CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for February 11, 2025

 

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for February 11, 2025 at 7 pm

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 842 3542 0151   Passcode: 529650 Or, click: 

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Agenda:  

NJ Governor's race: Cannabis missing at first forum; Six Democrats took part: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop, Rep. Miki Sherrill, Rep. Josh Gottheimer, NJEA's Sean Spiller, and former NJ Senate President Steve Sweeny. The next debate is on 2/4 for the current Republican candidates. 

NJ Office of the Attorney General: Your correspondence will be reviewed by the Office of Constituent Services. If you have not received a reply within 10 business days, to speak to an OCS representative, please call 609-984-5828:

“Please recognize that for some medical marijuana patients, homegrow is a necessity. It is a matter of survival for them, and it serves no public policy to prosecute such patients. New Jersey law enforcement officers should be advised not to arrest patients who have a modest homegrow, for example, in a plot that is less than, or equal to, 10 feet by 10 feet in area. It is essential to avoid burdening patients with a criminal record for an offense that will not exist in the foreseeable future.”

Legacy to Legal Cannabis Pathways Explored at Heady NJ Forum. 

Guy Lardieri is hosting a series of talks on Psychedelics. His premiere podcast on TalkRadioNYC was 2/4/25 with Denise Rue - MA, MFA, MSW - Founder, New Jersey Psychedelics Therapy Association. See: The Happy Spot - A Therapist Insights and Perspective on Psychedelics

Chris Goldstein's survey of dispensary menus shows NJ's products are far more expensive than in Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New York. . 

Cannabis Research Institute, William Paterson University Webinars.

Love and the Endocannabinoid System

Cannabis: The Last Option No One Mentions: Ben Caplan, MD

Breakwater Treatment and Wellness, based in Cranbury, wants to begin selling legal weed to adult-use customers at their satellite dispensary in Roselle Park.

“Now that the state’s legal cannabis industry (is) doing $1 billion in yearly sales, it is time for Murphy to enhance his legacy by asking state Senate President Nick Scutari to advance S-1393, (the) bill to authorize home cultivation of medical-use cannabis.” LTE  Neil Vincent Scheck, Belmar

Let Advanced Practice Nurses Recommend Medical Cannabis: NORML Petition (please sign)

End the Blockade on NJ Senate bill S1393: Homegrow petition (please sign) 

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC):

Next meeting: Thursday, March 6, 2025 will be virtual.

Growth, Equity, and Impact: NJ-CRC 2024 Year in Review

Current job opportunities with the NJ-CRC: Investigator Trainee.

There are reports that patients are waiting 1-2 months simply for the issuance of the digital patient ID card. Also there is the lack of clarity regarding patients with out-of-state medical ID cards. Is there any more info on this?

The CRC began accepting applications for Cannabis Consumption Areas on January 2nd from Social Equity and Economically Disadvantaged Area businesses only. On April 2nd, micro and diversely owned, and on July 2nd, from everyone else.

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of HHS, says he will defer to the DEA on marijuana rescheduling if confirmed.

The new head of the DEA, Derek Maltz, who retired from the agency in 2014 after 28 years of service, claims that cannabis is a gateway drug and the rescheduling push is politically motivated. DEA has 10,000 employees.

Administrative hearings on the rescheduling proposal that were scheduled to begin on 1/21/25 have been delayed at least three months, with a DEA judge granting an appeal from pro-reform witnesses amid allegations of improper communications between DEA and rescheduling opponents.

Sen. Warren (D-MA) is urging Elon Musk, chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), to target “unnecessary” federal enforcement against marijuana consumers and businesses as a key to reduce spending hundreds of millions of dollars each year by the federal government.

60 Minutes joined nine veterans to the west coast of Mexico for a psychedelic journey they hoped would finally help ease their pain.

CMMNJ’s medical cannabis ongoing goals:

Insurance bills:

• S1944: Costs of medical cannabis to be reimbursed by Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund, PAAD, Senior Gold and VCCO. The bills passed both Health Committees and are in the Senate and Assembly Budget and Oversight Committees. 
• S1943/A4371: Requires workers’ compensation, PIP, and health insurance coverage.
• A898/S2828: Subsidize medical cannabis in Medicaid or NJ Family Care.

