Maryland Governor Wes Moore is set to sign an executive order pardoning over 175,000 marijuana convictions
It will be the largest state pardon in Maryland history, according to Moore’s administration.
The big picture: The pardons will include low-level marijuana possession charges for approximately 100,000 individuals, making Maryland the first state to take such action regarding cases related to paraphernalia use.
- Recreational cannabis was legalized in Maryland in 2023.
What they’re saying: “The Moore-Miller Administration is committed to promoting social equity and ensuring the fair and equitable administration of justice,”Moore’s office said.. “Because the use and possession of cannabis is no longer illegal in the state, Marylanders should not continue to face barriers to housing, employment, or educational opportunities based on convictions for conduct that is no longer illegal.”
Go deeper: Moore’s order will affect over 150,000 misdemeanor convictions for cannabis possession, as well as over 18,000 misdemeanor convictions for the use or possession with intent to use drug paraphernalia.
