An executive order signed December 18, 2025 by President Donald Trump directs federal agencies to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, a change that eases long-standing restrictions on medical research.
Schedule I substances are defined under federal law as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, while Schedule III substances are recognized as having medical value with lower abuse potential. The reclassification allows federal agencies to permit broader, more rigorous scientific studies, including large-scale and randomized clinical trials.
For decades, Schedule I status significantly limited cannabis research by requiring multiple layers of federal approval and restricting access to research-grade materials. The new classification reduces those barriers, allowing universities, hospitals and research institutions to study cannabis using standard clinical research methods.
The executive order does not legalize cannabis at the federal level, does not mandate medical use, and does not alter state marijuana laws. Cannabis remains a controlled substance, and possession or use continues to be governed by federal law and individual state regulations.
Expanded research access could allow scientists to better study cannabis-related treatments for conditions commonly affecting veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, chronic pain, sleep disorders, anxiety and depression. Any future treatment options would still require clinical validation and regulatory approval.
Federal officials have said the goal of the reclassification is to allow evidence-based research to determine whether cannabis-based therapies are safe and effective. Results from future studies could help inform medical guidance, clinical decision-making and potential treatment options for veterans and other patient populations.
