On December 18, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to expand research into medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) to support patients and healthcare providers. This Executive Order directs the Attorney General to initiate the rescheduling of marijuana to Schedule III of the Controlled Substance Act, recognizing its accepted medical use. The goal is to enable research that can lead to improved safety and efficacy data for marijuana and CBD products, ultimately providing clarity and enhancing patient access while upholding public health standards.

Rescheduling marijuana from its current classification as a Schedule I substance is significant, as it indicates recognized medical use and permits more rigorous research on the safety, efficacy, and health outcomes of medical marijuana. More than 40 states have medical marijuana programs, allowing many healthcare practitioners to recommend it for various conditions. This directive is anticipated to promote a better-informed dialogue regarding the use of marijuana and CBD, particularly beneficial for older Americans who may find relief for chronic pain and other health issues.

In addition to promoting research on marijuana, the Executive Order aims to clarify regulations concerning hemp-derived CBD products, establishing standards to ensure consistency and safety for consumers. With the new regulatory framework in place, researchers are expected to utilize real-world evidence to evaluate the long-term health effects of these products. Furthermore, President Trump expresses his commitment to improving healthcare access for all Americans through various healthcare initiatives, including partnerships with pharmaceutical companies to reduce drug costs and enhance the quality of care throughout the United States.

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