Editorial Board

A Wise Pause on Marijuana Legalization

New Jersey and New York are right to be wary of unintended consequences.

Legal doesn’t necessarily mean safe.

Photographer: Christinne Muschi/Bloomberg

The state-by-state march toward marijuana legalization has run into a wall in two left-leaning states. Faced with objections from parents, teachers, police and others concerned about public safety, New Jersey and New York are poised to shelve legislation that would allow recreational pot smoking.

This pause is a good thing — and should continue for as long as it takes to fully address the real and potential dangers of marijuana use. Ten other states have already leapt ahead.