New Jersey Has Legalized Marijuana

New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy has officially signed three bills that legalize marijuana in the state. Gov. Murphy has been promising to end marijuana prohibition since his 2017 campaign, but over the past three years, his efforts were met with disagreements from top leaders. Though it took longer than expected to come to terms, it's well worth the effort, New Jersey is the most populous northeastern state to legalize and regulate cannabis. During a press briefing, Gov. Murphy noted the following:
"There isn't anyone who has supported these efforts who wouldn't acknowledge this process has taken much longer than anticipated, but certainly it is better to get things done right rather than fast."

The action was largely stalled over the years due to a debate over underage possession charges. Like with most legalization bills, the state had to determine new penalties and enact laws regarding regulation. Since there will be a hefty demand, it's necessary for heavy regulation, especially as the state determines which dispensaries will receive licenses. Perhaps the most important part of the bill is that Gov. Murphy pushed heavily for inclusion measures that will help mend past damage to minority communities:

"Our current marijuana prohibition laws have failed every test of social justice. Maintaining a status quo that allows tens of thousands, disproportionately people of color, to be arrested in New Jersey each year for low-level drug offenses is unjust and indefensible."

Though it will be several months before they see sales, the state is expected to generate roughly $126 million per year in marijuana revenue, and with COVID-19, there's never been a better time to supplement that economic damage.

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