Home cultivation bills: Website: https://www.letpatientsgrownj.com/

• S1393/A846: Authorizes home cultivation of medical cannabis.
• A414: Legalizes possession of six marijuana plants for personal use.
• S1985: Legalizes six plants for personal use and 10 plants for medical.

Hospital and Institutional Access: 

NJ patients in hospitals, nursing homes, state institutions, group homes and hospice are unable to access medical cannabis. Patient outcomes would improve, and health care costs would be reduced if these patients had access to medical cannabis.

Psychedelic research and the safe use of psychedelics:

A3852/S2283 "Psilocybin Behavioral Health Access and Services Act"

Upcoming Events: 

Educational event, Hub 13, Feb. 8th, 5 to 8 pm (afterparty 8-11) panels (financial literacy and home grow), seed/clone prep demonstrations, food drive, seed swap, favorite strain competition (legal/seeds), raffles, masseuse, dab bar (HFX featuring MPX), food available by Manja la Ganja.

Earth Day event/press conference at the Statehouse, 4/22/25(?). 4/20/25=Easter.

2025 LGBTQ+ Pride, Asbury Park, Sun., June 1st, Noon-7pm.  Volunteers?

Health Summit, public cannabis education, S. Jersey, 8/2-3/25. Elucidation 

Patients Out of Time: From Prohibition to Recognition, Charlottesville, VA, 9/14-16

Treasury report: 

Checking: $9,550; PayPal: $888. 

January 13, 2025

Jesse Marie Villars 
Baked by the River
8 Church Street
Lambertville, NJ 08530

Dear Jessie:

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ), I would like to personally thank you for your very generous donation of $484. This includes $242 in donations raised from hemp bracelets in your store, and a $242 donation matched by Baked by the River. As CMMNJ is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, your donation is income tax deductible. All funds donated to CMMNJ are used to provide education about the medical benefits of marijuana/cannabis.

Your donation will aid CMMNJ in working towards our post-legalization goals, including:

• Home cultivation rights;
• Establishing insurance coverage for medical cannabis; and,
• Providing medical cannabis to qualified hospitalized and institutionalized residents.

With your support, we are confident that CMMNJ will achieve its mission of having safe and legal access to medical cannabis for all New Jersey residents who can benefit from this therapeutic agent. Greater access to cannabis will make New Jersey a healthier, wealthier, and safer state.

Thanks again, Jessie!

Fundraising ideas are always welcome. Hemp wristbands available!

Make a tax-deductible donation via PayPal to info@cmmnj.org, 

or send a check to: CMMNJ, 219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618.

Or scan:

More info: 

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com 
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/
Twitter: @CMM_NJ
CMMNJ blog: https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/ 

Website: Coalition for Medical Marijuana-New Jersey website being redesigned. Join the “CMMNJ Tech Team” to help with website, etc. Text Nick Mellis @ 609.331.9304

CMMNJ awards:

2021: NJ Governor's Jefferson Award in the Volunteer Group category;
2023: NJ State Governor's Volunteerism Award in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Champion for Justice Category "for extraordinary service to your community;"
2023: Ken Wolski won a Lifetime Achievement award;
2023: NJ Senate and Assembly Joint Legislative Resolution affirmed CMMNJ's importance as a "catalyst for the legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana in the State" and paid “tribute to all who have contributed to its success and renown.”

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

CMMNJ Agenda for December 10, 2024

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for December 10, 2024 at 7 pm

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 834 8049 9229  Passcode: 373124 Or, click: 

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One tap mobile: (646) 931-3860 ID: 83480499229# Passcode: 373124#  

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kekahWAPfQ

Agenda:  New Jersey Issues:

Trenton, NJ Mayor Reed Gusciora is offering to make cannabis accessible as an employee benefit. He said: We’re excited to provide insurance coverage for medical marijuana. It will alleviate the financial burden on patients and enhance their healthcare.

