Washington: President Joe Biden dropped the cases of thousands of American citizens who were convicted of possessing small amounts of marijuana.
He also directed the governors of various states to grant amnesty to the accused in the marijuana case.
At the same time, the new announcement is being evaluated as an important step in the movement to legalize marijuana.
The new order of the President of the United States means that citizens of the country will not face prosecution and jail time for using or possessing marijuana under the prescribed amount. The US President announced the new decision in writing and through a video message.
Joe Biden said in a video message that he is pardoning all federal felonies ever registered for possession of marijuana under the prescribed amount and urging governors to grant clemency or commute the sentences of those convicted.
Many have lost their jobs and education because of the use and possession of even small amounts of marijuana. Biden's announcement is in this context.
About 40 US states have legalized the use and possession of marijuana. But in some states it is illegal to use marijuana.
No one should go to jail for possession of marijuana. Many lives have been ruined because of this. Biden also said that it is time to correct the mistakes.
As he said during the presidential campaign, no one should go to jail for using or possessing marijuana.
Biden said he wants to stop sending people to prison for possession of marijuana. President Joe Biden kept his promise a month before the midterm elections.
At the same time, Biden said that there will be no exemptions for cases of large-scale marijuana trafficking, marketing, and use by minors. In Washington alone, thousands of people convicted under the law will be pardoned. U.S. officials estimate that 6,500 people convicted under federal law of minor marijuana possession could benefit.
Biden directed the Departments of Justice and Health to reconsider whether marijuana should be classified as a serious drug.
Some states allow the possession of marijuana for recreational or medical purposes.
The decision to partially legalize marijuana in the United States has already been made. Following this, the new law will be implemented in all states immediately. No one is currently in federal prison in the U.S. solely for possession of marijuana. Most punishments are given at the state level.
At least 18%of the population used marijuana in 2019, officials said.
Meanwhile, shares of marijuana growers and sellers soared following Joe Biden's comments, according to reports. The global marijuana industry is projected to reach $55 billion in sales by 2026.
There are also reports that the US market will grow to $40 billion. According to marijuana-focused research firm BDSA, the U.S. marijuana industry generated more than $25 billion in sales last year.