Legislators in New Jersey are voting on Thursday, June 18, 2020 on one of two proposals to decriminalize marijuana and deter arrests that disproportionately impact black people. The state Assembly is scheduled to vote on A1897 which would replace arrests for possessing up to two ounces of weed with a civil fine of $50. It would also lessen jail time and fines for possession of larger amounts of marijuana.
Lawmakers have merged the bill with another bill, A4269 after months of delays. The state Legislature abandoned its efforts to legalize marijuana and instead decided to put it up for voters to decide on a ballot question in November. In early June, during nationwide protests surrounding police brutality and mass incarceration, senators introduced the decriminalization bill.
Still, even if the bill were passed, this would not make marijuana in New Jersey legal. Rather, it would allow for less people facing jail time or criminal convictions which interfere with applying for jobs and public housing. Many attempts over recent years to decriminalize and legalize marijuana have been futile however, Murphy and senate president Stephen Sweeny have shifted. Click here to read more at www.nj.com.
As of now, if you are charged with possession of marijuana, you may still face severe penalties. Former Morris County Prosecutor has defended thousands of individuals throughout New Jersey charged who were charged with possession of marijuana. Contact her office for a free consultation about your case. She is available 24/7 at 862-257-1200.
