Biden pardons marijuana users, reduces sentences for non-violent drug offenses

(Patria) - U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday commuted the sentences of eleven people serving multi-decade sentences for non-violent drug charges, and pardoned potentially thousands of others who were guilty of marijuana possession under state or Washington D.C. laws, Reuters reported.

Biden said the actions were aimed at addressing sentencing disparities that have long taken a toll on the Black community, and to expand his commitment to marijuana reform.

"America was founded on the principle of equal justice under the law," Biden said.

"Elected officials from both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and law enforcement leaders agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect this fundamental value that makes our communities safer and stronger," he added.

The United States has less than 5% of the world's population, but a fifth of its prisoners. A disproportionate share are people of color, who make up a significant portion of Biden's voter base and support. Biden is preparing for an intense campaign year ahead of the 2024 presidential election as his popularity wanes, especially among young people.

Some of the people who were pardoned were serving life sentences, the White House said, including Earlie Deacon Barber of Alabama for cocaine distribution and Deondre Cordell Higgins of Missouri for crack cocaine distribution. Given recent reforms, anyone would be eligible for reduced sentences if convicted today.

Some of the long sentences reflect long-standing disparities in sentencing for crack versus powder cocaine convictions. Legal experts now say such sentences do not help public safety and disproportionately affect Black communities.

Biden's new marijuana proclamation will pardon people who "committed or were convicted of the offense of simple marijuana possession, attempted simple marijuana possession, or marijuana use," including use and possession in certain federal states.

A White House official said thousands of people with federal and Washington D.C. convictions
are eligible for pardons. The administration has initiated an application process so that those pardoned can receive a special certificate for housing or employment applications.