Maryland Governor Wes Moore has announced a mass pardon for over 175,000 low-level marijuana convictions. Akua Amaning, director for Criminal Justice Reform at the Center for American Progress, responded to this decision with the following statement:
"The pardons issued today by Gov. Wes Moore signify one of the largest acts of clemency related to marijuana the United States has witnessed to date. This announcement addresses devastating impacts of America’s war on drugs and provides real second chances for justice-involved Marylanders. For far too long, individuals–disproportionately people of color–have endured the collateral consequences that stem from even a minor marijuana conviction, despite its recreational use now being legal in 24 states, including Maryland, and Washington, D.C."
Amaning emphasized that these pardons will help an estimated 100,000 people overcome barriers imposed by their conviction records, such as those affecting employment, housing, or education opportunities. She further stated that this action signifies to the rest of the nation the need to legalize cannabis at the federal level and end the harms inflicted by marijuana criminalization.
For additional information or expert commentary on this topic, Jasmine Razeghi can be contacted via email.
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