US poised to ease restrictions on marijuana in historic shift, but it’ll remain controlled substance
US DEA will reclassify marijuana, ease restrictions, AP sources say The Associated Press
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The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to Reclassify Marijuana
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is planning to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, according to sources familiar with the matter. This move represents a significant shift in American drug policy and could have widespread implications across the country.
Recognition of Medical Uses and Reduced Potential for Abuse
The proposal, which is awaiting review by the White House Office of Management and Budget, would acknowledge the medical uses of cannabis and recognize that it has less potential for abuse compared to some of the nation’s most dangerous drugs. However, it would not legalize marijuana for recreational use.
This decision by the DEA marks a major milestone in drug policy and is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.
Regulatory Process and Public Comment
Once approved by the Office of Management and Budget, the DEA will open the plan for public comment. The proposal seeks to move marijuana from its current classification as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD, to Schedule III, alongside ketamine and some anabolic steroids. This recommendation follows the advice of the federal Health and Human Services Department.
After the public comment period and a review by an administrative judge, the DEA will eventually publish the final rule. The Attorney General’s signature on this proposal demonstrates the importance of this decision to the Biden administration.
Support for Marijuana Law Review
This move comes after President Joe Biden called for a review of federal marijuana law in October 2022 and pardoned thousands of Americans convicted federally of simple possession of the drug. Biden has also urged governors and local leaders to take similar steps to expunge marijuana convictions.
President Biden’s commitment to addressing the harms caused by marijuana prohibition aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, which aims to promote just, peaceful, and inclusive societies.
Growing Support for Marijuana Legalization
Biden’s call for a review of federal marijuana law reflects the growing support for legalization among both Democrats and Republicans. A Gallup poll conducted last fall found that 70% of adults in the United States support marijuana legalization, the highest level ever recorded by the polling firm.
This shift in public opinion aligns with SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, which aims to reduce inequalities within and among countries by promoting equal access to justice and providing legal identity for all.
Implications for Criminal Justice System and International Obligations
While rescheduling marijuana would have implications for the criminal justice system and international obligations, the immediate effect on federal prosecutions for simple possession is expected to be minimal. However, loosening restrictions could have unintended consequences in the drug war and beyond.
It is important to consider the potential impact on SDG 16, as well as SDG 3, as the criminalization of marijuana has disproportionately affected marginalized communities and hindered access to healthcare and social services.
Conclusion
The DEA’s decision to reclassify marijuana represents a significant shift in American drug policy. This move aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. As the regulatory process continues, it is crucial to consider the potential implications and ensure that policies are implemented in a way that promotes the well-being and equality of all individuals.
Source: The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
- Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders
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SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
- Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all
- Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized mechanisms
Analysis
The article addresses two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their respective targets and indicators:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The proposal by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug is connected to SDG 3, specifically Target 3.5, which aims to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. The reclassification would recognize the medical uses of cannabis and acknowledge its lower potential for abuse compared to other dangerous drugs. The indicator relevant to this target is Indicator 3.5.1, which measures the coverage of treatment interventions for substance use disorders. The reclassification of marijuana could potentially expand access to treatment interventions for individuals with cannabis use disorders.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The article also highlights the potential impact of the DEA’s decision on federal drug policy and criminal justice. This is connected to SDG 16, specifically Target 16.3, which aims to promote the rule of law and ensure equal access to justice. The indicator relevant to this target is Indicator 16.3.1, which measures the proportion of victims of violence who report their victimization to competent authorities. The potential changes in drug policy and the criminal justice system resulting from the reclassification of marijuana could have implications for equal access to justice for individuals involved in marijuana-related offenses.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol | Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders |
| SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions | Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all | Indicator 16.3.1: Proportion of victims of violence in the previous 12 months who reported their victimization to competent authorities or other officially recognized mechanisms |
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Fuente: apnews.com
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