Part of the cannabis industry went big for the current administration – and fingers are crossed it will pay off.

Mom and pop businesses employing hundreds of thousands of people are worried about what the administration is going to do about cannabis. While over 80% of the public say it should be legalized and even other part of the government are supporting medical marijuana. The future is unknown. The appointment of Terrance Cole as President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has brought both optimism and skepticism to the ongoing debate over federal cannabis rescheduling. But is there any hope from the administration on cannabis? A significant portion of the industry backed the winning ticket, certain it would mean success for marijuana.  The recent movement to help veterans with medical marijuana seems positive and data based. All hope is turned to the DEA pick now. Cole’s recent comments during his Senate confirmation hearing have sparked discussion about the Trump administration’s stance and the future of cannabis policy at the federal level. Cole stated reviewing the stalled marijuana rescheduling process would be “one of my first priorities” if confirmed, acknowledging “it’s time to move forward” after repeated delays in the administrative process. This has offered a glimmer of hope to advocates who have long awaited progress on the issue. However, Cole repeatedly declined to commit to supporting the specific proposal to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, a recommendation initiated under the Biden administration and backed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). But Cole has emphasized the need to review the science and consult with experts before making any decisions. Cole’s long career in law enforcement and his previous public statements reveal a traditionally conservative stance on cannabis. He has linked marijuana use to health risks and youth suicide, and has used hashtags such as #justsayno and #notlegal4distribution in social media posts. This history has led some observers to question whether his stated willingness to prioritize the rescheduling review will translate into meaningful action or simply maintain the status quo.

The cannabis rescheduling process has been mired in delays. A scheduled hearing to assess the Biden-era rescheduling proposal was canceled pending an interlocutory appeal, leaving the matter in the hands of the incoming Trump administration. Former DEA and HHS officials have warned that, without proactive support from President Trump himself, the process could stall indefinitely or be suspended altogether if the administration reinterprets prior legal arguments. Thousands of mom and pop businesses, Industry stakeholders and advocates are cautious. While Cole’s remarks about moving the process forward are welcomed, his refusal to endorse the Schedule III proposal and his historical opposition to reform temper expectations. Many believe the Trump administration’s overall approach remains uncertain.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

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