On Friday, President Joe Biden made a significant announcement, granting a federal pardon to all Americans who have used marijuana in the past, regardless of whether they faced legal consequences or not.
This broad pardon extends to all individuals who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents and who possess marijuana for personal use, as well as those who have been convicted of similar federal offenses. Additionally, it pardons individuals who use marijuana in the District of Columbia. This policy does not extend to individuals who have been incarcerated for selling the drug, which is prohibited under federal law, or for other marijuana-related offenses like driving under the influence of an illegal substance.
Biden’s pledge to grant pardons carries immense weight, considering how criminal records related to marijuana usage and possession have hindered individuals from securing employment, housing, and educational prospects. Nevertheless, individuals who have violated state law will not be eligible for the pardons, and those seeking proof of a pardon will need to submit an application to the Department of Justice.
Last year, Biden granted a comparable pardon and expressed his commitment to implementing further reforms in the future. This year’s proclamation took a step forward by forgiving all cases of simple marijuana use or possession under federal law, even for individuals who have never faced charges. In addition, Biden’s previous directive now encompasses minor.
According to the White House, a significant number of individuals with federal and district convictions will now have the opportunity to be pardoned. This announcement from President Biden comes just three days prior to the Christmas holiday.
Biden emphasized that individuals should not be incarcerated solely for the use or possession of marijuana, expressing his stance on the matter. He strongly encouraged governors to consider forgiving state offenses.
“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.
Biden has taken action to commute the sentences of 11 individuals who he believes have been serving excessively long sentences for nonviolent drug offenses. These individuals would have received lesser sentences if they were charged under current laws.
The Congressional Black Caucus expressed their support for the pardons, highlighting the significance of addressing the historical racial disparities in crack and powder cocaine sentencing. They emphasized that these disparities have disproportionately affected Black Americans for generations.
Individuals who use marijuana and wish to participate in Biden’s program will need to adhere to an application process established by the Department of Justice. This process will grant them a certificate that verifies their pardon under the president’s comprehensive order. This certificate can be used as evidence of clemency when applying for employment or housing.
In Biden’s proclamation, it is stated that the attorney general will carefully review all properly submitted applications for certificates of pardon and will issue these certificates to eligible applicants in a timely manner.
Earlier this year, the Biden administration made a recommendation to the DEA regarding the rescheduling of marijuana use to a lower offense.
In an October survey conducted by Gallup, a remarkable 70% of Americans expressed their support for the legalization of marijuana. It is highly preferred by a significant number of Republicans. It has gained significant popularity among liberals, Democrats, and young Americans, who Biden aims to motivate to vote for his reelection.
Recreational marijuana use has been legalized in 24 states and the District of Columbia. Medical marijuana has gained widespread acceptance in the United States. Legal in 38 states.
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