Lamar Applauds New Federal Marijuana Policy

Reclassification will improve access for health purposes

A key Democratic lawmaker is cheering a move by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug.

Senate Democratic Caucus Chair London Lamar of Memphis says the move will benefit those seeking medical relief from the use of cannabis.

In a statement released to the media, Lamar said:

“Reclassifying marijuana as a less dangerous drug at the federal level is a historic decision driven by common sense.

“Republican lawmakers have kept Tennessee in the dark ages on marijuana policy — wasting our tax dollars locking people up for a plant. While my ultimate goal is still legalization in Tennessee, this is incredible news for folks who would benefit right now from natural medical cannabis to treat chronic pain or illness.”

The Associated Press notes:

The DEA’s proposal, which still must be reviewed by the White House Office of Management and Budget, would recognize the medical uses of cannabis and acknowledge it has less potential for abuse than some of the nation’s most dangerous drugs. However, it would not legalize marijuana outright for recreational use.

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