(Noah Berger/AP)Yirtuamlak Hailu Derege came to California a decade ago with dreams of making it big in the entertainment business. State officials hope to reverse decades of marijuana convictions that can make it difficult for people to gain meaningful employment and disproportionately affect low-income minorities. In addition, at least 365 people have applied to have their juvenile marijuana convictions thrown out. At least nine states have passed laws expunging or reducing marijuana convictions, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Those who want their marijuana convictions lessened must present their cases in court.

Source: Washington Post December 17, 2017 22:30 UTC