CMMNJ Minutes for December 12, 2017 Meeting

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes
December 12, 2017

November 2017 minutes approved. Discussion:

Governor-elect Phil Murphy reaffirms plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018! Who is contacting whom about advances for patient access, decriminalization, expungement, etc? Jim Miller is working with Bill Caruso and Jim is willing to accompany any patient in legislative meetings; Ken is working with Doctors for Cannabis Regulation on proposed legislative and regulatory language; Peter & Bob Kane are working with S. Jersey legislators; patients/advocates are urged to contact individual legislators to tell them what we want.

Gov. Christie finishes his second term at noon on January 16, 2018.

CMMNJ held a Press Conference in the State House Annex on 12/7/17 where patients and advocates explained the need for home cultivation—keeps it affordable; guarantees strain specific availability, etc.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns. Expect marijuana use uptick of 3% with new law; 97% of current marijuana users will just change vendors from illegal market to legal market. Teen use down in legal states.

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel gave final approval to 43 petitions to add conditions (chronic pain, anxiety, migraines, and Tourette’s syndrome) to the MMP on 10/25/17. Now the DOH commissioner has 180 days to act. CUMMA amendments recommended. LTEs urged.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Cory Booker’s federal bill. Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

Final 2017 Statehouse Podcast (100th) concluded with Thanksgiving Day lunch/clothing giveaway outside the Annex. Wayne Burrini (http://www.burrinis.com/) generously donated many delicious food items. Other advocates and patients donated food and clothing. Jim Miller and Lefty Grimes recognized for their heroic efforts in completing 100 podcasts outside the NJ Statehouse in all kinds of weather.

Political Prisoner/Veteran Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail awaiting trial on hung jury charge.

Upcoming Events:
“CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, January 2018.
Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, NJ, May 10 – 12, 2018.
Garden State Cannabis Consultants, LLC (Nick & Leo) buying a video switcher to produce more videos.

Recent Events:
5th year anniversary of medical marijuana availability in NJ—12/6/17.
Ken spoke at "Medical Cannabis Conference," Montego Bay Jamaica, Nov. 10 -15, 2017, Atecam.com & "Medical Marijuana: There are big benefits for seniors;" at the Plainsboro Senior Center, 12/8/17.

Treasury report: Checking: $3264; PayPal: $3292. Multicolored hemp wristbands available.

2018 CMMNJ meetings were approved for the 2nd Tuesday of each month in 2018 from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

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

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

CMMNJ: Proposed improvements for the NJ Medical Marijuana Program

The Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ) has identified issues to make the NJ Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) more effective.

The amendments CMMNJ proposes to NJ’s Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act would bring comprehensive changes to the MMP. These needed improvements to the MMP would:


• Eliminate the physician registry (This is a major stumbling block to an effective program, and it was not called for in the law.  A voluntary registry would be OK to help patients find physicians who will recommend medical marijuana in the event a patient cannot locate a doctor, but any licensed NJ healthcare professional with prescriptive privileges, including Advanced Practice Nurses, should be allowed to recommend marijuana for patients);

• Expand qualifying conditions (Immediately add to the NJ MMP the 43 petitions to add qualifying conditions that were given final approval by the NJ DOH MMP Review Panel);

• Restore home cultivation of 6 (six) plants for qualified patients with a NJ MMP ID card;

• Eliminate the tax on medical marijuana;

• Include explicit employee workplace protections;

• Eliminate background check and fee for caregiver ID card, and reduce ID card fees;

• Eliminate the requirement for psychiatric clearance for minors;

• Require initial and ongoing training for all state, county and local Law Enforcement Officers;

• Eliminate the two ounce/month limit;

• Honor out-of–state ID cards and allow patients to obtain medical marijuana from out-of-state, if necessary;

• Cut permit fees for ATCs and impose no upper limit on the number of ATCs;

• Permit any edible form of marijuana for any age and establish dosage units for all forms (The current prohibition on edibles for adults while allowing them for minors is simply absurd);

• Require testing in licensed laboratories on each batch of marijuana (and on request);

• Forbid the DOH to issue overly restrictive or unduly burdensome regulations for this law;

• Eliminate the need for marijuana to be the last resort drug and establish it as a potential treatment of first resort;

• Broaden the definition of caregiver to allow for more than one child and eliminate the background check for the Primary Caregiver;

• Establish secondary caregivers who will be permitted to assist qualifying patients with the use of medical marijuana at schools, facilities for the developmentally disabled and LTC facilities. These secondary caregivers can be adult employees of the patient’s school or facility, and a person may serve as secondary caregiver to more than one qualifying patient at the school or facility at a time. Eliminate the fees for both caregivers.

(Ideally, nurses at the facilities would automatically qualify as secondary caregivers. Nurses should have no problem administering standardized doses of medical marijuana, as long as the typical prescribing information accompanies the drug—side effects, adverse effects, usual dosage, precautions, drug interactions, etc.  This info is already available. While the federal government still considers marijuana a Schedule I drug, the feds have promised not to interfere with the state medical marijuana programs, and indeed they have not.  Besides, the federal government has no power over the actions of nurses in NJ.  NJ determines what appropriate actions for nurses to perform are.)

