Schedule Classifications and the MORE Act

In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act established U.S. Federal drug policy to regulate the manufacture, import, possession, use, and distribution of certain substances. The Act created five classifications that substances would fall under based on their potential for abuse and perceived medical use. A Schedule 1 classification is the most restrictive category, containing drugs the Federal government deemed as having no medical value and a high potential for abuse.

On Friday, December 4th, 2020, the House of Representatives passed the MORE Act (H.R.3884). This bill decriminalizes marijuana, specifically removing it from its Schedule 1 classification and eliminating criminal penalties. The bill, which also includes a 5% federal tax on cannabis products and the creation of programs, will now go on to the U.S Senate.