Summary
Clemency for cannabis offenses has become a focal point of advocacy as President Joe Biden’s administration faces criticism for not releasing individuals still incarcerated for nonviolent marijuana-related crimes. Despite Biden’s earlier actions to pardon simple marijuana possession offenses, approximately 3,000 individuals remain imprisoned, prompting calls for immediate clemency before his term concludes.
The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) has been vocal in urging Biden to utilize his clemency powers effectively during his remaining time in office. The organization highlights the racial disparities in incarceration rates for cannabis offenses, noting that many of those still behind bars are Black individuals who have served lengthy sentences for actions that are now legal in many states. Polls indicate significant public support for releasing these individuals, with 84% of voters favoring clemency for those jailed for offenses that are no longer illegal. Additionally, the LPP has launched the #Countdown4Clemency campaign, rallying a bipartisan coalition to press for the immediate release of those still incarcerated for cannabis offenses.
Historical Context and Current Landscape
Biden’s prior clemency actions included pardoning nearly 13,000 individuals, but critics argue that these measures fall short of addressing the broader issue of nonviolent cannabis-related incarcerations. The administration’s inaction is juxtaposed against former President Donald Trump’s last-minute pardons for cannabis offenders, raising questions about Biden’s commitment to criminal justice reform in the context of cannabis legislation.
Racial Justice Implications
The LPP emphasizes that nearly half of the clemency petitions submitted to the White House are from Black individuals, underscoring the racial injustices embedded in the War on Drugs. Advocates argue that releasing these individuals would not only serve justice but also rectify historical wrongs associated with cannabis prohibition.
Calls for Action
As the Biden administration approaches a “lame-duck” period, advocates are urging the president to act decisively. The LPP contends that Biden has a unique opportunity to solidify his legacy in criminal justice reform by commuting the sentences of those still imprisoned for cannabis offenses. With time running out, the pressure is mounting for the administration to fulfill its promises and address the injustices that many advocates believe have been left unaddressed.
Joe Biden, Quick Question Before You Go: Are Those Cannabis Pardons From 2 Years Ago Still On?
Oct. 7 / Benzinga / Highlights the urgency of Biden's clemency powers while critiquing the lack of action on cannabis offenses. The unique perspective from LPP emphasizes the racial justice implications, making it compelling. “ It’s been two years since Joe Biden 's announcement to pardon all prior federal offenses of simple marijuana possession . Although almost everyone has likely...
Sep. 16 / Benzinga / Focuses on Biden's past clemency actions versus current inaction, providing a historical context. The strong public support data adds weight, but it could benefit from deeper exploration of individual cases. “ President Joe Biden made strides in cannabis reform, granting record relief to nearly 13,000 people. However, Stephen Post from the Last Prisoner Project...