Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Year End Report 2014 Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey



The Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ) is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) educational organization, incorporated in the State of New Jersey. The mission of CMMNJ is to educate the public and lawmakers about the medical benefits of marijuana. The goal of CMMNJ is to have safe and legal access to medical marijuana for qualified New Jersey patients.

In 2014, CMMNJ held eleven monthly public meetings at the Lawrence Township Library in Mercer County.  (The November meeting was not held due to the Veterans Day holiday.)  At the meetings, Board members and volunteers planned a number of events and educational programs. CMMNJ sent the agenda and minutes of these meetings via e-mail to over 3000 supporters each month and posted the agendas on Facebook, Twitter and on the CMMNJ blog.

CMMNJ’s open public meetings for 2015 will continue to be held on the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. (Mercer County) Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike Lawrenceville, NJ 08648.  All are welcome and there is no charge to attend.

Highlights of 2014:

CMMNJ’s Op Ed on 1/24/14 endorsed legalization of marijuana in New Jersey as the best way to meet patients’ needs.  “Opinion: N.J. should legalize, tax and regulate marijuana:”
http://www.nj.com/times-opinion/index.ssf/2014/01/opinion_nj_should_legalize_tax.html

CMMNJ argued:
“Patients need a consistent and reliable source of marijuana, in a wide variety of preparations, for illnesses that may well last a lifetime. Many patients and their families are fleeing New Jersey — they are becoming medical refugees — in order to obtain adequate treatment with types and preparations of marijuana that are only available out of state. Colorado’s orderly implementation of a system of taxed and appropriately regulated marijuana — free of unreasonable federal interference — shows that we can do the same in New Jersey and meet the needs of all the medical marijuana patients in this state.”

State Senator Nicholas Scutari promised to introduce marijuana legalization legislation the day CMMNJ’s Op Ed was published. Sen. Scutari introduced S1896 on March 24, 2014.  An Assembly companion bill to legalize marijuana, A3094, was introduced by Assemblywoman Linda Stender and Assemblyman Reed Gusciora.

There was growing support for marijuana legalization during 2014 as the New Jersey State Prosecutor’s Association (150 state prosecutors) endorsed legalization, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU NJ) called for legalization, taxation and regulation of marijuana as a top priority.  A Gallup Poll from 10/13 showed 58% of Americans now support marijuana legalization.  Media support for legalization of marijuana in NJ was very encouraging.

The New York Times endorsed legalization of marijuana with a powerful and persuasive five-part editorial series.  The Times said:
"It has been more than 40 years since Congress passed the current ban on marijuana, inflicting great harm on society just to prohibit a substance far less dangerous than alcohol. The federal government should repeal the ban on marijuana."

Election 2014: Alaska, Oregon, & Washington D.C. legalized marijuana.

The Florida medical marijuana constitutional amendment fell just short of passing with 58% of the vote (60% was needed), but advocates insist the fight is far from over.  Indeed, marijuana law reform, and the conversations leading to it, is sweeping the nation.

In addition to the legal sales of marijuana in Colorado, legalized marijuana sales started in Washington State on 7/8/14.

“CMMNJ TV” began broadcasting from Princeton Community TV on 11/11/14.

Episodes run twice a week for two weeks—on Tues., at 10 pm & Fri., at 10:30 am on Comcast Ch. 30 & Verizon FIOS Ch. 45. The first taping of “CMMNJ TV” was at the Princeton TV Studio on 6/24, and tapings continue one day each month.  Episodes of “CMMNJ TV” also include footage shot outside the studio and are edited by Ed “Lefty” Grimes of “Sativa Cross”.

Petition for Rulemaking: CMMNJ filed a formal request to the Department of Health (DOH) for medical marijuana regulatory changes in October.
The Petition was noted in the National Law Review.

Opinion: CMMNJ had two additional Op Eds published in 2014: “The elderly and medical marijuana” in the Courier-Post on 9/17:
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/opinion/columnists/2014/09/17/commentary-elderly-medical-marijuana/15758431/Ken
and,
“Legal marijuana use for adults - a smart idea” in The Times of Trenton on 11/2:
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/11/opinion_legal_marijuana_use_for_adults_would_be_a_smart_idea.html
 
Marches and Rallies: Several large and successful rallies for marijuana reform were held in Trenton this year.  These rallies were coordinated by local activists Ed “NJWeedman” Forchion and Kyle Moore.  On April 20, about 150 people marched through Trenton and rallied at the Statehouse in Trenton. On October 18, 2014, about 250 people again marched through Trenton and rallied at the Statehouse during the “NJ Cannabis Conference.” This was the largest marijuana demonstration in New Jersey history.

The rallies included the open use of marijuana by adults, both by card-carrying patients and also as acts of civil disobedience by non-qualifying patients and their supporters. Marijuana was also openly used at the rallies by those who support the non-medical use of marijuana for religious and social/recreational and creative purposes.  There were no arrests at the rallies.

Jennie Stormes, RN demonstrated the shortcomings of the state’s Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) each Thursday at the Trenton Statehouse from 11am–1pm.  These weekly demonstrations were held a total of 20 times, from July 10 through November 20. Jennie called these demonstrations, “PATIENTS SPEAK UP—The NJ Medical Marijuana Program is failing patients!” Jennie asked, “Why do parents have to beg for their children’s lives?”  CMMNJ supported Jennie and the other parents who demonstrated.

CMMNJ’s Jim Miller continued the weekly demonstrations after Jennie was forced to flee to Colorado in search of appropriate medical marijuana treatment for her son, Jax.

Jennie & CMMNJ met with officials from the DOH and the Christie administration on 8/7/14. While this and previous meetings were cordial, they have not led to any progress in the MMP.

The weekly protests also included the parents of Sabina Rose Joana, who died on Dec 2, 2013.  Sabina Rose was a 15 month old NJ resident with Dravet Syndrome, a seizure disorder, who died because her parents could not obtain high CBD medical marijuana for her in New Jersey.  Sabina died on the very day, and the very hour, that Governor Christie announced he was “done” expanding the medical marijuana program.  Many other parents with sick children attended the weekly demonstrations.

Demonstrations at Governor Christie’s “Town Hall” meetings let the governor and the public know of the general dissatisfaction with the MMP.

For more info on the growing movement for marijuana reform in the Garden State, see: http://kylemoore.blog.com/2014/12/07/an-activist%E2%80%99s-perspective-on-the-nj-marijuana-movement/

Congress and the Feds: The House of Representatives voted in May to defund the federal war on medical marijuana.  New Jersey’s representatives cast 8 “Yes” votes and 3 “No” votes: Democrats – Holt, Y; Pallone, Y; Pascrell, Y; Payne, Y; Sires, Y. Republicans – Frelinghuysen, N; Garrett, Y; Lance, N; LoBiondo, Y; Runyan, Y; Smith, N.

The U.S. Senate agreed to defund the federal war on medical marijuana programs as part of an appropriations bill and President Obama signed the bill into law in December.  More at:
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014/06/house-votes-to-end-war-on-medical.html

New York: Governor Cuomo endorsed medical marijuana in New York. British TV (ITV, an affiliate of NBC) met CMMNJ to get the reaction of New Jersey advocates to Gov. Cuomo’s announcement. British ITV also wanted to film some of this state’s MMP participants as they partook in their medicine. Volunteers were happy to oblige.

