The New Jersey Perspective on Cannabis Legalization

Abstract

Background: Between 2010 and 2020, New Jersey went from treating cannabis as an illegal substance in all circumstances to allowing medical use and subsequently recreational use. The Medical Marijuana Program (MMP) was originally very strict and was progressively liberalized. After attempts to legalize recreational use failed in the legislature, voters passed a referendum to amend the New Jersey constitution to allow recreational use. Our objectives are to document this process and provide the perspectives of psychiatrists treating adolescents. Method: We describe the legislative process and the multiple pressures for legalization and decriminalization. Discussion : Issues germane to youth as a vulnerable population have been inadequately considered by policymakers, the media, and the general population. Greater attention to the process and outcome to mitigate this finding is needed.