HOBOKEN, N.J. (CBSNewYork) — The legalization of recreational marijuana is one step closer to getting finalized in the Garden State.
On Friday, Gov. Phil Murphy and other lawmakers approved the framework for the bill, CBS2’s Cory James reported.
“We’re proud to announce today that we’ve reached an agreement on legislation providing the framework for legalization, which is a critical step in reducing racial disparities and social inequities that have long plagued our criminal justice system,” the governor’s office said in an emailed statement.
The latest development is good news for attorney Mike McQueeny, who is working with clients looking to tap into the cannabis industry.
“This is fast-breaking news. There’s a lot of interest of businesses trying to get into the cannabis marketplace and will be excited once this bill gets traction,” McQueeney said.
MORE: Marijuana In New Jersey: State Senate Passes Bill Legalizing Possession Of 6 Ounces Of Pot
CBS2 has learned 37 cultivators will be allowed for the first two years. In addition, 70% of the sales tax will go toward social justice programs.
“We can’t have people coming out of jail and nowhere to go, hoping that they are going to do something other than what they did to get themselves in jail in the first place,” state Sen. Nick Scutari said.