The New York medical marijuana bill was approved by the Assembly and Senate; New York became the nation’s 23rd medical marijuana state when Governor Cuomo signed the bill into law on 7/7/14.  New York’s limited medical marijuana bill included a “no smoking” provision.

Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania State Nurses Association (PSNA) endorsed medical marijuana in 2013 and it has consistently supported the issue throughout 2014.  A legislative hearing was held in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on that state’s medical marijuana bill, S1182, on 1/28/14.

The bill made significant progress in the legislature, though some of the amendments made during this process weakened the bill.  It is hoped that with a new governor coming on board who is more supportive of medical marijuana, further progress will be made in 2015.

Nurses, the largest group of healthcare professionals in the U.S., and the strongest supporters of medical marijuana in the healthcare industry, were ranked by the American public as the most honest and ethical profession for the thirteenth straight year according to a Gallup poll this December.  Fully 80 percent of Americans rated nurses’ honesty and ethical standards as “very high” or “high,” 15 percentage points above ANY other profession.  The American Nurses Association endorsed medical marijuana more than a decade ago.

New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP):
Dec. 6, 2014 was the second anniversary of legal sales of marijuana in New Jersey.  Jan. 18, 2015 will be the 5th anniversary of the Compassionate Use Act becoming law.

The DOH reported that over 3,000 ID cards for patients and caregivers have been issued in the state; over 300 doctors have signed onto the physician registry (about 1% of the doctors in the state) and three Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) are open--half the minimum allowed by the law--dispensing medical marijuana to qualified patients.

Overall, the MMP is the failure that CMMNJ predicted it would be.  New Jersey’s program has limited patient access to limited varieties and only one form of medical marijuana—dried flowers--while charging the highest price in the nation.  The Biennial Report from the DOH notes, “The price of one ounce of medicinal marijuana dispensed by New Jersey ATCs ranges from $400.00 to $520.00 with an average price of $469.00.”

No state charges more than New Jersey, and the illegal market prices are significantly lower.  On top of this, New Jersey charges patients 7% sales tax on medical marijuana—the only medicine in the state that is taxed.

The MMP fails the vast majority of patients in the state who could benefit from it.

Hundreds of thousands of residents of the state could benefit from the therapeutic effects of marijuana, yet they continue to be denied access.  Tens of thousands of qualified patients die every year without getting legal access to marijuana. Over 25,000 hospice patients die every six months in NJ. They are all entitled to safe and legal access to medical marijuana and none of them get it.   Marijuana can help dying patients in many ways: it eases pain without over-sedation, it improves appetite, and it raises spirits.  It's unconscionable to let these people die without it because of bureaucratic foot-dragging or overly-cautious government restrictions.

Edible marijuana products are still not available in New Jersey, nor are residents permitted to obtain these products from jurisdictions where they are available.

The Compassionate Use Act allowed for the expansion of the MMP’s outlets and qualifying conditions, but the DOH has not even begun the process for expanding the program.  Gov. Christie said of New Jersey’s MMP and the programs elsewhere: "This program and all these other programs, in my mind, are a front for legalization.”

Jim Miller confronted Governor Christie before his 2014 State of the State speech, letting him know we were NOT done expanding the Medicinal Marijuana Program, as the governor insists.

The Appellate Court finally ruled in January on the lawsuit against the DOH that CMMNJ took part in.  New Jersey lawyers Anne Davis and William Buckman filed a lawsuit in April 2012 on behalf of patient-plaintiffs who qualified for medical marijuana in the state but who were unable to obtain it, and who suffered harm as a result.  The lawsuit asked the court to award damages to these plaintiffs and to remove many of the restrictions in the MMP, in order to provide patients greater ease of access, and to appoint CMMNJ a monitor for the MMP.

The three-judge panel ruled that the DOH must produce MMP reports within 45 days (from 1/13/14). The Court rejected the tort claims and complaints about the restrictive regulations.  The DOH produced two Medicinal Marijuana Program reports as a result of this Appellate Court decision.  See:
http://www.state.nj.us/health/medicalmarijuana/reports.shtml

Current bills in New Jersey’s Legislature: Several marijuana reform bills were introduced into the New Jersey Legislature in 2014, S1896/A3094 (to legalize, tax and regulate marijuana); A3525/S2312 (to fix the MMP); A3726 (to add PTSD to the list of conditions that qualify for marijuana therapy) and, A218 (to decriminalize marijuana).

None of these bills had committee hearings in 2014, which is the first step in the process of a bill becoming law in New Jersey.  Gov. Christie has vowed to veto any of the bills that get through the legislature to his desk.

S1896/A3094 Legalizes the possession, use, and purchase by adults in New Jersey of one ounce or less of marijuana; legalizes the home cultivation of up to six marijuana plants, and possession of the marijuana produced by the plants on the premises where the plants were grown, provided that the growing takes place in an enclosed, locked space, is not conducted openly or publicly, and is not made available for sale; allows the free transfer of one ounce or less of marijuana to a person who is 21 years of age or older; permits the use of marijuana, as long as it is not used openly and publicly or in a manner that endangers others; allows for the licensing of marijuana cultivation facilities and retail marijuana stores; provides for the taxation of marijuana that is commercially produced and sold in the state.

A3525/S2312 Provides a comprehensive fix to the state’s inadequate MMP.  A3525/S2312 eliminates the physician registry, expands qualifying conditions, restores limited home cultivation for patients, protects organ transplant patients, eliminates the tax on the sale of marijuana, includes explicit employee protection, eliminates the caregiver background check and all fees, allows patients to obtain medical marijuana from out-of-state, and honors out-of–state ID cards in New Jersey, allows any edible form of marijuana for patients of any age; eases rules for ATCs, provides for testing of marijuana on request, provides training for Law Enforcement Officers on the MMP, and forbids the DOH from issuing overly restrictive or unduly burdensome regulations for the law.

A218 Decriminalizes possession of 15 grams or less of marijuana for adults in New Jersey, and establishes civil  penalties instead: $150 for a first violation; $200  for a second violation; $500 for a third or subsequent violation.  The bill does not provide for a legal system of production and distribution of marijuana.  There is no Senate companion bill.

A3726 Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There is no Senate companion bill.

Medical marijuana patients in court:
In November 2014, Ed (NJ Weedman) Forchion submitted court papers appealing a 270-day jail sentence he had already served from a 2010 motor vehicle stop.  Forchion said New Jersey’s marijuana laws are “racist” and contradictory.  In January 2013 a Superior Court Judge in Burlington County sentenced Forchion to fines and probation for possessing a pound of marijuana in 2010.
Unfortunately for Mr. Forchion, there was a technical violation of his probation for which he was sentenced to intermittent incarceration.  Forchion argued in his recent appeal that:
"The pretrial rulings prevented defendant from arguing that the law he was being prosecuted under was contradictory and thus constitutionally flawed…For the foregoing reasons and authorities cited, including the ACLU Report, (New Jersey’s) marijuana laws are unconstitutional as they are inherently and de facto discriminatory. The defendant’s conviction must be reversed and the indictment dismissed."