The 8th annual Thanksgiving Give Away & Sativa Cross podcast, with CMMNJ, at the Statehouse Annex on Nov. 28th, 9:00 till 1:00 pm helped many Trenton residents.

Gregory Oakes, 65 of Toms River, NJ, passed away on November 29, 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coalition for Medical Marijuana–New Jersey, 219 Woodside Ave, Trenton, NJ 08618.

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC):

Next CRC meeting: Thursday, December 12, 11 a.m.

Location: 44 South Clinton Avenue, Trenton NJ. Watch on YouTube. 

Register to speak by December 10thth at 5 p.m. Submit comments in writing to the CRC here by December 13th at 5 p.m.

NJ CRC: Prepare for Institutional Caregivers Now; CMMNJblogspot.com

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) staged the first part (two hours long) of a hearing on the proposed federal rule to move marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. DEA Chief Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney II plans to continue the hearing mid-January 2025. 

A lawsuit was filed against the DEA for allegedly violating federal public records laws, requesting the agency to disclose communications with a prohibitionist group, Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) during marijuana rescheduling.

The DEA indicated it may call into question a two-part test used by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to determine that marijuana has “currently accepted medical use.”

Federal Appeals Court Schedules Oral Arguments for December 5 In Case Seeking To Overturn U.S. Marijuana Prohibition. Some groups argue that the government’s ongoing prohibition on marijuana is unconstitutional and “Congress has abandoned its goal of eradicating marijuana and has, in fact, expressly exempted it from federal enforcement in certain circumstances.” 

Studies at Thomas Jefferson University are exploring the potential of cannabis, particularly cannabidiol, in managing ADHD, focusing on its interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

The Yale Center for the Science of Cannabis and Cannabinoids is awarding over $600,000 in grants to 14 Yale School of Medicine researchers to conduct cannabis research into the impact of cannabinoids on neurodevelopment and mental health.

Federal and local drug task forces have arrested doctors whom they accuse of overprescribing opioids. This has led to physicians who either undertreat pain or choose to abandon their long-term pain patients. Opioid prescribing has dropped below 1992 levels, while overdose deaths have skyrocketed.

The Entourage Effect in Cannabis Medicinal Products: A Comprehensive Review

Hemp Extract in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Distress and Dyspepsia 

Psychedelic play shows therapy’s benefits; demonstration offered public officials what treatment would be if NJ agrees

The FDA approved a clinical trial to assess the safety and efficacy of using marijuana to treat military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Bracing for the Dr. Oz effect on health care

Update from Doctors for Drug Policy Reform

CMMNJ’s medical cannabis ongoing goals:

Insurance bills:

• S1944: Costs of medical cannabis to be reimbursed by Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund, PAAD, Senior Gold and VCCO. The bills passed both Health Committees and are in the Senate and Assembly Budget and Oversight Committees. 
• S1943/A4371: Requires workers’ compensation, PIP, and health insurance coverage.
• A898/S2828: Subsidize medical cannabis in Medicaid or NJ Family Care.

Home cultivation bills:
Website: https://www.letpatientsgrownj.com/

• S1393/A846: Authorizes home cultivation of medical cannabis.
• A414: Legalizes possession of six marijuana plants for personal use.
• S1985: Legalizes six plants for personal use and 10 plants for medical 

Hospital and Institutional Access: NJ patients in hospitals, nursing homes, state institutions, group homes and hospice are unable to access medical cannabis. Patient outcomes would improve, and health care costs would be reduced if these patients had access to medical cannabis..

Psychedelic research and the safe use of psychedelics.

A3852/S2283 "Psilocybin Behavioral Health Access and Services Act"

Upcoming Events: 

Repeal Day Rally - March to End Prohibition...Again. Join Delaware Cannabis Advocacy Network to commemorate the 91st anniversary of the Repeal of Alcohol Prohibition and call for an end to Cannabis prohibition. 3pm Saturday, December 7th, Rodney Square - Wilmington, Delaware.

