How long will it take to legalize Marijuana in New Jersey?
Legalizing marijuana has been a big debate in New Jersey for a few years. The supporters and opposers are still standing firm on their stances.
However, now it seems that the debate is moving forward with a bill going to be scheduled very soon. On Monday, 18th March, the Assembly Appropriations and the Senate Judiciary, resorted to finally taking up the bill. A full vote is going to happen next week.
As Governor Phil Murphy has said, this is not going to happen in a single thrust. Even the people from Governor’s Office are in a strong competition among themselves, Some outreaching law makers to make justified amendments to the bill while others, staying firm on the ‘no’ to the passing of the bill.
According to Assemblyman John Burzichelli, chairman of the Assembly Appropriations Committee, the marijuana bill was never going to be a unanimous vote. With people agreeing and disagreeing, the vote might reach 41 or better than that. As of now, it’s not going to be unanimous and it still remains to see where it lands.
Then, there are some people in the Assembly who completely oppose the legalization such as Cleopatra Tucker, Ron Rice, Dick Codey, Nicholas Sacco and Paul Sarlo. As per Cleopatra Tucker, there are many efforts going on to get the legislation and approve the bill and the people are working hard trying to amend the bill. As for her, she still stands against it.
Also, Senator Mike Doherty had to say in his tweet on Monday that his vote is going to be a ‘no’ in the Senate Judiciary Committee as this step is only a short-term political gain after which our children and communities will be suffering greatly.
Scott Rudder, President of the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association said that they might need some Republicans to get the vote passed but until a final vote takes place, this is going to be a constant discussion and what is going to happen still remains to be seen.
Pressure over NJ Assembly is increasing these days as lobbyists and advocates of both sides are busy preparing strong cases before a full vote takes place.
On Monday evening, Assembly Appropriations Committee met again and to hear public testimony. The bill ultimately passed. Later that evening, the Judiciary Committee also advanced the bill. A full vote is most probably going to take place on Monday.
Roseanne Scotti, director of the Drug Policy Alliance of the New Jersey stated on Monday, “It is very exciting. We made a history today. This was the very first time the Marijuana Bill was voted out of the Committee in New Jersey. So, this was a huge win.”
The supporters are now enthusiastic and hopeful of getting the bill signed by Governor Phil Murphy which will help them in getting the floor vote.
As the bill has advanced to the floors of Senate and the Assembly for amendments and votes, it would reach the Governor’s desk ifonce passed.