• Deschedule marijuana in NJ—remove it entirely as a Scheduled Drug since marijuana will soon be legalized in the state;

• Consider medical marijuana the same as any other medication used at the direction of a physician, and a patient may not be disqualified from receiving any medical care, including an organ transplant, based on the authorized use of medical marijuana;

• Block local governmental units of this state from enacting or enforcing any ordinance or other local law or regulation conflicting with, or preempted by, any provision of this law;

• Establish no upper limits on the number of ATCs in the state;

• Get the Board of Medical Examiners (BME) actively involved in educating physicians about the Endocannabinoid System and advising physicians of the availability of the standardized dosage unit information;

(The BME should insist that every physician in the state be required to take 1 – 3 hours of Continuing Medical Education on the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) as a condition for continued licensure in the state.  The ECS is an important emerging science, developed within the last 25 years, that explains how marijuana works in the human body and how it can be effective for so many diverse diseases, symptoms and conditions.  Even today, the ECS is only mentioned in about 13% of medical schools, despite its many implications for healthcare. Moreover, the DOH has an MMP which many physicians are completely ignorant of, and have no incentive to learn about.  These physicians refuse appropriate care to qualified patients in NJ, and often belittle and insult attempts by patients to receive this care.)

• Complete prescribing information, developed by the NJ DOH, should be available to NJ physicians when standardized doses of edible marijuana are available (currently lozenges and oils are available at one of the ATCs in NJ);

• Expand the time period that physicians may provide written instructions for to 60 days, which may include multiple written instructions up to 6 months.

(Once a patient with a chronic condition is established on medical marijuana, it should not be necessary to be routinely seen more frequently than this.)

• Allow edible medical marijuana products for qualified patients in all state institutions including psychiatric hospitals and state prisons.


Ken Wolski, RN, MPA

Executive Director

Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc.

609.394.2137

www.cmmnj.org

December 12, 2017

NJ Medical Marijuana Patients To Governor-elect Murphy: We Need Home Cultivation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Coalition of Medical Marijuana, New Jersey (CMMNJ)Contact: Peter Rosenfeld ----  jprosenfeldyahoo.com

December 7, 2017 at 10:00AM - Press Conference in NJ State Capitol Building Annex, Room 9.




New Jersey Medical Marijuana Patients To Governor-elect Murphy: We Need Home Cultivation 

Trenton: Registered medical marijuana patients in New Jersey will gather at the State Capitol Building Annex, Room 9 on December 7th at 10:00 a.m. for a press conference calling on legislators and Governor-elect Phil Murphy to allow home cultivation of cannabis. 

Advocates will highlight the stories of patients serving prison time for a handful of plants and will have a model of a small home medical marijuana grow on display. 

Peter Rosenfeld, a board member of the Coalition of Medical Marijuana New Jersey (CMMNJ), pointed out that caregivers and patients were expecting home gardens until the provision was removed in 2009 from the Compassionate Use of Medical Marijuana Act. Almost a decade later and the promises of a robust medical marijuana program have been broken.

“Patients are still being arrested or moving away due to the problems in the state's program,” says Rosenfeld, “The price is unaffordable to many, and the dispensaries have difficulty in staying stocked with the strains that patients need.”

The demonstration of a typical home cultivation setup will include 2-3 flowering plants, LED lights and 2-3 immature plants. This style of indoor garden will cost much less than what a patient currently spends on an ounce of dried flower from the state dispensaries. 

Ken Wolski RN, Executive Director of CMMNJ, who will be speaking at the press briefing said, “Home cultivation empowers patients to take charge of their own healthcare, to grow their own medicine for pennies and to choose the specific strains that best helps their medical conditions.”

Rosenfeld added, “As New Jersey moves on to full legalization of marijuana we want legislators and Governor-elect Murphy to consider the needs of our state's medical marijuana patients.” 

CMMNJ will have copies of model legislation that contains detailed improvements. CMMNJ also extends an open invitation to Governor-elect Murphy to attend our next meeting in Lawrenceville.

Contact: Peter Rosenfeld  jprosenfeldyahoo.com

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for December 12, 2017

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #1 
Tuesday, December 12, 2017 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve November 2017 minutes. Discuss:

Governor-elect Phil Murphy reaffirms plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018! Who is contacting whom in the new Administration about moving forward with advances for patient access and decriminalization/expungement? Gov. Christie finishes his second term at noon on Jan. 16.
NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns. Also, Press Conference at Artworks, Trenton, 12/7/17 at 4:00 pm.

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel gave final approval to 43 petitions to add conditions (chronic pain, anxiety, migraines, and Tourette’s syndrome) to the MMP on 10/25/17. Now the DOH commissioner has 180 days to follow those recommendations. CUMMA amendments?

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Cory Booker’s federal bill. Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

Final 2017 Statehouse Podcast (100th) concluded with Thanksgiving Day lunch outside the Annex.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail awaiting retrial on hung jury charge.

Upcoming Events:
“CMMNJ TV” taping, Princeton TV studio, 1/18.
Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, NJ, May 10 – 12, 2018.
Recent Events: 5th year anniversary of medical marijuana availability in NJ—12/6/17.
Medical Cannabis Conference, Montego Bay Jamaica, Nov. 10 -15, 2017. Atecam.com

Treasury report: Checking: $3264; PayPal: $3292.

CMMNJ's meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
November 14, 2017

3 Board members in attendance- 7 others.  Oct. 2017 minutes approved.

All Items on Agenda covered-Notes of discussions below.

Election- Despite new Gov’s intent to sign a legalization Bill quickly, it is doubtful that legal MJ will be available for a year because of details to be worked out in Regs.  However, activists can push for tangential issues that can be immediately implemented such as prohibiting any arrests for use, expunging all use arrests and those for supplying friends (i.e., all those not major dealers).

Also, provision must be made to support minority representation in gaining licenses to sell with reduced license fees in minority communities and eliminating any bar due to MJ arrest or those charges related thereto (resisting arrest, etc).

 As part of legalization we can advocate for patient growing for own use and other useful expansions of the CUMMA (my note and eliminating many of the unjust burdens like requiring Dr. registrations-esp with Trump admin.)  On growing we should emphasize it was in the original Bill and unjustly eliminated in secret.

