This past election, the legalization of the recreational use of marijuana for all those who are over the age of 21 was on the ballot. The sale, use of, and cultivation of marijuana were overwhelmingly legalized, garnering over 65% of the vote in New Jersey. The new law is set to take effect on January 1, 2021. That being said, specific guidance regarding how this will affect those who already have been convicted of marijuana-related crimes. The new law also does not detail certain specifics, such as possession limits.
While the law did pass with overwhelming support, there were multiple detractors, including Kevin Sabet, the president of SAM, who said, “It’s time to finally take action on the social justice concerns the promoters of legalization have raised, but they will not be solved by creating a commercial marijuana market in New Jersey. Marijuana commercialization is indeed a social injustice and polling has routinely shown New Jersey residents don’t want pot shops in their back yards. It’s time to end this reckless push once and for all.”
Additionally, Shawn Hyland, Director of Advocacy for the Family Policy Alliance of New Jersey, also protested the vote to legalize recreational marijuana in the state of New Jersey, saying, “The detrimental effect recreational marijuana will have in the Garden State is undeniable. Study after study shows legalizing pot will put the public safety of New Jerseyans at risk. If our legislators continue to support this measure, they are ignoring the historical trends of harmful youth usage and the extensive negative effect legalized marijuana has had on communities of color.”
The bottom line is that there is still more information to come out on the subject, and as we learn more, we will bring that information to you. Furthermore, until this law goes into effect, it is still illegal to possess and use the drug, and if you are facing any marijuana-related charges in New Jersey, you must retain the services of an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney immediately. Our firm is here to help.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
When someone is charged with a crime, they have a lot to consider. However, we understand that everyone makes mistakes, which is why we are here to help. No matter your circumstances, if you are facing criminal charges, contact the Law Offices of Michael A. Policastro today for the experienced legal counsel you deserve and need.
