Harry Anslinger is appointed commissioner of the newly created Federal Bureau of Narcotics (FBN). His focus is on establishing harsher penalties for drug use, including starting a media campaign to classify marijuana as a "dangerous drug."
Before Anslinger takes office only four states have anti-marijuana laws. By the time he leaves 48 states have passed laws. The FBN is classified as part of the Department of the Treasury rather than as part of law enforcement.