Assemblywoman Annette Quijano (D-Union) released the following statement today regarding the future of adult-use cannabis and the critical importance of addressing issues of social justice:
“I want to thank Speaker Coughlin for his continued leadership as we work toward comprehensive reforms and the legalization of adult-use cannabis in New Jersey.
“Throughout the ongoing process we’ve learned from stakeholders and listened to opponents. Our final product will be fair, responsible and focused on social justice. I believe this new, regulated industry will help boost our economy, but I’m particularly proud of the critical social justice components included in the bill.
“A criminal marijuana charge can change a person’s life and impede an individual’s opportunity to access higher education, gainful employment, and housing support. If we are to allow for legal possession and use of marijuana – as many other states have done – then we have to ask ourselves if it is morally just to allow these individuals to continue to carry this scarlet letter – and is it in our best interest as a state.