President Joe Biden declared on Friday that he would grant a nationwide pardon to every American who has engaged in marijuana use, extending clemency even to those who were never subjected to arrest or prosecution.
The comprehensive pardon covers individuals across the U.S. and in D.C., absolving them of federal charges related to personal marijuana use. Notably, it excludes those convicted of selling the substance or engaging in other illegal activities.
The move carries significant implications, particularly in addressing the hurdles posed by past marijuana convictions on employment, housing, and education. While it doesn’t extend to violations of state law, Biden emphasizes the need to rectify the impact of outdated approaches to marijuana, stating that no one should be imprisoned solely for using or possessing the substance.
This act is part of Biden’s broader efforts to decriminalize marijuana and address the disproportionate impact of drug-related charges, particularly on communities of color.
In a statement, the president highlighted the unnecessary barriers created by criminal records for marijuana use and calls for corrective measures to right these historical wrongs.
“Criminal records for marijuana use and possession have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. It’s time that we right these wrongs,” Biden said.
In a parallel move, Biden also commutes the sentences of 11 individuals facing disproportionately long terms for non-violent drug offenses, signaling a commitment to reforming charging practices in this domain.
In addition to the mass pardon, Biden advocates for governors to consider pardoning state offenses related to marijuana.
