Why marijuana remains a Schedule I drug, the highest classification in federal law
The classification of marijuana as a Schedule I substance remains a controversial topic. Sparking debate: The push for medical marijuana legislation in TexasThe act established a federal U.S. drug policy under which certain substances are regulated. Despite Congress initially passing the act, the classification of substances are determined only by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA also considers marijuana to have a high potential for abuse, another key factor in Schedule I classification. The DEA announced in December that marijuana extracts, including cannabidiol or CBD, fall under Schedule I drug classification, making all forms of the plant illegal federally.