Rescheduling Marijuana Proposed Rule by DEA 05/21/24 comment period TIL 07/22/24

Just to give an idea of the timeline for this. Just about every government regulatory action requires a comment period. After the proposed rule comment period ends, the government generally responds to those comments in aggregate which can take a few months. Let's say September, since August is when everyone in Washington takes a vacation; seriously.

Then there is often an interim rule, basically saying ok, we've heard your concerns, and here's the final rule we're putting forth. That will be followed by a comment period of up to 45 days, or longer. The Administrative Procedures Act (1) requires a minimum 45-day period for the public to comment to the agency in writing on the proposed regulation.

Now we're probably into November if everything goes perfectly.

Then the final rule is published in the federal register, followed by another 45+ days comment period, with some date set for implementation and enforcement.

Best case scenario, if I read the law correctly, this will not get finalized and promulgated until after the election, possibly not until next year.

Government very, very rarely moves with great alacrity, especially in regulations; unless a government party fears they will lose the election, or has lost and is between legislative sessions.

The administration seems to be moving as fast as they can since this was announced, and a proposed rule published very quickly - no hearings, stakeholder input, etc., and the limit on comments are the statutory minimum.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Administrative_Procedure_Act