The ACLU NJ report on racial disparity in marijuana arrests can be found at:
https://www.aclu.org/criminal-law-reform/aclu-report-reveals-black-new-jerseyans-are-more-likely-be-arrested-marijuana

John Wilson neared the end of his prison sentence, and 2-years of probation (including forced attendance at Narcotics Anonymous Meetings), for treating his multiple sclerosis (MS) with home-grown marijuana.  Probation Officers also subjected Mr. Wilson to urine drug screenings to ensure that he was NOT taking the medical marijuana that he is legally entitled to take in New Jersey by virtue of his diagnosis.  Mr. Wilson was just one of many medical marijuana patients who have been dragged through the criminal justice system in New Jersey.

Colleen Begley is currently incarcerated in the state prison system for providing medical marijuana to patients.

Mike Whiter, a veteran with PTSD, pled guilty to marijuana possession in federal court and was fined. Mike was one of the leaders of “Smoke Down Prohibition,” the monthly demonstrations at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia that have been high-profile events for marijuana reform.

Former CMMNJ Board member Chris Goldstein was cited for marijuana smoking along with Don DeZarn and others in acts of civil disobedience.  Goldstein and DeZarn faced six months in prison for possession of a small amount of marijuana when they went to trial in federal court. Chris and Don were sentenced to two years of supervised probation, $3000 fine each, and banned from Independence Hall National Historic Park, which included being banned from the Free Speech Zone.

CMMNJ members attended the following public events in 2014:

SMOKE DOWN PROHIBITION rallies and civil disobedience at Independence Park, Philadelphia, PA. Chris Goldstein & Don DeZarn’s federal marijuana possession court cases as a result of these rallies, 1/27/14 at 601 Market St., Philadelphia, PA. Sentencing of Chris Goldstein & Don DeZarn, 3/26/14.  SMOKE DOWN PROHIBITION rally continued on 4/20/14 at Independence Park, Philadelphia, PA.

“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour of NJ police departments (PDs) with Ed “Lefty” Grimes, Chuck Kwiatkowski and others document their attempt to find areas to safely medicate in NJ and they distribute the state Attorney General’s Medical Marijuana guidelines to local PDs.

Central NORML NJ meetings resumed monthly at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton 1/13, 3/10, 4/14, 5/12, 6/9, 7/14, 8/11, 9/8/14.  In November and December, the NORML NJ meetings moved to Ewing Twp.'s Firkin Tavern where they will continue on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 pm in 2015.

CMMNJ testified at the Assembly Regulatory Oversight Committee Hearing on NJ’s MMP, 2/20/14.

Parents’ Medical Marijuana Press Conference, State House, 2/27/14.

“Going Away Party” for Medical Refugee Diane Fornbacher, Collingswood, NJ 2/22/14.

Sanjay Gupta’s documentary, “Weed 2” aired on CNN, 3/11, featuring NJ's Wilson family.

Radio interview with Peter Lamont: Marijuana in the Garden State with Ken Wolski, 3/31/14.

NORML NJ Women’s Alliance at Ramapo College, 3/13/14 at 1 pm.

Marijuana Panel Discussion, National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, 3/25/14 Bloustein School Theater, New Brunswick, NJ.

Joys of Hemp Expo, Embassy Suites Piscataway, NJ, 4/4 – 4/6. CMMNJ had a table & talk.

ASA’s National Medical Cannabis Unity Conference, April 5 – 7th, Mayflower Hotel in D.C.

4/20 Rally at the Trenton Statehouse at 4:20 pm (following a march from the Train Station).

Marijuana Legalization Debate featuring CMMNJ at Montclair State College, 4/17/14.

Ramapo College NORML Greenfest, 4/13/14, Mahwah, NJ.

New York Market Radio (NYMRAD) Interview, 4/30/14 in NYC.

Patients Out of Time Conference, May 8 – 10, Portland, Oregon, with certification course given by American Cannabis Nurses Association.

Peter Lamont’s blogtalkradio Episode 52 with Ken Wolski, 5/22/14.

Decarceration panel and demonstration, 5/2/14, New Brunswick, NJ.

CMMNJ meets Telemundo in “Marijuana: A question of life” Parts I & II.

Petition on Change.org to allow edible marijuana products for adults in NJ.

Lancaster Cannabis Reform Rally, 6/7/14, Penn's Square, Lancaster, PA.

PA Medical Marijuana Bill, SB 1182, Hearing & Press Conference, 6/10/14, Harrisburg, PA

CMMNJ volunteer Daniel Price established where patients can use medical marijuana near Atlantic City casinos. Daniel Price had his medical marijuana seized in Washington, D.C., prompting a thoughtful response from Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP).

CMMNJ volunteers appeared on Freedom Underground News: Cannabis Chronicles.  See: http://funatfun.com/category/cannabis-chronicles/

PA Legislative Forum 6/14/14, U. of PA School of Law, Philadelphia, PA

Hemp Heals, 8/2/14, Philadelphia, PA.

Slightly Stoopid, 8/3/14, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ.

Marijuana March in Philadelphia 9/6/14 at 12:30 pm, 5th and Market Sts.

Boston Freedom Festival, 9/13 & 14.

“Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” Pennsylvania State Nurses Assn., 9/18/14, DeSales University.

William Buckman, Esq. died in October 2014, a sad and shocking loss to the marijuana reform community.  Bill was only 61 years old.  Bill was the leading civil rights lawyer in the state.  Bill was always ready to contribute to drug policy reform, and often to do so pro-bono. More at:
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/10/16/rip-bill-buckman-ladybud-attorney-and-nj-norml-board-member/

Legalize Marijuana Rally (NJ Cannabis Conference), Trenton, NJ on Saturday, 10/18/14, included a march from the Riverline Light Rail Station to the Statehouse by 3:30 pm for speeches and optional civil disobedience at 4:20 pm. Jennie Stormes left for Colorado, becoming another medical marijuana refugee from NJ the next day, 10/19.

CMMNJ awaits action on “Petition for Rulemaking,” requesting MMP regulatory changes, that DOH received 10/16/14.

Kevin Sabet’s talk about marijuana at Glassboro, NJ on 10/30/14.

Medical marijuana “Patients Panel” at Ramapo College, 11/13/14.

Kane Dickerson started a Rowan University Coalition for Medical Marijuana group (RUCMM).

Sabina Rose Memorial, Statehouse, Trenton, 12/2/14 at 11 am.

Cannabis Christmas Party & Poe Roast, Underground Arts, Philadelphia, 12/13/14 at 8 pm.

12/04/14 - Ken Wolski’s interview with HomegrownRadioNJ.org , Ken discusses the current state of affairs regarding implementation of existing laws and restrictions on Medical Marijuana in NJ in 2014:
http://www.mixcloud.com/djezywind/homegrownradionjorg-interview-w-ken-wolski-rn-ed-cmmnj-12-04-14/

CMMNJ TV--tapings at Princeton TV Studio continued from June through December.

