WASHINGTON — Following Thursday’s executive action rescheduling cannabis under the Controlled Substances Act, Americans for Safe Access (ASA) will host a briefing for medical cannabis stakeholders Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on Zoom.
“This is a big day for medical cannabis patients,” said ASA founder and Executive Director Steph Sherer. “Our federal government recognizes our medicine as legitimate, which means we are not only entitled to tax-free access but also to federal protections. For millions of Americans who rely on medical cannabis, this is more than a policy shift. It is validation. It affirms patients’ lived experience and represents an important step in the right direction.
“We are encouraged to see many of ASA’s concerns about Schedule III addressed in the order, as well as the use of language from our model federal legislation,” she continued. “Over the coming weeks and months, we will continue to unpack the implications of today’s announcement, which is sure to face legal, regulatory, and political scrutiny. But today, we are celebrating being closer than ever to a national medical cannabis program and to restoring patient rights.”
Rescheduling came as ASA is celebrating its 24th anniversary of fighting to ensure safe and legal access to cannabis for therapeutic use and research.
“What happens next matters and will directly affect patient access and the integration of medical cannabis into U.S. healthcare systems,” Sherer said. “Americans for Safe Access calls on patients, caregivers, healthcare providers, and advocates to stay engaged and be ready to mobilize. We have to ensure patients’ voices are front and center of every policy discussion moving forward. A big thank you to ASA members, volunteers, and sponsors who all helped make today possible.”
Supporters may find additional information at safeaccessnow.org. The organization will host congressional lobbying days on May 13 and 14 in Washington, D.C., and seeks volunteers and supporters for the effort.
