President Joe Biden took executive action last week, pardoning all prior federal offences of ‘simple marijuana’ possession
He want to wants to lift the burden for those who have been denied employment, housing or any opportunity because of the conviction.
Vice President Kamala Harris took to the stage to support the move, ending her speech with a statement that left the crowd roaring in applause
In a statement, the President says:
“There are thousands of people who have prior federal convictions for marijuana possession, who may be denied employment, housing, or educational opportunities.”
“My action will help relieve the collateral consequences arising from these convictions.”
The move was one of Biden’s campaign promises and will likely please members of his left-leaning supporter base as the nation’s midterm elections approach.
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland will now develop an “administrative process” to issue certificates of pardon to impacted citizens.
State governors are also being urged to take similar steps.
But as federal and state regulation of marijuana changes, Biden warns “important limitations on trafficking, marketing, and under-age sales should stay in place”.
