A new bill in the U.S. House of Representatives aims to ease federal restrictions on research involving cannabis and other drugs classified as Schedule I substances. The Evidence-Based Drug Policy Act of 2025 (EBDPA), introduced by Representatives Ilhan Omar and Dina Titus, seeks to allow more freedom for scientists to explore the potential medical benefits of these substances. If passed, the law could significantly change how the federal government views and funds drug research.
Targeting Key Barriers in Drug Research
Under current U.S. drug regulations, substances like cannabis, MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy), and heroin are classified as Schedule I drugs. This classification implies that these drugs have no accepted medical use and pose a high risk of abuse. As a result, they are not eligible for federal funding for research, despite the fact that many states have legalized cannabis for medical purposes.
The new bill aims to remove part of the 1998 law that blocks the use of federal funds for research on Schedule I drugs. The proposal would also eliminate a mandate requiring the Office of National Drug Control Policy to oppose legalization efforts, making it easier to fund research and gather data on these substances’ effects. Unlike the complex process of rescheduling cannabis, this bill could be passed through straightforward legislative action.
Support from Both Sides of the Aisle
While some remain skeptical, experts believe the bill has a good chance of receiving bipartisan support. Katharine Neill Harris, a drug policy expert at Rice University, called the bill “modest” and “well-timed,” which could increase its chances of passing. Cat Packer, executive director of the Drug Policy Alliance, agreed that the bill’s focus on science and data over ideology could appeal to lawmakers across the political spectrum.
However, the bill faces challenges. Aaron Smith, CEO of the National Cannabis Industry Association, warned that political polarization in Washington could make it difficult to pass any drug-related legislation, including this one.
Lack of Research Hinders Policy Development
Advocates for the bill argue that current restrictions on research prevent the federal government from gathering crucial data on the effects of cannabis legalization. Without reliable scientific studies, policymakers cannot understand how cannabis use affects health, youth behavior, the criminal justice system, or the economy.
Packer compared the situation to an “institutional blindfold,” explaining that federal officials are unable to respond to the growing number of cannabis-related policy changes in individual states because they lack solid research to guide their decisions.
Katharine Neill Harris added that more robust research could help guide healthcare professionals in providing better care for patients using cannabis. It could answer important questions about the proper dosages, long-term health effects, and the most effective cannabis strains for specific medical conditions.
Broad Implications for Other Schedule I Drugs
While much of the attention surrounding the bill has focused on cannabis, it also includes provisions that could benefit other Schedule I drugs with potential medical uses. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, and MDMA have shown promise in treating mental health conditions like PTSD and severe depression. The EBDPA could support research into these substances and others, potentially leading to new treatment options for people with mental health challenges.
Harris noted that if scientific evidence supports the medical use of a substance, federal agencies should not be required by law to oppose legalization or medical use efforts. This bill could pave the way for more research into drugs that have shown promise in clinical trials, even if they are currently classified as highly controlled substances.
Cautious Optimism for Future Research
Despite the optimism surrounding the bill, Harris warned that even if it passes, political resistance could limit the amount of funding directed toward new research. Some lawmakers may still hesitate to approve funding for cannabis or other Schedule I drugs, despite the growing body of evidence suggesting their medical potential.
Still, Harris emphasized that the bill represents a rational effort to align federal drug policy with current scientific understanding. It could help remove outdated barriers to research and foster a more informed, evidence-based approach to drug policy in the United States.