Vimeo Episode #1: https://vimeo.com/112526679?email_id=Y2xpcF90cmFuc2NvZGVkfGE4NWY1OThkZjg2NjBlMTIxY2FhYjk4ODk5OTc2NmEyNDc5fDIzOTE1ODF8MTQxNjYwMjYwM3w3NzAx&utm_campaign=7701&utm_medium=clip-transcode_complete-finished-20120100&utm_source=email

2014 CMMNJ Publications:
CMMNJ Monthly Agendas and Minutes also contain links to published reports by and about CMMNJ Board members and friends.  For the 2014 CMMNJ Agendas and Minutes, see:

Dec. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014/12/cmmnj-december-9-2014-meeting-agenda.html

Nov. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_11_01_archive.html (Minutes only)

Oct. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_10_01_archive.html

Sept. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_09_01_archive.html

Aug. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_08_01_archive.html

July 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_07_01_archive.html

June 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014/06/cmmnj-monthly-public-meeting-agenda-for.html

May 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_05_01_archive.html

April 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_04_01_archive.html

March 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_03_01_archive.html

Feb. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014/02/cmmnj-public-meeting-agenda-february.html

Jan. 2014: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2014_01_01_archive.html

Thanks to CMMNJ Volunteers: 
On behalf of the Board of Directors of CMMNJ, I would like to thank all of our supporters for their tireless efforts and contributions throughout the year.  As we are an all-volunteer organization, we are nothing without you! Special thanks go to:

Jim Price, who continues to volunteer his time updating the cmmnj.org web site; Jim is also developing a Patient’s Handbook for CMMNJ, which will be available soon;

Ed “Lefty” Grimes, who has been almost single-handedly editing “CMMNJ TV” episodes, while producing high quality videos of medical marijuana patients and families; Lefty is also conducting his “Ignorance is No Excuse” tour which distributes the MMP Attorney General guidelines to local police departments; Lefty has been posting these videos on YouTube and social media sites;

Don DeZarn waged a very public and courageous fight for medical marijuana workplace protection at Princeton University;

Also, CMMNJ is grateful for the many discussions, ably moderated by volunteer administrators, on Facebook’s Friends of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana-NJ at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/


CMMNJ Board Update:
In September, Carolyn Piro was voted onto the Board of CMMNJ to replace Diane Fornbacher, a “medical marijuana refugee” who fled to Colorado in order to obtain access to her medicine.  Diane is a tireless advocate for marijuana law reform and she has dedicated decades of her life to this issue.  We are grateful for her many contributions to CMMNJ and for her ongoing advocacy.

Carolyn Piro is a licensed clinical social worker who works with trauma patients and we are happy to have another healthcare professional on the CMMNJ Board.

In December 2014, James Bissell resigned from the Board pending his move to Florida.  CMMNJ is very grateful for the support that Jim and his wife, Lisa, gave to medical marijuana in New Jersey during his time on the Board.

CMMNJ Board of Directors meetings were held on 1/9/14, 1/31/14, 2/21/14, 9/29/14 and 12/18/4.

At the close of 2014, the CMMNJ Board consists of the following 9 members: Kenneth R. Wolski, RN, Executive Director, James Miller, Senior Director, Edward R. Hannaman, Esq., Secretary, and Board members, Nick Mellis, Peter Rosenfeld, Vanessa Waltz, Larry Vargo, Carolyn Piro and Jay Lassiter.

CMMNJ’s Honorary Board Member is Allan Marain, Esq.

Treasury Report:  A detailed treasury report was forwarded to CMMNJ Board members.  In summary, CMMNJ has a checking account and a PayPal account.  In 2014, CMMNJ had expenditures of $3,223 and income of $2,624.  CMMNJ finished the year with a checking account balance of $3,611, and a PayPal account balance of $3,526.

CMMNJ is now selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.
CMMNJ is very grateful for the generous financial support of all who contributed to our mission to educate the public about the benefits of medical marijuana.

CMMNJ’s 2015 Recommendations:
Stop all federal harassment of medical marijuana patients and treatment centers.
Begin national clinical studies of marijuana for MS and PTSD.
Reschedule marijuana to a more appropriate schedule.
Implement the New Jersey Compassionate Use Act in a way that brings timely access of high quality and affordable marijuana to qualified patients in a safe and secure manner.

Schedule of CMMNJ 2015 meetings:
CMMNJ’s free, public meetings will continue to be held on the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Branch of the Mercer County Library, Room #3.  (Meeting at the library does not imply the county’s endorsement of our issue.)

Also, follow CMMNJ on Facebook, Friends of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana-NJ at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA
Executive Director
Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc. www.cmmnj.org
219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618  
(609) 394-2137
ohamkrw@aol.com
kenwolski@gmail.com

December 31, 2014

Monday, December 1, 2014

CMMNJ December 9, 2014 Meeting Agenda


Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, December 9, 2014, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve October 2014 minutes (no November meeting).  Discuss:

“CMMNJ TV” began broadcasting from Princeton Community TV on 11/11/14.  Episodes run twice a week for two weeks--Tues., 10 pm & Fri., 10:30 am on Comcast Ch. 30 & Verizon FIOS Ch. 45.

Patient’s Handbook from CMMNJ coming soon.

CMMNJ awaits action on “Petition for Rulemaking,” requesting MMP regulatory changes, that DOH received 10/16/14.

Ed Forchion (NJWeedman) asks appeals court to agree NJ pot laws are racist and contradictory.

Election 2014: Alaska, Oregon, & Washington D.C. legalize marijuana.  Fla. medical falls short.

NJ bills: A3726 (PTSD); A3525/S2312 (MMP fix); S1896/A3094 (legalize); A218 (decrim).

Upcoming Events: Sabina Rose Memorial, Statehouse, Trenton, 12/2/14 at 11 am.
Cannabis Christmas Party & Poe Roast, Underground Arts, Philadelphia, 12/13/14 at 8 pm.
“Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” PA State Nurses Assn., 3/26/15 Millersville Univ.
Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue’s trial in Doylestown, PA.

Recent events: Legalize Marijuana Rally (NJ Cannabis Conference) in Trenton, 10/18/14; Jennie Stormes fled to Colorado (medical marijuana refugee) the next day, 10/19/14.  Thursday demonstrations at the Statehouse ended 11/20/14 for winter break—to resume in the spring.
Medical marijuana “Patients Panel” at Ramapo College, 11/13/14.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.
Central NORML NJ meeting at Firkin Tavern, Ewing, NJ 11/19 (3rd Wed. of the month), 7pm.

