The Drug Enforcement Administration is considering reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance. This change, if approved, could broaden access to the use of marijuana in the United States and make it easier to conduct research on the drug. Marijuana would still be federally illegal even if reclassified as a Schedule III drug, but it would be in the same category as prescription drugs like ketamine and anabolic steroids.
There is a growing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic benefits of marijuana, including its potential to treat chronic pain, nausea and vomiting in cancer patients, and certain neurological conditions such as seizures. However, reclassifying marijuana as a lower-risk drug could have public health consequences. Three in 10 people who use marijuana have marijuana use disorder, meaning that 30% of users experience problems at school, home, work, or in high-risk situations like driving.
As more Americans have access to marijuana, more may suffer from its detrimental effects on health. Smoking marijuana can damage the lungs by causing scarring and damage to small blood vessels, putting users at increased risk of developing bronchitis and obstructive lung disease. Additionally, the drug can have immediate and long-term effects on thinking, attention, memory, coordination, and mental health. Heavy marijuana users are more likely to report suicidal ideations and develop social anxiety disorder.
Marijuana’s effects on impaired driving and public safety are also a concern as it impairs balance, coordination, and judgment needed for safe driving. Unlike alcohol, which has established legal limits for driving under the influence, determining impairment due to marijuana has not been standardized across America. Establishing legal limits will be crucial to protect the safety of Americans on the road and prevent potential accidents and injuries.
The potential reclassification of marijuana from Schedule I to III holds dire public health implications for all Americans. While increased access may help in treating certain medical conditions, the drug’s adverse effects on health and safety cannot be overlooked. As marijuana becomes more normalized in American culture, the need for establishing legal limits for driving under the influence becomes more pressing to ensure the safety of all individuals on the road. Overall, the decision to reclassify marijuana should take into account its potential benefits alongside its risks to public health and safety.
