U.S. Attorney’s Office rescinds marijuana charging guidance

CHEYENNE (WNE) — On Sept. 29, the U.S. Department of Justice rescinded previous guidance concerning the prosecution of simple marijuana possession. 

U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming Darin Smith promptly notified federal law enforcement agencies that marijuana offenses occurring on federal land, such as national parks, will now be rigorously prosecuted.

This comes after President Joe Biden pardoned certain U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents for offenses related to simple possession, attempted possession or use of marijuana, and directed U.S. attorneys not to prosecute those offenses.

“Marijuana possession remains a federal crime in the United States, irrespective of varying state laws,” Smith said in a news release. “The detrimental effects of drugs on our society are undeniable, and I am committed to using every prosecutorial tool available to hold offenders accountable.”

This story was published on Nov. 14, 2025.