Treasury report: Checking: $3861; PayPal: $3626. CMMNJ is selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

CMMNJ's meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., Tel. #609.882.9246.  All are welcome.  (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN
(609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org

Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Opinion: Legal marijuana use for adults - a smart idea
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/11/opinion_legal_marijuana_use_for_adults_would_be_a_smart_idea.html

Obstructionist Policies Prevent Successful Implementation of Medical Marijuana Program
http://www.ahherald.com/letters/18764-obstructionist-policies-prevent-successful-implementation-of-medical-marijuana-program

A call to action on medical marijuana: Letter
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/11/a_call_to_action_on_medical_marijuana_letter.html

Philly420: Cannabis candies for Trick-or-Treat? Unlikely
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/Cannabis_candies_for_Trick-or-Treat_Unlikely.html

Rastafarian college student sues police over pot bust,
claims they profiled his dreadlocks
http://www.nj.com/monmouth/index.ssf/2014/11/rastafarian_college_sues_keansburg_police_claims_they_profiled_him_for_his_dreadlocks.html

Judge tosses out evidence in medical marijuana patient's possession case
http://www.nj.com/sussex-county/index.ssf/2014/11/judge_tosses_out_evidence_in_medical_marijuana_patients_possession_case.html

Updated: Employee who confronted Princeton over medical marijuana no longer employed by U.
http://dailyprincetonian.com/news/2014/11/employee-who-confronted-princeton-over-medical-marijuana-use-no-longer-employed-by-u/

Princeton Univ. employee who protested medical marijuana ultimatum no longer works for school
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2014/11/princeton_university_fires_employee_seeking_to_smoke_medical_marijuana.html

NYC has come to its senses on marijuana. Will N.J.? (Editorial)
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/11/nyc_marijuana_policy.html

N.J. Weedman appealing sentence he already served,
contends state pot laws are racist
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/11/nj_weedman_contests_racist_contradictory_marijuana_laws_he_says_in_court_filing.html

New medical marijuana dispensary in Cranbury gets permit to grow
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/11/new_medical_marijuana_dispensary_in_cranbury_gets_permit_to_start_growing.html

Victory in fight to legalize marijuana
http://www.northjersey.com/news/nj-state-news/victory-in-fight-to-legalize-marijuana-1.1141979

CMMNJ TV 1.14
https://vimeo.com/112526679?email_id=Y2xpcF90cmFuc2NvZGVkfGE4NWY1OThkZjg2NjBlMTIxY2FhYjk4ODk5OTc2NmEyNDc5fDIzOTE1ODF8MTQxNjYwMjYwM3w3NzAx&utm_campaign=7701&utm_medium=clip-transcode_complete-finished-20120100&utm_source=email

Legalization - What to Expect
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mulahkAmoIQ&feature=youtu.be

Decarboxylation
http://skunkpharmresearch.com/decarboxylation/

Remembering Cheryl Miller
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/11/12/remembering-cheryl-miller-beloved-wife-and-friend-activist-and-inspiration/

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

CMMNJ October Minutes



Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
October 9, 2014 

There will NOT be a November CMMNJ meeting at the library due to Veterans Day holiday.

September 2014 minutes approved.

CMMNJ TV--tapings at Princeton TV Studio continue; next taping will be 11/4/14.  Josh Gilbert (Director of documentary, “AKA Tommy Chong”) is scheduled to appear along with Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion, and Ed Hannaman, Esq.

Jim Price is developing a Patient’s Handbook for CMMNJ.  (Ed to see if we can accept ads.)

CMMNJ Op Eds: “The elderly and medical marijuana,” Courier-Post, 9/17.  "Opinion: Legal marijuana use for adults - a smart idea" Times of Trenton, 11/2.

Ed H.’s medical marijuana regulatory changes (Petition for Rulemaking) mailed to DOH today.  

Don DeZarn fights for medical marijuana workplace protection at Princeton University.

NJ bills: A3726 (PTSD); A3525/S2312 (MMP fix); S1896/A3094 (legalize); A218 (decrim).

Upcoming Events: Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue trial, 10/21/14, Doylestown, PA.
Legalize Marijuana Rally (NJ Cannabis Conference) in Trenton, 10/18/14; Jennie Stormes to leave for Colorado (medical marijuana refugee) the next day, 10/19.
Demonstrations continue each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.
Kevin Sabet talks about marijuana at Glassboro, NJ on 10/30/14, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Kane Dickerson starting a Rowan U. Coalition for Medical Marijuana group (RUCMM).

Recent events: 
 “Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” PA State Nurses Assn., 9/18/14, DeSales University.
 “Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3778; PayPal: $3583. CMMNJ is selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.



Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

COMMENTARY: The elderly and medical marijuana

How Two Convicted Criminals Got Philadelphia to Decriminalize Weed

Remembering a giant advocate for many causes

RIP Bill Buckman: Ladybud Attorney, NJ NORML Board Member & Celebrated Civil Rights Activist

Celebrated Civil Rights Attorney and Marijuana Activist Dead at 61

Marijuana saps initiative - and referendum; so does Chris Christie (Mulshine)

Alaska Becomes the Fourth State to Legalize Marijuana  

Opinion: Legal marijuana use for adults - a smart idea

Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine

Philly420: Cannabis candies for Trick-or-Treat? Unlikely

Weed People: Chris Goldstein

NORML, Feds Agree On Benefits Of Cannabis

Schedule I Hearing Concludes; Judge’s Ruling Expected In December

Cannabis Conundrum: Parents Question NJ's Medical Pot Policies

Marijuana: 250 protest N.J. laws, and some light up

Photos from the Legalize Marijuana March in Trenton

POLL: Should marijuana be legalized in New Jersey? 

New Jersey marijuana rally to be the last attended by Hope Township mother

2016: When Republican presidential candidates will finally take drug policy reform seriously

EXPLAINER: HOW NEW JERSEY’S MEDICAL MARIJUANA LAW WORKS

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

CMMNJ October 14th Meeting Agenda


Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, October 14, 2014 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve September 2014 minutes.  Discuss:

There will NOT be a November 2014 CMMNJ meeting at the library due to the Veterans Day holiday.

"CMMNJ TV"--tapings at Princeton Community TV Studio continue; next taping will be 11/4/14.

Don DeZarn fights for medical marijuana workplace protection at Princeton University.

NJ bills: A3726 (PTSD); A3525/S2312 (MMP fix); S1896/A3094 (legalize); A218 (decrim).

Upcoming Events:
Legalize Marijuana Rally, Trenton, NJ on Saturday, 10/18/14—march from the Riverline at 2 pm to the Statehouse at 3:30 pm for speeches and optional civil
disobedience at 4:20 pm.
Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue's trial, 10/21/14, Doylestown, PA.
Medical Marijuana Demonstrations continue each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.
Kevin Sabet talks about marijuana at Glassboro, NJ on 10/30/14, 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Recent events: NORML NJ meeting, 9/8/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.
Boston Freedom Festival, 9/13 & 14—CMMNJ did not have a table.
March in Philadelphia 9/6/14 at 12:30 pm, 5th and Market Sts.
“Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” PA State Nurses Assn., 9/18/14, DeSales University.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3778; PayPal: $3583. CMMNJ is selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

CMMNJ's meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., Tel. #609.882.9246.  All are welcome.  (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org

Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
September 9, 2014 

August 2014 minutes approved.

Carolyn Piro was voted onto the Board of CMMNJ to replace Diane Fornbacher, a “medical marijuana refugee” who fled to Colorado in order to obtain access to her medicine. Carolyn is a licensed clinical social worker who works with trauma patients.

CMMNJ Board member Ed Hannaman, Esq., will propose formal medical marijuana regulatory changes (Petition for Rulemaking) to DOH.  Ken to send PTSD studies to Carolyn to review.

