Biden Cites Federal Cannabis Pardons And Possible Policy Reforms In His Juneteenth Proclamation

President Joe Biden's Juneteenth proclamation signaled a potential shift in cannabis policy.

Biden stressed his commitment to marijuana reform, including last October's pardons for federal cannabis prisoners and a comprehensive review of its legal classification.

Emphasizing the administration's dedication to racial equity, Biden reiterated his previous actions, such as pardoning individuals with prior marijuana convictions in the District of Columbia, reported Marijuana Moment (MM).

“I have taken action on marijuana reform by pardoning prior District of Columbia and Federal simple marijuana possession offenses and directed a review of marijuana scheduling,” Biden said on the day in 2021 when he declared Juneteenth to be a federal holiday.

In line with his promise to address the historical racial disparities in cannabis enforcement, the president underscored the significance of providing relief to those who have been disproportionately impacted.

Meanwhile, a Congressional resolution echoes this sentiment.

A group of Democratic lawmakers in Congress, led by Rep. Ayanna Pressley, introduced a resolution calling for reforms that include legalizing marijuana, establishing overdose prevention sites, and expunging drug-related records.

The resolution, supported by 16 cosponsors, aims to address systemic issues like mass incarceration, racial discrimination, addiction and homelessness. It highlights that some 30% of federal prisoners are serving sentences related to substance offenses, emphasizing the need for justice, equity and a compassionate approach to drug policy, per Marijuana Moment.

Furthermore, the House Appropriations Committee called for increased enforcement by the FDA against CBD companies making unauthorized claims about the benefits of cannabidiol.

According to MM, the panel also highlighted the VA' efforts to educate veterans about home loan benefit protections in state-legal marijuana markets.

However, the committee acknowledges the FDA's intention to collaborate with Congress in developing a regulatory framework for CBD, which would include risk management tools such as labeling requirements and content limits.

As the nation celebrated Juneteenth, a day commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S., the demand for comprehensive cannabis reform gained traction across the political landscape.

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