Marijuana re-scheduling and de-scheduling has been talked about a lot lately, and for good reason. Recently Presidential candidate Gary Johnson predicted that Obama would ‘reclassify’ marijuana on his way out of office. Also recently, the DEA announced that it would be considering a move to change marijuana’s federal classification as a Schedule I controlled substance. For many years now activists have debated the merits (or lack thereof) of moving marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule II.
Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, as Senator, introduced a bill to completely de-schedule marijuana altogether, which is really what we need to have happen. But, opponents will try as hard as they can to cling to Schedule I, or at best, halfway suggest they would support a move down to Schedule II. Tonight The Brookings Institution is holding a debate on this topic. The debate is being held in Washington D.C. (Falk Auditorium 1775 Massachusetts Ave., NW) from 5:30 PM – 7:45 PM EST. I really, really hope that this is recorded and uploaded to YouTube or something so that I can see what was said. Earl Blumenauer and John Hudak are arguing the ‘pro’ side, and those are two individuals that know their stuff, and I admire them a lot. Below is more information about the debate, via the Brookings Institution event page:
Despite the federal government’s unwavering stance, states that have legalized marijuana for medicinal use allow cannabis and its derivatives to be used to treat cancer patients and those suffering from other serious ailments. With federal and state law at odds, however, many patients, doctors and small businesses have been caught in a policy gridlock that severely impacts their daily lives.
What are the potential pros and cons and costs and benefits of the federal government reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug? And how should the federal government respond to states passing laws at odds with its own?
On Thursday, April 14, experts on both sides of the issue will present their case and engage in a lively debate.
Join the conversation on Twitter at #BrookingsDebate and @BrookingsGov
