Governor Healy announces blanket pardon for misdemeanor marijuana possession, to be sent to governor's council

Governor Healy announced at a public event that she is exercising her executive authority under the Massachusetts Constitution to pardon all misdemeanor convictions for marijuana possession on state records and will present the measure to the governor's council for consideration. "Today, I am exercising my executive power as governor under the Massachusetts Constitution," she said, adding, "Justice requires it."

Healy said the pardon is intended to be sweeping and automatic: it will apply to all misdemeanor possession convictions in state courts and, if the governor's council votes in favor, "nobody will have to do anything" to receive the pardon. The administration will work with trial courts, probation and other partners to update records. Healy said anyone who wants official proof may request a certificate…