President Joe Biden is pardoning thousands of Americans convicted of “simple possession” of marijuana under federal law, as his administration takes a dramatic step toward decriminalizing the drug and addressing charging practices that disproportionately impact people of color, reported The Associated Press.
Biden’s move also covers thousands convicted of the
crime in the District of Columbia. He is also calling on governors to issue
similar pardons for those convicted of state marijuana offenses, which reflect
the vast majority of marijuana possession cases.
Biden, in a statement, said the move reflects his
position that “no one should be in jail just for using or possessing
marijuana.”
“Too many lives have been upended because of our
failed approach to marijuana,” he added. “It’s time that we right these wrongs.”
According to the White House, no one is currently in
federal prison solely for “simple possession” of the drug, but the pardon could
help thousands overcome obstacles to renting a home or finding a job.
“There are
thousands of people who have prior Federal convictions for marijuana
possession, who may be denied employment, housing, or educational opportunities
as a result,” he said. “My action will help relieve the collateral consequences
arising from these convictions.”
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