On September 2, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) wrote a letter to Congress leaders. In the letter, it discussed changing the federal drug scheduling system. ONDCP wrote that they hope to streamline research for Schedule I controlled substances, including cannabis and psilocybin. To streamline research, they would make Schedule I research applications similar to Schedule II applications. 

Currently, both Schedule I and Schedule II research applications must include a general research proposal, information on storage and security, and experience and qualifications to conduct the research. In addition to this, Schedule I applications also need to have the Secretary of Health and Human Services determine the qualifications and competency of each individual who will have any part of the research. The Secretary also determines the merit of the research protocol and whether or not it is feasible or even necessary. 

The second part that Schedule I applications go through is where a majority of them are denied. It’s why research remains hindered over the years, according to NIDA Director Nora Volkow. The current process is “lengthy and cumbersome.”

Change

The change comes in part from the White House’s initiative to develop a strategy reducing the supply of synthetic fentanyl. They also want to protect civil rights and reduce scientific research barriers attached to all Schedule I substances.

“The Biden-Harris Administration strongly supports expanding the research of [fentanyl-related substances] and other schedule I substances to help advance evidence-based public policy,” the letter states. 

Recently, the DEA announced the need to increase cannabis and psilocybin amounts to help the FDA conduct research. In order to increase research, access needs to be made more accessible. Thus, changes are necessary.  

Advocate Response

The White House is spurred by fentanyl to create a better research streamline for Schedule I substances. However, some advocates aren’t responding well. Activists say substances like cannabis and psychedelic plants and fungi shouldn’t be on the Schedule I substance list. The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights spoke in frustration at the Biden administration. The administration, they say, should have taken charge prior to fentanyl.

“We cannot continue doing the same thing and expect to get different results,” DPA director of national affairs Maritza Perez said. “Despite the Biden administration’s stated commitment to criminal justice reform and ending racial disparities in the system, the recommendation to permanently schedule fentanyl-related substances echoes the failed drug policies of our past.”

“Today’s proposal is reminiscent of these policies, which led to over policing and enforcement, disproportionately impacted people of color, overcrowded prisons, and cost lives,” she continued. “This proposal is a major step backwards in the fight to dismantle the harms of the past and save lives.”

Next Steps

With Congress’ inaction over cannabis decriminalization and banking, it could be a while before any controlled substance classifications will happen. However, with the DEA in support and asking for more research product, reclassification and more research opportunities may come sooner.

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