Statement on the potential federal marijuana rescheduling from a retired police officer

This statement is in response to breaking news. Please contact pr@rstreet.org to speak with the scholar.

In response to the news of the Trump administration’s plan to cut cannabis restrictions via executive order, Jillian Snider, R Street resident senior fellow and a retired police officer, has issued the following statement:

“Reports that President Trump is preparing to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III recognize what science and medical practice have shown for years: marijuana does not belong in the same legal category as the most dangerous drugs. That step is welcome, but it still leaves federal prohibition in place. As a retired police officer, I’ve seen how unclear and outdated federal policy diverts law-enforcement resources away from serious crime and creates unnecessary legal confusion. Full descheduling would provide clarity, consistency, and a more sensible framework that better serves public safety, patients, and communities.”