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Oregon Cannabis Association Collaborates to Expunge Cannabis Convictions

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Organizations in Oregon are working to help expunge cannabis charges in their state so that residents can get cannabis convictions cleared from their records.

The Oregon Cannabis Association (OCA) is a group of “cultivations, processors, retailers, entrepreneurs, and allied businesses,” according to their website. The group strives to educate people about cannabis, help industry professionals network and supply political backing to support the newly-legal and accepted industry. In this case, their mission is to help level the legal cannabis playing field by getting cannabis-related convictions cleared.

The OCA is currently working hand-in-hand with Portland Community College to have cannabis charges expunged for those in the community who have been impacted by the War on Drugs. Currently, according to the OCA, 26,000 Oregon residents have cannabis charges on their records. “The Oregon Cannabis Association emphatically acknowledges that the War on Drugs has disproportionately impacted communities of color,” the OCA’s website explains. “The OCA is committed to supporting impacted communities through our membership, programming, legislative changes, and criminal justice reform.”

Although those with cannabis records may still purchase cannabis, it prevents them from being able to invest in their future. “We can, like, legally purchase this product now, but there are still folks being held back because they have those old charges on their record which affects things like housing, volunteering at their kids school, employment opportunities,” said executive director of the Oregon Cannabis Association, Kim Lundin. Ludin claims that due to the passing of Senate Bill 240, charges can be expunged if legal services get involved.

Those who want more information and are legal residents are invited to attend an event in-person can attend a socially-distanced clinic on October 30 in White City, Oregon. Potential participants just need to fill out this form to gather some basic information about themselves.

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