Washington, D.C. — In a groundbreaking announcement today, President Joe Biden revealed that he is commuting the sentences of approximately 2,500 individuals convicted of non-violent drug offenses. This move aims to address disproportionately long prison terms imposed under outdated sentencing laws and policies.
The president emphasized that these individuals were serving sentences significantly longer than what current laws would prescribe. “Today, I’m commuting the sentences of nearly 2,500 people convicted of non-violent drug offenses. This is an important step toward righting historic wrongs and providing deserving individuals the opportunity to return to their communities after far too much time behind bars,” Biden stated on social media platform X.
The clemency action highlights the administration’s commitment to correcting sentencing disparities, particularly those rooted in the discredited distinctions between crack and powder cocaine offenses. These disparities, which have disproportionately affected minority communities, have been widely criticized by criminal justice reform advocates.
Citing legislative progress through the Fair Sentencing Act and the First Step Act, the president reinforced the need to continue addressing systemic injustices. “It is time that we equalize these sentencing disparities,” Biden said, noting that today’s action builds on these reforms to ensure fair treatment for all.
This move also marks a significant milestone for President Biden, who now holds the record for issuing the highest number of individual pardons and commutations in U.S. history.
The administration plans to continue reviewing additional clemency petitions as part of its broader criminal justice reform agenda.
White House officials and reform advocates have praised the action, describing it as a meaningful step toward justice and reconciliation for families affected by excessive incarceration.
For further details, visit WhiteHouse.gov.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
