CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for Dec. 13, 2016

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #2 
Tuesday, December 13, 2016 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve October 2016 minutes. (No November meeting due to election day.) Discuss:

On Election Day, four states OK’d legal marijuana (California, Maine, Massachusetts and Nevada); four states OK’d medical marijuana (Arkansas, Florida, Montana and North Dakota). What can reform advocates expect from President-elect Trump?

NJ legislative delegation toured legal marijuana industry in CO. Sen. Scutari calls it "the next economic engine for the state." Sen. Sweeney: Recreational marijuana could be legal in N J by 2018.
Gov. Christie restates his opposition to marijuana, “The Gateway Drug.”

No word yet from the NJDOH on the Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the state’s MMP. A number of Petitions were submitted in August 2016

Bob Kane to report on U. of P. marijuana panel and Garden State Cannabis Consultants.

ASA releases challenge to DEA: REQUEST FOR CORRECTION OF INFORMATION DISSEMINATED BY DEA REGARDING MARIJUANA (CANNABIS)

Philippe Dume was welcomed onto the Board of CMMNJ at the Board meeting on 11-30-16.

Appellate Court heard oral arguments for marijuana rescheduling in NJ on 11/29/16 in Trenton. Arguing pro bono to reschedule were Joseph L. Linares, Esq. and Marc Haefner, Esq. from the Newark Walsh law firm.

Upcoming Events:  
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on January 17, 2017, 10 am to 2 pm. Scheduled are…?
What Nurses Need to know about Medical Cannabis; UMCP 2/18/17, 8am – 1pm

Recent events: 10-26-16 TCNJ PoliSci: The Politics and Public Policy of Marijuana.
10-19-16: PCTV host Doris Robinson discussed medical marijuana with Ken Wolski, RN and Debi Madaio, RN at the PCTV studio in Piscataway, NJ.
10-18-16 CMMNJ TV episode with Dana Beal, Zoe Patchell & Tony Liberte.
Weekly Thursday Podcasts continued at the Statehouse until 11/17/16.

Treasury report: Checking: $2963; PayPal: $2643. 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.) There will be no July 2017 mtng.

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 11, 2016

September 2016 minutes were approved. The following issues were discussed:

Gov. Christie signed A457 into law on 9/14/16, making PTSD the first added condition to NJ's MMP. Thank you to the many volunteers and to the NJ legislators and the governor for making this happen. Potential regulations discussed.

NJ DOH accepted Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the state’s MMP. DPA submitted Petitions for Chronic Pain and PTSD; CMMNJ submitted Petitions for Osteoarthritis, Opiate Use Disorder, Autism, Anxiety, Migraine Headaches, & Neuropathic Pain. Public comment period should begin sometime in November 2016.

Asm. Carroll (R-Morris) introduced A4193 to legalize marijuana, treating it like tobacco, which is sold only to those over 19 years of age and expunging certain past marijuana offenses. Asm. Gusciora's bill A2068 would legalize the possession of an ounce or less and the growing of no more than three mature, flowering cannabis plants.

Jen Lehman, Asm. Greenwald’s aide, is coordinating testimony on A4026, creates “secondary” caregivers for MMP; eliminates psychiatrist requirement for minors; and OKs treatment with marijuana as a first resort, and for organ transplants; introduced to Assembly Health Committee. A3852, Asw. Lampitt’s bill, also in Health Committee, says parents may be caregivers for more than one minor, and parents may designate another caregiver, besides themselves, for a minor.

Thursday Podcasts from 11-2 pm will continue until Thanksgiving.

Juan Silva from Newark wants to work with CMMNJ. He runs an adult day care facility there.

CMMNJ toured Compassionate Sciences ATC; see Peter’s review of their new topicals.

H.R. 1538: CARERS Act of 2015 now has 41 cosponsors (27 Dems, 14 Reps).

NJ Weedman’s legal status discussed.

Upcoming Events: 
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on 10/18/16. Scheduled are Zoe Patchell, Dana Beal and Tony L.

Recent events: CMMNJ tabled at Lawrence Community Day on 10/2/16.
Boston Freedom Rally, 9/17 & 18/2016.
NJ Celebrates Recovery, 9/18/16 Middletown Arts Center.
Dana Beal urges rescheduling of marijuana, various venues.
What Nurses Need to know about Medical Cannabis, 9/28/16, Schnecksville, PA.

Treasury report: Checking: $2166; PayPal: $3629. Multicolored hemp bands from Romania--

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.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

REQUEST FOR CORRECTION OF INFORMATION DISSEMINATED BY DEA REGARDING MARIJUANA (CANNABIS)
http://american-safe-access.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/DOJ%20IQA%20Petition.pdf

City again asks judge to dismiss NJ Weedman’s lawsuit
http://www.trentonian.com/article/TT/20161102/NEWS/161109940

How marijuana victories across the nation will now affect N.J.
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/legal_weed_spreads_in_2016_election.html

Could marijuana legalization hit N.J. after 2018?
http://www.dailytargum.com/article/2016/11/marijuana-legalization-could-hit-n-j-after-2018

CMMNJ TV: CMMNJ Board Member Vanessa Maria is interviewed
https://vimeo.com/190717461?utm_source=email&utm_medium=vimeo-cliptranscode-201504&utm_campaign=28749