Review Panel Approvals- Main point is that we know Gov. Christie is running out the clock so we need to quickly contact new Health Commissioner to immediately sign approval-we have contacts (e.g. Bill Caruso) to get us an inside track. I recommended contacting the DOH transition team. There is no need to delay for the full 180 days. This can be done the first day the new Commissioner takes over if we do advance planning.

Appellate Court action – despite the euphoria I pointed out that the court did not mandate a change only instructed the Director that he had the ability and he should review his position. This is wasted on a Christie appointee.  Again-we need to have the new Admin take Immediate action on this as a priority -even if just to help patients with issues such as use on school grounds.

Podcast last one for this year (and the 100th) is on Thanksgiving and it will provide food. Hoping for media coverage and food donations.
Brunch on Nov 18th at Studio B in Trenton (formerly Prayer Brunch-and no Al Sharpton) Cost is $25. There are speakers. 
Jason has contacts in the Senate majority office we can use.  Jim reported that Scutari dropped charges against Lefty Grimes in Linden and he and Joanne will do a Bergen County forum on Nov. 16th. 

Next Meeting should specify who is contacting whom in the new Admin about moving forward with advances for patient access and discuss specifics.
Treasury report: Checking: $3434; PayPal: $3122.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (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:


With Phil Murphy's win, it's 'full steam ahead' for legal marijuana
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/11/hold_murphys_victory_is_the_first_step_toward_a_ma.html

Supporters Say Recreational Marijuana Could Be Legal In New Jersey By Next Summer Thanks To Murphy Win
http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2017/11/08/supporters-say-recreational-marijuana-could-be-legal-in-new-jersey-by-next-summer/

Marijuana legalization gets support with Murphy's win
http://newjersey.news12.com/story/36798931/marijuana-legalization-gets-support-with-murphys-win

Bamboozled: Could these medical marijuana scams come to N.J.? You bet
http://www.nj.com/business/index.ssf/2017/11/bamboozled_could_these_medical_marijuana_scams_com.html

Letter: Countering Ocean City Prosecutor's Stance On Marijuana
https://patch.com/new-jersey/oceancity/letter-countering-ocean-city-prosecutors-stance-marijuana

Princeton resident is new head New Jersey Cannabis Industry Association board
https://planetprinceton.com/2017/11/16/princeton-resident-is-new-head-new-jersey-cannabis-industry-association-board/

Time to reclassify N.J.'s relationship with marijuana
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/opinion/time-to-reclassify-n-j-s-relationship-with-marijuana/article_21a11f52-5558-5095-a2fa-07e680541983.html

Amid talk of legalizing marijuana, one expert says 'slow down'
http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/bergen/paramus/2017/11/16/amid-push-legal-marijuana-in-one-expert-says-slow-down/868289001/

ASA: Medical Cannabis Access for Pain Treatment
https://d3n8a8pro7vhmx.cloudfront.net/americansforsafeaccess/pages/8900/attachments/original/1470426683/Medical_Cannabis_Access_for_Pain_Treatment-_A_Viable_Strategy_to_Address_the_Opiod_Crisis_8-5-16__3_49.pdf?1470426683

Can Marijuana Alleviate the Opioid Crisis?
The federal government should stop blocking research into the drug’s medical potential.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/can-marijuana-alleviate-the-opioid-crisis-1511104543#comments_sector

Murphy's win boosts prospects for legal marijuana in New Jersey
http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/new-jersey/2017/11/24/marijuana-could-coming-new-jersey/849505001/

High time to legalize recreational marijuana in NJ
http://www.dailyprincetonian.com/article/2017/11/cannabis-article

Smell of new business in the weed industry luring N.J. lawyers
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2017/12/lawyers_prepare_for_business_boom_if_weed_is_legal.html

Legalize weed? We should not empower an industry that profits from addiction | Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/12/legalize_weed_we_should_not_empower_an_industry_that_profits_from_addiction_opinion.html

Ricardo Rivera of Tuffysfght.com
https://vimeo.com/245390762?utm_source=email&utm_medium=vimeo-cliptranscode-201504&utm_campaign=28749

New Jersey Should Legalize Marijuana
https://www.aclu.org/blog/criminal-law-reform/drug-law-reform/new-jersey-should-legalize-marijuana

Will you be able to grow weed at home? Here's what we know about the N.J. pot bill
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2017/11/nj_marijuana_bill_could_soon_see_these_changes.html

Incoming NJ Gov. Murphy names head of cannabis trade group as chief of staff
http://www.thecannabist.co/2017/11/28/new-jersey-murphy-pete-cammarano/93376/

Murphy insists NJ will make marijuana legal — ‘We want to get this right’
http://nj1015.com/murphy-insists-nj-will-make-marijuana-legal-we-want-to-get-this-right/?trackback=tsmclip

NJ legal marijuana may also mean car insurance gets high
http://www.app.com/story/news/local/new-jersey/2017/11/27/nj-legal-marijuana-may-also-mean-car-insurance-gets-high/897275001/

CMMNJ / Sativa Cross FINALE! Feeding Trenton.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb2nh5rV3gU&feature=share

Rice on Marijuana Legalization: Proceed With Caution
http://www.njsendems.org/rice-on-marijuana-legalization-proceed-with-caution/

NJ panel OKs marijuana for more conditions
https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/11/nj-panel-oks-marijuana-for-more.html


Medical marijuana patients fight stigma to find relief
http://www.burlingtoncountytimes.com/7b3d0ba8-7152-11e7-ae8b-d7baa80e197f.html

Legalized Recreational Marjuana In NJ Might Not Be Available Soon
http://wbgo.org/post/legalized-recreational-marjuana-nj-might-not-be-available-soon#stream/0

Sativa Cross .com Ignorance Is No Excuse Potcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Shvq5nIRYmc&feature=youtu.be

CMMNJ PSA
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B72GooQ_L415SUhYcXBmS2xfckU/view?ts=59e9f6c7

NJ panel OKs marijuana for more conditions

The Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel--five physicians, two pharmacists and one RN, who were appointed by the New Jersey Department of Health—gave their final approval on October 25th for the use of marijuana for a number of additional medical conditions.

