Schedule 3 Ends War on Patients, Not War on Drugs

Washington – The American Cannabis Collective (ACC) is proud to finally see movement on the federal side of drug policy reform with the announcement by the Associated Press that the US Drug Enforcement Agency is going to reclassify cannabis from a Schedule 1 Drug to a Schedule 3 Drug.

“Today marks a monumental milestone in the journey towards cannabis reform. The decision to move cannabis from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 on the Controlled Substances List is a pivotal moment, signaling a necessary first step in our collective efforts to dismantle the stigma surrounding cannabis. But let’s be clear, this does not end the War on Drugs, it ends the War on Patients.

For far too long, patients have borne the brunt of this misguided war, facing unjust criminalization for seeking relief through cannabis. Today, we get to stand proud and declare that it's a good day to be a patient. This victory is not just for today's patients but for all those who have bravely advocated for cannabis as medicine in the face of adversity” said ACC Co-Founder Don Murphy.

“While this move is undoubtedly a huge win for patients, we must not lose sight of the broader context. Moving cannabis to Schedule 3 does not mark the end of prohibition. We caution against any attempts to overstate the significance of this decision. 

It remains imperative for states to continue their efforts to legalize cannabis and for the federal government to take decisive action to fully deschedule cannabis. This decision may bring an end to certain regulatory burdens such as Section 280E, but its implications for the industry as a whole remain uncertain,” said ACC Co-Founder Gretchen Gailey.

“Today, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all patients who have bravely stood at the forefront of this fight. Your advocacy has not been in vain. You have the right to access cannabis as medicine without fear of persecution, and today's decision reaffirms that fundamental principle.

As we celebrate this victory, let us remember that our work is far from over. We will continue to work tirelessly until every patient has access to the relief they deserve, and the injustices of the war on drugs are finally brought to an end,” said ACC Co-Founder Carl Cameron.

About The American Cannabis Collective:
The American Cannabis Collective (ACC), works for the benefit of the patients, consumers and the industry that supports them. For too long, industry funded advocacy has been focused on policy changes that directly benefit themselves first and only indirectly benefit patients and consumers. The ACC reverses the order of consideration. We put the patients and consumers first, followed indirectly by the industry that serves them. Our work educates lawmakers and policymakers on cannabis free market principles that bring common sense back to drug policy reform. 

Media Contact:
info@americancco.org
202.489.3821

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