A federal judge in Sacramento on Wednesday upheld the constitutionality of a 1970 federal law that classifies marijuana as a dangerous drug akin to LSD and heroin.

U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller took the extraordinary step of holding a five-day hearing on the question late last year, raising hopes of activists that she might strike down the classification.

The National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, known as NORML, said Mueller concluded that it was up to Congress to decide the matter.

We applaud Judge Mueller for having the courage to hear this issue and provide it the careful consideration it deserves,” said Paul Armentano, NORML’s deputy director. “While we are disappointed with this ruling, it changes little. We always felt this had to ultimately be decided by the 9th Circuit and we have an unprecedented record for the court to consider.” [Read more at the Los Angeles Times]