OAKLAND — The borough has joined a growing list of municipalities that have banned marijuana retail operations before they are authorized by the state.
The ordinance, passed last week, exempts medical marijuana use, dispensaries and caregivers.
However, it bans retail stores, cultivation facilities, manufacturing, testing, social clubs, cultivation, possession, storing, testing, labeling, transport, delivery, dispensing and distribution.
Mayor Linda Schwager could not be reached for comment.
The municipalities are acting in anticipation of a bill being drafted by the state legislature for a vote by year end at the urging of Gov. Phil Murphy.
A draft bill was released in September indicating a low tax rate of about 10 percent that would allow permitted sales to compete with the illegal market.
The draft bill also calls for legalized dispensaries and home delivery as well as smoking lounges.
Credit: northjersey.com