“CMMNJ TV”--tapings at Princeton Community TV Studio; next taping 9/23/14.

Don DeZarn continues his fight for medical marijuana workplace protection at Princeton University.  He is currently on paid leave of absence from P.U. Excellent media coverage.  CMMNJ is grateful to Don for his heroic activism on behalf of patients everywhere.

Next NJ legislative starts the end of September. Several marijuana bill are already introduced: A3525/S2312 (MMP fix); S1896/A3094 (legalization); and, A218 (decrim).

Upcoming Events: Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue’s trial in Doylestown, PA will continue on 10/21/14.  He is trying for jury nullification.
NORML NJ meeting, 9/8/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ--poor attendance.
Boston Freedom Festival, 9/13 & 14—CMMNJ to table next to PhillyNORML.
March in Philadelphia 9/6/14 at 12:30 pm, 5th and Market Sts.
“Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” PA State Nurses Assn., 9/18/14, DeSales University.

Recent events: Jennie Stormes, RN demonstrates each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.
Jim Price is working to fix disabled emails from GoDaddy—CMMNJ agendas.

Treasury report: Checking: $3852; PayPal: $3596. CMMNJ is selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5; Sissy offered to attach dog tags.
Billboard update.

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:


COMMENTARY: The elderly and medical marijuana
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/opinion/columnists/2014/09/17/commentary-elderly-medical-marijuana/15758431/Ken

Grandma's marijuana is no cure-all
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/life/wellness/2014/09/12/grandmas-pot-cure/15535795/

Hope Township mother leaving N.J. frustrated over medical marijuana program
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/warren-county/express-times/index.ssf/2014/10/hope_township_mother_leaving_n.html

Another family to flee N.J. over medical marijuana
http://articles.philly.com/2014-10-02/news/54522612_1_marijuana-program-jennie-stormes-edibles

Medical marijuana: N.J. child improves as family finds fewer roadblocks in Colorado
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/09/medical_marijuana_nj_child_improves_as_family_finds_fewer_roadblocks_in_colorado.html#incart_m-rpt-2

Denver City Council puts hash oil ban on hold after father's concerns for epileptic child
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/local-news/denver-council-puts-hash-oil-ban-on-hold-after-fathers-concerns-for-epileptic-child

Rethink Cannabis: Treating Cannabis As A Dietary Essential
http://www.medicaljane.com/2014/10/05/rethink-cannabis/#’’

In Colorado, a Rebranding of Pot Inc.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/05/fashion/in-colorado-a-rebranding-of-pot-inc-marijuana.html?_r=0

Demands for medical marijuana research grow in N.J., nation driven by hopeful patients, families
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/09/demands_for_medical_marijuana_research_grow_in_nj_nation.html

N.J. should have given this toddler her pot. Thankfully, CO did: Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/09/nj_should_have_given_this_toddler_her_pot_editorial.html

Trenton Thursdays 9/18 with Gov Christie!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=chQhrL8_gys

Truth in Media: Feds Says Cannabis Is Not Medicine While Holding The Patent on Cannabis as Medicine
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuX9y0hiqWE

Hundreds Of Military Veterans Just Got Free Pot
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/21/military-veterans-marijuana_n_5858714.html

The Opinion Pages | EDITORIAL Yes to Marijuana Ballot Measures
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/06/opinion/alaska-oregon-and-the-district-of-columbia-should-legalize-pot.html

68 studies on the efficiency of marijuana against cancer
http://www.alchimiaweb.com/blogen/68-studies-efficiency-marijuana-against-cancer/

Pa. medical marijuana pilot program underway
http://www.ydr.com/local/ci_26657009/pa-medical-marijuana-pilot-program-underway

92% of patients say medical marijuana works
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2014/10/01/92-of-patients-say-medical-marijuana-works/

Cuomo: Speed up medical pot for kids with epilepsy
http://www.njherald.com/story/26654084/cuomo-speed-up-medical-pot-for-kids-with-epilepsy

Bill to Add PTSD to New Jersey Medical Marijuana Program Filed in Assembly
http://www.thedailychronic.net/2014/37160/bill-to-add-ptsd-to-new-jersey-medical-marijuana-program-filed-in-assembly/

Despite Governor’s Objection, Pa. Senate OKs Medical Marijuana Bill
http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/09/24/pennsylvania-senate-oks-medical-marijuana-bill/

Medical marijuana bill passes Senate, but advocates say it doesn’t go far enough
http://phillynow.com/2014/09/24/medical-marijuana-bill-passes-senate-but-advocates-say-it-doesnt-go-far-enough/

A Nation in Transition: Investigating Evolving Research and Policy on Marijuana
http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/09/24/a-nation-in-transition-investigating-evolving-research-and-policy-on-marijuana/?emc=edit_tnt_20140924&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Realm of Caring Announces Charlotte’s Web to be Shipped to All 50 US States
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/09/18/realm-of-caring-announces-charlottes-web-to-be-shipped-to-all-50-us-states/

Medical Marijuana Can Now Take on One of Our Most Painful Diseases
http://mic.com/articles/96372/medical-marijuana-can-now-take-on-one-of-our-most-painful-diseases

Nutter Agrees To Sign Bill Softening Marijuana Laws in Philadelphia
http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/09/08/nutter-agrees-to-sign-bill-softening-marijuana-laws-in-philadelphia/

PRINCETON: University worker off job due to medical marijuana
http://www.princetonpacket.com/story.cgi?section=news&story=doc5408d316a0fe6027413407&s=1+page_0

LETTER: Doctors know marijuana is effective
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/opinion/readers/2014/09/06/letter-doctors-know-marijuana-effective/15209045/

WOULD EASIER ACCESS TO MEDICAL MARIJUANA REDUCE OPIOID DEATHS IN NJ?
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/14/09/04/would-easier-access-to-medical-marijuana-reduce-opioid-deaths-in-nj/

The N.F.L.’s Absurd Marijuana Policy
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/09/opinion/the-nfls-absurd-marijuana-policy.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140908&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Obsolete Zero Tolerance on Pot
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/09/opinion/obsolete-zero-tolerance-on-pot.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140908&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Medical marijuana use shouldn’t be grounds for firing workers –
http://www.fourthestatenewspaper.com/opinion/2014/09/19/medical-marijuana-use-shouldnt-be-grounds-for-firing-workers/#sthash.6vOtaWYc.dpuf

NJ Weedman's Passing the Joint...to Gov. Christie
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20140922/nj-weedmans-passing-the-jointto-gov-christie

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda: September 9, 2014



Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, September 9, 2014, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM 

Approve August 2014 minutes. Discuss:

CMMNJ TV--tapings at Princeton TV Studio continue; next taping will be 9/23/14.

Don DeZarn fights for medical marijuana workplace protection at Princeton University.

No action on NJ bills A3525/S2312 (MMP fix), S1896/A3094 (legalization) or A218 (decrim).

Upcoming Events: Marijuana March to City Hall, Philadelphia 9/6/14, 12:30 pm, from 5th & Market Sts.
Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue trial, 9/8/14, Doylestown, PA.
Central NORML NJ meeting, 9/8/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.
Boston Freedom Festival, 9/13 & 14—CMMNJ to table next to PhillyNORML.
“Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine,” PA State Nurses Assn., 9/18/14, DeSales University.

