Jul 2002: After over a year of claiming that they had not received the application, the DEA returns the original document to Dr. Craker. It bears an official stamp indicating that it had been received in June 2001.
Aug 2002: Dr. Craker resubmits the application, which the DEA then acknowledges receiving.
Feb 2007: DEA Administrative Law Judge Mary Ellen Bittner makes an official recommendation that the DEA grant the license to Dr, Craker. Judge Bittner rules that it is in the public interest to end the federal government's monopoly on the supply of marijuana that can be used in FDA-approved research.
Jan 14, 2009: Seven and a half years after the initial application, almost two years after Judge Bittner's recommendation, and less than a week before the inauguration of President Obama, DEA Administrator Leonhart issues a Final Order rejecting Judge Bittner's recommendation and Dr. Craker's application.
Mar 11, 2009: ACLU Lawyers submit a Motion to Reconsider to the DEA. This deadline was originally Feb 1, but it was extended because lawyers filed a motion stating that 18 calendar days was not enough time to respond, and 16 members of congress wrote a letter to AG Eric Holder urging him to extend the deadline.
Apr 13, 2009: The DEA rejects Dr. Crakers's appeal of the Jan 14 Final Order.
May 1, 2009: The Jan 14 Final Order is implemented, despite appeals from senators and congressmen.