Trump is expected to sign an executive order this week that would ease federal restrictions on marijuana.

According to sources, the order would move marijuana to a lower drug category. As a result, federal rules around the drug would loosen. However, the change would not legalize marijuana nationwide.

Instead, the move would reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III.

Currently, the Drug Enforcement Administration lists marijuana as a Schedule I drug. That category includes substances with no accepted medical use and high abuse risk. In contrast, Schedule III drugs carry lower risks and accepted medical uses.

Therefore, the shift could open doors for new research.

Sources say the order could affect medical studies and approved uses. It could also help universities and research centers study marijuana more freely.

However, a senior White House official cautioned that timing could change. While the signing is expected Thursday, plans may still shift.

Earlier this week, Trump confirmed the issue remains under review. Speaking in the Oval Office, he said he strongly supports reclassification.

Trump noted that current rules limit research. He said reclassification would allow studies that remain blocked today. As a result, he called the issue a high priority.

Last year, Trump signaled a broader shift in marijuana policy. He said his return to the White House would ease access for adults. He also promised states more freedom on legalization decisions.

At the same time, Trump focused on business barriers. He argued marijuana companies should access banking services. He also pushed for expanded academic research.

During the 2024 campaign, Trump openly backed reform. He said he planned to vote for a Florida ballot measure to legalize recreational marijuana. Later, he repeated his support for medical research tied to Schedule III status.

Since then, the White House has studied the issue closely. Throughout 2025, officials reviewed legal and policy options.

In December, Trump held a lengthy Oval Office meeting on the issue. Senior advisers and agency officials joined the discussion. Still, no immediate decision followed.

Meanwhile, White House chief of staff Susie Wiles asked agencies for formal input. Those responses went to the Domestic Policy Council. The council later briefed senior staff.

Now, momentum appears to be building.

If signed, the order would mark a major shift in federal drug policy. It would not end marijuana bans. However, it would change how the federal government treats the drug.

Ultimately, the move signals a new chapter in marijuana regulation.

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