Dr. Alex Bekker, MD, PhD, a professor and department chairman at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, led the panel of medical experts that approved marijuana therapy for chronic pain, anxiety, migraines, and Tourette's syndrome.

About one third of all Americans suffer from chronic pain at sometime in their lives. Indeed, 32 of the 45 petitions that the panel reviewed were related to chronic pain. In approving marijuana therapy for pain, the panel relied on over 400 peer-reviewed journal articles to make their evidence-based decision. The National Academy of Sciences also endorsed medical marijuana for chronic pain when “conventional therapies fail.” The panel noted the many side effects, and possible severe adverse effects, of both prescription opiates and over-the-counter pain relievers. The panel acknowledged that there were significantly fewer opiate overdose deaths in states with robust medical marijuana programs.

 
The panel said that opiate addiction is a “public health emergency” in America, the day before President Trump formally declared this emergency. Marijuana has been shown to be an effective substitute for pharmaceutical pain relievers and can also help ease the withdrawal from opiate addiction.

One of the chronic pain petitions that the panel approved was MMP-063, “Opioid Use Disorder.” This petition was submitted by Vanessa Waltz, a Board Member of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey. In approving this condition to qualify for marijuana therapy in the state's program, the panel recognized that marijuana, far from being a “gateway” to harder drug use, is actually an “exit drug.” In 1999, the Institute of Medicine thoroughly repudiated the Gateway Theory saying, “There is no conclusive evidence that the drug effects of marijuana are causally linked to the subsequent abuse of other illicit drugs.” Even the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) acknowledged in the July 8, 2011 Federal Register that there was no “direct causal relationship between regular marijuana and other illicit drug use.” The reality is that marijuana can be an exit drug from addicting and dangerous prescription drugs, from street drugs like heroin, and even from alcohol addiction and overuse.

The panel also approved anxiety, both primary and secondary anxiety (related to Autism and Alzheimer’s disease). The panel noted that anxiety can be debilitating. When anxiety does require pharmaceutical intervention, most conventional treatment is unacceptable. The benzodiazepams, or minor tranquilizers, for example, are widely abused and withdrawal from them can be life-threatening. Anti-depressants are often prescribed for anxiety, but they are not effective for two to six weeks, and anxiety is not a depressive illness. The panel felt that there was a significant place for marijuana in fighting anxiety.

Also given final approval by the panel were migraine headaches and Tourette’s syndrome. The panel cited articles and research by Dr. Ethan Russo in support of marijuana for migraines. Dr. Russo is one of the leading authorities in medical marijuana in the United States. In approving marijuana for Tourette’s, the panel noted that there currently is no accepted nor effective pharmacologic treatment for the syndrome. Only major tranquilizers (anti-psychotic or neuroleptics drugs) are prescribed, but Tourette’s is not a psychotic disorder.

The panel only rejected two petitions, MMP-020 Asthma, and MMP-055 Chronic fatigue syndrome. The panel was not convinced that there was sufficient evidence presented in the petitions to support including these two conditions in New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program.

The panel should be congratulated for its research, its thoroughness and its courageous adherence to evidence-based criteria in its decision making. When the science is objectively pursued, the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana is found to be enormous.

Now the commissioner of the Department of Health has 180 days to decide what, if any, of the panel’s final recommendations to accept. In recognition of the now formally declared public health emergency that is the opiate epidemic in America, the commissioner must act speedily in adopting the final recommendations of the panel. Lives are at stake.

Indeed, the entire country should follow the final recommendations of the experts in New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel.

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Rm. #1 

UPCOMING - Tuesday, November 14, 2017 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve October 2017 minutes. Discuss:

Election Day: Tuesday, November 7, 2017. Big win for Phil Murphy and marijuana reform in NJ! Governor-elect plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018!

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel gave final approval to 43 petitions to add conditions to the MMP at a public hearing on 10/25/17. Approved were chronic pain, anxiety, migraines, and Tourette’s syndrome. Now the DOH commissioner has 180 days to follow those recommendations.

NJ Appellate Court tells Director of Div. of Consumer Affairs he erred when he said he lacked the authority to reclassify/reschedule marijuana. He must reconsider his decision in the “post-CUMMA era”.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Cory Booker’s federal bill. Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Peter & Jim published on Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter templates in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns.

Final 2017 Statehouse Podcast concludes with Thanksgiving Day lunch at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm.
Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail awaiting jury verdict. “Joint” closed.

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, 11/28/17, 10 – 2 pm—Leo & Mike.
5th year anniversary of medical marijuana availability in NJ—12/6/17.
Prayer Brunch with Trenton pastors, 11/18/17 10 – noon, Studio B, Trenton, NJ (see Leo Bridgewater).

Recent Events:  Help Not Handcuffs, Park Ave., Asbury Park, 10/28/17. See also their Voter Guide.
Medical Cannabis Conference, Montego Bay Jamaica, Nov. 10 -15, 2017. Atecam.com

Treasury report: Checking: $3434; PayPal: $3122. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $1/apiece; 3 for $2. Wholesale prices are available.

CMMNJ's meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes
October 10, 2017

Get out and vote, Tuesday, November 7, 2017. See Help Not Handcuffs Voter Survey.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Cory Booker’s federal bill. Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Peter & Jim published on Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter templates in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns. Statewide elections on November 7, 2017.

