New Jersey lawmakers are set to consider legalizing marijuana this legislative session.
The most prominent legislative effort comes from Democratic state Sen. Nicholas Scutari, but a separate bill is also expected in the Assembly this year. Consumer advocates are urging legislators to include home cultivation in any effort.
The current language of Sen. Scutari’s bill, S830 and companion bill A1348, would permit those 21 and older to possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, 16 ounces of marijuana-infused products in solids, 72 ounces in liquid form and 7 grams of concentrate. It would prohibit home cultivation, however, New Jerseyans who have been convicted of marijuana-related crimes would be eligible to have their records expunged.
The evolving model is to establish a Division of Marijuana Enforcement, charged with regulating the industry. Scutari’s legislation would also establish a sales tax on marijuana from 7 percent to 25 percent over five years to encourage early participation.