President Joe Biden is pardoning thousands of people convicted of simple possession of marijuana on federal lands and in Washington, DC – expanding last year's marijuana pardons by extending the sentences of 11 inmates serving prison sentences on drug charges. converted.
The White House released the clemency requests on Friday morning without revealing the identities of the people.
Biden has promised to release thousands of Americans convicted of marijuana possession since he took office.
His Friday actions follow a 2022 order that pardoned thousands of people under federal law for simple possession of marijuana.
President Joe Biden will commute the sentences of 11 people serving time for drug offenses and announce blanket pardons for certain marijuana offenses
“America was founded on the principle of equal justice under the law.” “Elected officials on both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights activists and law enforcement agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect this core value, which makes our communities safer and stronger “said Biden.
“That’s why today I’m announcing additional steps I’m taking to make the promise of equal justice a reality.”
His new order expands pardons for simple possession to certain states and the District of Columbia.
He said it targets people “who may continue to experience the unnecessary collateral consequences of a conviction for simple marijuana possession, attempted simple marijuana possession or marijuana use.”
His order states that it does not apply to “other controlled substances,” possession with intent to distribute, or driving under the influence. It applies to citizens and legal residents, but not to people who came here illegally. Immigration authorities sometimes use drug charges to deport people who are not legal immigrants.
“First, I am commuting the sentences of 11 individuals serving disproportionately long sentences for nonviolent drug offenses,” Biden said in his statement, released as much of official Washington had already left town for the holidays.
“All of them would have been entitled to significantly lesser sentences if they had been charged with the same offense today.”
“Second, following my pardon of prior federal and DC simple possession of marijuana offenses, I am issuing a proclamation that will pardon additional federal and DC simple marijuana possession and use offenses.”
“Convictions for marijuana use and possession have created unnecessary barriers to employment, housing and educational opportunities.”
“Too many lives have been turned upside down by our failed approach to marijuana.” It’s time we right this wrong.
“Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely for using or possessing marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason.”
“That’s why I continue to call on governors to do the same with respect to state offenses and applaud those who have since taken action.”
“I have made more use of my clemency powers than any other predecessor at this point in his presidency.”
“And while today’s announcement represents important progress, my administration will continue to consider clemency petitions and implement reforms that promote equal justice, eliminate racial disparities, strengthen public safety and improve the well-being of all Americans.”