June 20th 2024.
Governor Wes Moore made a groundbreaking announcement yesterday, June 17th, at a press conference that has the potential to change the lives of over 175,000 residents in Maryland. He boldly declared that he would be issuing pardons for individuals who have been convicted of marijuana-related misdemeanors. This move, according to Moore, marks the most extensive state-level pardon in any state and will have a significant impact on tens of thousands of Marylanders.
Moore, who has been vocal about reversing the damage caused by the war on crime, stated that these pardons are intentional and unapologetic. He emphasized that this is the most extensive action taken in the nation's history, and he is proud to be at the forefront of it. The Executive Order issued yesterday is a historic moment for Maryland, and Governor Moore is determined to make a positive change for those who have been affected by past policies.
Executive Director of the University of Baltimore School of Law Center, Heather Warnken, also voiced her support for the pardons. She believes that this is a victory for thousands of Marylanders who can now pursue education, employment, and other forms of economic opportunities without the burden of a criminal record. One such individual is Shiloh Jordan, who lost his job due to a minor cannabis conviction that showed up on his background check. Jordan, who was present at the press conference, is now back in school and employed at the Center for Urban Families in Baltimore. Governor Moore acknowledged his story and stated that today is the day that his record will no longer hold him back.
This decision to pardon marijuana convictions is about changing how society views those who have been excluded from opportunities due to flawed policies. Recreational cannabis was legalized in Maryland in 2023, following a 67% voter approval of a constitutional amendment in 2022. Additionally, the state decriminalized personal use amounts of cannabis on January 1st, 2023, following the lead of 24 other states and the District of Columbia. These pardons will affect over 150,000 misdemeanor convictions for simple possession and more than 18,000 misdemeanor convictions for use or possession of drug paraphernalia. The state judiciary will also update electronic dockets to reflect Governor Moore's pardons.
While the process may take up to two weeks, Governor Moore is also directing the state corrections department to develop a system that will indicate a pardon on a person's criminal record. This process can take up to 10 months to complete, but Moore is determined to see it through. Maryland's Attorney General, Anthony Brown, expressed his support for the pardons, calling them "long overdue." He believes that as a nation, we have taken far too long to correct the injustices of a system that is meant to be fair for all. Brown also acknowledged that this move is about racial justice and will have a significant impact on African Americans and other people of color who have been disproportionately affected by past policies.
Governor Moore's announcement comes just one month after the Biden administration officially began the process of reclassifying marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III. This move, if approved, will limit the punishment for individuals in possession of marijuana in regards to federal crimes. According to ABC News, the Drug Enforcement Administration will assign an administrative law judge to review the evidence and make a final recommendation on the scheduling change after a 60-day public comment period.
In conclusion, Governor Wes Moore's decision to issue pardons for marijuana convictions in Maryland is a crucial step towards undoing the harm caused by the war on crime. This move will give thousands of Marylanders a fresh start to pursue their dreams without the burden of a criminal record. It is a victory for racial justice and a monumental moment in our nation's history.
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