Trump ‘Missed An Opportunity’ To Promote Marijuana Rescheduling During State Of The Union, Industry Leader Says

OG article by Kyle Jaeger

February 25, 2026

In his State of the Union address, President Donald Trump focused on issues like fentanyl enforcement and drug costs but did not mention marijuana rescheduling, despite his December executive order directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. Adam Rosenberg, chairman of the National Cannabis Industry Association, called this a significant missed opportunity, highlighting the disconnect between federal policy and widespread state legalization. He argued that federal restrictions create uncertainty for legitimate operators through punitive taxes and banking barriers, while the illicit market thrives unchecked. The rescheduling process, started under Biden and continued by Trump, has seen no recent Justice Department updates, though officials indicate progress is underway. Advocates hoped for reinforcement of the directive in the high-profile speech. Reactions include prohibitionist Rep. Andy Harris suggesting a lengthy timeline, while Rep. Dave Joyce remains optimistic about bipartisan support. A former drug czar opposed rescheduling, labeling marijuana a gateway drug, but a White House spokesperson defended it for advancing medical research, particularly for veterans. The delay in rulemaking continues amid mixed congressional views, underscoring ongoing tensions in federal cannabis policy.