New Jersey Assemblyman Michael Patrick Carroll recently introduced a bill that would legalize marijuana possession in New Jersey. This bill would legalize the recreational use of cannabis with similar regulations to those that are currently on the sale of cigarettes. Additionally, the bill would expunge certain drug crimes associated with the possession or sale of marijuana.
This bill, in its current form, is aimed at people aged 19 and older, and it could be a major shift in New Jersey’s criminal system. In its current form, the law would allow people to purchase marijuana at convenience stores and grocery stores. This would put the Garden State at the forefront of this issue. Although it may benefit people who are occasional users, or those who have a charge due to possession of a small amount of marijuana, it could cause other issues which give way to different lawsuits. Additionally, once the bill is in its final form, would there be any restrictions?
Although Governor Chris Christie has been a vocal opponent of legalizing marijuana for recreational use, medical marijuana is legal in the state. Moreover, the Governor recently approved a law which adds Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to the list of qualifying ailments that can be treated with marijuana. This was a major win for veterans in New Jersey since it is only the 18th state in the country to permit marijuana treatment for PTSD.
Since Christie’s term ends after 2017, state legislators are discussing the possibility of laying the groundwork for legalizing the sale and possession of marijuana with the hope that the next administration would be more open to the idea. Although Assemblyman Carroll’s bill is still in its early infancy, people who have previously faced charges of marijuana possession could be encouraged to see this sort of legislation introduced in the state legislature.
South Jersey Marijuana Lawyers at Gigliotti Law Group Know the Laws Concerning Marijuana Possession and Sale in New Jersey.
If you or someone you know was convicted of a crime involving marijuana in New Jersey, contact South Jersey marijuana lawyers at Gigliotti Law Group at 844-SHARK 911 (844-742-7591) for a free consultation. Our offices are located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and we represent clients throughout South Jersey, including Camden County, Burlington County, Gloucester County, and Mercer County.