Mississippi medical marijuana and Trump’s federal order

Federal drug policy is undergoing a major shift. It could affect Mississippi medical marijuana.

President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order changing the classification for medical marijuana at the federal level. It affected products that states license for medical use and Food and Drug Administration-approved marijuana products.

On April 23, acting Attorney General Todd Blanche signed an order shifting them from the highest level of regulation, Schedule I, to the less restrictive Schedule III.

“This rescheduling action allows for research on the safety and efficacy of this substance, ultimately providing patients with better care and doctors with more reliable information,” Blanche said in a statement.

Did Trump legalize marijuana?

No. Weed has not been legalized across the country.

The newest changes only downgrade the penalties if someone has medical marijuana in a way that violates federal law.

Trump also signed an executive order in December easing some federal penalties for recreational use. It did not legalize the drug nationally or override state marijuana laws.

The DOJ will have an expedited hearing on June 29 regarding more broadly reclassifying marijuana. The reclassification push started under former President Joe Biden, and Trump signed an executive action in December.

Weed is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, but it would move to Schedule III if the proposed reclassification is finalized.

Do people want marijuana legalized?

About half of all U.S. states have decided to fully legalize weed for adult, non-medical use.

A 2025 Gallup poll survey showed that 64% of Americans wanted weed to be legal.

After Trump signed his December executive order to reclassify marijuana, more than 20 Republican senators, including Mississippi’s Cindy Hyde-Smith, sent Trump a letter saying the drug is “harmful to its users.” They urged him to change his mind.

What does the federal medical marijuana change mean in Mississippi?

Generally, the new shift will make it easier for the medical marijuana industry to operate. Business operators can file business deductions on their federal taxes.

It should also make it easier to do related research.

Is medical marijuana legal in Mississippi?

Yes. Medical marijuana is legal to buy and use through the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program.

To buy medical marijuana, you must have a medical cannabis card issued by Mississippi. State‑registered doctors can prescribe weed for more than 20 qualifying conditions, including cancer, glaucoma and Parkinson’s disease. Check the list maintained by the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Program to see if you qualify.

There are fees for patients and caregivers, as well as additional costs for doctor visits. Health insurance does not cover medical marijuana.

It’s sold at approved dispensaries.

Cardholders may buy no more than 24 Mississippi Medical Cannabis Equivalency Units (MMCEUs) in a 30‑day period and can possess up to 28 MMCEUs at one time.

Can you buy medical marijuana in Mississippi if you live out of state?

Yes. Non-residents can get medical marijuana here with limits.

People who don’t live in Mississippi can apply for temporary medical marijuana cards up to twice a year. Each temporary card is valid for 15 days and requires proof of medical marijuana eligibility in the person’s home state.

Non‑residents may buy up to 6 MMCEUs per week or 12 per 15‑day period.

Is recreational marijuana legal in Mississippi?

No. Mississippi does not allow recreational marijuana.

But the state has eased penalties for small amounts. Possession can still lead to fines, jail time or felony charges. It all depends on the situation.

Contributing: Zac Anderson

Bonnie Bolden is the Deep South Connect reporter for Mississippi with USA TODAY Network. Email her at bbolden@gannett.com.