The US is planning to reclassify cannabis as a less dangerous drug in an historic shift that could have a significant impact across the country.

The Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) proposal would recognise the drug's medical properties and acknowledge it has less potential for abuse than other dangerous substances. However the proposal, which still must be reviewed by the White House, would not legalise cannabis outright for recreational use.

Marijuana is currently classified in the US as a "schedule one" substance, alongside heroin and LSD, which is reserved for drugs with a high potential for abuse. The US Department of Justice, which oversees the DEA, recommended cannabis be switched to "schedule three.