On May 1, 1971, the Federal Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970, more commonly known as the Controlled Substances Act, became effective.

Today, some states have passed laws allowing for the medical or recreational use of marijuana. However, marijuana remains a Schedule I medication under federal law. In addition, medications may be removed or added to a schedule or be switched from one schedule to another. The US Attorney General has the authority to add, remove, or switch. The Attorney General works with the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services to determine a medicationﾒs schedule.