Free expungements clinic on December 7th in East Orange City Hall, 10 am to 1 pm. Sponsored by @risedispensariesnewjersey

Treasury report: 

Checking: $9,881; Fundraising ideas are always welcome.

Make a tax-deductible donation via PayPal to info@cmmnj.org, 

or send a check to: CMMNJ, 219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618.

Or scan:

More info: 

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com 
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/62462971150/
Twitter: @CMM_NJ
CMMNJ blog: https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/ 

Website: Coalition for Medical Marijuana-New Jersey: Join the “CMMNJ Tech Team” to help with website, etc. Text Nick Mellis @ 609.331.9304

CMMNJ awards:

2021: NJ Governor's Jefferson Award in the Volunteer Group category;
2023: NJ State Governor's Volunteerism Award in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Champion for Justice Category "for extraordinary service to your community;"
2023: Ken Wolski won a Lifetime Achievement award;
2023: NJ Senate and Assembly Joint Legislative Resolution affirmed CMMNJ's importance as a "catalyst for the legalization of both medical and recreational marijuana in the State" and paid “tribute to all who have contributed to its success and renown.”

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

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for Sept. 10, 2019

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3 
Tuesday, September 10, 2019 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM 

Approve August 2019 minutes. Discuss:

Applications for 24 new ATCs in NJ were due on 8/21 for Dispensaries and 8/22 for Cultivation & Vertically Integrated facilities. Good luck to the applicants.

NJ marijuana legalization bill (S2703/A4497), may yet get a legislative floor vote in the lame duck session. CMMNJ supports this legislation and asks for a home cultivation bill for patients to be introduced in 2020. Reach out to organizations and tell them to tell their members to support this bill! Otherwise, legalization will face more delays as a ballot question in Nov. 2020.

Drug Enforcement Administration’s announcement: it will begin processing applications to cultivate marijuana for research. Regulatory proposals and public comments come first. Hemp is no longer a controlled substance.

Upcoming Events: Podcast Trenton State House, 4th Thursday of each month, 11:11 am.
NORML Conference, Washington, D.C. September 8 -10, 2019.
Cannabis Career Fair, Stockton University Student Center, 9/13, 9-4 pm.
NJTV News: Cannabis Country: Balancing legalization, etc., 9/4, 8pm.
CAPITAL CITY AREA BLACK CAUCUS: "The Color of Cannabis: Challenges, Choices & Opportunities," MCCC Kerney Campus, Trenton, 9/11, 5–8 pm.
American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA), Cannabis Care 2019 Conference, Astor Crowne Plaza, New Orleans French Quarter, LA, 12/4-12/6/2019.
Garden State NORML Rally and Lobby Day, State House, Trenton, 9/23/19, 12 noon.
Ethics Seminar, Inspira Health Network, Centerton (NJ) Country Club, 10/17/19.

Recent events: Garden State NORML Rally And Lobby Day, State House, Trenton, 8/27.
“We All Die, And Marijuana Improves The Quality Of Life Of The Dying Like No Other Drug” Interview With Activist and Medical Marijuana Patient Ken Wolski
#JusticeforJawara: Bergen County is hoping to avoid civil litigation over a 2017 jail attack that left Jawara McIntosh with severe brain injuries.

Treasury report: Checking: $4002; PayPal: $2690.

CMMNJ’s free, public 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/
Coalition for Medical Marijuana - New Jersey: https://www.facebook.com/CoalitionforMedicalMJNJ/

CMMNJ blog: https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
August 13, 2019

July 2019 minutes approved with date corrections.

NJ DOH’s Request for Applications (RFA) for 24 new ATCs in NJ, for up to 8 in the north, 8 in central NJ, 7 in the south, and 1 “at-large”; these include 5 for cultivation, 15 dispensaries, and 4 vertically integrated permits. Application forms posted; due on 8/21 (Dispensary) and 8/22 (Cultivation & Vertically Integrated). Pre-Application Webinar 8/2/19. CMMNJ’s proposed public/private partnership for the State of NJ to grow, process and distribute cannabis to all state institutions was discussed.

