CASPER, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) – In an unprecedented move, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration will reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug. Marijuana is currently listed as a schedule I substance, alongside ecstasy and heroine.
Being caught with any amount of weed in Wyoming can land you in hot water. Those who possess even small amounts are at risk of being jailed or fined.
Marijuana legalization and decriminalization laws have been implemented in states across the country, is Wyoming ready to do the same?
Some lawmakers say no.
Bills aiming to decriminalize marijuana failed in the Wyoming State Legislature in 2022 and again in 2024.
Last September, Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis introduced the Deferring Executive Authority Act, which would give Congress final approval over the legalization of marijuana. She calls the DEA’s reclassification “insane”, claiming the DEA lacks compelling evidence and is failing to consider what is best for the American people.
For those who have been campaigning to decriminalize marijuana in the Cowboy State, the DEA’s reclassification gives hope for the future of cannabis in Wyoming. Some advocates have called on politicians to consider the economic benefits of decriminalization and legalization.
Frank Latta is a board member for Wyoming NORML, a group working towards statewide cannabis law reform. He says, “The amount of money, tax money, [that] can be generated off marijuana sales is going to be a hard thing for them to keep ignoring as money is always an issue at the state level.”
The DEA will change marijuana from a schedule I drug to a schedule III drug, and will remain a controlled substance.
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