State Senator Nick Scutari introduced a bill to end cannabis prohibition in New Jersey on Monday in Trenton.  Scutari (D-Trenton) was also the sponsor for the state’s medical cannabis law.

“New Jersey was at the forefront of this debate years ago, and now we lag behind,” Scutari told a reporters. “I don’t want to be the one to bring up the rear on this issue.”

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has been a vehement opponent of cannabis legalization, and has vowed legalization will not happen under his watch. Christie’s term as governor will end in January 2018, and New Jersey lawmakers are looking forward to moving forward with legalization once Christie’s successor takes office.