Bill > H1904

This bill aims to ensure equitable access to cannabis-related expungement. It amends the existing law by striking down subsection (b) and replacing it with new provisions. The key changes include: (1) any decriminalized offense eligible for expungement shall be expunged immediately upon the petitioner's request, without the need for further action or a hearing; (2) if the offense was for possession or cultivation of decriminalized marijuana, any related offenses for distribution or other crimes stemming from the same incident shall also be expunged; and (3) the court has discretion to order expungement for other grounds based on the interests of justice. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Correction and county sheriffs to review the sentencing records of prisoners held for now-decriminalized marijuana offenses or probation/parole violations related to marijuana use, and allows such prisoners to apply for immediate release if their only basis for detention is a marijuana-related offense that is no longer a crime.

Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/H1904