Mike Tyson, Kevin Durant, and a coalition of sports figures have sent a letter to the White House, urging President Donald Trump to implement cannabis reform. The letter, backed by numerous athletes and entertainers, highlights three key areas of reform: clemency for nonviolent marijuana offenders, rescheduling cannabis to a lower classification, and ending discriminatory banking practices affecting the cannabis industry. The group is led by boxing legend Mike Tyson, NBA superstar Kevin Durant, former NBA star Allen Iverson, and other prominent figures in sports and entertainment.
Among the signatories are former NFL players Antonio Brown and Ricky Williams, as well as former boxer Roy Jones Jr. and former Dallas Cowboys star Dez Bryant. The letter, titled ‘Coalition of Athletes and Entertainers Supporting President Trump’s Policy Objectives,’ outlines the need for leadership on criminal justice reform and addresses the ongoing incarceration of nonviolent marijuana offenders. Trump’s previous pardon of music producer Weldon Angelos, who was incarcerated for over a decade for marijuana-related charges, is highlighted as a precedent for clemency. In contrast, the letter criticizes former President Joe Biden for failing to deliver on his campaign promises regarding marijuana reform, including the denial of nearly every pending clemency application during his final days in office.
The letter also calls for reclassifying cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, arguing that the current classification is outdated and economically detrimental. The change would align federal law with state policies, promote research and innovation, and drive economic growth. The group further addresses discriminatory banking practices, noting that cannabis businesses have faced restrictions despite operating legally in 40 states. The letter emphasizes the financial burdens on cannabis businesses, including high effective tax rates exceeding 85% and the inability to take standard business deductions.
Additionally, the coalition advocates for fair access to banking services and financial opportunities for cannabis operators, highlighting the disparity between foreign cannabis companies listed on U.S. exchanges and domestic operators. The letter underscores the need for common-sense legislation to enable equal access to financial services for all American businesses. The group includes a range of athletes and entertainers, including former NBA players Steven Jackson, Chris Webber, JR Smith, John Salley, and Al Harrington, as well as former NFL players Jim McMahon, Kyle Turley, Champ Bailey, Marvin Washington, and Tony Richardson. Entertainment figures such as streamer Adin Ross, rappers Lil Pump and Ralo, and musician Wyclef are also signatories. The letter represents a significant effort by athletes and entertainers to influence policy and advocate for criminal justice and economic reforms related to cannabis.