Public Hearing 9/18/17 in Trenton on the Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel’s initial approval of 43 petitions to add conditions to the MMP. The 60 day public comment period ended 9/25/17.  Panel was thanked and urged to speed up the process. Sue Carson, head of NJ MMP, discussed issues with CMMNJ. DOH Commissioner Cathleen Bennett resigned.

Mayor Ras Baraka wants Newark to be cannabis capital of NJ following mtng with Leo Bridgewater. Leo in High Times!

Statehouse Podcasts continue at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm, Thursdays. Thanksgiving lunch planned.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail; trial starts 10/17/17. “Joint” closed.

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, 10/3/17, 10 – 2 pm.
Help Not Handcuffs, Park Ave., Asbury Park, 10/28/17, 6 – 9pm ($25 donation suggested).
Medical Cannabis Conference, Montego Bay Jamaica, Nov. 10 -15, 2017. Atecam.com
Prayer Brunch with Rev. Al Sharpton, Studio B, Trenton,  11/18/17, 10 – noon.
Trenton Cannabis Community meeting, Orchid House, Trenton, 11/1/17, 7-8 pm.

Recent Events:  Ewing Community Fest; The College of New Jersey, 9/23/17.
Trenton Cannabis Community Awareness: Part 2, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, 9/30/17. City Decrim sought; municipal elections this Spring. Education campaigns continue.

Treasury report: Checking: $3467; PayPal: $3102. Hemp bands from Romania--Retail price: $1/apiece; 3 for $2. Wholesale prices are available. Nick started Teespring account for CMMNJ swag.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (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:

Legalize marijuana in Jersey? Your choice for governor will determine that
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/10/whoever_wins_governors_race_nj_marijuana_laws_will.html

Pot-laced Halloween candy? That's a scare tactic, advocates say
http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/news/local/new-jersey/2017/10/27/marijuana-laced-halloween-candy-scare-tactic/807058001/

2017 N.J. election guide: Where the candidates stand on legalizing marijuana
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/10/where_your_candidates_for_governor_stand_on_mariju.html

If New Jersey Legalizes, Do I Have to Move Back Home?
https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/if-new-jersey-legalizes-do-i-have-to-move-back-home

N.J. must recognize marijuana's medicinal value, court says
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/10/nj_court_rules_medical_benefits_of_marijuana.html

The pot debate, and how Guadagno gets it wrong | Moran
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/10/the_pot_debate_and_how_guadagno_gets_it_wrong_mora.html

NJ court orders state to review marijuana’s Schedule I status, given “abundant” medical benefits
http://www.thecannabist.co/2017/11/01/new-jersey-court-marijuana-schedule-i/91414/

‘Landmark’ Decision Exposes Disconnect in NJ Pot Policy
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/17/11/02/landmark-decision-exposes-disconnect-in-nj-pot-policy/

Appeals Court Orders New Jersey To Rethink Designation Of Marijuana As Dangerous Drug
http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/11/04/appeals-court-orders-new-jersey-to-rethink-designation-of-marijuana-as-dangerous-drug/

Chris Christie Won’t Stop Lying About Cannabis
https://merryjane.com/news/chris-christie-opioid-epidemic-marijuana-lies

Anxiety, migraines could soon be eligible for medical pot in NJ
http://nj1015.com/anxiety-migraines-could-soon-be-eligible-for-medical-pot/?trackback=tsmclip

Heroin Uncut
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/heroin-uncut/id1279082213?mt=2&i=1000394418936
or:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrFWfJWfR4M&sns=fb

Veterans Groups Push for Medical Marijuana to Treat PTSD https://mobile.nytimes.com/2017/11/03/us/medical-marijuana-veterans.html?referer=http%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2F

Survey says veterans strongly back legalizing medical marijuana
https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2017/11/02/survey-says-veterans-strongly-back-legalizing-medical-marijuana/?utm_term=.b7d9941731ee

Sativa Cross Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vWIdWGsQ1Bg

I bought pot illegally for my ailing mom: Medicinal program doesn't work | Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/10/compassion_missing_in_njs_compassionate_use_medici.html

Supposedly Neutral Federal Report Stacks The Deck Against Marijuana Legalization
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobsullum/2015/09/17/supposedly-neutral-federal-report-stacks-the-deck-against-marijuana-legalization/#469317272245

Trenton PD shares their thoughts on medical marijuana with Trenton Cannabis & Community Awareness
https://www.facebook.com/thelightersideoftrenton/posts/772617489576377

CMMNJ PSA
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B72GooQ_L415SUhYcXBmS2xfckU/view?ts=59e9f6c7

CMMNJ Agenda for October 10, 2017

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #1 
Tuesday, October 10, 2017 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve September 2017 minutes. Discuss:

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Booker’s bill. Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Peter & Jim published on Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter templates in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns. Statewide elections on November 7, 2017.

Public Hearing 9/18/17 in Trenton on the Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel’s initial approval of 43 petitions to add conditions to the MMP. The 60-day public comment period ended 9/25/17.  Panel was thanked and urged to speed up the process. Sue Carson, head of NJ MMP, discussed issues with CMMNJ. DOH Commissioner Cathleen Bennett resigned.

Statehouse Podcasts continue at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm, Thursdays. Thanksgiving lunch planned.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail awaiting trial. “Joint” closed.

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, 10/3/17, 10 – 2 pm.
Help Not Handcuffs, Park Ave., Asbury Park, 10/28/17, 6 – 9pm ($25 donation suggested).
Medical Cannabis Conference, Montego Bay Jamaica, Nov. 10 -1, 2017. Atecam.com

Get out and vote, Tuesday, November 7, 2017.

