Daily Update- June 17, 2020 Pardons for Marijuana Offenses

Today the Nevada State Board of Pardons Commissioners passed an amended resolution put forth by member Governor Sisolak in which those convicted of minor marijuana offenses would be pardoned. Prior to January 1, 2017, the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana was a criminal act that could be charged as a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony. This resolution extends to those who were previously convicted for possession of one ounce or less of marijuana, and to those convicted multiple times for this same act.

The resolution summarily pardons thousands previously convicted of this crime. The Secretary of the Nevada State Board of Pardons Commissioners will create an expedited process for those seeking pardon documents, which will be free of charge and available online.

From the press release:

“Today is an historic day for those who were convicted of what has long been considered a trivial crime, and is now legal under Nevada law,” said Governor Steve Sisolak. “Since the passage of Question 2 in 2016 and the decriminalization of possession for small amounts of marijuana, many Nevadans have had these minor offenses remain on their records, in some cases as a felony. This resolution aims to correct that and fully restore any rights lost as a result of these convictions.”

“Today we took another step toward justice by pardoning thousands of Nevadans for actions that Nevadans decided should no longer be illegal,” said Attorney General Aaron D. Ford. “I’m proud to work alongside Governor Sisolak to make it easier for these Nevadans to get jobs, housing, and financial aid for college. Together, we’re making criminal justice reform a priority across Nevada.”

The Governor’s office released a Pardons FAQ which can be found HERE.

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