Breaking News: Federal Order Begins Marijuana Rescheduling Process

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A major federal marijuana policy update is now underway! On December 18th, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to begin rescheduling marijuana under federal law. This decision marks a significant shift in how marijuana is viewed at the federal level, which should have a positive impact, especially for medical patients across the country.

Although this action does not legalize marijuana nationwide, it does formally acknowledge marijuana’s medical value and removes barriers that have existed for decades. For patients in Louisiana, this development adds momentum to an already established medical marijuana program.

A Shift in Federal Classification

For many years, marijuana has been listed as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act. Drugs in this category are defined as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

The executive order directs agencies to move marijuana to a Schedule III drug. Substances in this category are recognized as having medical value and a lower risk of misuse. This change reflects what many patients and marijuana doctors nationwide already understand based on real-world experience.

Medical marijuana is commonly used by patients managing chronic pain, cancer, PTSD, seizure disorders, and other ongoing medical concerns.

When announcing the order, President Trump explained that patients suffering from long-term pain and serious illnesses have asked for this change for years, emphasizing the impact marijuana can have on quality of life.

What This Does Not Change

Rescheduling marijuana does not make it legal under federal law. Marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, and individual states continue to control how marijuana is regulated and accessed. While rescheduling may help move future policy discussions forward, nothing in this regard changes for patients or state programs.

In Louisiana, the medical marijuana program remains the same. Patients must still receive a recommendation from a licensed marijuana doctor to purchase products from licensed dispensaries within the state.

Why Rescheduling Matters for Medical Marijuana Patients

Even without federal legalization, rescheduling brings meaningful benefits.

Moving marijuana to Schedule III allows businesses to claim deductions that were previously unavailable, which, over time, can support decreased pricing, improved operations, and better access for patients.

Rescheduling also removes barriers to medical research. Since marijuana has been classified as Schedule I, research was limited and difficult to conduct. With fewer restrictions, researchers can build on what is already known to strengthen medical guidance and improve patient care.

The Relevance to Louisiana’s Medical Program

Louisiana’s medical marijuana program allows doctors to recommend marijuana for any condition they believe may benefit from treatment. This approach already places patient needs at the center of care.

Federal recognition of marijuana’s medical value supports Louisiana’s model by reinforcing doctors' discretion and patient access. While federal law does not override state rules, this shift strengthens the long-term foundation of the state’s program and supports continued acceptance within the healthcare system.

Patients should continue maintaining an active recommendation to ensure uninterrupted access to marijuana from Louisiana dispensaries.

Hemp Review Included in the Executive Order

The executive order also directs federal agencies to review existing hemp laws. Hemp products remain subject to federal restrictions, and lawmakers continue to debate limits on intoxicating hemp-derived products.

This review focuses on improving access to full-spectrum CBD that does not produce intoxicating effects. Any products approved under this review would only be sold at regulated, licensed dispensaries, instead of gas stations, convenience stores, or unregulated retail shops. Distribution through dispensaries ensures proper testing, labeling, and oversight.

While CBD can be helpful for some patients, many medical patients prefer regulated medical marijuana products that contain THC. THC plays an important role in managing symptoms such as chronic pain, muscle spasms, nausea, sleep issues, and appetite loss. Products sold through medical marijuana dispensaries are tested for safety and consistency.

There is also discussion around whether certain non-intoxicating CBD products sold through dispensaries could eventually be covered under federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If changes move forward, this could expand treatment options for patients while still maintaining strict medical and regulatory oversight.

What Patients Should Keep in Mind

Federal marijuana rescheduling is an important step forward, but it does not change Louisiana law or patient requirements. Marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, and state rules still apply.

For Louisiana patients, staying certified and connected to a licensed marijuana doctor remains the key to legal access. As policies continue to evolve, patients who maintain active recommendations will be best positioned to benefit from future progress.

Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!

Medical marijuana is legal in the state of Louisiana, and you can get your medical marijuana card today! It is now easier than ever to get your card, so if you think marijuana may benefit you, what are you waiting for?

If you aren’t sure if you qualify for a card, we can help! Just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.

Marijuana is an excellent alternative medicine that offers natural, safe, and legal relief for an array of symptoms. If you think marijuana could help some of your symptoms, what are you waiting for?

Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors to see if you qualify for your medical card. Not only will you discuss your condition and options, but you can do so through a virtual appointment in the safety of your own home!

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Louisiana Marijuana Card, our mission is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

Call us at (833) 253-2943, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!

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