medical use. America First Agriculture Inc., a nonprofit linked to a Trump-aligned PAC, launched an ad praising the president for keeping his word.
In the ad, the group highlights Trump’s past wins like border security and tax cuts. They argue rescheduling fixes a broken system where cannabis was seen as more dangerous than fentanyl.
Experts say this could happen by early 2026, based on recent reports from congressional researchers. But the Justice Department might still tweak or delay it, adding uncertainty.
Crushing the Illicit Market
The ad from America First Agriculture claims Trump’s order will “destroy” the underground marijuana trade. By making legal paths easier, it aims to pull business away from illegal sellers.
Legal cannabis sales hit about $30 billion in 2023, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau analyzed last year. Rescheduling could boost that by letting banks work with cannabis firms without fear of federal penalties.
- Reduced black market profits, as legal options grow.
- Lower prices for consumers through competition.
- Fewer arrests for minor possession, freeing up police resources.
States like Missouri and Arizona are already eyeing tax breaks for local growers. One industry report from 2024 by New Frontier Data predicts a 20% drop in illicit sales within two years if this sticks.
This shift might hit cartels hard, especially those smuggling from abroad. Trump’s team frames it as a win for American jobs and safety.
Helping Veterans and Seniors
Military veterans and older Americans stand to gain big from easier access to cannabis for medical needs. The ad spotlights how rescheduling supports those groups by promoting research into pain relief and mental health treatments.
A 2022 study by the American Legion, a veterans’ group, found 81% of surveyed vets back medical marijuana. Many use it for PTSD or chronic pain from service injuries.
Seniors face issues like arthritis and sleep problems. With Schedule III status, doctors could prescribe cannabis more freely, and insurance might cover it someday.
One veteran shared in a recent interview that cannabis helped him ditch opioids. This order could save lives by offering safer alternatives, supporters say.
But critics worry about addiction risks. Health officials plan more studies to weigh benefits against harms.
Wider Policy and Economic Ripples
This move shakes up federal drug policy unchanged since the 1970s. It follows Trump’s campaign nods to reform, though he avoided full legalization.
In states like New Jersey, it might reshape hemp and cannabis markets, per local business analyses. Companies could deduct business expenses on taxes, saving millions.
| Impact Area | Before Rescheduling | After Rescheduling |
|---|---|---|
| Research Barriers | High, due to Schedule I rules | Lower, easier FDA studies |
| Banking Access | Limited, banks avoid involvement | Improved, reduces risks |
| Medical Use | Restricted in many areas | Expanded for conditions like pain |
| Tax Benefits | None for cannabis firms | Deductions allowed, big savings |
Economists at the Brookings Institution estimated in a 2023 paper that rescheduling could add $10 billion to the economy over five years through jobs and taxes.
It also ties into Trump’s “America First” agenda by boosting homegrown agriculture. Farmers in legal states might expand, creating rural jobs.
Some see it as a step toward descheduling, where states decide fully. Trump’s advisor hints at studying that option soon.
This policy tweak affects everyday people by potentially lowering drug costs and improving health options. Families dealing with chronic illness might find new hope, while small businesses get a fair shot.
Trump’s marijuana rescheduling order delivers on promises, smashing illicit trades while aiding veterans and seniors through better medical access. It sparks a fresh era in drug policy, blending conservative values with practical reforms.
