Decriminalize non violent marijuana crimes

My brother Brent Crawford a lifelong resident of Northern Kentucky and an Honorably discharged U.S.A.F Veteran was sentenced to 180 months in prison for Non- Violent marijuana offenses. He has been incarcerated since January of 2021.

As you are aware, federal territories, numerous states and municipalities have taken steps to decriminalize marijuana for medical and/or recreational use. The continued incarceration of individuals like Mr. Crawford, who have been convicted of Non-Violent marijuana offenses, is not only inconsistent with the trends toward decriminalization and legalization, but also represents a significant waste of taxpayer resources.

We also want to bring to your attention that citizens of the United States are able to engage in the exact conduct mr Crawford is currently incarcerated for. It is obvious to us that criminalizing conduct for citizens of some states but not other at the federal level is a Violation of the Equal Protection and/or Privileges and Immunities Clause of the Constitution.

The Equal Protection Clause requires that similarly situated individuals be treated equally under federal law. mr Crawford similarly situated as the citizens who are currently engaging in the conduct that led to his incarceration, insofar as, NO CITIZEN OF ANY STATE possesses a federal license or permit to distribute marijuana to earn a livelihood.

The Privileges and Immunities Clause similarly prohibits states from discriminating against citizens of other states in fundamental rights such as the fright to travel, work or own property. It is inconsistent with these Constitutionally provisions for the federal government to criminalize certain conduct for citizens of certain states but not for citizens of others based solely on the laws of their state of residence. Federal law is meant to be applied EQUALLY to all citizens.