NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA) and Congressman Kelly Armstrong (R-ND) introduced a new bill targeting marijuana misdemeanor convictions.
According to Carter’s office, the bipartisan legislation proposes an expungement mechanism be created for low-level violations of the federal marijuana law.
Additionally, The Marijuana Misdemeanor Expungement Act will provide an expedited orderly process that clears any lingering non-felony marijuana offenses.
The congressmen believe the act would deliver justice to numerous Americans who have had their lives disrupted by the offense.
“These misdemeanors, even without a conviction, can restrict the ability to access educational aid, housing assistance, occupational licensing, and even foster parenting. Delivering justice for people who have been impacted by marijuana-related misdemeanors is a vital part of comprehensive cannabis reform,” said Carter.
It was noted that 38 states, three territories and the District of Columbia currently allow the use of cannabis whether it’s medical or recreational.
The Oct. 6, 2022 Proclamation 10467, is expected to impact at least 6,500 people who have federal convictions in relation to simple possession of marijuana, attempted simple possession of marijuana, or use of marijuana. This will allow for the restoration of civil rights such as voting, sitting on a jury and holding a public office.
“Records matter and carrying a low-level non-criminal petty offense on a record could heavily impact a person’s way of life from sustaining employment to applying to new opportunities,” said Armstrong.
Armstrong adds that the act gives individuals a second chance and will allow for a more equitable society.
“Cannabis-related criminal justice reform efforts must remain at the forefront of federal reform efforts to begin to address the harms caused by decades of the misguided War on Drugs. The National Cannabis Roundtable applauds the leadership of Reps. Carter and Armstrong in doing just that with the introduction of the Marijuana Misdemeanor Expungement Act in the 118th Congress to break down barriers caused by prior cannabis-related convictions when individuals are seeking educational, housing, and employment opportunities,” said Saphira Galoob, Executive Director of the National Cannabis Roundtable.
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