The federal government has changed its view of marijuana’s dependence and abuse risks, causing some confusion about what that means for Americans.

Like heroin, ecstasy and LSD, marijuana was formerly classified as a Schedule I drug with no accepted medical use and high potential for abuse. Marijuana will now be regulated alongside drugs considered to have legitimate medical applications such as Tylenol with codeine and anabolic steroids.

The Justice Department reclassified state-licensed or FDA-approved medical marijuana products as Schedule III drugs on April 23. Although the change signals a major shift in federal policy, its practical effects are more subtle.

Most states have already adjusted their own laws to provide wider access to marijuana. Forty states, three territories and the District of Columbia had legalized medical cannabis products as of June 2025. And 24 states, three territories and D.C.…