Experts Warn of Marijuana’s Long-Term Damage to Brain and Developing Fetuses Amid Push for Reclassification

Reclassification of marijuana sparks heated debate as experts highlight risks of brain damage and impact on developing fetuses

The Biden administration's recent move to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III drug, placing it on par with anabolic steroids and Tylenol with codeine, has sparked a significant debate. While proponents argue that this reclassification would provide tax benefits and boost the cannabis industry, experts warn of the substantial negative health impacts associated with marijuana use.

Rising Marijuana Use and Legalization Trends

According to the Wall Street Journal, a 2022 survey sponsored by the National Institutes of Health found that 28.8% of Americans aged 19 to 30 had used marijuana in the preceding 30 days, more than three times the number who smoked cigarettes. Among those aged 35 to 50, 17.3% had used marijuana, compared to 12.2% who smoked cigarettes. Despite its federal status as an illegal substance, marijuana is now legal for recreational use in 24 states and for medical purposes in another 14 states.