Pelosi Statement on President Biden's Historic Marijuana Reform

Press Release

Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after President Biden announced historic marijuana reform, including pardoning of previous federal offenses of simple possession and urging governors to do the same at the state level, and ordering a review of the classification of marijuana as Schedule I drug:

"Today is a day of hope and healing, as President Biden takes historic steps to reform America's approach to marijuana. These transformative actions are the latest manifestation of Democrats' unyielding commitment to justice, especially for those unfairly harmed by cannabis criminalization.

"For far too long, failed federal drug policies -- which have specifically targeted communities of color -- have torn apart too many families. By pardoning those arrested for simple marijuana possession, and encouraging governors to follow suit, President Biden is advancing racial and economic justice: empowering more Americans to return to their loved ones, find a good-paying job and contribute to our communities. At the same time, exploring the reclassification of marijuana is a necessary step to ensure that we do not repeat the grave mistake of mass incarceration.

"House Democrats applaud these bold actions by President Biden, which build on the important progress we forged in passing our Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act. This legislation, which decriminalizes marijuana at the federal level and empowers all to participate in the rapidly growing cannabis industry, must become law. Our proud Democratic Majority will never relent in fighting for these reforms, and more, as we work to advance justice for all."

Source