Measures to correct inequities and strengthen commitment to marijuana law reform in the United States

US President Joe Biden has taken significant steps towards major reform in the US criminal justice system. Reducing sentences and pardoning some convicted drug offenders are measures aimed at addressing persistent inequities in the system and promoting fairer justice.

Reforms for fairer justice

Joe Biden announced on Friday that he has reduced the prison sentences of a group of 11 people serving long sentences for non-violent drug offenses, according to Reuters. He also pardoned several people convicted of marijuana possession or use. These measures come amid an effort to correct sentencing disparities that have long plagued the African-American community.

President Biden pointed out that these reforms are designed to bring the criminal justice system in line with the principle of equal justice under the law, on which the United States was supposedly founded. He said elected officials, religious leaders, civil rights advocates and law enforcement officials agree that the criminal justice system must reflect this fundamental value to make communities safer and stronger.

Inequities and impact on the African American community

The United States, while representing less than 5% of the world's population, has approximately one-fifth of the world's prisoners. Many of these inmates are people of color, which has historically created inequities in the justice system. The convicts pardoned by Biden were part of a group serving life sentences for distributing cocaine or crack cocaine. Recent reforms would have allowed their sentences to be reduced if they had been sentenced now.

Marijuana law reform

Another significant measure announced by Joe Biden is to pardon all persons convicted of simple possession of marijuana in federal jurisdictions, excluding those convicted of distribution or driving under the influence of marijuana. This decision, also applied to Washington D.C., is intended to remove barriers to jobs, housing and educational opportunities associated with these convictions.

The Justice Secretary is expected to review the pardons and issue certificates to that effect. Biden stressed that the decision is intended to provide a better chance for those pardoned by removing barriers to their reintegration into society.

Preparations for the 2024 elections and mixed reactions

Amid low popularity, especially among young people, Joe Biden is gearing up for an intense campaign for the 2024 presidential election. Despite the diversity of reactions, some praise the reforms as a step in the right direction, while others are more critical and express doubts about their impact on society.

Conclusions and follow-up

The reforms announced by Joe Biden mark a significant change in the approach to the American criminal justice system. The reduction of sentences and pardons for drug offenses indicate a desire to bring more fairness to justice and correct inequities in the system. However, it remains to be seen how these measures will be implemented and what their long-term effects will be on American society.