Recent events: Jennie Stormes, RN demonstrates each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3852; PayPal: $3596. CMMNJ is selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

CMMNJ meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., Tel. #609.882.9246.  All are welcome.  (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
August 12, 2014

July 2014 minutes approved.

CMMNJ Board member Ed Hannaman, Esq., will propose formal medical marijuana regulatory changes (Petition for Rulemaking) to DOH.

“CMMNJ TV”--tapings at Princeton Community TV Studio; next tapings—8/21/14 & 9/23/14.

NY is the nation’s 23rd medical marijuana state.  Gov. Cuomo signed the bill into law on 7/7/14.

NY Times endorses legalization of marijuana with 5-part series.

Report on Sen. Folmer’s medical marijuana bill in PA.

Report that a NJ hospice patient was threatened with being removed from the program for medical marijuana use.

Jennie Stormes, RN demonstrates about MMP’s shortcomings each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.  Jennie & CMMNJ (Miller and Wolski) met with DOH and Christie administration on 8/7/14.  While there was no positive feedback from the State, at least concerns were heard.

Ken and Jim to see why GoDaddy is not sending CMMNJ’s agendas to people who have signed up for them.

CMMNJ is now selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

Upcoming Events: Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue trial, 9/8/14, Doylestown, PA.
Boston Freedom Festival, 9/13 & 14.
Recent events: Slightly Stoopid, 8/3/14, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ.
Central NORML NJ meeting, 7/14/14 & 8/11/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.
Hemp Heals, 8/2/14, Philadelphia, PA.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3808; PayPal: $3596.
More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org 
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Christie aides meet with mother urging medical-cannabis changes
http://articles.philly.com/2014-08-16/news/52850786_1_christie-aides-bridgegate-recreational-marijuana

The Pennsylvania State Nurses Association (PSNA) will host a continuing education series titled “Medical Marijuana: Myths & Medicine.”
http://psna.org/medicalmarijuana/

Trenton Thursdays With Governor Swiper
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g_fPBTXA50

NJWeedman's Passing the Joint: New Jersey's marijuana activist goes mainstream
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20140806/njweedmans-passing-the-joint-new-jerseys-marijuana-activist-goes-mainstream

NJWeedman's Passing the Joint: Emperor Chris Christie has no clothes!
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20140820/njweedmans-passing-the-joint-emperor-chris-christie-has-no-clothes

NJ Weedman's Passing the Joint: White entrepreneurs crowding out black ones in legal marijuana world
http://www.trentonian.com/opinion/20140827/nj-weedmans-passing-the-joint-white-entrepreneurs-crowding-out-black-ones-in-legal-marijuana-world

Medical Marijuana Could Be A Solution To America's Painkillers Epidemic
http://www.digitaljournal.com/life/health/study-medical-marijuana-can-lead-to-fewer-opioid-overdose-deaths/article/399290#ixzz3CBccw62g

Open Letter to President Obama – Legalize it!
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/08/06/open-letter-to-president-obama-legalize-it/

New Jersey: Legislation Introduced to Expand Medical Marijuana Program
http://salsa3.salsalabs.com/o/51046/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=14382

The Marijuana Divide
http://www.nytimes.com/video/opinion/100000003035351/high-time-the-marijuana-divide.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140802&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Philly420: Racial disparities continue in Philly marijuana arrests
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/philly420/Philly420_Racial_disparities_continue_in_Philly_marijuana_arrests.html#34490gokTWe0pVwX.99

Few patients, doctors buy into state's marijuana program
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/life/wellness/2014/08/22/patients-doctors-buy-states-marijuana-program/14455769/

EDITORIAL: Doctors should lead the way on medical cannabis
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/08/27/editorial-doctors-lead-way-medical-cannabis/14710445/

A Benefit of Legal Marijuana
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/09/01/a-benefit-of-legal-marijuana/

Zero-tolerance at Princeton for employee's medical marijuana
http://www.philly.com/philly/education/Princeton_orders_employee_to_give_up_medical_marijuana_.html#AgPfLAHdX7moR254.99

Military combat vet may lose Princeton University job for using medicinal marijuana
http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20140901/military-combat-vet-may-lose-princeton-university-job-for-using-medicinal-marijuana

Princeton University to employee: Give up medical marijuana or lose job
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2014/08/medical_marijuana_or_princeton_university_job_former_libertarian_candidate_says_he_must_choose.html

Former Colorado Jail Might Transform Into a Massive Marijuana Grow Facility
http://www.weedist.com/quicklink/former-colorado-jail-might-transform-massive-marijuana-grow-facility/

Gary Storck: Best help for ALS may be to legalize medical marijuana
http://host.madison.com/news/opinion/mailbag/gary-storck-best-help-for-als-may-be-to-legalize/article_906d1aff-e95a-5cdb-98c2-654c23dff98a.html#ixzz3CBUlBUcK

Regular Marijuana Use Bad for Teens' Brains
http://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2014/08/regular-marijuana.aspx

Medical pot advocates push Christie for adult edibles
 http://nj1015.com/medical-pot-advocates-push-christie-for-adult-edibles/?trackback=tsmclip

Colorado Family Says Cannabis Oil Helps Child Suffering From Epilepsy
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/story/26157283/colorado-family

Marijuana seminar at Bally's in Atlantic City to be held by California-based university
http://www.nj.com/south/index.ssf/2014/08/marijuana_seminar_coming_to_atlantic_city.html

Medical Marijuana Patients Squeezed Out Of Product Safety Testing
http://denver.cbslocal.com/2014/08/14/medical-marijuana-patients-squeezed-out-of-product-safety-testing/

Bid to Expand Medical Marijuana Business Faces Federal Hurdles
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/24/us/bid-to-expand-medical-marijuana-business-faces-federal-hurdles.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140823&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Healing Hemp
http://www.nytimes.com/video/us/100000003053054/healing-hemp.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140824&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Dennis and Judi caller shares medical marijuana story
http://nj1015.com/dennis-and-judi-caller-shares-medical-marijuana-story/

The Drug Truth Network: Century of Lies 08/31/14 with Doug McVay
http://www.drugtruth.net/cms/node/4991

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

CMMNJ August 12, 2014 Public Meeting Agenda



Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, August 12, 2014, 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM 

Approve July 2014 minutes. Discuss:

CMMNJ TV--tapings at Princeton TV Studio continue; next taping will be 8/21/14.

NY is the nation’s 23rd medical marijuana state.  Gov. Cuomo signed the bill into law on 7/7/14.

NY Times endorses legalization of marijuana with 5-part series.

Jennie Stormes, RN demonstrates about MMP’s shortcomings each Thursday at the Statehouse 11am–1pm.  Jennie & CMMNJ to meet with DOH and
Christie administration 8/7/14.

CMMNJ now selling hand-rolled hemp bracelets/necklaces from Romania @ $3 each or 2/$5.

Upcoming Events: Medical Marijuana patient Chris Donahue trial, 9/8/14, Doylestown, PA.
Central NORML NJ meeting, 8/11/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.

