I ran High Times magazine. Cannabis reform needs safeguards. | Opinion

OG article by Adam Levin

December 31, 2025

Adam Levin, former chairman of High Times magazine and a daily cannabis user for 25 years, reflects on his personal experience of recognizing cannabis's subtle risks after quitting. He supports President Donald Trump's December 18, 2025, executive order reclassifying cannabis as a less dangerous substance, which directs federal agencies to modernize policy, confront data, protect youth, and avoid past public health errors. Levin credits the order for its cautious approach, emphasizing evidence-based reform over unchecked access.

While acknowledging cannabis's legitimate medical uses and benefits like reduced anxiety and improved sleep, Levin highlights the reality of cannabis use disorder—a clinical condition involving impaired control, tolerance, withdrawal, and continued use despite harm. He notes rising dependency rates, especially with long-term, high-potency use, and shares how his own consumption dulled motivation and narrowed emotional range over time.

Reform, Levin argues, must address addiction honestly without stigma, as prohibition failed and criminalization caused harm. He proposes three priorities: expanding research to study long-term effects, mental health interactions, and addiction risks; investing in education and treatment for unhealthy use; and transparently communicating potency, frequency, and risks, particularly to young adults and those with substance use history.

Levin stresses that acknowledging risks strengthens reform, preventing fragile policies built on denial. Despite his background in cannabis culture and a 2024 guilty plea to conspiracy to tout securities, he advocates sensible reform that balances benefits with accountability and support for those affected.