Gov. Murphy signed A5322 to allow hemp farming in NJ after registration with Dept. of Ag.

Change.org petition for Nobel Prize for Raphael Mechoulam supported.

Governor Murphy signed the medical marijuana expansion act, S20/A20 into law on 7/2/19, effective immediately. Includes: Patients may reduce doctor visits to 1X/year (patients c/o price gouging by MDs); increase limits to 3 ounces for all & unlimited in hospice; APNs & PA’s OK to recommend marijuana (when will this start?); edibles, tinctures, and sublinguals OK for all; patient protections; elimination of sales tax in 2022 (but added 2% tax); institutional caregivers; education; research; out-of-state ID cards honored, etc. Discussion about intricacies of law, LEO awareness, response of nursing homes, hospitals, physicians, assisted living facilities. Patients complain MDs refuse to discuss cannabis with their patients—documentation requested—who, what, when, where, why…

NJ marijuana legalization bill (S2703/A4497), may yet get a legislative floor vote in the lame duck session. Otherwise, legalization will be on the ballot in NJ in November 2020. Reach out to organizations and tell them to tell their members to support this bill!

N.J. Supreme Court takes case of funeral director fired for using medical marijuana; oral arguments?

Upcoming Events: Podcast Trenton State House, 4th Thursday of each month, 11:11 am.
WEEDSTOCK, DE NORML, 8/16 & 17. (Char has a couple passes.)
ACNA: “Pharmacologic Concepts of Cannabis Therapeutics” webinar 8/27/19, 6:30 -7:30 pm.
Garden State NORML Lobby Days, State House Annex, starting 8/27/19 & monthly; more info contact Char McKeithen, 609.351.5121.
NORML Conference, Washington, D.C. September 8 -10, 2019.
Cannabis Career Fair, Stockton University Student Center, 9/13/19, 9 am- 4 pm.
Ethics Seminar, Inspira Health Network, Centerton (NJ) Country Club, 10/17/19.

Recent events: 
“The Grassroots Cannabis Forum” Kennedy Park, Asbury Park, 7/6/19.
Everything Cannabis, Porta, 911 Kingsley St., Asbury Park, 7/10/19.
Medical Marijuana & Senior Citizens, Princeton Senior Resource Center, July 15.
Jawara McIntosh (Peter Tosh’s son) suffered brain injuries in Bergen Co. Jail after being incarcerated for a non-violent marijuana offense. Bergen Co. denies responsibility.

Treasury report: Checking: $4191; PayPal: $2690.

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 Meeting Agenda for September 13, 2016

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #2 
Tuesday, September 13, 2016 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve August 2016 minutes. Discuss:

NJ DOH accepted Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the state’s MMP between 8/1/16 and 8/31/16. DPA submitted Petitions for Chronic Pain and PTSD; CMMNJ submitted Petitions for Osteoarthritis, Opiate Use Disorder, Autism, Anxiety, Migraine Headaches, & Neuropathic Pain.

NJ Senate passed A457 (to add PTSD to NJ's MMP) on 8/1/16, 28 – 9. (The bill passed in the entire Assembly on 6/16/16, 56 – 13.) The bill went to the governor’s desk for his action on 8/1.

DEA again insists marijuana belongs in its absurd Schedule I classification—46 years of federal propaganda—exaggeration of the dangers and denial of marijuana’s medical benefits--continues.

Ongoing Thursday Podcasts at the Trenton Statehouse continue 11-2 pm to Thanksgiving.

Excellent interview with Jim Miller on NJ Capitol Report.

“CMMNJ TV” taped 9/6/16 in Princeton; next taping date is scheduled for October 18, 2016.

NJWeedman Update: Ed Forchion to argue that his ‘cannabis temple’ deserves religious freedom. VICE TV reporting extensively on the case.

