News & Commentary

A conversation with Kaitlin K. and Kate L., ACLU-NJ clients who are taking action against discriminatory hospital drug tests and the invasive, unnecessary investigations that put custody of their children at risk.

A state’s budget is also a list if its most pressing priorities – here’s what the ACLU of New Jersey is urging government leaders to include for FY24.

Evidence makes it clear that current drug policies fail to keep communities safe. New Jersey must take bold steps now to end drug criminalization once and for all.

New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission, the agency tasked with putting policies in place to carry out legalization, has unique power to make our state’s cannabis market equitable, inclusive, and accessible. We have until September 30 to make sure their final regulations use that power fully.

Municipalities are the driving force in determining whether cannabis legalization will live up to its potential for equity and racial justice, or whether it becomes a missed opportunity that favors the rich and powerful.

We need a budget that reflects our values and invests in justice. That means housing assistance, aid for those excluded from federal pandemic funds, language access, and legal counsel for immigrants.

A day before recreational cannabis sales start, it's a momentous 4/20. But it's just one part of a pivotal moment. Between now and June, budget negotiations will determine where cannabis tax revenue for social justice goes. And we have to get it right the first time.

New Jersey begins its process to repair harms by reinvesting in communities harmed by the drug war – but people impacted most must lead the way.