ZCZC
BFF-04
US-POLITICS-MARIJUANA
New Jersey leaders clinch deal to legalize marijuana
NEW YORK, March 13, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – New Jersey political leaders have reached a deal
to legalize recreational marijuana, which will make the northeastern US state the 11th
to take the step.
The accord “will bring marijuana out of the underground market so that it can be
controlled, regulated and taxed, just as alcohol has been since the end of
Prohibition,” state senate president Steve Sweeney said in a statement.
He has agreed on the broad outlines of legalization legislation along with the state
assembly and Governor Phil Murphy — all Democrats.
“Legalizing adult-use marijuana is a monumental step to reducing disparities in our
criminal justice system,” Murphy said.
Each year, New Jersey authorities make tens of thousands of police stops for
cannabis possession, arrests that often lead to criminal charges.
African Americans are three times more likely than a white person to get arrested
for having marijuana, even though their average consumption of the psychotropic drug
is the same, according to the ACLU rights group.
In addition to the 10 states besides New Jersey that have already legalized
recreational consumption of the drug, its possession — but not sale — is also legal
in the capital Washington.
In New York state, which borders New Jersey, several political leaders have shown
support, but Governor Andrew Cuomo said it is unlikely a law on the matter will be
voted on this year.
Marijuana for adult consumption will face an excise tax of $42 per ounce, imposed
when marijuana is cultivated, under the New Jersey deal.
There will also be a one to three percent tax for municipalities home to a
wholesaler, cultivator or retailer of the drug.
The bill’s text is expected to be released in the coming days.
“The prohibition on marijuana has long been a failed policy,” said state senator
Nicholas Scutari.
“This plan will bring an end to the adverse effects our outdated drug laws have had
on the residents of our state. As a regulated product legalized marijuana will be safe
and controlled.”
BSS/AFP/AU/07:45 hrs