Upcoming Events: CMMNJ to table at Lawrence Community Day on 10/2/16.
Boston Freedom Rally, 9/17 & 18/2016.
NJ Celebrates Recovery, 9/18/16 Middletown Arts Center, 1 pm (CMMNJ table and speakers).
Dana Beal’s efforts to urge candidate Clinton to reschedule marijuana—9/7/16 at the Intrepid, NYC, 5 pm to 9 pm and TBA.

What Nurses Need to know about Medical Cannabis, Lehigh Carbon County Community College, 9/28/16, 8 AM to 1 PM Schnecksville, PA:
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/what-nurses-need-to-know-about-medical-cannabis-presented-at-lehigh-carbon-county-community-college-tickets-26257362478?aff=Medical_Marijuana&afu=132746514236

Recent events: Slightly Stoopid concert, Stone Pony 8/19 (Thanks to Amanda, & Eric).
Compassionate Sciences (CS) ATC expects to have lozenges and topicals soon. CS ATC had an educational program on PTSD on 8/24/16.
Jessie Sanders court date was 8/23/16; the court dismissed the case!
Patient Outreach at “The Joint” in Trenton.
Sudden deaths of Roger Barbour, Esq., and husband of JoAnne Zito.

Treasury report: Checking: $2092; PayPal: $3629. 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 9, 2016

June 2016 minutes approved. (No July 2016 meeting.)

NJ DOH to accept Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the state’s MMP. Petitions must be sent by certified mail postmarked between 8/1 and 8/31/16; see NJ DOH website (News) for forms. DPA to submit Petitions for Chronic Pain and PTSD; CMMNJ to submit Petitions for Osteoarthritis (Ken), Opiate Use Disorder & Autism (Vanessa W. and Mike), Anxiety & Migraine Headaches (Bob), & Neuropathic Pain (Peter).

Senate Health Committee passed S2345/A457 (to add PTSD to NJ's MMP) 6-3 on 6/16/16, and the bill passed in the entire Assembly on the same day, 56 -13. On 8/1/16 the bill passed in the Senate, 28 – 9. The bill went to the governor’s desk for his action.

Over 50 Thursday Podcasts (“Telling It Like It Is”) at the Trenton Statehouse continue 11-2 pm, with plans to continue through Thanksgiving. Governor passed by about 1/3 of the Podcasts. Coverage includes News 12 NJ among other media.

Interview with Jim Miller on NJ Capitol Report, taped at NJTV Studios in Newark on June 28th.

CMMNJ TV taped 7/12 in Princeton; the next taping date is scheduled for 9/6/16, 10 am – 2 pm.

INE tours continue with Sativa Cross.

Pennsylvania, the 24th medical marijuana state, is allowing parents to obtain medical marijuana for minors from out-of-state until their program is functioning.

NJWeedman Update: Judge will allow Forchion to argue that his ‘cannabis temple’ deserves religious freedom.

Recent Events:
DNC events in Philadelphia: Connie’s Ric Rac 7/25/16; East Coast Cannabis Coalition Rally Municipal Bldg. on 7/26/16 (Jo Anne attended).
“Forum on Addiction and Healing” with U.S. Surgeon General & U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs, St. Barnabas Medical Center, 8/8/16, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm.
CMMNJ tabled at Hemp Heals, 7/22/16—thanks to our volunteers! CMMNJ Meeting to develop education for NJ MDs, 6/23/16.
Clinton Health and Wellness Center, update on the NJ MMP, 6/25, noon-2 p.m.

Upcoming events: 
Slightly Stoopid concert, Stone Pony 8/19 (Mike, Amanda, & Eric).
Compassionate Sciences ATC expects to have lozenges and topicals available next week! CS ATC also plans an educational program on PTSD on 8/24/16.
Jessie Sanders court date is now 8/23/16; she asks for community show of support.
CMMNJ to table at Lawrence Community Day on 10/2/16.
Patient Outreach at The Joint in Trenton 8/16 & 8/17.
What Nurses Need to know about Medical Cannabis, Lehigh Carbon County Community College, 9/28/16, 8 AM to 1 PM Schnecksville, PA.

Treasury report: Checking: $2053; PayPal: $3629.

