The FDA is seeking Comments for Scheduling Changes to Marijuana
We’ve got until April 23rd to let the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) know our opinion on marijuana’s Schedule 1 classification.
Why are they asking?
This year, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) is scheduledto review the current international classification of marijuana, THC, cannabidiol, and other related compounds and preparations. In the lead-up to this event, the WHO is asking member nations, like the US which is extremely influential, to submit feedback. Hence, the call for comments.
Officially, the FDA is seeking “comments concerning abuse potential, actual abuse, medical usefulness, trafficking, and impact of scheduling changes on availability for medical use.”
Don’t be shy.
NORML has set up a site where you can submit your public comment or you can go directly to the government regulation site and speak your mind.
In its action alert, NORMAL has pre-drafted comments and is encouraging people to amend them to their own situations and include any other important aspects.
For example, if you are an MMJ patient and have experienced health benefits you should mention them. Parents with children suffering from seizures or autism as well as patients for whom cannabis has helped for chronic pain and/or relief from the side effects of chemo should explain their situation. A person who might be recovering from a drug, opioid or alcohol addiction might also want to describe how cannabis has helped. Also, physicians who have treated MMJ patients, please speak out.
The important thing is to participate in this important project, no matter who you are or why you believe marijuana should not be a Schedule 1, illegal substance.
Make your comments truthful, sincere and, if you’ve got scientific evidence, all the better. There is a place for attaching supporting documentation, including your contact information, which is optional.
If you’re not into telling your story online, you can also mail in your comments to: Dockets Management Staff (HFA-305), Food and Drug Administration, 5630 Fishers Lane, Rm. 1061, Rockville, MD 20852.
But do it soon. The deadline is April 23.
