Governor Grants Sweeping Clemency for Cannabis Offenses in Maryland

17 June 2024

Maryland Governor issued pardons for over 175,000 cannabis-related convictions, marking the most extensive clemency effort of its kind in U.S. history. Timed to coincide with Juneteenth, the executive order targets misdemeanors for marijuana possession and related drug paraphernalia, aligning with Maryland’s 2022 recreational cannabis legalization law. This historic action not only addresses racial inequities but also reflects a broader national movement to reform outdated marijuana laws and mitigate the social harm caused by decades of criminalization, particularly in Black and Hispanic communities.

The pardons, issued under Maryland’s Executive Clemency Policy, absolve individuals of guilt but do not automatically expunge records. However, individuals can apply for expungement through a process outlined by the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, which manages criminal record modifications. By removing barriers to housing, employment, and education, this initiative helps mitigate the systemic injustices stemming from pre-legalization cannabis enforcement. Black Marylanders, for example, were three times more likely to be arrested for cannabis offenses than white residents, despite comparable usage rates, as documented in studies by the ACLU and other research bodies.

This bold move positions Maryland as a leader in equity-driven cannabis reforms, setting a national example for other states addressing similar disparities. By fostering participation in Maryland’s expanding legal cannabis market, the pardons also create opportunities for reintegration into society. Additional resources and details about the expungement process can be accessed through the Maryland Judiciary Case Search system.