Joe Biden must pardon thousands of Americans convicted of possession of cannabis.
The US president said those federally convicted of possession could be “denied employment, housing or educational opportunities as a result”.
He added: “My action will help mitigate the collateral consequences arising from these convictions.”
Those who benefit from the policy will receive a pardon certificate, which they can show to potential employers.
This decision does not affect possession of other drugs or charges of producing cannabis with intent to distribute.
Mr. Biden also does not forgive non-citizens who were illegally in the United States at the time of their arrest.
The president said he believes “no one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana.”
“Too many lives have been disrupted because of our failed approach to marijuana,” he added.
“It’s time we righted those wrongs.”
