The path to the legalization of recreational marijuana in New Jersey has met
another roadblock once
again, as Gov. Phil
Murphy and state senators spar over penalties for minors caught with the
substance.
Until the two sides come up
with an agreement, New Jersey's legal weed industry is effectively in
legislative limbo.
Legalizing marijuana did pass in the state, but just like drinking, it'd
be legal for people 21 and older. Lawmakers are in disagreement over what
penalties underage adults and minors would face.
Gov. Murphy said Tuesday he doesn’t
want more youth tangled up in the criminal justice system, but he also made it
clear he wants penalties. Some suggestions are fines, community service, and
police warnings.
But on the other hand,
there’s a social justice aspect to this, and some predict penalties could lead
to minority youth being unfairly targeted. Until it’s all figured out, cities
and small businesses eager to benefit from marijuana
revenue will have to wait.
"This whole economic
output is now put on pause, solely because we can't come to terms on the last
remaining issue," says attorney Mike McQueeny, who is an expert on Cannabis
Law.
In a recent version of the
bill, those between 18 and 20 caught with marijuana face fines, those younger
than 18 spotted by police would be given what's being called a curbside warning
-- with no arrests. As of now, there are no planned negotiations.
The recent version of the
bill is on the governor's desk. He can sign it into law or continue negotiations
with lawmakers.