For Immediate Release: August 28, 2024 

Washington, D.C. — In light of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) announcement to schedule a hearing on the rescheduling of cannabis, Americans for Safe Access (ASA) emphasizes the urgent need for compassionate leadership in Congress to advocate for the rights of medical cannabis patients. The DEA’s decision to postpone federal reform until after November leaves millions of patients and their families in uncertainty.

For over 50 years, cannabis has been classified as a Schedule I substance, which has significantly hindered access to medical cannabis and the integration of cannabis medicines into the U.S. healthcare system. With 48 states allowing some form of medical cannabis use, federal representatives must step up and support legislation that protects patient rights and fosters an environment where cannabis can be recognized as a legitimate form of medicine.

“Millions of patients, their families, and healthcare providers are counting on leaders in Washington to prioritize their rights and health needs,” said Steph Sherer, Founder & President of Americans for Safe Access. “The delay in the rescheduling process only highlights the urgent need for federal representatives who will champion the integration of cannabis into our healthcare infrastructure and advocate for the rights of those who rely on it.”

To address these pressing issues, ASA has launched the Compassionate Candidate Campaign, providing a platform for candidates running for federal office to demonstrate their commitment to improving the lives of medical cannabis patients. The centerpiece of this campaign, the Compassionate Pledge, serves as a commitment from candidates to sponsor comprehensive medical cannabis legislation and educate their colleagues about the challenges patients face.

The Compassionate Pledge outlines key actions that Congress must take to restore the federal rights of medical cannabis patients and integrate cannabis and cannabinoid medicines into the healthcare system. Candidates who pledge their support send a strong message to constituents that they prioritize patient needs and are committed to legislative reform.

Recent polls have shown strong support for medical cannabis in three key battleground states: Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin.

As the DEA prepares for its hearing on December 2, ASA urges candidates and elected officials to take a stand for patients and join the Compassionate Candidate Campaign. It is essential that the voices of medical cannabis supporters are heard and that their needs are prioritized in upcoming legislation.

For more information on the Compassionate Candidate Campaign, visit TheCompassionateCandidate.org 

Download a copy of the Compassionate Candidate Briefing Guide HERE!

Visit https://www.safeaccessnow.org/fedlegkit to learn about the Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoid Act (MCCA).