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:

New Jersey Celebrates Recovery: http://www.helpnothandcuffs.org/
or, Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/New-Jersey-Celebrates-Recovery-852038501549589/

N.J. veterans seek medical marijuana for PTSD
http://articles.philly.com/2016-08-01/news/74791012_1_ptsd-governor-christie-health-committee

Poll: Should medical marijuana be legal for people with PTSD? (97% of respondents say, “Yes.”)
http://www.nj.com/healthfit/index.ssf/2016/08/poll_should_medical_marijuana_be_legal_for_people.html

Please help us get this important bill signed by automatically sending a message to Governor Christie: A457 adds post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to the list of medical conditions that would qualify a patient to receive medical marijuana in New Jersey. (DPA capwiz):
https://engage.drugpolicy.org/secure/tell-gov-christie-expand-access-medical-marijuana?ms=2A2_1608NJMMJClist&utm_campaign=fy17advocacy&cid=701U0000000xybsIAA

Thousands petition Christie for PTSD in N.J. medical marijuana program
http://www.phillyvoice.com/thousands-petition-christie-ptsd-medical-marijuana-provision/

Government won't reclassify marijuana, N.J. experts hope for a change in the future
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/government-won-t-reclassify-marijuana-n-j-experts-hope-for/article_43593d2a-600e-11e6-80bb-5ff0c6b6fbdc.html

The medical marijuana movement just got some really bad news
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/08/feds_reject_petitions_to_allow_medical_research_on.html

American Legion Calls for Marijuana Rescheduling
http://www.marijuana.com/blog/news/2016/09/american-legion-calls-for-marijuana-rescheduling/

D.E.A. Keeps Marijuana on List of Dangerous Drugs, Frustrating Advocates
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/12/health/dea-keeps-marijuana-on-list-of-dangerous-drugs-frustrating-advocates.html?emc=edit_tnt_20160811&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0

WATCH: NJ vets fight to use medical marijuana for PTSD
http://www.app.com/story/news/military/veterans/2016/08/12/nj-vets-fight-use-medical-marijuana-ptsd/88605734/

Most say pot use OK for PTSD; researcher seeks volunteers to smoke it
http://articles.philly.com/2016-08-16/news/75011545_1_ptsd-marijuana-use-veterans-affairs

Prosecutors fight to keep secret informant in NJ Weedman’s drug case
http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20160822/prosecutors-fight-to-keep-secret-informant-in-nj-weedmans-drug-case

Pot-Smoking Politician Takes His Biggest Hit Yet: 11 Drug Charges
http://dailycaller.com/2016/08/11/pot-smoking-politician-takes-his-biggest-hit-yet-11-drug-charges/#ixzz4JaGpPTcD

Medical pot user sues Sparta cops over alleged false arrest, report says
http://www.nj.com/sussex-county/index.ssf/2016/08/medical_marijuana_user_sues_sparta_cops_over_false.html

Coming soon: A brand new way to take medical marijuana in N.J.
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/08/medical_marijuana_now_includes_edible_drops_and_lo.html
Dad who changed N.J. medical marijuana law dies suddenly
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/09/nj_dad_who_won_fight_to_permit_edible_marijuana_in.html
SativaCross.com Podcast from the Governor's office
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cu7SOdp73d8                 
Maiden name kept woman from medical marijuana
http://www.app.com/story/money/business/consumer/press-on-your-side/2016/07/29/medical-marijuana/87338244/

Medical Marijuana Policy Approved at LTPS
http://mercerme.com/medical-marijuana-policy-approved-at-ltps/

CMMNJ Public Meeting Minutes from December 2015

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
December 8, 2015

November 2015 minutes approved.
December meeting was podcast by Sativa Cross.
See:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMNI_LGKC9E

Historic Senate Judiciary Committee hearing to legalize marijuana for adults in NJ, 11/16/15, with NJUMR Press Conference, and Die In at the State House, Trenton.

Gov. Christie signed A4587 on 11/9/15—Requires schools to permit medical marijuana use by qualifying patients.  Barbour lawsuit continues in order to have nurses administer it.

