Landmark: 175,000 Pardons Granted for Cannabis Convictions

For years, a few crumbs of cannabis played an outsized role in shaping Shiloh Jordan’s life. At 32, he reflects on his past encounters with the law, hopeful that recent actions by Maryland Governor Wes Moore will pave the way for a brighter future not just for him, but for tens of thousands of other Marylanders who have been pardoned for misdemeanor marijuana convictions.

Unjust Beginnings: Jordan’s Encounter with the Law

Jordan’s encounter with the law began in his early 20s when a routine traffic stop in Howard County, Maryland, changed his life’s trajectory. Pulled over for not wearing a seatbelt, the officer claimed to smell marijuana and discovered cannabis crumbs on the floor of his vehicle using a piece of tape. This minor charge led to his arrest and a subsequent misdemeanor conviction, an event that would later come to haunt him.

Consequences of a Minor Charge

The impact of Jordan’s misdemeanor conviction hit home when he lost a job due to a background check. This setback made him acutely aware of the challenges faced by young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Determined to turn his life around, Jordan participated in a job readiness program, pursued further education, and eventually found purpose in helping others as an outreach coordinator at the Center for Urban Families in Baltimore.

Maryland’s Changing Stance on Cannabis

Governor Moore’s recent executive order to pardon over 175,000 marijuana convictions reflects a broader shift in attitudes towards cannabis. Maryland legalized recreational cannabis in 2023 and decriminalized possession of personal use amounts in 2023, following a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 2022. This move aligns with President Joe Biden’s administration’s efforts to ease federal restrictions on cannabis, marking a significant change in policy.

Implications of Pardons and Expungements

While a pardon absolves an individual from guilt, it does not expunge the record of the offense. The Maryland Judiciary will make a note of the pardon on the record. Individuals who have been pardoned can seek expungement in court. In response to the governor’s action, the clerk of court for Baltimore City has pledged support in expunging charges from people’s records, recognizing the impact on education, housing, and employment opportunities.

A Step Towards Justice and Equity

Governor Moore’s decision to pardon thousands of cannabis convictions is more than just a legal process; it’s a step towards rectifying past injustices and providing a second chance to those who have been disproportionately affected by outdated policies. As Maryland joins the ranks of states legalizing recreational marijuana, it underscores a broader societal shift in how we view and address past convictions related to cannabis.