Harris slammed the national classification of cannabis as “patently unfair.”
Vice President Kamala Harris and rapper Fat Joe led a discussion at the White House on Friday regarding the easing of marijuana penalties in the United States.
Harris criticized the federal government’s classification of marijuana, stating that it is “absurd” to consider it more dangerous than fentanyl, a synthetic opioid responsible for numerous deaths annually.
Harris’ Critique of Marijuana Classification
Harris, a former state prosecutor in California, expressed her disagreement with the current federal classification of cannabis, describing it as “patently unfair.”
She emphasized the need for the government to expedite the review process of marijuana classification and urged for a swift resolution based on the findings of the Departments of Health and Human Services and Justice.
Fat Joe Moderates Closed-Door Discussion
Following the public portion of the meeting, Fat Joe moderated a closed-door discussion that included Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and individuals who had received pardons for prior marijuana convictions.
The Grammy-nominated artist facilitated conversations on the impact of marijuana penalties and the need for reform.
President Biden’s Actions and Public Opinion
President Joe Biden has pardoned thousands of individuals for federal marijuana possession and commuted sentences for nonviolent drug offenses.
He initiated the process to review marijuana classification in 2022, urging governors to pardon state offenses. Public opinion polls show widespread support for marijuana legalization, particularly among younger demographics.
Call for Swift Action
Harris emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, highlighting the disparity between marijuana’s classification and its relative safety compared to other substances.
She stressed the need for timely action from relevant government departments to ensure a fair and evidence-based resolution to the ongoing debate surrounding marijuana penalties in the United States.
