Is Trump About to Transform America’s Cannabis Laws Forever?

As we move into 2025, the cannabis industry and its advocates find themselves at a familiar crossroads—balancing optimism for federal reform with the stark realities of political maneuvering. Former President Donald Trump, now serving his second term, has become a central figure in this debate, with many questioning whether he will take meaningful steps to advance cannabis reform or maintain his historically mixed stance.

Trump’s relationship with cannabis policy has been characterized by contradiction. During his 2016 campaign, he struck a states’ rights chord, saying states should determine the legality of recreational cannabis. However, his concerns over the impact of Colorado's then-new recreational market hinted at reservations. He did express support for medical marijuana, marking a small but notable step forward compared to some predecessors.

Once in office, his actions were less encouraging. Trump appointed Jeff Sessions, a staunch prohibitionist, as Attorney General. Sessions promptly rescinded the Obama-era Cole Memorandum, which had provided states with some protection from federal enforcement. This move sent shockwaves through the burgeoning cannabis industry, raising fears of a crackdown.

In his first term, any real moves toward cannabis reform stalled, despite the growing number of states embracing legalization.

During the 2024 campaign, Trump signaled a shift. Publicly supporting Florida’s recreational cannabis ballot initiative (though it failed) and commenting on social media about the risks of fentanyl-laced marijuana (a largely unfounded concern), he revealed a new willingness to engage on the topic. Still, his comments largely lacked the consistency or depth needed to convince advocates he’d become a champion for legalization.

Most experts agree that full federal legalization is unlikely under Trump’s administration. Bryan Lanza, a cannabis lobbyist and Trump advisor, has tempered expectations, suggesting that four years isn’t enough time for such sweeping reform. However, rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III—an effort set into motion during President Biden’s tenure—could gain traction under Trump.

If Trump embraces rescheduling, it could serve as a compromise that aligns with his sporadic support for state-led cannabis programs and his administration’s conservative base. However, his track record leaves room for skepticism. His appointments and actions often reflect a reluctance to embrace the sweeping reforms that cannabis advocates deem necessary.

Whether Trump’s second term ushers in significant cannabis reform remains uncertain. What is clear is that the cannabis industry will continue to push for progress, whether through federal rescheduling, state initiatives, or advocacy campaigns. The question is whether Trump will lean into this momentum—or remain a figure of mixed signals in the Great Cannabis Debate of 2025.

Will Rescheduling Be Enough? What Should Trump’s Role Be in Cannabis Reform?