The resolution urges the United States Congress to deschedule marijuana from its current classification as a Schedule I controlled substance under the federal Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This classification implies that marijuana has a high potential for abuse, no accepted medical use, and lacks safety for medical supervision. However, the resolution highlights that marijuana has been legalized for both recreational and medical use in New Jersey, supported by the Jake Honig Compassionate Use Medical Cannabis Act, which recognizes its medical benefits for various conditions. Additionally, 37 other states and numerous public health institutions have acknowledged the therapeutic value of marijuana, which has been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with serious medical conditions.

The resolution points out the negative implications of marijuana's Schedule I status, including restrictions on financial institutions providing services to the cannabis industry, which leads to safety concerns for dispensaries operating with large amounts of cash. It emphasizes that the current classification prevents approximately 5.4 million medical marijuana patients in the U.S. from accessing insurance coverage for their treatment and contributes to high out-of-pocket costs for patients. By urging Congress to modify marijuana's classification, the resolution aims to enhance the health and safety of New Jersey residents and support the viability of the state's marijuana industry.