In a move that has stirred significant attention, President Donald Trump signed an executive order supporting research into the medicinal potential of marijuana for chronic pain, following recent legislative efforts to bolster the hemp industry. This development is seen by many as a major step towards the potential legalization of cannabis for recreational use.
The decision has received praise from various lawmakers. State Sen. Shariff Street (D-Philadelphia), a vocal proponent of marijuana legalization, remarked in a Dec. 18 press release that the decision is “long-overdue” and recognizes that “cannabis does not belong in the same legal category as heroin and other Schedule I substances.” Street has consistently advocated for marijuana legalization, arguing that current laws disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities.
However, the executive order also raises concerns among some experts regarding the potential for marijuana misuse. John Gallagher, an associate professor of criminal justice and addiction specialist, believes the order will aid in understanding cannabis’ potential for misuse. He stated, “Not everyone who uses marijuana … frequently becomes addicted, but we do know, just like alcohol, marijuana is addicting.”
Is marijuana addictive and if so, how addictive is it?
Gallagher points to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), indicating that approximately 30% of regular marijuana users may develop cannabis use disorder. This aligns with findings in the DSM-5, the authoritative reference for mental health disorders.
Research suggests that marijuana may not be effective for treating certain conditions, and withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety and other issues, according to Gallagher. He explained, “They experience measurable withdrawal symptoms … [like] insomnia, difficult time concentrating, loss of appetite, depression and anxiety.”
Trump’s order highlights that marijuana is less harmful than Schedule I drugs and emphasizes the limitations imposed by the Controlled Substances Act on marijuana research. It argues for the drug’s potential medical uses, citing recommendations from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III drug due to its therapeutic applications.
The order notes that “chronic pain affects nearly 1 in 4 United States adults and more than 1 in 3 United States seniors, and 6 in 10 people who use medical marijuana report doing so to manage pain.”
Could Pennsylvania become the ‘keystoned’ state?
In Pennsylvania, some lawmakers view the executive order as an opportunity. Governor Josh Shapiro, who previously opposed marijuana, attempted to include an adult-use cannabis program in the 2025 budget, projecting significant economic gains from cannabis taxes and fees.
State Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-Erie) expressed optimism, stating the decision would “bolster the existing medical marijuana marketplace.” However, Laughlin opposed a bill allowing state-run sales of marijuana due to concerns over market monopolization.
State House Rep. Abby Major (R-Armstrong) sees potential economic benefits, stating, “In 2026, Pennsylvania needs to join every other state in the Northeastern United States and legalize adult recreational use — for revenue, for jobs, for justice.” She, along with Rep. Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny), proposed legislation to support small business dispensaries.
Kinkead also supports the executive order, asserting that it is a step towards “common-sense drug policy reform.” Despite this support, both the Senate and House bills have stalled in committee.
