Marijuana regulations in the state of New Jersey

Recently we have seen a lot of changes in marijuana state laws across different countries. Some states have seen the positive impact of marijuana and have decided to legalize it while some have chosen not to legalize it.  

Generally, state marijuana laws are less punishing as compared to hard drugs like heroin and cocaine. Nonetheless they are still punishable by law. The state of New Jersey allows the use and purchase of marijuana for medical use but at the same time have minimum penalties for use or possession of marijuana for non-medical purposes. 

How do you buy marijuana in New Jersey?  

Medical Marijuana was legalized in New Jersey back in the year 2010. Although medical marijuana is legal in New Jersey, recreational marijuana has still not been made legal.  

This means that you simply cannot go to a marijuana store and purchase it without the right authorization. If you want to make a purchase, you will need to produce a medical card. With a medical card, you can legally buy up-to two ounces of marijuana per month. Purchasing the same amount without a medical card could result in a felony. 

Where to buy marijuana in New Jersey  

There are currently six fully licensed operating dispensaries in New Jersey. New Jersey is the place where you will find the costliest medical marijuana in the United States. Marijuana prices will differ depending on the strain and the quality of the product. It can cost anywhere from 425-520 USD with 489 USD being the average. 

Types of marijuana in New Jersey  

If you want to visit a dispensary for medical marijuana in New Jersey, you will have to make an appointment first. Each marijuana strain has different effects and if you are buying for the first time you should ask the bud-tender to help you choose the best one for you. There are a number of different marijuana available in New Jersey. Sativa and Indica are among the most well-known.  

There are other forms of marijuana on offer as well. Oil extracted from the plant is known as concentrates. Then there are those that are mixed with food or drinks which are known as edibles. 

Punishment for possessing illegal marijuana in New Jersey? 

Use or possession of Marijuana illegally for non-medical purposes is a felony and is punishable by law in the state of New Jersey. If you are caught possessing about 50 grams or less of recreational marijuana and you don’t happen to be a medical patient you can serve a maximum of 6 months in prison or be fined a maximum fee of up to 1000 USD. The amount exceeding 50 grams has more severe punishments. You can face a maximum of 1.5 years in jail or pay a maximum fee of 25,000 USD in fine. Additionally, if you are caught with illegal marijuana within 1000 feet of any educational institute, 100 hours of community service will be added to your current sentence. 

Conclusion 

The rules and regulations regarding Marijuana are different for each state. The rules and regulations that apply to your state may not be the same when you go to a different state, so be sure you do your research beforehand. In the case of New Jersey, only the use of medical marijuana is legal and use of marijuana for recreational purposes is still not legal. 

If you reside in New Jersey you will have to apply for a medical card if you wish to purchase legally. There are currently six dispensaries available in New Jersey. You can also order it online as there are some e-commerce websites that are willing to sell and deliver marijuana at your doorstep.