The Supreme Court Weighs In on Federal Marijuana Ban

Although several states allow marijuana for medical or recreational use, the federal government’s marijuana ban conflicts with the states’ laws. Currently, marijuana is classified as a Substance 1 controlled substance under federal law.

Currently, marijuana is classified as a Substance 1 controlled substance under federal law. This places the drug in the same category as LSD, heroin, ecstasy, peyote and methamphetamine. In 1937, the Marihuana Tax Act prohibited the sale of marijuana for non-medical use. However, the states have updated their laws to reflect their citizens’ willingness to allow marijuana use under certain conditions. After Justice Clarence Thomas’ recent comments questioning the validity of a federal ban, more government leaders and activists are pushing for an end to the ban.