U.S. Congress Drops Attempt to Block Marijuana Rescheduling in New Federal Spending Deal

OG article by Anthony Martinelli

January 5, 2026

Congressional negotiators have finalized a federal spending deal that omits a provision previously aimed at blocking the Justice Department from rescheduling marijuana. An earlier House committee version included language prohibiting funds for moving cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, but this was dropped in bipartisan talks.

The agreement preserves a decade-old rider preventing federal interference with state medical marijuana laws, covering most states and territories except Nebraska. This development follows President Trump's executive order instructing Attorney General Pam Bondi to reschedule marijuana to Schedule III.

Despite some Republican efforts to halt the process via appropriations, the final package allows it to proceed. Leaders like House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole praised the bill for building on prior momentum, while Senate Chair Susan Collins highlighted its fiscal restraint and support for key investments.

By removing the block, Congress avoids direct opposition to executive-led rescheduling while maintaining protections that have shielded state medical programs from federal enforcement for years.