Joe Biden has extended pardons for individuals charged with simple cannabis possession and use, yet disappointingly, he has refrained from granting clemency to those currently incarcerated for cannabis-related offenses.
In an extension of the previous year’s extensive federal pardons for cannabis possession, Joe Biden has issued additional pardons for thousands of individuals convicted of simple cannabis use and possession on federal lands and in Washington D.C., according to the Associated Press.
The White House recently announced granting clemency to 11 individuals who have been incarcerated for nonviolent drug offenses, acknowledging the unjustly lengthy sentences they have served.
However, it is essential to note that these pardons do not lead to the immediate release of any current prisoners serving time for cannabis-related offenses.
Rather, the purpose behind these pardons is to tackle the obstacles that individuals face in seeking employment and housing opportunities due to their past cannabis convictions.
This signifies a symbolic shift in the federal government’s approach to cannabis convictions, aiming to support individuals reintegrating into society.
Komorn Law is Michigan’s top cannabis law firms when it comes to licensing, consulting and legal defense.
Call them if you’re thinking about venturing into the marijuana business in Michigan (248) 357-2550
Biden said that the pardons would help make the “promise of equal justice a reality,” the report said.
“Criminal records for marijuana use and possession have imposed needless barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Too many lives have been upended because of our failed approach to marijuana. It’s time that we right these wrongs.” – President Joe Biden, via the AP
President Biden has restated his desire for U.S. governors to nullify state cannabis convictions. He emphasizes the importance of this action, aligning with his ongoing commitment.
“Just as no one should be in a federal prison solely due to the use or possession of marijuana, no one should be in a local jail or state prison for that reason, either.”
Officially, cannabis remains federally prohibited under the Controlled Substances Act as a Schedule I substance. This classification is reserved for substances that are considered to lack any currently accepted medical use and have a high potential for abuse.
However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommended in August that cannabis be moved from Schedule I to Schedule III.
More Posts
The “Automobile Exception” in Michigan law
The "automobile exception" in Michigan law allows police to search a vehicle without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe it contains evidence of a crime.This exception is grounded in the idea that vehicles are inherently mobile, meaning evidence could be...
The search being challenged was triggered by the odor of cannabis
The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins III (No. 367209) revolves around a legal challenge regarding the search of a vehicle without a warrant.Police conducted a warrantless search under the "automobile exception."The case People of Michigan v. Freddie Wilkins...
Carrying a Concealed Weapon in Michigan
Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization is a crime.Carrying a concealed weapon (CCW) in Michigan without proper authorization can lead to serious criminal charges. Michigan law has strict regulations regarding firearms, and violating...
MI Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records Dispute
Michigan Supreme Court Declines to Intervene in Public Records DisputeTeachers Union and School District at Odds Over Data AccessThe Michigan Supreme Court recently declined to hear a case regarding whether public school teachers' class materials are subject to the...
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan
Felony Firearm Possession in Michigan.In Michigan, the laws surrounding firearms are strict, especially when it comes to felony firearm possession. If you’re charged with a felony and found to be in possession of a firearm during the crime, the penalties can be...
Do the passengers in your vehicle have 4th Amendment Rights?
Do Passengers in your vehicle have 4th Amendment Rights against Search and Seizure?Passengers in a vehicle are afforded Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures, though the scope of these rights varies based on the specific circumstances...
Probable Cause v Reasonable Suspicion
What's the difference between probable cause and reasonable suspicion?Definition of Probable Cause Probable cause refers to the belief held by a reasonable person that a crime is currently being committed, has already been committed, or is likely to be committed in...
Are there exceptions that justify warrantless searches?
Exceptions to your 4th Amendment Rights against Search and Seizure (more to come).The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution safeguards citizens by prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures and generally mandates the necessity of a warrant for such intrusions....
Warrantless Searches in Michigan
I don't need a warrant for that...In Michigan, as in the rest of the United States, the Fourth Amendment of the fading Constitution provides individuals with protection against unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement. Generally, this means that police...
One of Michigan’s Top DUI Attorneys
We aggressively defend all aspects of traffic law, from simple civil infractions to more serious alcohol and drug-related offenses. Don't wait till the last second to get an attorney. That's how you lose.Why Attorney Michael Komorn is one of Michigan’s Top DUI...