Upcoming Events:
Jon Peditto sentencing 12/23, Toms River--faces 10 year minimum. (Late note: Peditto sentencing was postponed to January 2016.)
Obama: Fire DEA head for calling medical marijuana a joke--over 100,000 agree.
California judge to DEA: Stop interfering with state medical marijuana laws!
Food & clothing drive, "NJ Weedman's Joint" 322 E. State St., Trenton, until 12/19.
Ken to ask Asm. Gusciora if S2898 (PTSD bill) can get a hearing in Senate Health Committee.
2016 CMMNJ meetings will be in Room #2 at the Lawrence Library--no mtngs. April or July of 2016.

Recent events:
“CMMNJ TV” taping 12/1/15 at Princeton Community TV Studio--interviews with Ari Rosmarin from NJ ACLU and Dr. David Nathan from NJUMR.
"Ethical Decisions & Medical Marijuana" TREC Conference, Burlco College, 11/10/15 (2 CEU's).
2015 Reform Conference, 11/18-21/15, Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, VA.
Roland Ramos scheduling events in Newark galleries 11/12 & 11/15.
Thursday Statehouse Podcasts--party marking suspension of regular podcasts on 11/19 after 34 straight weeks (4/2/15 to 11/19/15), rain or shine.
Breakwater ATC opened in Cranbury, NJ on 10/15, making a total of 5 ATCs in NJ.
Compassionate Sciences ATC is offering 20% discount (1/4 oz. for $65).
Legalization Resolution tabled by Trenton City Council on 11/5/15; Voorhees, Camden?

Treasury report: Checking: $2527; PayPal: $3626. Check for $155 sent to Jim Miller for podcast expenses. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--Suggested retail price: $3/apiece; 2 for $5.  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, (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.

CMMNJ Minutes for June 2015 Public Meeting

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
June 9, 2015

A NJ Senate Health Committee hearing is scheduled for Monday, 6/15/15 at 1:00 pm in Committee Room #1 in the Statehouse Annex to take public testimony on the following bills that CMMNJ supports:
S2898 - Authorizes medical marijuana for qualifying patients with PTSD.
S2899 - OKs transfer of excess medical marijuana between ATCs.

“CMMNJ TV”—episode taped 5/27, next taping: 6/30, noon to 4 pm. Guests?
June Thursday demonstrations at the Statehouse continue 6/11, 18 & 25, 11 am to 2 pm.

News: Gov. Christie vows to eliminate legalized marijuana if elected president.
U.S. House votes to stop DEA & DOJ from interfering with state medical marijuana laws, 6/3.
HUD’s policy “guidelines” for medical marijuana patients—evict them even if no conviction!
Former head of NJ’s MMP, John O’Brien, is now compliance officer at Pallia Tech in NY.
National Geographic and Time both have very positive cover stories on marijuana.

CMMNJ Patient Handbook is available--$10 donation suggested.  Handbooks should be in ATCs—letter sent to DOH asking permission for this today.

Upcoming Events: Trial of Jon Peditto, Toms River; 8/3/15; jury nullification attempt.
Smoke Down Prohibition 2.0: The Return, Friday, 7/10/15 at 4 pm in Love Park, Philly.
Slightly Stoopid, Stone Pony, Asbury Park, 7/11/15—Eric & Amanda volunteered.
Oaksterdam Certification Class, Washington, D.C., 6/27 & 6/28 ($600 for 13 hours).
Barbour lawsuit against LARC School & Maple Shade BOE.
Fundraiser for CMMNJ? CMMNJ needs to participate in more community events to raise funds and to collect more email addresses.

Recent events: "Patients Out of Time" conference, W. Palm Beach, Florida, 5/21-23/15.
NJWeedman’s appellate court oral arguments, 5/27, Hughes Justice Complex. Trenton.
NJ United for Marijuana Reform conference call, 5/7/15. https://www.njumr.org

Treasury report: Checking: $2401; PayPal: $3749.

CMMNJ's meetings are the second 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, (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com
http://www.cmmnj.org