After over 50 years of strict regulation, marijuana is taking a new spot on America’s drug schedule. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is moving to change marijuana from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3, recognizing its medical benefits and lower potential for abuse. The shift could change the game for the $30 billion cannabis industry by reducing taxes and easing research restrictions. 

The proposal awaits a nod from the White House’s Office of Management and Budget. However, after approval, the public will then have their say before it’s official. This could open the doors for new medical treatments, and potentially lift a heavy burden off thousands of lives.

Black and brown communities have long borne the brunt of harsh drug laws. Although the rescheduling is a step forward, real change requires more, like wiping clean old convictions and ensuring these communities get a fair share of new opportunities in the booming cannabis market. This is more than just a policy change, it’s about correcting a historic wrong.

Click play to listen to the report from AURN White House Correspondent Ebony McMorris. For more news, follow @E_N_McMorris & @aurnonline.

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