Growing Call for Cannabis Clemency: Biden Under Pressure

Author: Hannah Lewis Updated: 09-10-2024 06:12 PM

Pressure Mounts on Biden for Cannabis Clemency

A coalition of cannabis advocates is increasing pressure on President Joe Biden to fulfill his commitment to cannabis justice. Advocates are urging the president to take significant action as the public shows growing support for reform.

Countdown for Clemency Campaign Launched

The Last Prisoner Project (LPP) along with various partner organizations has officially unveiled the Countdown for Clemency campaign. This initiative aims to encourage Biden to provide clemency to nearly 3,000 individuals who remain imprisoned for federal marijuana offenses. The campaign emphasizes that time is of the essence as Biden’s term approaches its conclusion.

Activists Demand Action

Despite Biden’s previous initiatives, including pardoning numerous individuals with federal cannabis possession convictions, the reality remains that no one has been released from incarceration directly as a result of these efforts. Activists are now pressing for broader use of clemency powers. Sarah Gersten, executive director of LPP, stated, "Time is running out on President Biden's term, but it is not too late for him to rectify the injustices faced by families impacted by cannabis criminalization." The campaign's website prominently displays a countdown clock, symbolizing the limited time left to enact meaningful change.

Public Sentiment Strongly Favors Release

Polling data reveals that a vast majority of Americans support clemency for individuals imprisoned for marijuana-related offenses, which have since been legalized in many states. Approximately 84% of voters favor the release of individuals serving time for cannabis crimes, and around 72% approve of Biden's previous pardoning of non-violent possession convictions. This overwhelming public support adds significant weight to the campaign.

Congress is Taking Notice

The movement for cannabis clemency has gained substantial traction within Congress. In March, 36 lawmakers penned a letter urging Biden to commute the sentences of non-violent cannabis offenders. Interestingly, Biden has adopted a cautious approach. During a campaign event in Wisconsin, he expressed support for reclassifying marijuana but differentiated between casual users and dealers. "If you're out selling it, if you're out growing, it's a different deal," he remarked.

Impending Elections Heighten Urgency

As the 2024 election draws nearer, it seems the urgency for cannabis reform is becoming increasingly evident within the Biden Administration. Both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have acknowledged this issue, with an indicative announcement made on April 20, a date of significance in cannabis culture.

Harris has explicitly called upon the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to expedite its evaluation of marijuana's classification under federal law. With only a few months remaining in Biden’s presidency, advocates and the public alike are eager for decisive action that could impact thousands still serving sentences related to cannabis offenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Countdown for Clemency campaign?

The Countdown for Clemency campaign is an initiative by the Last Prisoner Project and partner organizations, urging President Biden to grant clemency to individuals incarcerated for federal marijuana offenses.

How many individuals are still imprisoned for marijuana offenses?

Approximately 3,000 individuals are still incarcerated for federal marijuana offenses, prompting the call for clemency.

What percentage of voters support releasing cannabis prisoners?

According to recent polls, 84% of voters support releasing individuals who are serving time for cannabis-related crimes.

What has been Biden's response to clemency demands?

Biden has had a cautious approach, issuing pardons but not commuting sentences for individuals still incarcerated for cannabis offenses.

Why is the timing critical for cannabis reform?

With the upcoming 2024 election, there is growing public and political pressure on the Biden Administration to address cannabis reform effectively.

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