While cannabis has been decriminalized in New Jersey, under federal law it remains illegal and subject to prosecution on Rutgers property and at university events, university officials said following release of a task force report on the law’s impact.
Earlier this year, Gov. Phil Murphy enacted the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act, providing the legal framework to decriminalize the possession and recreational use of cannabis (marijuana) for individuals 21 years of age and over in the state. The legislation further standardized penalties for underage possession of cannabis and alcohol.
To determine the impact the new state law would have on day-to-day operations at Rutgers, President Jonathan Holloway convened a Cannabis Decriminalization Impact Task Force with universitywide representation. Members considered the implications for employees, students, and campus visitors as well as the requirements of federal law.