Biden administration formalizes reclassification of cannabis as a less dangerous drug
Paul RoyerFollow us on 
In the United States, cannabis has until now been classified as a hard drug in the same way as heroin, for example. The Biden administration has decided to downgrade the substance from category I to II, opening up new prospects for the future.
The Biden administration's recent decision marks an important turning point in US cannabis policy. By moving the substance from the most dangerous drug category to a less severe classification, the federal government is finally recognizing its medical value and reduced risk of abuse.
The importance of reclassification
The field of cannabis is currently in a state of flux throughout the world. From Europe, with the recent authorization of German recreational cannabis, to the United States with this new legislation.
This reclassification means that cannabis will no longer be considered on the same level as substances such as heroin. President Joe Biden announced that cannabis would be upgraded from Category I to Category III, a clear recognition of its medical benefits and less dangerous nature.
A historic change
As Joe Biden put it in a video announcing the news, “Today, my administration has taken a significant step by reclassifying marijuana from Class I to Class III”. This decision gives a glimmer of hope to those whose lives have been disrupted by current cannabis laws.
Long-awaited recognition
Vice President Kamala Harris agrees, pointing out that “marijuana is currently classified at the same level as heroin and considered more dangerous than fentanyl”. In her opinion, this reclassification will also help to remove important obstacles in areas such as employment and small business financing.
Social and economic impacts
It's undeniable that the previous strict classification had devastating consequences, particularly for certain minority communities. This change could remedy a number of historical injustices and open up new economic opportunities.
Reducing mass arrests
Since its initial classification in 1970 under the Nixon administration, cannabis has been responsible for numerous arrests, impacting minorities such as African-Americans the most. The reclassification aims not only to reduce these incidents, but also to correct discriminatory policies of the past.
Improved business model
For cannabis companies, this initiative will mean significant tax benefits. At present, they cannot deduct their operating costs from their tax base. With the new classification, this will change, improving their profitability.
- Greater access to financing: Companies will find it easier to obtain commercial loans.
- Job creation: The cannabis industry could see a substantial increase in job opportunities.
- Increased revenues for states: More flexible regulations will encourage legal sales, thereby increasing tax revenues.
Accelerated medical research
Another major benefit of reclassification is the expected positive impact on scientific research into the medical properties of cannabis.
Removal of cumbersome barriers
Karine Jean-Pierre, White House Press Secretary, said that the transfer to Category III will remove long-standing barriers, opening up new avenues for basic research. This will undoubtedly lead to important medical discoveries and a better understanding of the therapeutic potential of cannabis.
More and freer studies
With fewer restrictions, more researchers will be able to study cannabis in depth. This could lead to innovative treatments for various medical conditions and improve the clinical applicability of cannabis.
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