For several years, U.S. authorities have been working to revise cannabis regulations.
According to The Washington Post, the process has been delayed by legal requirements and health-related assessments.
As early as 2024, it was proposed to change the classification, but the process was prolonged.
Experts explain that authorities must ensure that any changes do not harm public health.
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At the same time, there has been political pressure to deliver faster results.
Focus on research
A key argument for the change is improved opportunities for research.
Previous regulations have made it difficult to study cannabis as a medical treatment, The Washington Post reports.
Several health stakeholders believe that easier access could help patients and provide doctors with better knowledge.
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At the same time, the change aligns more closely with the rules already adopted by many states.
However, public opinion is not uniform. Although many support easing restrictions, support has declined slightly in recent years.
Disagreement over effects
Not everyone agrees with the decision. Critics warn of possible health risks and point to research on negative effects, particularly among young people.
Others argue that economic interests may influence the decisions.
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The United States has now reclassified medical cannabis into a lower-risk category, known as Schedule III.
This means it is treated similarly to certain types of prescription medication. The change applies only to medical use and does not make cannabis legal for recreational use.
Sources: The Washington Post.
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