Trump Administration Weighs Federal Marijuana Legalization Proposal

Trump Administration Opens Door to Federal Marijuana Legalization Discussion

A new conversation is brewing in Washington, as a White House representative has invited a drug policy reform advocate to submit a proposal for federal marijuana legalization. This move has sparked speculation about whether the Trump administration may take a pro-legalization stance, especially considering the growing support for cannabis reform across the country.

Howard Wooldridge, a longtime advocate and co-founder of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP), shared that he spoke directly with a White House staffer during a recent meeting at Americans for Tax Reform (ATR). Wooldridge, representing Citizens Against Prohibition (COP), discussed the potential benefits of ending federal prohibition and addressing marijuana as a public health issue rather than a criminal one.

Could Trump End Federal Marijuana Prohibition?

Wooldridge’s proposal, set to be submitted this week, will outline the political advantages for Trump in supporting legalization. He believes that embracing a states’ rights approach—allowing states to regulate cannabis without federal interference—could align well with Republican values.

Trump has previously expressed support for states’ rights on marijuana policy. During his campaign, he endorsed Florida’s cannabis legalization effort and backed federal rescheduling and banking reform for the industry. However, since making those statements, he has largely remained silent on the issue.

Wooldridge emphasized that Trump’s direct endorsement could significantly influence Republican lawmakers. “If Trump tells Congress to act, GOP members won’t resist his will,” he said.

Mixed Signals from the Administration

Despite this potential shift, the Trump administration continues to send mixed messages regarding cannabis policy. Recent cabinet appointments have included both pro- and anti-cannabis officials, raising questions about the direction of federal policy.

For example, newly confirmed Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has historically supported legalization. However, after his confirmation, he expressed concerns about the risks of high-potency cannabis, stating that state-level legalization could help facilitate research into both the benefits and harms of marijuana.

Meanwhile, Trump’s nominee for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has a history of opposing marijuana use, linking it to youth mental health risks. Additionally, conservative lawmakers continue to pressure the administration to take a hard stance against cannabis.

What’s Next for Federal Cannabis Reform?

With Wooldridge’s proposal heading to the White House and growing bipartisan interest in cannabis reform, all eyes are on the Trump administration’s next move. If the proposal gains traction, Wooldridge could be invited for further discussions at the White House.

While Trump’s ultimate position remains unclear, this latest development could be a turning point in the ongoing battle for federal cannabis legalization. Whether this leads to concrete policy changes or remains a political talking point is yet to be seen.