Recent events: Slightly Stoopid, 8/3/14, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ.
Central NORML NJ meeting, 7/14/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.
Hemp Heals, 8/2/14, Philadelphia, PA.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3808; PayPal: $3596.

CMMNJ's meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., Tel. #609.882.9246.  All are welcome.  (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
July 8, 2014

June 2014 minutes approved.

Report on U. of PA marijuana legalization forum with elected officials, LEO’s, and advocates.

Legalized marijuana sales start in Washington State today, 7/8/14!

New York’s limited medical marijuana bill (no smoking!) signed into law on 7/7/14.

Media support for legalization of marijuana in NJ. Marijuana legalization legislation in NJ is S1896, with Assembly companion bill, A3094.

Gov. Christie insists, “This (Medicinal Marijuana) program and all these other programs, in my mind, are a front for legalization.” Asw. Linda Stender’s bill, A3525, proposes comprehensive changes to the state’s inadequate program.

CMMNJ volunteer Daniel Price has his medical marijuana seized in D.C.  LEAP response.  A.C. update.

Ed to propose formal medical marijuana regulatory changes (Petition for Rulemaking) to DOH.

Upcoming Events: Decarceration Rally, Newark City Hall, 7/30/14 at 5:30 pm.
Slightly Stoopid, 8/3/14, The Stone Pony, Asbury Park, NJ.
Central NORML NJ meeting, 7/14/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ.
Hemp Heals, 8/2/14, Festival Pier, Philadelphia, PA.

Recent events: CMMNJ TV taping, 6/24/14, all morning, Princeton TV Studio, Princeton, NJ
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $3938; PayPal: $3551. Amazon to donate 0.5% of the price of eligible AmazonSmile purchases to CMMNJ:
https://smile.amazon.com/

More info:  Ken Wolski, RN, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/?fref=ts

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.


Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

Inconsistent medical marijuana laws are ultimately tragic: Letter
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/06/inconsistent_medical_marijuana_laws_are_ultimately_tragic_letter.html

Medical marijuana advocates hoping to light up barred from Christie town hall
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/07/post_59.html

Lawmaker proposes medical marijuana program overhaul despite Christie's criticism
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/07/lawmaker_proposes_medical_marijuana_program_overhaul_despite_christies_criticism.html

New Jersey Lawmaker Files Bill to Fix Medical Marijuana Program
http://www.thedailychronic.net/2014/34122/new-jersey-lawmaker-files-bill-to-fix-medical-marijuana-program/

Editorial: A brighter future for medical marijuana in New Jersey?
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/07/a_brighter_future_for_medical_marijuana_in_nj_editorial.html

Medical Marijuana Coming to New York
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/07/08/medical-marijuana-coming-to-new-york/?emc=edit_tnt_20140708&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Sales of Recreational Marijuana Begin in Washington State
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/09/us/washington-to-begin-sales-of-recreational-marijuana.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140708&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

N.J.'s Booker, Rand Paul unite to reform drug policies
http://www.northjersey.com/news/nation/political-adversaries-united-on-drug-penalties-booker-paul-want-to-spare-offenders-lasting-punishment-1.1047740#sthash.vmbCpRNM.dpuf

Parents, activists begin weekly Statehouse protest over
medical marijuana program failures
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/07/parents_begin_weekly_statehouse_protest_over_medical_marijuana_program_failures.html

NJ Medical Marijuana Gets Assist in Washington
http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/nation/nj-medical-marijuana-gets-assist-in-washington

Hope Township medical marijuana advocate to rally in Trenton
http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2014/07/hope_township_marijuana_advoca.html

Editorial: As with most things, moderation needed as legalized pot use advances
http://www.nj.com/hunterdon-county-democrat/index.ssf/2014/07/editorial_as_with_most_things.html

Pot Luck – Best Practices for NY & NJ Employers Addressing Medical Marijuana Use in the Workplace
http://www.natlawreview.com/article/client-check-pot-luck-best-practices-ny-nj-employers-addressing-medical-marijuana-us

Booker's bipartisanship on medical marijuana brings peace of mind: Letter
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/07/bookers_bipartisanship_on_medical_marijuana_brings_peace_of_mind_letter.html

Cannabis chewing gum - the latest development of medical marijuana
http://www.examiner.com/review/cannabis-chewing-gum-the-latest-development-of-the-medical-marijuana

Let States Decide on Marijuana
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/27/opinion/sunday/high-time-let-states-decide-on-marijuana.html?emc=edit_tnt_20140730&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0

Medical pot advocates push Christie for adult edibles
http://nj1015.com/medical-pot-advocates-push-christie-for-adult-edibles/?trackback=tsmclip

Colorado Family Says Cannabis Oil Helps Child Suffering From Epilepsy
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/story/26157283/colorado-family

Leafly Places Nation’s First Consumer Cannabis Advertisement in The New York Times
http://www.leafly.com/news/headlines/leafly-places-nations-first-consumer-cannabis-advertisement-in-th

Repeal Prohibition, Again
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/07/27/opinion/sunday/high-time-marijuana-legalization.html

What Science Says About Marijuana
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/31/opinion/what-science-says-about-marijuana.html?opinion-series

The Injustice of Marijuana Arrests
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/29/opinion/high-time-the-injustice-of-marijuana-arrests.html?smid=fb-nytimes&WT.z_sma=OP_TIO_20140728&bicmp=AD&bicmlukp=WT.mc_id&bicmst=1388552400000&bicmet=1420088400000&_r=2

What would federal marijuana legalization look like?
http://mobile.philly.com/news/?wss=%2Fphilly%2Fnews&id=269101151

The Federal Marijuana Ban Is Rooted in Myth and Xenophobia
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/30/opinion/high-time-federal-marijuana-ban-is-rooted-in-myth.html?opinion-series

The Great Colorado Weed Experiment
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/03/opinion/sunday/high-time-the-great-colorado-weed-experiment.html?opinion-series

Rules for the Marijuana Market
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/05/opinion/high-time-rules-for-the-marijuana-market.html?_r=1

The Real Reason Pot Is Still Illegal
http://www.thenation.com/article/180493/anti-pot-lobbys-big-bankroll#

New Research Shows How Marijuana Compound Can Reduce Tumor Growth In Cancer Patients
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/07/16/marijuana-tumors_n_5588639.html?ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000063

Washington D.C. Now Punishes Littering Harsher Than Marijuana Possession
http://marijuana.com/news/2014/07/washington-d-c-now-punishes-littering-harsher-than-marijuana-possession/

Inquirer Editorial: Drug warriors
http://articles.philly.com/2014-07-08/news/51141066_1_marijuana-program-medical-use-dravet-syndrome

Community "decarceration" activists call on State Sen. Rice to introduce legislation supporting large-scale New Jersey prison release
http://www.politickernj.com/76596/community-decarceration-activists-call-state-sen-rice-introduce-legislation-supporting-large-s#ixzz39XrlISgo

Here's the Lawless Hellscape Colorado Has Become Six Months After Legalizing Weed
http://mic.com/articles/92449/six-months-after-legalizing-marijuana-two-big-things-have-happened-in-colorado