It's been two years since Joe Biden announced he would pardon all past federal crimes of simple marijuana possession. As most people are probably aware, not a single one of the approximately 3,000 people jailed for federal marijuana offenses has ever been released.
To remedy this situation, the Last Prisoner Project (LPP) proposed a bright idea to the soon-to-be-outgoing president. It would immediately release people still incarcerated for federal drug crimes.
To this end, LPP, along with a bipartisan coalition of cannabis advocates, launched the #Countdown4Clemency campaign to urge Biden to “use his pardon power to commute the sentences of these people before the end of his term.” I asked for it.
President Biden, please consider your legacy.
“However, time is running out for President Biden to effectively utilize this authority,” LPP said in a press statement shared with Benzinga, adding, “As President Biden nears the final months of his presidential term, “We have a unique opportunity to right the injustices of the past.” about the drugs he once helped champion. By commuting the sentences of those still incarcerated on marijuana charges, he can take a bold stand for justice, equity, and healing. ”
Related Article: 2024 Elections and Cannabis: Voters in Battleground States Repeal Legalization, New Poll Finds
Trump and Harris' comments on cannabis amnesty are negative
Vice President Kamala Harris, who has advocated for “legalizing marijuana,” and former President Donald Trump, who has pledged to focus on “research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana” and reclassify marijuana as a Schedule 3 drug, both support it. , or at least show empathy. -For those still incarcerated for marijuana possession.
That said, one may wonder whether these lofty sentiments will make it onto her or his agenda's to-do list once elected. Therefore, the LPP is calling for something to be done sooner rather than later.
Biden's 2022 gubernatorial bid also failed
Even though Biden called on governors to pardon simple marijuana possession convictions at the state level, where marijuana-related incarcerations are most common, the number of people behind bars remains the same.
Meanwhile, public support for broader amnesty is strong, with 72% of voters supporting federal and state amnesty efforts.
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