Legislation to be introduced lowering cost and speeding pardons
The federal government has announced it will soon be quicker and cost less to obtain a criminal pardon for simple pot possession convictions. Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale says legislation will be introduced to waive the waiting period and fee for those seeking a pardon for possession offences. The Liberals have faced pressure to address the pot pardon issue, including within their own caucus, due to the effect of marijuana-related convictions on marginalized Canadians. Until now, simple possession of up to 30 grams of marijuana has been punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and six months in jail. Individuals have been eligible to apply for a pardon through the Parole Board of Canada five years after the conviction is handed down. But the waiting period and the $631 cost of applying for a pardon, known as a record suspension, have proven difficult for some people saddled with records.
A pardon may not get you into the United States, since it is not recognized by the U.S. government.
U.S. Customs Border Protection says Canadians can file a waiver that will be reviewed by the government admissibility office.