Trump signs order to reclassify marijuana, ease research restrictions

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesDecember 18, 2025 at 10:28 PM

AI Summary

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In December 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to expedite the federal reclassification of marijuana. The order moves marijuana from Schedule I, the most restrictive drug category, to Schedule III, a category that includes ketamine and anabolic steroids. This reclassification does not legalize marijuana but aims to ease restrictions on research, as Schedule III drugs require less stringent approval for studies. Trump stated the change is intended to facilitate research, aligning with the growing number of states legalizing marijuana for medical and recreational use. The move follows previous steps taken by former President Joe Biden to lessen federal penalties for marijuana-related offenses.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Joe Biden 50% Pam Bondi 60% Drug Enforcement Administration 70% United States ×280% Donald Trump ×390%

Keywords

marijuana reclassification 100% research restrictions 80% schedule i 70% executive order 70% schedule iii 70% federal law 60% drug enforcement administration 60% legalization 50% medical use 40% recreational use 40%