N.J. NEARING END

Lawmakers appear close to a deal on handling possession offenses by minors that could finally lead Gov. Phil Murphy to sign marijuana legalization and decriminalization bills that have been on his desk for almost two months. But given the tumultuous legislative process, since voters overwhelmingly passed a recreational legalization referendum in November, it’s uncertain whether a final deal can be reached, report POLITICO’s Sam Sutton and Carly Sitrin.  Those under the age of 18 would receive a written warning for their first offense. A second offense would come with another warning and a referral to a social agency that can provide counseling. A third violation comes with a $50 fine or community service in place of payment.  The Senate might amend the bill to eliminate penalties or court-ordered drug treatment. 

PUTTING THE PIECES IN PLACE 

Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) will chair the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism.  The press release mentioned that the marijuana Justice Act to deschedule cannabis and promote social justice federally is the first piece of the legislation cited that could move forward.  Also mentioned is his separate CARERS Act, which would protect state medical marijuana programs.  Booker, Schumer, and Wyden are moving to advance legalization legislation this session.  The releases note that the panel Booker will run has oversight jurisdiction over several agencies that deal with marijuana policy and enforcement. That includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Justice Department’s Criminal Division.  The senator’s communications director also noted his boss’s marijuana work in a Twitter thread about the new chairmanship.

WEEKLY FLA SALES TRENDS

No big surprises in this week's data.

CANNABIS INSIGHTS | NJ MAKING PROGRESS, BOOKER IN THE RIGHT PLACE, FL WEEKLY DATA  - cannabis insights 21521

CANNABIS INSIGHTS | NJ MAKING PROGRESS, BOOKER IN THE RIGHT PLACE, FL WEEKLY DATA  - cannabis insights 21521 2

CANNABIS INSIGHTS | NJ MAKING PROGRESS, BOOKER IN THE RIGHT PLACE, FL WEEKLY DATA  - cannabis insights 21521 3