Trenton – Senate President Steve Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland) issued the following statement expressing his firm commitment to enacting legislation to legalize adult use marijuana and the continuation of social justice reforms: “While we are all disappointed that we did not secure enough votes to ensure legislative approval of the adult use cannabis bill today, we made substantial progress on a plan that would make significant changes in social policy. “Governor Murphy has shown real leadership in driving this issue. He worked with Speaker Coughlin, with me and with the bill’s sponsors and social justice advocates in a shared commitment to change failed drug laws and reform the criminal justice system. “This fight is not over. We need to learn from this experience and continue to move forward. “While this legislation is not advancing today, I remain committed to its passage. The Senate was very close to 21 votes and, with more education and advocacy, I believe we will get this legislation across the finish line.”

*This is a developing story; we will have more to share soon.