On Monday, June 17th, Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced the mass pardoning of 175,000 individuals with cannabis-related convictions. This move represents the largest state-level pardon in United States history, addressing over 150,000 misdemeanor convictions for simple cannabis possession and 18,000 convictions for possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia.
Governor Moore, Maryland’s first Black governor, emphasized the importance of this action in addressing racial inequities in the criminal justice system. “Marylanders should not continue to face barriers to housing, employment, or educational opportunities based on convictions for conduct that is no longer illegal,” he stated. The pardons are also aimed at reducing the racial wealth gap and benefiting residents across the economic spectrum.
The announcement was timed to coincide with the Juneteenth federal holiday, highlighting ongoing racial inequities in U.S. society. Data from the American Civil Liberties Union shows that Black individuals are 3.6 times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than their white counterparts, despite similar usage rates.
Maryland’s move follows a federal order in 2022 that pardoned several categories of federal marijuana possession offenses. The Biden administration is also working to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug. Earlier this year, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey issued a similar mass pardon for cannabis possession.
Governor Moore expressed his commitment to addressing historical wrongs and promoting inclusive economic growth. “To create inclusive economic growth, you have to start removing these barriers that continue to disproportionately sit on communities of color,” he said in an interview.
Attorney General Anthony Brown praised the “long overdue” pardons, which aim to dismantle the “modern-day shackles” of racial bias in cannabis policing. The executive order includes all low-level cannabis possession and paraphernalia charges recorded in the state’s electronic court records, making Maryland the first state to pardon such offenses comprehensively. Those with older, paper-based convictions can apply for pardons, which will also be extended posthumously.
While no individuals currently incarcerated are affected by this order, many with past convictions have faced obstacles in securing housing, employment, and education due to their criminal records. This historic action by Governor Moore aims to provide relief and rectify long-standing injustices.
