October 6, 2022
NOTE: I am not taking a position on the President’s actions today or on this story, I am suggesting that this action will probably ruffle some feathers. Hence “bring the action.”
President Biden issued a blanket pardon for any US citizen who has a prior “offense of simple marijuana possession.”
This pardon does NOT apply to non-US citizens. It also does not apply to other offenses related to marijuana offenses or offenses involving controlled substances.
He has also ordered the Attorney General to develop an administrative process for the issuance of certificates of pardon to eligible individuals. 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 as a result. He says this action today will help relieve the collateral consequences arising from these convictions.
He is also urging all Governors to do the same with regard to state simple marijuana offenses. The President says “just as no one should be in a Federal prison solely due to the possession of marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either.”
If you want more information on this action check out the President’s proclamation here.
Read the President’s statement about his blanket pardon here.
