DEA Faces Allegations of Bias in Cannabis Rescheduling Process

LOS ANGELES- The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is under scrutiny following allegations of bias in its handling of the cannabis rescheduling process. Pro-cannabis advocates assert that the agency has demonstrated an “unalterably closed mind” toward reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.

Critics argue that the DEA has engaged in improper communications with anti-cannabis organizations, such as Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), while excluding pro-cannabis perspectives and state agencies from Colorado, a state with a decade-long history of legal adult-use cannabis.

Attorney Shane Pennington, representing cannabis advocates, filed a motion alleging that the DEA’s actions have compromised the impartiality of the rescheduling hearings. The motion calls for the Department of Justice to oversee the proceedings instead of the DEA.

The DEA has denied these allegations, maintaining that its review process is unbiased and in compliance with legal standards. The agency’s formal statement, filed on January 2, 2025, questions the medical value of cannabis and cites research on its potential for abuse and health risks.

The rescheduling hearings are scheduled to commence on January 21, 2025, with conclusions expected in March. Any decision resulting from these hearings will remain non-binding until the DEA finalizes it. The outcome could significantly impact the cannabis industry, particularly concerning tax regulations and business operations.

This development occurs amid a broader national discourse on cannabis legalization and regulation, with various stakeholders advocating for changes to federal cannabis policies.