NY and NJ has legalized marijuana
In a historic moment, New York and New Jersey have recently legalized marijuana for recreational use, becoming the latest states to join the growing trend of legalizing cannabis across the United States. The decision to legalize marijuana in these states has been a long time coming, and marks a significant shift in the U.S. drug policy landscape.
For years, advocates have been pushing for a change in the law, citing the racial inequality and injustice inherent in the prohibition of marijuana. They argue that the criminalization of marijuana has been disproportionately enforced against people of color, despite similar usage rates among different demographics. In New York and New Jersey, the legalization of marijuana is seen as a positive step towards ending this pattern of discrimination and social injustice.
At the heart of the legalization effort in both states was the promise of a safer and fairer society. In New York, Governor Andrew Cuomo stated that legalization was necessary to address the “racist criminal justice policies” of the past, while in New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy touted legalization as a way to promote social justice and ensure economic growth.
The legalization brings with it a range of potential benefits, from reduced police arrests and prison populations, to increased tax revenue and employment opportunities. The new laws will allow for the cultivation, distribution, and sale of marijuana to adults over the age of 21. However, it will still be illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, and employers can still enforce drug testing and prohibit marijuana use on their premises.
Despite its many benefits, there remains some opposition to the legalization of marijuana. Critics argue that legalization could lead to an increase in drug use, addiction, and other negative health effects. However, supporters say that regulation and education are the key to preventing these negative outcomes.
Why is marijuana against the law? It grows naturally upon our planet. Doesn’t the idea of making nature against the law seem to you a bit… unnatural?
Bill Hicks
New York and New Jersey’s decision to legalize marijuana is just one more step in a larger shift towards ending the prohibition of cannabis across the United States. As more states move towards legalization, it is becoming increasingly clear that treating drug use as a criminal issue is no longer sustainable, and that regulation and education are a more effective way to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in society.
