The DEA's Drug Schedules are an attempt to organize controlled substances based on acceptable medical use and potential for abuse. In theory, Schedule 1 drugs have the least potential for legitimate medical use and the highest potential for abuse. They also, in theory, are the most addictive and the most dangerous to their users. This is not the case. Marijuana, which is recognized in several U.S. states as having a legitimate medical use and has a much lower potential for addiction than several drugs in Schedules II and III and is much less harmful, finds itself at Schedule 1. This is unacceptable. The DEA has failed at classifying drugs in a way that reflects reality, and we waste billions of dollars every year prosecuting the victims of their incompetence. We need rational laws.



