Why it matters:
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has extended the deadline for low-level cannabis offenders to apply for a pardon through its online portal. This extension allows individuals with convictions for simple possession of marijuana to apply for certificates of pardon. The pardon initiative was enacted by President Joe Biden in October 2022 as part of a larger effort to end the failed approach to marijuana enforcement. This extension provides an opportunity for individuals to restore their political, civil, and other rights.
What they are saying:
The DOJ is seeking to extend the pardon application process through 2026 and is currently seeking Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) authorization for three years. The purpose of this collection is to gather the necessary information to administer the provisions of the Executive Order 10467, which grants pardons to individuals charged or convicted of simple possession of marijuana. The DOJ expects around 20,000 people to apply for a pardon and complete the required information.
The big picture:
With the extension of the pardon application process, the DOJ aims to provide individuals with certificates of pardon, restoring their rights. This initiative is part of a larger effort to address the unjust incarceration of individuals for low-level cannabis offenses. It aligns with President Biden’s goal to end the failed approach to marijuana enforcement and acknowledges that no one should be in jail simply for using or possessing marijuana.
What to watch:
It will be crucial to monitor the number of applications submitted in response to this extension. The DOJ expects a significant number of applications, and tracking the actual number of pardons granted will reveal the impact of this initiative. Additionally, as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration conduct their federal cannabis scheduling review, the potential for federal rescheduling or descheduling of cannabis could have significant implications for cannabis consumers and businesses.
My take:
The extension of the deadline for low-level cannabis offenders to apply for a pardon is a positive step towards rectifying the unjust consequences of marijuana enforcement. By providing individuals with certificates of pardon, their rights can be restored, and they can move forward without the burden of a cannabis conviction. This initiative aligns with the growing recognition of the need for cannabis reform and a more equitable approach to marijuana enforcement. Additionally, the ongoing federal cannabis scheduling review and potential rescheduling or descheduling of cannabis could have significant implications for the industry and individuals affected by its current legal status.
