Tax & FinanceNational-Apr 18, 2026

Trump Complains DOJ Is ‘Slow-Walking’ Marijuana Rescheduling, Four Months After He Issued An Order To Get It Done

Key Takeaway

Former President Trump recently expressed frustration with the Department of Justice (DOJ), claiming they are "slow-walking" the federal rescheduling of marijuana. This complaint comes four months after he issued an executive order to expedite the process. The potential rescheduling of cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act is a significant development, as it would acknowledge its medical utility and lower its abuse potential in the eyes of federal law. This move directly impacts cannabis businesses by potentially easing tax burdens under IRS Section 280E and facilitating greater access to banking services and traditional investment. Operators should monitor this situation closely, as a successful rescheduling could significantly alter the regulatory landscape and operational costs across the industry.

What This Means for Cannabis Businesses

Tax developments like this directly impact the bottom line for every cannabis operator. With Section 280E creating effective tax rates above 70% for many businesses, any shift in federal tax policy - whether through rescheduling, court rulings, or IRS guidance - can mean the difference between profitability and closure. Cannabis business owners should work closely with a specialized CPA to understand how these changes affect their specific situation.

This analysis is based on reporting by Marijuana Moment. Read the original article. CannaBizGuide provides original commentary and analysis - this is not legal or tax advice.