HI HCR79

Requests the Drug Enforcement Administration initiate rescheduling proceedings to remove marijuana from Schedule I of the federal Controlled Substances Act.

Argues that marijuana does not meet Schedule I criteria because it has currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, including Hawaii's medical marijuana program established in 2000.

Directs Hawaii's Department of Health to file a formal petition with the DEA within 30 days requesting removal of marijuana and its cannabinoids from federal Schedule I based on state authority to accept medical use.

Cites the federal Controlled Substances Act's provision allowing for scheduling changes based on state medical use acceptance and argues the DEA cannot deny a state's authority to change the status of substances with currently accepted medical use.

Requires certified copies be transmitted to the DEA Administrator, U.S. Attorney General, Secretary of Health and Human Services, Governor, and state health and public safety directors.