Biden commutes the sentences of 31 nonviolent drug offenders

Washington — President Biden is commuting the sentences of 31 defendants convicted of nonviolent drug offenses who have successfully served terms of home confinement, announcing the reprieve as part of a broader effort to help those who have completed federal sentences reenter society.

The White House did not immediately release the names of those whose sentences have been commuted. A commutation means a person's remaining sentence is reduced or excused, although their conviction remains in place. A commutation is not a pardon, which eliminates the conviction altogether. 

"These individuals, who have been successfully serving sentences on home confinement, have demonstrated a commitment to rehabilitation, including by securing employment and advancing their education. Many would have received a lower sentence if they were charged with the same offense today, due to changes in the law, including the bipartisan First Step Act," the White House said, referring to the 2018 law that reformed aspects of the federal criminal justice system.