The reclassification would move marijuana away from its current classification as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD. Cannabis would instead be a Schedule III substance, like ketamine and some anabolic steroids.

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An executive order signed Thursday by President Donald Trump would reclassify marijuana as a controlled substance with potential medical use — a designation that will make it easier for the Department of Veterans Affairs to conduct research on cannabis’s effectiveness for pain management, mental health conditions and other symptoms.

Marijuana’s classification as one of the most dangerous and habit-forming substances has long drawn criticism.

The shift to a Schedule III drug opens the door for federal research and allows the industry to bank like other businesses.

President Donald Trump will be signing an executive order on Thursday that will direct the attorney to “expedite” and “complete” the marijuana rescheduling process, throw a lifeline to the hemp industry,