Recent Events:  Ewing Community Fest; The College of New Jersey, 9/23/17.
Trenton Cannabis Community Awareness: Part 2, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, 9/30/17 4:20 pm to 7:10 pm.

Treasury report: Checking: $3467; PayPal: $3102. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $1/apiece; 3 for $2. Wholesale prices are available.

CMMNJ's meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)
More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
September 12, 2017

Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Booker’s Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689). Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML. (S1689 introduced at a press conference in Linden on 8/4/17.)

Informational hearing on NJ State Sen. Scutari’s legalization bill (S3195) held at Senate Judiciary Committee on 6/19/17. CMMNJ testified in support of the bill and called for public use of marijuana. CMMNJ also called for CUMMA amendments—repeal 7% medical tax; add home cultivation; & reschedule marijuana. Leo spoke with Scott Rudder today; NJ CannaBusiness (NJCBA) does not support home cultivation for S3195, but does for CUMMA. Jim Miller will do a letter template for home cultivation, addressing concerns. Election is coming up; keep those cards and letters coming. NJCBA networking event 9/27, 3-8 pm. NJCIA event is on 9/14/17, 8:30 am to noon. NJ launched a chapter of Women Grow. Leo involved with Minorities for Medical Marijuana. Christie is out of office on 1/16/18.

Public Hearing 9/18/17 at 10 am, Trenton War Memorial on the Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel’s initial approval of 43 petitions to add conditions to the MMP. The 60 day public comment period ends 9/25/17.  Submit comments to : mmp.administrator@doh.nj.gov or by mail to NJ DOH MMP, PO Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360, Attn: Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel. For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html;
For links to each Petition, see: http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Visitors to cmmnj.org get a spam warning; Mike Brennan knows a web master.
Nick to set up T-spring account to sell CMMNJ merchandise.

Statehouse Podcasts continue at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm, Thursdays.
Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail over 6 months awaiting trial. “Joint” closed.
Jason Arnold editing episodes of “CMMNJ TV.”  Next taping, 10/3/17, 10-2pm.

Upcoming Events: Community Fest; The College of New Jersey, 9/23/17 10 -4 pm. Volunteers needed.
Trenton Cannabis Community Awareness: Part 2, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, 9/30/17 4:20 pm to 7:10 pm.
Recent events: NORML’s 2017 Conference and Congressional Lobby Day, Washington, DC, 9/10-12.
Medical Marijuana, Holistic Moms Network, 211 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ, 9/8/17 9:45 am – 11:45 am

Treasury report: Checking: $3269; PayPal: $3102.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (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:

Medical Marijuana Update
https://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/2017/sep/13/medical_marijuana_update

These 3 things will change no matter who succeeds Christie (yes, marijuana's on the list)
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/09/pot_taxes_and_global_warming_3_things_that_will_ch.html

What's Murphy's plan?
Murphy promises to join states like Colorado that have legalized recreational use of pot. In fact, it's part of how he plans to shore up a $1.3 billion tax hike in the state to help pay for all sorts of state spending programs he's promised on the campaign trail.
New Jersey would join seven other states and the District of Columbia that have legalized recreational use. But New Jersey could become the first state in the northeast to get legal pot in the hands of smokers and fans of edibles. Maine and Maryland voters approved legalization in November, but both of the state's governors have dragged their feet on implementing the measures.
Murphy projects to bring in $300 million a year in tax revenue from legal weed.
What's Guadagno's plan?
Guadagno opposes legalizing pot for recreational use. But she supports expanding New Jersey's medicinal marijuana use and decriminalization.
"I completely agree that we should decriminalize it," Guadagno said at a Republican gubernatorial debate in May.

Top N.J. pot doc doesn't like that label, but what else do you call someone with 3,000 patients?
http://www.philly.com/philly/business/cannabis/top-nj-pot-doc-doesnt-like-that-label-but-what-do-you-call-one-with-3000-patients-20170929.html

ATTENTION: Cannabis Action for NJ
https://www.facebook.com/notes/jo-anne-zito/attention-cannabis-action-for-nj/10154499532792595/

N.J. Democrats hope legalizing marijuana will boost state finances
http://www.thecannabist.co/2017/09/15/new-jersey-marijuana-legalization-democrats/88158/

Here’s the timeline for NJ’s possible expansion of medical marijuana
http://nj1015.com/heres-the-timeline-for-njs-possible-expansion-of-medical-marijuana/?trackback=tsmclip

NJHA Board Announces Cathleen Bennett as President and CEO
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/njha-board-announces-cathleen-bennett-as-president-and-ceo-300526204.html

Meet and Greet Social
Help Not Handcuffs
https://www.universe.com/events/meet-and-greet-social-tickets-asbury-park-3SC56G

Public Comment Period on adding qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/09/219-woodside-ave.html?m=1

Committee Meeting of SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE Senate Bill 3195 “Legalizes possession and personal use of small amounts of marijuana for persons age 21 and over; creates Division of Marijuana Enforcement and licensing structure” DATE: June 19, 2017
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/legislativepub/pubhear/sju07192017.pdf

NJ Weedman files ethics charge against judge
http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20170920/nj-weedman-files-ethics-charge-against-judge

Dr. Oz Says Medical Marijuana Could Help Solve Opioid Addiction
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tomangell/2017/09/19/dr-oz-says-medical-marijuana-could-help-solve-opioid-addiction/#72203cb74219

Cannabis Nurses Magazine
September/October 2017
https://issuu.com/hempnation/docs/cnm_sept-oct_2017fin

Unequal & Unfair: NJ's War on Marijuana Users (PDF)
https://www.aclu-nj.org/theissues/criminaljustice/unequal-unfair-njs-war-marijuana-users/

Tatyana ‘Tuffy’ Rivera and her New Jersey Cannabis Activist Family
http://www.ladybud.com/2017/09/11/tatyana-tuffy-rivera-and-her-new-jersey-cannabis-activist-family/

15 Nursing Contact Hours! All Inclusive Medical Cannabis Conference at Iberostar in Montego Bay Jamaica
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15-nursing-contact-hours-all-inclusive-medical-cannabis-conference-at-iberostar-in-montego-bay-tickets-28970659021?aff=MontegoBay&afu=39231686818

Dear Mr. Wolski:

Thank you for contacting me to express your support regarding S. 1689, the Marijuana Justice Act.  Your opinion is very important to me, and I appreciate the opportunity to respond to you on this critical issue.

