Will Marijuana Be Reclassified Federally as a Less Dangerous Drug? Here’s Where President Trump Stands and What It Means for Kentucky

The question of marijuana’s federal status has resurfaced in national politics, and it comes at a crucial time for Kentucky. President Donald Trump has confirmed that his administration is considering whether to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I drug to Schedule III. While this would not legalize recreational use nationwide, it would mark one of the most significant policy shifts in decades. For Kentucky, where medical marijuana is legal but dispensaries have yet to open, the potential impact is especially important.

Marijuana’s Current Federal Status

Marijuana is still considered a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it is classified as having no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, putting it in the same category as heroin. If rescheduled to Schedule III, marijuana would be grouped with substances like ketamine and certain prescription medications, officially recognizing its medical value and reducing restrictions around its use.

What President Trump Has Said

President Trump said during a White House press conference on August 11, 2025, that his administration will decide on rescheduling marijuana “over the next few weeks.” His comments confirm that the issue is under review at the highest levels, with input from federal health agencies and the Department of Justice. Lawmakers from both political parties have also urged the administration to move forward, pointing to strong public support and medical evidence.

Kentucky’s Medical Marijuana Program

Kentucky’s medical marijuana program officially launched at the beginning of 2025. Patients with qualifying conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, chronic nausea, and PTSD are now able to apply for medical marijuana cards through certified providers.

Dispensaries are not yet open in the state, but the first locations are expected to launch this fall. Cultivators began growing plants over the summer to prepare for the initial rollout, meaning that patients could see products available later this year. The opening of dispensaries will be a historic milestone for Kentuckians who have been waiting years for safe, legal access.

What Rescheduling Would Mean for Kentucky

If marijuana is reclassified to Schedule III, Kentucky’s medical program would continue to operate as planned, with dispensaries opening later this year. Patients would still need to qualify for a medical marijuana card and purchase their medicine through licensed dispensaries once they open.

Rescheduling would not legalize recreational use in Kentucky, where only medical marijuana is permitted under state law. Instead, the biggest effects would include:

• Improved Research Access: It would be easier for universities and medical institutions in Kentucky to study marijuana.

• Healthcare Recognition: Federal acknowledgment of marijuana’s medical value may encourage broader acceptance among providers.

• Business Relief: Marijuana businesses could benefit from tax deductions previously blocked by federal law.

• Reduced Stigma: Patients using medical marijuana would gain validation through federal recognition.

What Kentucky Patients Should Know

For patients in Kentucky, the day-to-day process of getting medical marijuana will not change right away, regardless of the federal decision. Patients will still need to apply for a card, work with a certified provider like our physicians at Kentucky Marijuana Card, and purchase products through state-licensed dispensaries once they open.

What could change over time is the larger medical and research environment. Rescheduling would allow more studies, potential insurance coverage, and a stronger foundation for Kentucky’s new medical marijuana program.

Looking Ahead

Kentucky is on the verge of opening its first dispensaries, marking a turning point for patients across the state. Meanwhile, the federal government is weighing its most significant marijuana reform in decades. If marijuana is reclassified, it won’t replace Kentucky’s medical program, but it could strengthen it, expand research opportunities, and help shape the future of patient care.

Get Access to Medical Marijuana in Kentucky

Medical marijuana is almost here, Kentucky, so get your marijuana card now!

You can schedule your appointment to see our doctor at our Louisville or Lexington office. Schedule your appointment today to get your marijuana card and be the first to access dispensaries as soon as they open!

Don’t wait—secure your spot and start your journey toward relief. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the program and dispensaries!

---

Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

At Kentucky Marijuana Card, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free. Our team is dedicated to helping you unlock the full benefits of Kentucky’s medical marijuana program while improving your overall quality of life.

Don’t wait to start feeling better. Call us at (833) 781-6360 or schedule your evaluation today, and take advantage of the many benefits a medical card has to offer!