With the announcement of the marijuana pardon from the President Joe Biden administration on Thursday, Oct. 6, students and faculty share what this could look like for Texans during an election year. 

“I haven’t heard about this until just now, and it sounds like a very controversial topic,” government teacher Phillip Schwartz said. “But I don’t see any problem with it.” 

This could also impact the individuals that are convicted of possession of marijuana, and sophomore Madison Lee said she thinks this decision is a good decision. 

“I think it’s an amazing idea, and I’m all for it,” Lee said. “Honestly, I believe that this should’ve been done forever ago.” 

According to an article by the New York Times, the pardons clear everyone convicted on federal charges of simple possession since it became a crime in the 1970s. Officials said about 6,500 people were convicted of simple possession between 1992 and 2021, and pardons will not apply to people convicted of selling or distributing marijuana. 

While this won’t affect everyone with a conviction, social studies teacher Lance Clevland said this is long overdue.

“I think it’s awesome,” Clevland said, “This is something that should’ve been happening a long time ago. I don’t see how or why using our resources fights a battle and puts people in prison for small amounts. I think what he’s done has made families’ lives better and people’s lives better, and the people who were convicted with no violence or malicious intent.”