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DOJ Reverses Marijuana Policy, Enforces Strict Federal Punishments

11/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice reversed guidance on simple marijuana possession.
U.S. Attorney Darin Smith announced a strict enforcement policy for marijuana offenses on federal land.
The action follows President Biden's pardons for certain offenses and his directive to refrain from prosecuting these cases.
Smith says possession remains a federal crime regardless of state laws and that offenders will be held accountable.

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Story summary

On September 29, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice reversed guidance on simple marijuana possession.
U.S. Attorney Darin Smith announced a strict enforcement policy for marijuana offenses on federal land.
The action follows President Biden's pardons for certain offenses and his directive to refrain from prosecuting these cases.
Smith says possession remains a federal crime regardless of state laws and that offenders will be held accountable.