Montana elected officials react to Biden's marijuana pardons
MISSOULA, Mont. — Montana's elected leaders are reacting to President Joe Biden's marijuana pardon. Biden wants to wipe away federal convictions for simple possession of marijuana, which will affect thousands of people.
He's also calling on governors across the county to do the same for state-level offenses but says limitations on trafficking, marketing and underage sales should remain.
We reached out to Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte's office, asking for his reaction.
A spokesperson sent us this statement: “Governor Gianforte has long supported treatment in lieu of incarceration for non-violent drug offenders, making a historic investment in treatment and prevention programs for communities in his first year in office. The governor will continue to evaluate clemencies submitted through the Board of Pardons and Parole on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with statute.”
We also reached out to Montana's congressional delegation.
Sen. Jon Tester's communications director tells us, “The President has pardon authority that both Republican and Democratic presidents have used. Senator Tester is reviewing this decision for its impact on Montana’s communities.”
A spokesperson for Sen. Steve Daines gave us this statement: “Senator Daines opposes President Biden’s decision to offer blanket pardons."
We reached out to Rep. Matt Rosendale's office, but didn't hear back before deadline.
