Prince Lobel Partner David Holland has published an article in the Cannabis Law Journal. Titled “Biden’s Pardon and Its Impact” David describes President Biden’s announcement on October 6, 2022 that he will issue pardons for all prior federal simple marijuana possession offenses, clearing these charges from the criminal records of over 6,500 people convicted of the offense from 1970 to 2022.
He states, “While no individuals are currently incarcerated in federal prison for simple possession of marijuana, the Presidential pardon will help to relieve some of the collateral consequences, such as the denial of housing, employment, and educational opportunities, that come with a criminal conviction.” Additionally he notes, “President Biden’s pardon is a moderate step towards federal legalization, as cannabis remains a Schedule I drug, along with the likes of heroin and LSD, under the Controlled Substances Act. However, the President has called on the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Attorney General to initiate the process of reviewing how marijuana is scheduled under federal law
David C. Holland is a partner and a member of Prince Lobel’s Cannabis and Business Litigation practice groups.
David is a highly sought-after civil and criminal litigation attorney who has an extensive background in representing a broad range of stakeholders in the cannabis industry. He is the Executive and Legal Director of Empire State NORML, the New York State affiliate of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). He is also a co-founder and President of the New York City Cannabis Industry Association (NYCCIA) and Vice President of the Hudson Valley Cannabis Industry Association (HVCIA). David is also a pro bono Legal Advisor to Last Prisoner Project (LPP) seeking clemency and habeas corpus relief for prisoners of the Drug War.
You can read the full article here.