Legalizing Recreational Marijuana in New Jersey

Legalizing Recreational Marijuana in New Jersey

In recent years, there has been growing public support for medicinal and even recreational marijuana use. Several states have introduced and passed legislation to decriminalize or legalize the substance. Marijuana advocates are excited about New Jersey’s latest draft proposal that would legalize small amounts of the drug.

New Jersey Considering Legalizing Recreational Pot

The formal draft of the bill includes language that would completely decriminalize possession of small amounts of marijuana in New Jersey. While ingesting the substance in public places would still be prohibited, adults over 21 would be legally allowed to smoke on their own property. Marijuana, the bill proposes, could be taxed at least 10 percent. This change is significant because it can help prevent New Jersey residents who use marijuana medicinally from potentially facing criminal charges for possessing the substance. Governor Phil Murphy has explained that he seeks to increase the number of dispensaries in the state from six to 12. There has been pushback against the bill, but advocates hope to see this legislation move forward.

Contact New Jersey’s Criminal Defense Attorney Michele Finizio

New Jersey’s current laws consider marijuana to be an illegal substance. Simply possessing a minor amount of weed, even a seed or stem, can result in a six-month jail sentence and substantial fines. Despite growing public support for the decriminalization of possessing the drug, the offense remains a federal crime. If you’ve been charged with a drug-related offense, then you need a skilled criminal defense attorney to help defend your case in court. Leave New Jersey’s criminal defense attorney Michele Finizio a message online to hear back from her as soon as possible.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.