Regulation of Marijuana Growing and Changing
The regulation of marijuana has evolved significantly over time. In the early 20th century, many countries, including the United States, began to restrict and eventually prohibit its use. The Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively criminalized marijuana in the U.S., and it was classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, indicating it was deemed to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.
In recent years, however, there has been a shift in public perception and legal status. Several states have legalized marijuana for medical use, and many have also approved it for recreational use. Despite these state-level changes, marijuana remains illegal under federal law. The Department of Transportation (DOT) maintains stringent regulations prohibiting marijuana use for employees in safety-sensitive roles, regardless of state laws, to ensure public safety.