Medical marijuana reclassified in US

For the first time since 1970, the federal government has acknowledged the medicinal value of cannabis by moving it out of the same category as heroin and LSD. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed the order, which aims to lower the barrier for clinical trials and allow medical operators to deduct business expenses under federal law.

While the decision does not legalize recreational use, industry experts believe it is a critical first step toward broader reform.

The shift has been met with both praise from advocates and caution from political opponents who worry about public health consequences.