The latest version of the bills aren’t especially different from earlier versions, but there are some changes such as a provision calling for the establishment of a five-member commission tasked with regulating the legal industry. The structure of that commission is opposed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D), who reportedly preferred regulation to be handled by a part-time commission or one where the executive branch could exert more control.
Another potential sticking point in the bill concerns taxes. The legislation calls for a 12 percent tax on retail cannabis sales. Murphy, for his part, has pushed for a 25 percent tax rate and “privately has said 12 percent is too low,” NJ.com reported.