With the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration moving towards reclassifying marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, conversations about the substance have been sparked among many, including college students.

Reclassifying marijuana would not legalize the drug for recreational purposes nationwide. Instead, marijuana would become a controlled substance similar to ketamine or acetaminophen-codeine combinations. These Schedule III drugs can be prescribed medically, but also have serious federal criminal repercussions to anyone who traffics the drugs without permission. Currently a Schedule I drug, marijuana sits alongside other drugs in the category, such heroin, LSD and ecstasy.

The reclassification would allow for significant advancements in research surrounding marijuana. Instead of scientists relying on reports from cannabis users, formal clinical studies could administer the drug to subjects. This could open the door for scientists to answer decades-long questions and myths surrounding marijuana. 

Like any large political movement, there are opponents to the reclassification of marijuana. Those opposed are concerned the reclassification would create further confusion regarding the drug’s legality, as marijuana would still remain federally illegal. Others support the removal of marijuana from the list of controlled substances, similar to that of alcohol and tobacco. Substances that have been taken off the list are still federally regulated, but done so in different ways.

Michigan, one of 24 states in America, passed landmark legislation in 2018 that legalized recreational marijuana usage for those over 21. Although it has been legalized in Michigan, it is illegal to use or possess marijuana on federal property. This includes federally funded college campuses like Grand Valley State University.

“If the government can still regulate (cannabis) like they do alcohol, I don’t really see the point in making it a controlled substance, especially if people can still be put in jail for it,” said GVSU senior Max Klumper. 

GVSU senior Oliver Geroux agrees with Klumper, and feels the reclassification would not make a large difference if marijuana is still federally illegal.

“I understand making (cannabis) a less serious drug, but I feel like it’s kind of pointless to go through that whole process (reclassification of marijuana) if it would still be technically illegal,” said Geroux.

Alcohol and Other Drugs Services (AOD) at GVSU recently hosted a webinar designed to educate students on marijuana-related issues and the substance’s impacts. The presentation focused largely on marijuana abuse, highlighting that cannabis is both physically and psychologically addictive. 

According to AOD’s presentation, about 9% of cannabis users become addicted. Cannabis use disorder, an addiction to the substance, is characterized by increased tolerance, cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The disorder can disrupt a user’s daily life.

With the Nov. 5 election approaching, it is important that college students be familiar with cannabis-related policies on the ballot. Michigan voters will see several local marijuana policy proposals in November. Specific communities, including Pontiac, Caro, and Algonac, will be voting on regulations relating to cannabis businesses and grow licenses. These local initiatives are part of Michigan’s ongoing adjustments to cannabis regulations, although no statewide changes are being proposed.