The American Council of Cannabis Medicine (ACCM) expressed its unwavering support for the Health and Human Services (HHS) recommendation to reclassify cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance. As a next step, the ACCM announced it had begun the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) rescheduling application for cannabis, a step required in order to make changes to The Controlled Substances Act. The proposed rescheduling would change the current federal stance on cannabis, which currently views it as a drug without an accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
Dr. Annabelle Manalo-Morgan, author, research scientist, and Chair of ACCM's Research Committee, expressed enthusiasm about the potential this shift holds for medical cannabis. "This pivotal decision marks a crucial step towards comprehensive federal research into cannabis's full medicinal potential, a step desperately needed by so many."
"ACCM's Advocacy Committee, and most of the medical cannabis community, have long been advocating for this change to normalize this plant medicine," says Narith Panh, CGO of Dragonfly Wellness, ACCM Leadership Council Member, and Advocacy Committee Co-Chair. "What we do know is that it has already changed countless lives. As a society, we need to demand complete recognized and proven studies that confirm its efficacy."
Highlighting the Council's proactive role, Mark Block, ACCM President, shared, "Since 2016, ACCM has actively campaigned for such a shift. Despite state-level benefits, federal classification has been a barrier. Recognizing our responsibility as the leading voice for medical cannabis, we initiated the DEA cannabis rescheduling application process and anticipated its finalization by October."
A DEA spokesperson acknowledged the HHS recommendation. "As part of this process, HHS conducted a scientific and medical evaluation for consideration by DEA. The DEA has the final authority to schedule or reschedule a drug under the Controlled Substances Act. DEA will now initiate its review,"
"We have seen a seismic shift from the insurance industry; they are embracing and eagerly awaiting full research while plowing ahead with industry participation right now. The HHS letter is a good first step Formal application must be completed, and industry and Congressional input/commentary must be shared with the agency," says Adam Woldman, Chairman & President of Greene Street and ACCM Leadership Council Member.
Similarly, Gennaro Luce, CEO of EM2P2, expressed optimism, saying, "The evolving legal perspectives on medical cannabis at the federal level is heartening. As a key partner with ACCM, we are pleased with the consistent efforts that have significantly contributed to the maturing of the industry, and we look forward to seeing this rescheduling take place."
The ACCM is currently taking input on its DEA application from members of Congress and invites industry stakeholders to share their insights until October 30, 2023, via www.accmforum.org/deavoice