The Marijuana Justice Act would remove marijuana from the Controlled Substances Act, making it legal at the federal level.  The bill would incentivize states through federal funding to change their marijuana laws if it is illegal in the state and the state disproportionately arrests or incarcerates minorities or low-income individuals for offenses related to marijuana.  Additionally, the bill would automatically expunge federal marijuana use and possession crimes, and it would allow an individual currently serving a sentence in federal prison for a marijuana offense to petition a court for resentencing. 

I have long supported legislation that would have prohibited the use of federal funds to prosecute individuals who use medicinal marijuana in states that legally permit it.  At the same time, I vigorously support efforts to keep marijuana out of the hands of our youth given the dangers of substance abuse.  Please know that I will keep your views in mind as I continue to review this legislation.

Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts with me.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.  I invite you to visit my website (http://menendez.senate.gov) to learn more about how I am standing up for New Jersey families in the United States Senate.

Sincerely,
Bob Menendez
United States Senator

Public Comment Period on adding qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program

September 13, 2017

New Jersey Department of Health
Medicinal Marijuana Program
P.O. Box 360
Trenton, NJ 08625-0360
Attn: Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel

Re: Public Comment Period on adding qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program

To whom it may concern:

I want to thank the Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel (MMRP) for giving initial approval to 43 of the 45 petitions to add qualifying conditions to New Jersey’s Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP).

Members of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey (CMMNJ) submitted or contributed to eight of these petitions, seven of which were approved by the panel, so it was gratifying to see this affirmation of our efforts. The panel recognizes, as CMMNJ does, that there are a great many New Jersey residents who are currently suffering with conditions that could be helped by medical marijuana.

Our main concern is the agonizingly slow pace of the process to expand patient access to the MMP. It has been over one year since the Department of Health (DOH) accepted the petitions that it is now considering.  The MMRP made its initial recommendations to expand the program on 5/11/17, but it took two and a half months, until 7/25/17, for the DOH to post these recommendations on its web site and start the 60-day public comment period. These delays cause needless suffering.

CMMNJ urges the Commissioner of the DOH to end these delays and to adopt the final recommendations of the panel immediately, and not wait 180 days to do so. Thank you.

Sincerely,


Ken Wolski, RN, MPA
Executive Director
Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc.
609.394.2137
219 Woodside Ave.
Trenton, NJ 08618
ohamkrw@aol.com
www.cmmnj.org

CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for Sept. 12, 2017

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm #1 
Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017, 7--9 PM

Approve August 2017 minutes. Discuss:

Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Booker’s Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689). Take action: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

NJ State Sen. Scutari’s legalization bill (S3195): CMMNJ testified in support of the bill and called for public use of marijuana. CMMNJ also called for CUMMA amendments—repeal 7% medical tax; add home cultivation; & reschedule marijuana.

DOH Public Hearing 9/18/17 at 10 am, Trenton War Memorial on the Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel’s initial approval of 43 petitions to add conditions to the MMP. The 60 day public comment period ends 9/25/17.  Submit comments to : mmp.administrator@doh.nj.gov or by mail to NJ DOH MMP, PO Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360, Attn: Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel.
For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html;
For links to each Petition, see: http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Statehouse Podcasts continue at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm, Thursdays.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion remains in jail over 6 months awaiting trial. “Joint” closed.

Upcoming Events: Community Fest; The College of New Jersey, 9/23/17 10 -4 pm. Volunteers needed.
Perspectives on Cannabis Legalization on Youth and Emerging Adults, Rutgers U., 9/6 8:30-4 pm
NORML’s 2017 Conference, Capitol Hilton, Washington, DC & Congressional Lobby Day, 9/10-12.
Medical Marijuana, Holistic Moms Network, 211 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ, 9/8/17 9:45 am – 11:45 am
Trenton Cannabis Community Awareness: Part 2, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, 9/24/17 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

Recent Events:  Fully Baked Radio educational event at Trenton’s Mill Hill Park, 8/12/17 at 4:20 pm.
CMMNJ TV taping with Riley Cote, 7/31/17.

Treasury report: Checking: $3269; PayPal: $3102. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $1/apiece; 3 for $2. Wholesale prices are available.

CMMNJ's meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 - 9 PM at the Lawrence Twp. Library, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrence Twp., 08648. All are welcome. (Meeting at the library does not imply Mercer County’s endorsement of our issue.)

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

Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
August 8, 2017

June 2017 Minutes approved (there was no July meeting).

Senator Cory Booker introduced The Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 at a press conference in Linden, NJ on August 4, 2017.  CMMNJ members were invited guests. Supporters are looking for national co-sponsors of Booker’s bill—suggest Capwiz from NORML, DPA?

Princeton psychiatrist Dr. David Nathan gave a presentation at the August CMMNJ meeting on the organization he founded, Doctors for Cannabis Regulation, DFCR.org.

