Missouri State Representative Adrian Plank (D) has introduced legislation that would allow individuals serving sentences for marijuana-related offenses to seek early release.
House Bill 1279, filed today, would enable eligible individuals to petition the sentencing court for their sentence to be vacated, resulting in immediate release from incarceration or supervision.
Under the proposed legislation, individuals serving time solely for marijuana-related offenses would be granted automatic release upon approval of their petition. The Missouri Department of Corrections would be required to release such individuals immediately.
The bill reflects ongoing efforts in Missouri and across the country to address past marijuana convictions, particularly in light of evolving legal landscapes and shifting public attitudes toward marijuana policy. Missouri voters approved marijuana legalization in 2022, yet individuals remain incarcerated for offenses that are no longer considered criminal under state law.
House Bill 1279 will now be considered by the Missouri Legislature. If passed, it could provide relief to those still serving time for marijuana-related convictions, aligning state policy with recent reforms.
