In a progressive step for narcotics charges, US President Joe Biden utilized his presidential pardon power on Friday to commute the sentences of eleven non-violent drug offenders and pardon countless others with marijuana offenses under the remit of federal law or located within Washington, D.C
What Moves Has Biden Made?
Using his power as granted by Article II of the U.S. Constitution, Biden embarked on a path of rectification, addressing the societal fallout of marijuana offenses that, in his words, "have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities."
The president, clearly cognisant of the lives upended due to the country's flawed approach to marijuana, stated:
"It's time that we right these wrongs."
His comments bring into sharp focus the U.S. Sentencing Commission's report published this year on the impact of simple possession of marijuana offenses in the federal system. Although possession sentencing rates have declined in recent years, prior possession offenses can significantly impact an individual's sentencing score for subsequent offenses.
What's the Reaction to Biden's Actions?
In response to this groundbreaking initiative, Vice President Kamal Harris wound a similar thread, touching upon the criminal justice reforms needed to address our nation's approach to marijuana. Harris, an advocate for prison sentence review for something as familiar as smoking weed, is calling on Governors to partake in these pivotal socio-legal reforms.
Isn't This a First for Biden?
Interestingly, this is not Biden's first headline-making use of his pardon power aimed at non-violent offenders. In 2022, the president pardoned "all prior Federal infractions for merely possessing marijuana," an act that remains illegal under U.S. federal law due to the Controlled Substances Act. The controversial act classifies marijuana as a Schedule I drug, on par with the peril associated with the country's deadliest substances. Despite failed attempts by Congress to decriminalize marijuana, the drug is finding increased acceptance at the state law level.
Where Does State Law Fit Into All This?
Despite marijuana's classification under federal law, a growing contingent of 23 states, two territories, and Washington, DC, have broken away to legalize recreational use of marijuana. Furthermore, 27 states and D.C. have decriminalized specific amounts, while most states have sprung into action by implementing record-clearing laws for marijuana offenses.
What's Next in this Ongoing Marijuana Narrative?
As we observe an epoch-making shift in the penalizing narrative of marijuana, a conversation about procuring legal assistance from seasoned lawyers becomes increasingly essential. The experienced lawyer understands the nuances of drug law and can aid the offender in navigating the legal labyrinth.
It's a mark of our evolving consciousness that we're edging away from stringent penal codes towards a more lenient, realistic, and humanistic approach to simple marijuana offenses. As part of the societal fabric, we must extend a collective arm of support for these significant changes.
Are you impacted by past marijuana convictions? Connect with an experienced lawyer today to understand your rights better and explore the possibility of record-clearing. This is not just about legal recourse; it's about reasserting your rightful place in society.
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