Informational hearing on Sen. Scutari’s legalization bill (S3195) held at Senate Judiciary Committee on 6/19/17. CMMNJ testified in support of the bill and called for public use of marijuana. CMMNJ also called for CUMMA amendments—repeal 7% medical tax; add home cultivation; & reschedule marijuana.
DFCR calls for home cultivation and strengthening expungement provision. Lobby Day in Trenton?

NJ DOH posted the Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel’s initial approval to 43 of 45 petitions to add conditions to the MMP on 7/25/17. See: http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/documents/Initial%20Recommendation%20Letter.pdf
A 60 day public comment period ends 9/25/17, to be followed by final rec’s.  Submit comments to : mmp.administrator@doh.nj.gov or by mail to NJ DOH MMP, PO Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360, Attn: Medicinal Marijuana Review Panel. DOH Commissioner has 180 days to decide. For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html; For links to each Petition, see: http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Statehouse Podcasts resume at the Annex, 11 am – 2pm most Thursdays.

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping, Princeton Community TV studio 8/28/17, 10-12pm.
Recent Events: “Nursing Medical Cannabis Conference” at Monmouth Medical Center, 7/15/17.
Harmony Foundation issued permit to grow marijuana as 6th ATC in NJ, 7/27/17.
Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion detention hearing scheduled for 8/1/17. “Joint” closed.

Treasury report: Checking: $3369; PayPal: $3054.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (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:

Medical Marijuana in the Time of Trump
https://www.aol.com/video/view/_/58fa43f0c214e31281033b29/?a_dgi=aolshare_facebook

New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker Introduces Bill to Make Marijuana Legal at Federal Level
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/New-Jersey-Sen-Cory-Booker-Introduces-Bill-to-Make-Marijuana-Legal-at-Federal-Level-437903233.html

Booker pushes to legalize marijuana across the nation
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/08/booker_bill_would_legalize_marijuana.html

Chronicle AM: WH Opioid Panel Calls for Declaration of National Emergency, More... (8/1/2017)
https://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/2017/aug/01/chronicle_am_wh_opioid_panel_cal

Medical marijuana: Issues surrounding its use in the workplace
http://www.sbnonline.com/article/medical-marijuana-issues-surrounding-use-workplace/

Doctors for Cannabis Regulation
http://dfcr.org/

5 reasons why Booker's marijuana bill could go up in smoke
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/08/5_reasons_bookers_marijuana_bill_could_go_up_in_sm.html

Medical marijuana uptake hinges on physician training, best practices
https://www.healio.com/rheumatology/pain-management/news/online/%7B5a6a94ed-cf59-4eb7-9a70-4caeb272ff37%7D/medical-marijuana-uptake-hinges-on-physician-training-best-practices

N.J. medical marijuana panel: Allow 43 more conditions - including autism and anxiety
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/nj-medical-marijuana-panel-allow-43-more-conditions-including-autism-and-anxiety-to-be-treated-20170804.html

Booker introduces marijuana legalization bill
https://www.njtvonline.org/news/video/booker-introduces-marijuana-legalization-bill/

New pot industry luring college-grad job seekers
http://www.philly.com/philly/business/cannabis/new-pot-industry-appeals-to-college-grad-job-seekers-20170806.html

Medical marijuana growing facility, dispensary to open in Newark
http://www.newarkpostonline.com/news/article_38c3b4b6-d036-543b-ad31-3428d8347896.html

Rutgers Professor Concerned About Marijuana Legalization: Here's Why
https://patch.com/new-jersey/newbrunswick/rutgers-professor-concerned-marijuana-legalization-heres-why

Legalization of Suspicionless Canine Sniffs in NJ
http://www.njlawjournal.com/id=1202796632587/Legalization-of-Suspicionless-Canine-Sniffs-in-NJ?mcode=1202615197539&curindex=1

'Legal' marijuana has racial, class gap in N.J. | Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/09/legal_marijuana_has_racial_class_gap_in_nj_opinion.html

Sativa Cross .com Potcast From The NJ Statehouse
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5924&v=et-Qc8mjTcQ

Pass the Marijuana Justice Act
https://www.change.org/p/congress-pass-the-marijuana-justice-act/nftexp/ex1/01/146148?recruiter=146148&utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=autopublish.guest_form_reduction&utm_content=ex1%3A01

The Medical Cannabis Institute
https://themedicalcannabisinstitute.org/

S 3195: Legalizes possession and personal use of small amounts of marijuana for persons age 21 and over; creates Division of Marijuana Enforcement and licensing structure.
http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2016/Bills/S3500/3195_I1.HTM

Here's what the legal pot bill would do
Scutari's bill, (S3195) based on visits to Colorado's thriving recreational program would:
⦁ Decriminalize marijuana possession of up to 50 grams "immediately" and allow people who have been arrested for pot possession to expunge their records.
⦁ Establish a Division of Marijuana Enforcement in the state Attorney General's Office which would create the rules used to govern the legal market of growers and sellers.
⦁ Allow people to possess up to one ounce of dried marijuana, 16 ounces of edible products infused with cannabis, 72 ounces in liquid form and seven grams of marijuana "concentrate."
⦁ Impose a sales tax on recreational sales beginning at 7 percent in the first year, climbing to 10 percent in the second year and jumping five percent more each year until it reaches 25 percent. Taxes on medical marijuana would be abolished.
⦁ Give the five existing medical marijuana dispensary nonprofit groups first crack at selling recreational pot.

15 Nursing Contact Hours! All Inclusive Medical Cannabis Conference at Iberostar in Montego Bay Jamaica
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/15-nursing-contact-hours-all-inclusive-medical-cannabis-conference-at-iberostar-in-montego-bay-tickets-28970659021?aff=MontegoBay&afu=39231686818