Maryland Announces Mass Pardon for Cannabis Convictions: Over 175,000 to Benefit

Maryland Governor Wes Moore is set to sign an executive order on Monday to issue more than 175,000 pardons for marijuana convictions. This unprecedented move will affect over 150,000 misdemeanor convictions for simple cannabis possession and more than 18,000 misdemeanor convictions for use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia, according to a summary from the governor’s office.

Historical Context

The governor’s office describes these pardons as the largest state pardon to date. Maryland will become the first state to pardon cases related to the use of paraphernalia. These actions aim to forgive low-level marijuana possession charges for an estimated 100,000 individuals, as initially reported by The Washington Post.

Executive Order Signing

Governor Moore will sign the executive order in the state Capitol in Annapolis, accompanied by Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown. This follows the legalization of recreational cannabis in Maryland in 2023, after voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2022 with 67% support.

Commitment to Social Equity

The Moore-Miller Administration emphasizes its commitment to promoting social equity and ensuring fair justice. The governor’s office stated, “Marylanders should not continue to face barriers to housing, employment, or educational opportunities based on convictions for conduct that is no longer illegal.”

Racial Equity Issue

Attorney General Anthony Brown highlighted the racial equity aspect of the pardons, noting that they will significantly benefit Black and Brown Marylanders.

Implementation Process

The pardons reflect the number of convictions, with some individuals having multiple convictions pardoned. Following the signing, the Maryland Judiciary will update electronic dockets to indicate the pardons within two weeks. The state corrections department will develop a process to reflect the pardons in criminal records, expected to take about 10 months.

These pardons do not result in immediate releases from incarceration but mark a significant step towards rectifying past convictions. This move aims to relieve individuals from the stigma and barriers associated with their past marijuana-related convictions.