We supported this legislation which would have authorized the expungement of criminal convictions related to the possession of marijuana, presumably in conjunction with the legalization of the drug.
In 2016, the ACLU released a report that showed that black residents of Rhode Island were three times as likely to be arrested for possession of marijuana than white residents. Among other things, the presence of a criminal record can make it more difficult for individuals to find employment, obtain occupational licensing, and finding housing. Especially given the significant racial disparities, it is unconscionable to burden individuals with a criminal record for a crime which is not only victimless, but which the legislature has since determined is a non-criminal offense altogether. This bill died in committee.
