Local cannabis industry applauds loosening federal regulation
Medical marijuana researchers and business owners across western Pennsylvania will see relief from some federal regulation thanks to a change in federal policy governing the popular plant.
The decision to reclassify medical-use cannabis from the strictest Schedule I to a more permissive Schedule III designation was announced Monday by the Justice Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration following an executive order from President Donald Trump issued in December 2025.
The Schedule III classification will allow scientists greater access to the plant for research purposes, and marijuana growers and retailers the ability to deduct business expenses on their taxes for the first time, according to a release from the DOJ.
“It’s a great step forward for the medical marijuana industry,” according to Rebecca Selko, director of Local Leaf in Scottdale.
Selko said that MMJ advocates have been pushing for federal reclassification of cannabis for years, so she is happy to see steps taken in that direction.
Marijuana remains illegal under federal law under the new designation, although dozens of states including Pennsylvania are allowed to operate medical and/or adult-use recreational cannabis industries.
According to Selko, she hopes that this action will help address some of the remaining social stigma around medical cannabis use.
The medical industry has long faced difficulties accessing some tax and banking services since their product is federally prohibited, she said, “so being able to claim our expenses like any other business would be helpful.”
“It’s a good door to open,” Selko said.
Charles Hansen, manager of Mintz Dispensary in Glassport, said he felt encouraged when he saw the news about the rescheduling.
“It’s a good thing to have more research (on cannabis) so we’re positive,” Hansen said.
The increased accessibility for researchers will help produce more scientifically-supported data on the potential medical benefits of marijuana derived compounds such as THC and CBD, which will help lead to more treatments for patients in need, he said.
“We hope there is more research done on it,” Hansen said.
Selko said that in her eight years working in the cannabis industry, she has seen first-hand how much relief these products bring to patients.
“I can attest to the positive impact it has had on countless lives of people with whatever condition they may have … for people of all ages and backgrounds,” she said.