It is common knowledge that the direct and collateral consequences of marijuana convictions have a major disparate impact on minorities. Reportedly New Jersey’s arrest rate for marijuana offenses is among the highest in the nation (almost 1 million since 1990), and our expungement process is among the most cumbersome. We recognize that this is a bad combination for New Jersey.

The governor (consistent with one of his campaign promises) and both houses of the Legislature have agreed, in general, that now is the time to do something to ameliorate this unfair situation with respect to marijuana convictions as well as other convictions. Clearly, addressing this matter did not need to wait for the referendum on the proposed constitutional amendment legalizing recreational marijuana.