Donald Trump just made major change to weed laws in US

Donald Trump has approved a major shift in U.S. drug policy by signing an executive order to reclassify marijuana. The decision was signed on Thursday, 18 December, marking a potentially historic change at the federal level.

The order would move marijuana out of the Schedule I category, where it is listed alongside heroin and LSD. Instead, it would be placed in Schedule III, a group that includes substances such as ketamine and certain anabolic steroids.

While this change would not legalize marijuana nationwide, it could significantly affect how the drug is regulated. It would also reduce tax pressures on the cannabis industry and make medical research easier to carry out.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said the reclassification recognizes marijuana’s legitimate medical uses. He emphasized that the move would allow scientists to better study its benefits, risks, and possible treatment applications.

However, the change must still go through the Drug Enforcement Administration’s formal rule-making process. If approved, it would represent one of the most important federal updates to marijuana policy in decades.

The proposal has faced resistance from some Republicans, who argue it could encourage drug use among young people and worsen public safety. A group of lawmakers urged Trump not to proceed, warning of negative social consequences.

Trump responded by saying many Americans suffering from long-term pain have asked for this change. He stressed that the order does not support recreational use and warned against using controlled substances without medical guidance.