Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley: Now is the Time for Commonsense Cannabis Reforms
Senator Jeff Merkley is urging swift action on cannabis policy. He highlights critical issues facing legal cannabis businesses. Rescheduling cannabis is a step forward. However, it does not solve major federal problems. This news is vital for the evolving cannabis landscape.
A Shift in Federal Classification
The federal government is re-evaluating cannabis. President Biden began this process in October 2022. His administration directed a review of marijuana’s scheduling. The Department of Health and Human Services recommended a change. It proposed moving cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III. This move acknowledges its medical use. It suggests a lower potential for abuse. In December 2025, President Trump signed an executive order. This order directed the Attorney General to expedite rescheduling. Moving cannabis to Schedule III is a significant development. It signals a change in federal perception. This shift aims to facilitate medical research. It also offers potential tax benefits for businesses.
Tax Relief and Research Boost
Rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III brings specific advantages. For years, cannabis businesses faced severe tax burdens. Section 280E of the IRS code prevented ordinary business expense deductions. This resulted in exorbitant federal tax rates. Schedule III status could eliminate this barrier. It allows businesses to deduct operational costs. This could make them more competitive. Furthermore, easier federal regulations can spur medical research. This research can unlock new treatments. It can also deepen our understanding of cannabis compounds. The news offers promise for scientific advancement.
Persistent Banking Hurdles
Despite the rescheduling progress, a major obstacle remains. Legal cannabis businesses still struggle with banking access. Federal law still classifies non-medical cannabis as illegal. This creates a conflict with state-legal operations. Banks face significant risks serving these businesses. Many institutions fear federal penalties. They must comply with strict regulations. As a result, most legal cannabis operations function on a cash basis. This reliance on cash is dangerous. It increases the risk of robberies and theft. It also creates opportunities for money laundering and false accounting. This cash-only system fuels criminal activity. It is a public safety concern for communities. This news emphasizes an ongoing crisis.
Merkley’s Push for the SAFER Banking Act
Senator Jeff Merkley is a staunch advocate for reform. He champions commonsense solutions. Merkley is the lead sponsor of the SAFER Banking Act. This bipartisan bill aims to address the banking crisis. It provides protections for financial institutions. These protections cover banks serving state-legal cannabis businesses. The act would prevent federal regulators from penalizing banks. It ensures these businesses can access essential services. This includes deposit accounts and loans. Passing the SAFER Banking Act is critical. It would remove dangerous cash operations. It would bring legitimacy to the industry. Merkley insists this is a public safety imperative. He has pushed for this legislation for years. It has seen bipartisan support. However, it has faced delays in Congress. The SAFER Banking Act passed the Senate Banking Committee. It awaits a full Senate vote.
Broader Reform and Oregon’s Context
Senator Merkley also focuses on restorative justice. He wants to address harms from the War on Drugs. He advocates for descheduling cannabis entirely. This would fully end federal prohibition. It would benefit communities of color disproportionately affected. Merkley also champions veterans’ access to medical cannabis. He supports efforts allowing VA doctors to discuss options. In Oregon, cannabis is legal for medical and recreational use. However, the industry faces state and federal challenges. Recent federal actions have impacted the hemp industry. Legal disputes also affect state labor laws for cannabis workers. These issues highlight the complex legal environment. They show the need for comprehensive federal reform.
The Time for Action is Now
Senator Merkley’s message is clear. Rescheduling cannabis to Schedule III is a positive development. It supports research and offers tax relief. Yet, it does not resolve the fundamental conflict. Legal cannabis businesses still operate outside the federal financial system. This creates ongoing risks and vulnerabilities. The SAFER Banking Act offers a direct solution. It would secure financial services for these businesses. It would enhance public safety. Merkley stresses the need for bipartisan cooperation. He believes commonsense reforms are achievable. The current situation demands urgent attention. It is time for Congress to act decisively. This will ensure a safe and stable future for the legal cannabis industry.
