If we could use one word to describe the fight for marijuana legalization in New Jersey it would be “rocky.” Back in 2015, lawmakers were still quarreling over whether this drug would do more harm than good and, in 2014, families were starting to relocate in order to receive their lifesaving medication. Now, in November 2018, lawmakers in the Garden State once again brought about a proposal for adult cannabis use, and the decision to advance S2703 from the committee is one hint that Jersey might be taking a step in a calmer direction. However, a public hearing related to this decision only seemed to reflect the turbulent views about this little green plant. So, what else could possible happen to throw a monkey wrench into the Jersey engine? How about the fact that 50 towns have banned the use of this plant despite state action? Let’s take a closer look at this situation and find out more.
One Step Against the Pot Industry
Since the takeover in 2016, Democrats in New Jersey have proceeded to increase the amount of qualifying conditions that allow patients to receive the plant. Likewise, this group has made policies for criminal justice reform a collective centerpiece for their fight to make this herb legal. In fact, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal has ordered prosecutors to postpone pot-related cases until a final decision about this system can be made.
Even before Governor Grewal was elected, though, dozens of towns in New Jersey were collectively prohibiting pot. Back in December 2017, Point Pleasant Beach completely banned marijuana businesses from taking root in its jurisdiction. Overall, these laws focus on a variety of issues including a full ban on marijuana, resolutions (to wait for a vote), or age restrictions.
Which Towns Have Taken Action?
Consider the fact that 10% of New Jersey towns have officially prohibited the little green plant, and none of these laws seem to have been affected by the 2018 midterm elections. Here is a list of the towns that have banned the drug:
- Atlantic County: Brigantine, Pleasantville
- Bergen County: Elmwood Park, Emerson, Franklin Lakes, Garfield, Hasbrouck Heights, Lodi, Mahwah, Midland Park, Oakland, Old Tappan, Palisades Park, Ramsey, Ridgewood, Saddle Brook, Upper Saddle River, Westwood, Woodcliff Lake, Wyckoff Township
- Cumberland County: Bridgeton
- Essex County: North Caldwell, West Caldwell
- Middlesex County: Fair Haven, Freehold, Hazlet, Oceanport, Sea Girt, Shrewsbury, Upper Freehold, Wall, West Long Beach
- Morris County: Chatham Township, Parsippany-Troy Hills
- Ocean County: Barnegat, Berkley, Point Pleasant Beach, Surf City
- Passaic County: Clifton, Hawthorne, North Haledon, Wayne
- Somerset County: Bridgewater, Manville
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