The US Cannabis Roundtable (USCR), a leading advocacy group in the United States, remains hopeful about potential cannabis reform from the Biden administration. David Culver, the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at USCR, expressed that concerns regarding the halt of the cannabis rescheduling process are premature.
Culver pointed out that there is mounting evidence suggesting the DEA has been stalling the process, yet he believes the ultimate decision rests with the President. He emphasized that the industry must be patient as they await their moment for reform.
Currently, the rescheduling process is in a state of limbo, awaiting the outcome of an interlocutory appeal regarding the DEA’s stance. Culver noted that the responsibility lies with the DEA at this moment. He commented on the political climate, suggesting that loyalty is prioritized in the Trump administration, which may affect officials’ positions on cannabis policy.
Despite this, Culver mentioned that there are numerous key officials within the administration who support cannabis reform. He expressed confidence that the President has changed his views on cannabis since his previous time in office, although he acknowledged that cannabis reform has not been prioritized in the early months of the administration.
Culver remarked, “I think that the DEA are going to need to get direction from the President in order for rescheduling to occur… The big question is when.” This statement reflects the uncertainty surrounding the timing of any potential changes in cannabis policy.
In a related development, former congressman and loyal Trump supporter Matt Gaetz recently suggested in an op-ed that cannabis rescheduling might be forthcoming. However, the DEA has reported no advancements in the rescheduling case, which has been suspended for some time.
According to a joint status update submitted to Administrative Law Judge John J. Mulrooney, DEA attorneys stated that Acting Administrator Derek Maltz has not set a briefing schedule for formal arguments regarding the proposed rule change. Additionally, the Office of National Drug Control Policy’s recent policy priorities for 2025 did not include cannabis rescheduling, raising further concerns about the administration’s commitment to the issue.
Legal experts have indicated that parties involved may seek intervention from the DC Circuit Court, contending that the DEA’s inaction amounts to an “unreasonable delay” under the Administrative Procedure Act.
