Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has revealed plans to issue pardons for tens of thousands of individuals convicted of misdemeanor marijuana charges dating back several decades. The pardons will apply to all adult Massachusetts state court misdemeanor convictions before March 13, 2024, related to possession of marijuana or 'Class D substance.' Governor Healey emphasized that most individuals will not need to take any action to have their criminal records updated.
The pardons are contingent on approval from the Governor’s Council. If approved, they will take effect immediately after the council votes, although updating criminal records will require some time. Governor Healey described these pardons as the most comprehensive since President Joe Biden's federal pardons for marijuana possession convictions.
A pardon, initiated by the governor, serves as forgiveness for a conviction but does not automatically seal or expunge criminal records. Governor Healey stressed that these pardons are a matter of justice, especially considering that Massachusetts decriminalized marijuana possession for personal use in 2008 and legalized it in 2016.
Attorney General Andrea Campbell expressed support for Governor Healey's initiative, highlighting the lifelong consequences that convictions for simple marijuana possession can have. She also pointed out the disproportionate impact on Black and brown individuals who have been arrested and convicted for marijuana possession.
According to the Cannabis Control Commission, there were nearly 69,000 civil or criminal violations for marijuana possession in Massachusetts from 2000 through 2013. The administration estimates that the pardons could benefit hundreds of thousands of people, providing them with opportunities that were previously hindered by past convictions.
The pardons announced by Governor Healey do not extend to other marijuana-related convictions such as distribution, trafficking, or driving under the influence. However, they represent a significant step towards rectifying past injustices and removing barriers for individuals seeking employment, housing, and education.
Similar efforts to address past marijuana convictions have been undertaken in other states, reflecting a broader trend towards criminal justice reform and equity. Governor Healey's decision aligns with calls from President Biden and sets a precedent for governors across the country to consider similar actions in the interest of promoting equal justice.
As the legal landscape surrounding marijuana continues to evolve, these pardons signal a commitment to righting historical wrongs and providing a pathway to economic opportunities for individuals previously impacted by outdated drug policies.
