The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act: 2021’s first reform bill calls to reschedule
The first marijuana reform bill of 2021 was introduced this week, and while it doesn’t completely remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, it does take us two steps in the right direction.
The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act, introduced by Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) proposes to federally reschedule cannabis from schedule I to schedule III of the CSA.
As Marijuana Moment initially reported, text of the legislation has not yet been made available, but it states “the Attorney General of the United States shall, by order not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this section, transfer marijuana…from schedule I of such Act to schedule III of such Act.”
Rep. Steube originally introduced the bill in 2019, citing the need for additional medical cannabis research as more medical and recreational markets emerge around the country.
The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act will allow additional research to be done on the benefits of marijuana by removing bureaucratic red tape.
While Steube’s bill does expand scientific research opportunity, protect federal employees who use cannabis and free cannabis businesses from the burden of 280E, a tax code that denies them expense deductions, it leaves many in the industry still wanting MORE.
Unlike the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act that died in the senate last year, The Marijuana 1-to-3 Act does not end federal prohibition, would not remove federal criminal penalties and does not promote social equity or come with any built-in restorative justice initiatives.
The MORE Act could see a resurgence itself early in the year as indicated by the bill’s sponsor, Jerry Nadler (D-NY) who has positioned ending prohibition as a “moral responsibility.” Riding the momentum of the bill passing in the House in December and the growing bi-partisan support for reform, it could very well make it through the Senate this time around, enabling states to set their own policies and cannabis businesses to receive the same treatment as any other legal business.
Our hope remains for federal decriminalization and sensible recreational programs where the state’s economy may be aided by cannabis sales tax and our patient's and business’ burdens lessened.
The attorneys at Gies Law Firm can help you navigate this ever changing legal landscape and better understand the complexities that arise at the intersection of state and federal law so that you remain in compliance and stay in business. Contact us today if we can help you.
