Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, as well as Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, issued an ultimatum to lawmakers on legalizing marijuana: expunge records for certain possession and low level distribution or they won't allow dispensaries in their cities.
The two mayors were joined by several other mayors and justice advocates
They say it’s unjust to allow corporations to sell marijuana while small time dealers are in prison for it.
The mayors also say expunging records will enable people with past convictions to get jobs and move on.
“Who makes the decision about who gets to stay in jail for people who sold it before versus those who are selling it now," says Baraka.
Mayor Baraka said he believes convictions for possession of up to at least 50 grams of marijuana should be expunged.