Marijuana Reclassification Advances

Marijuana Reclassification Advances: Impacts National Industry Guidance on Drug Testing and Public Safety

December 19, 2025

Mid-South Drug Testing | Memphis, TN & Paragould, AR

Source: White House Executive Order; National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association (NDASA)

A White House Executive Order issued Thursday directing federal agencies to advance the reclassification of marijuana and expand research into medical marijuana and cannabidiol (CBD) has drawn immediate national attention. In response, Mid-South Drug Testing is sharing an informational update grounded in guidance issued by the National Drug & Alcohol Screening Association (NDASA), the leading national authority for the drug and alcohol testing industry.

What the Executive Order Does

The Executive Order, titled “Increasing Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research,” focuses on expanding scientific research and continuing the administrative review process related to marijuana’s classification under the Controlled Substances Act.

Importantly, the order includes a general provision stating that nothing in the order may be construed to impair or otherwise affect the authority of federal agencies or their existing regulatory functions.

NDASA Guidance on Drug Testing Authority

Following the Executive Order, NDASA issued industry guidance noting that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) views this provision as support for the long-standing DOT safety carve-out. This carve-out allows the DOT to continue testing for THC among safety-sensitive transportation employees, regardless of marijuana’s classification.

NDASA has consistently advocated for preserving DOT authority and has emphasized that this provision represents a meaningful safeguard for public safety, transportation systems, and regulated workplaces.

Impact on Government, Transportation, and Communities

According to NDASA’s guidance, the Executive Order does not:

• Change DOT drug testing requirements

• Remove THC from testing panels

• Alter drug testing methodologies or cutoffs

• Override workplace, court-ordered, or government-mandated testing programs

As a result, drug testing programs supporting transportation safety, government operations, and community protection remain fully intact.

Expert Perspective from Mid-South Drug Testing

“This announcement has major visibility, but no immediate impact on drug testing,” said Kelly Dobbins, Owner and Drug Testing Expert at Mid-South Drug Testing. “Testing authority remains in place, including DOT testing for THC. Public safety programs continue to operate under the same standards.”

CBD and Ongoing Testing Considerations

The Executive Order also acknowledges concerns related to CBD products, including inconsistent labeling and varying THC content. NDASA notes that while future research and regulatory discussions may continue, current testing risk associated with CBD products remains unchanged.

Looking Ahead

NDASA has stated that while the inclusion of the DOT safety carve-out is a positive development, additional clarity will be needed as federal agencies evaluate long-term implications, including impacts to Medical Review Officers and employer rights.

Mid-South Drug Testing will continue monitoring guidance from NDASA, the Department of Transportation, and other federal authorities and will share updates as enforceable policies evolve.