New Jersey Allocates $14.5 Million for Violence Intervention

Maryland's recreational cannabis sales generated over $22.3 million in tax revenue this spring, reflecting a 52% increase from the previous quarter, with total sales surpassing $1.1 billion since legalization in July 2023. Nearly $63.7 million of this revenue has been allocated to the state, with $7.8 million directed to the Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund aimed at aiding areas affected by cannabis prohibition. In contrast, local governments in Maryland only receive 5% of cannabis tax revenue, significantly less than other states like New York, which has raised concerns about their financial burden in managing cannabis-related issues. Meanwhile, New Jersey is launching a $14.5 million grant program funded by cannabis tax revenue to support Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) programs designed to combat violence and provide community support. This initiative is part of a broader effort to invest in areas impacted by the War on Drugs, with New Jersey committing over $115 million to various violence intervention programs since 2021. The funding aims to empower grassroots organizations and ensure community safety through targeted violence reduction strategies.