The Trump administration’s 2026 budget proposal has ignited controversy by seeking to remove a key federal safeguard that has protected state-regulated medical cannabis programs from federal prosecution for over a decade. Since 2014, Congress has included language in its budget preventing the Department of Justice from targeting patients, caregivers, and providers who comply with state medical marijuana laws. The White House’s new proposal omits this provision, raising fears of a return to aggressive federal enforcement tactics against those participating in state-legal programs.

Advocates warn that rescinding these protections could once again subject patients and dispensaries to federal prosecution, despite overwhelming bipartisan support for medical cannabis access. As Congress holds the final authority over budget appropriations, many are urging lawmakers to maintain these crucial protections for patients and states’ rights. For more details, see the original article: Another broken promise: Trump is targeting states’ power over medical marijuana.