Democrat Mikie Sherrill has been elected governor of New Jersey, a victory that could bring major changes to the state’s marijuana laws, particularly around home cultivation.
Sherrill has consistently backed expanding New Jersey’s adult-use marijuana system to allow residents to grow plants at home, something that remains prohibited under current law. Her position marks a sharp contrast with Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, who argued against any expansion and supported keeping the state’s strict limits on cultivation and licensing.
New Jersey legalized recreational marijuana through a 2021 voter-approved initiative, followed by the launch of retail sales in 2022. While the market has since grown rapidly, home cultivation remains a criminal offense, carrying potential jail time and fines. Sherrill has said that allowing adults to grow limited quantities for personal use would align New Jersey with most other legal states and reduce the burden on consumers facing high retail prices.
Her campaign emphasized building on the existing legalization framework with policies focused on equity, affordability, and community reinvestment. With Democrats maintaining control of the legislature, her administration is now positioned to advance legislation that could legalize home cultivation and strengthen consumer protections within the state’s expanding marijuana market.
Editor’s note: At the time of publication votes are still being counted, but based on a detailed examination of election data The Marijuana Herald is confident in calling this race.
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