President Biden Announces Sweeping Pardons for Marijuana Use, Calling for a Reform in Cannabis Policy
In an unprecedented move, President Joe Biden has announced a sweeping federal pardon for every American with a history of marijuana use, including those never arrested or prosecuted. This historic decision extends to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents convicted of federal crimes related to the personal use of marijuana and also includes residents of the District of Columbia. However, it’s important to note that this pardon does not extend to individuals jailed for selling the drug or other marijuana offenses like driving under its influence.
A Step Towards Decriminalization
Biden’s bold move, which aligns with his administration’s approach to decriminalizing the drug, promises significant societal implications. For decades, criminal records for marijuana use have created hurdles in employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Biden’s pardon plan, however, does not cover state law violations, and those seeking proof of pardon must apply through the Department of Justice.
Building on Previous Actions
This year’s proclamation surpasses Biden’s previous directive by including all instances of simple marijuana use or possession under federal law, even for those never charged. The expansion to include minor offenses committed on federal property marks a significant progression in federal cannabis policy.
Implications for Thousands
The White House estimates that thousands with federal and district convictions will benefit from these pardons, announced just days before the Christmas holiday. Biden’s statement emphasizes the needlessness of imprisoning individuals solely for using or possessing marijuana and urges governors to follow suit for state offenses.
Clemency and Sentencing Disparities
Alongside the pardons, Biden has commuted the sentences of 11 individuals serving disproportionate terms for nonviolent drug offenses. This action addresses long-standing racial disparities in sentencing, particularly related to crack and powder cocaine, which have disproportionately affected Black Americans.
The Road Ahead
The Biden administration’s actions send a powerful message about redemption and correcting past injustices. However, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) underscores the necessity for Congress to change laws to sustain these efforts, especially concerning higher sentencing for crack offenses.
Application Process for Pardoned Individuals
Marijuana users wishing to benefit from Biden’s program must undergo an application process set by the Department of Justice to receive a certificate confirming their pardon. This certificate can be crucial for those needing to demonstrate clemency for employment or housing applications.
A Shift in Federal Drug Policy
Earlier this year, the Biden administration recommended that the DEA reclassify marijuana as a lower offense. This recommendation, along with the president’s pardons, represents a significant shift in the federal approach to marijuana policy, increasingly aligned with public opinion. A Gallup survey conducted in October indicated that a record 70% of Americans support legalizing marijuana use.
Conclusion
President Biden’s proclamation to pardon certain marijuana offenses, along with his call for governors to address state offenses, signifies a monumental step towards reforming cannabis policy in the United States. As the nation observes a growing acceptance of both recreational and medical marijuana use, this announcement marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a more just and progressive approach to marijuana legislation and criminal justice.
