Democratic Senator ‘Very Concerned’ About How DOJ Will Handle Marijuana Rescheduling

OG article by Tom Angell

January 20, 2026

Democratic Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) voiced serious concerns about the Department of Justice's handling of marijuana rescheduling under the incoming Trump administration. Following President Trump's executive order to expedite moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, Booker told reporters it's "too early to tell" but highlighted promising steps toward ending "generations of injustice." However, he remains "very concerned" about DOJ's final stance, criticizing the administration's inconsistent messaging. No updates or timelines have emerged from DOJ, and Attorney General Pam Bondi, a reform opponent, was absent from the signing. Booker suggested rescheduling could create momentum for stalled congressional bills like the SAFER Banking Act, potentially advancing banking access for cannabis firms with added equity provisions for minority institutions. SAFER has not been reintroduced in the current Congress, and some Republicans prioritize other issues. Attempts to block rescheduling via amendments failed recently. The DEA notes pending appeals, and experts warn DOJ could delay or reject by restarting reviews. Booker emphasized watching outcomes closely amid mixed signals.