Trump considers reclassifying marijuana as lower-risk drug

The Trump administration is considering reclassifying marijuana as a lower-risk drug, a move that would facilitate research, investments, and tax deductions for the sector

Published on 08/11/2025

Trump avalia reclassificar maconha como droga de menor risco

Measure maintains prohibition, but eases controls, grants tax deductions, and strengthens medical investigations | Photo: Disclosure

The government of United States President Donald Trump is studying the reclassification of marijuana as a lower-risk substance, according to The Wall Street Journal. The measure would not legalize cannabis, but would reduce restrictions, allowing tax deductions for companies in the sector and expanding medical research. The proposal revives discussions initiated during Joe Biden's government, which were not concluded.

The agenda gained momentum after major donations from companies linked to the cannabis industry to political groups close to Trump. In early August, the former president's golf club in New Jersey hosted a fundraising event with participation quotas of up to $1 million.

Executives from Trulieve, one of the largest companies in the medical marijuana market in the country, as well as representatives from pharmaceutical companies, cryptocurrency companies, and Trump's political advisors were present.

Change would facilitate research and investments

According to sources cited by WSJ, Trump has shown interest in the proposals presented. The reclassification would move marijuana from 'Schedule I,' the most restrictive level that includes drugs like heroin, to the 'Schedule III' category, considered to have 'moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence,' according to the DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration).

This change would reduce federal control over the substance, enabling new studies, greater access to treatments with medical cannabis, and encouraging investments in the sector.

Cannabis lobbying invests millions

The WSJ points out that the pro-cannabis lobby has been investing millions of dollars in advertising, research, and hiring consultants close to the former president to influence the decision. Despite progress in the discussions, there is still no final decision, and the talks continue within the Trump administration.

With no progress at the DEA, cannabis reclassification remains stagnant under Trump administration

Trump administration unlikely to reclassify marijuana anytime soon, says White House