NJ.COM: Marijuana legalization is on N.J.'s horizon | Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/11/marijuana_legalization_is_on_njs_horizon_editorial.html

Legalization Advocates: Marijuana Could Bring in $300M in Revenue
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhAL8VHUoX0

Philly420: Will Trump side with most Americans on cannabis?
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/Philly420-Trump-and-cannabis.html

Will Trump White House snuff out N.J. push to legalize marijuana?
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/will_a_trump_white_house_snuff_out_nj_push_to_lega.html

Tax revenue from legal pot would be 'blood money,' Christie says
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/legal_pot_tax_revenue_would_be_blood_money_christi.html

N.J. court asked to reconsider tough pot sentences
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/nj_medical_marijuana_law_should_trigger_lighter_cr.html

N.J. attorneys ask the court to 'reclassify' pot as a less dangerous drug
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/20161130_N_J__attorneys_ask_the_court_to__reclassify__pot_as_a_less_dangerous_drug.html

Ignorance Is No Excuse Tour: Michelle Burn's Journey to get her MMJ back from the BPD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiSchVwtDgc&feature=youtu.be

Rally for marijuana legalization held in Newark (DE)
http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2016/12/04/rally-marijuana-legalization-held-newark/94972316/

Baby Boomers On Bud: Recreational Marijuana Use Rising Among Adults Over 50
https://tokesignals.com/baby-boomers-bud-recreational-marijuana-use-rising-among-adults-50/

Discrepancies Between Federal and State Marijuana Laws Pose Significant Barriers to Research – New Guidance Needed!
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/discrepancies-between-federal-and-state-marijuana-laws-pose-significant-barriers-research-new-guidance-needed

CMMNJ TV: Tony Liberte / INE Tour Mahwah
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LDIgTJnTOTs

Dialogue With Doris: Medical Marijuana, The Issues and Hassles
http://vp.telvue.com/preview?id=T01255&video=294821

RANT! Medical Marijuana!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yn2RudFqA0s&feature=youtu.be

The TRUTH About Marijuana & Alzheimer’s [Controversial New Study Explained]
http://www.flusteredmom.com/2/post/2016/12/marijuana-cause-alzheimers-research-means.html

CMMNJ Monthly Public Meeting Agenda for 6/10/14

Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #3
Tues., June 10, 2014, 7PM - 9PM 

Approve May 2014 minutes. Discuss:

Voter guide from ACLU NJ for NJ’s primary election in the 12th Congressional District:
https://www.aclu-nj.org/files/8614/0146/9042/CD12_Chart.pdf

House of Representatives votes to defund federal war on medical marijuana. NEW JERSEY 8 Yes votes; 3 No Votes: Dems – Holt, Y; Pallone, Y; Pascrell, Y; Payne, Y; Sires, Y. Reps – Frelinghuysen, N; Garrett, Y; Lance, N; LoBiondo, Y; Runyan, Y; Smith, N.

Growing support for Sen. Nick Scutari’s marijuana legalization legislation, S1896, and Assembly companion bill, A3094, sponsored by Asw. Linda Stender and Asm. Reed Gusciora.

Upcoming Events: 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
Central NORML NJ meeting, 6/9/14 at 7pm at Joe’s Mill Hill Saloon, Trenton, NJ
Taping of the CMMNJ TV Show, 6/24/14, all morning, Princeton TV Studio, Princeton, NJ

Recent events: Peter Lamont’s blogtalkradio Episode 52 with Ken Wolski, 5/22/14.
Patients Out of Time Conference, May 8 – 10, Portland, Oregon with certification course given by American Cannabis Nurses Assn.
“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour distributes the MMP A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.
Decarceration panel and demonstration, 5/2/14, New Brunswick, NJ.

Treasury report: Checking: $4014; PayPal: $3616.

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 
May 13, 2014

Growing support for Sen. Nick Scutari’s marijuana legalization legislation, S1896, and Assembly companion bill, A3094, sponsored by Asw. Linda Stender and Asm. Reed Gusciora: NJ State Prosecutor’s Assn. (150 state prosecutors) endorse legalization of marijuana!
ACLU NJ calls for legalization, taxation and regulation of marijuana as a top priority.
Gallup Poll from 10/13 show 58% of Americans support marijuana legalization.

Nick proposes using Princeton TV Station’s new studio on Nassau St. for a CMMNJ TV show. Nick to see about using Princeton TV station for medical marijuana info.

Poll on change.org to allow NJ adults to have access to edibles has almost 500 signatures:
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/04/22/new-jersey-change-org-petition-to-allow-edible-marijuana/

Daniel Price asks A.C. casinos where patients can use medical marijuana.

Proposal to have regional CMMNJ meetings—Board to discuss.

Cannabis Chronicles at:
http://funatfun.com/category/cannabis-chronicles/

“Ignorance is No Excuse” tour of NJ police departments with Lefty and Chuck document their attempt to find areas to safely medicate in NJ and
distribute the A.G. guidelines to local P.D.’s.

Upcoming Events: Patients Out of Time Conference, May 8 – 10, Portland, Oregon with certification course given by American Cannabis Nurses Assn.
Sparta, NJ protest in support of Scott Waselik, 5/16/14 at 8 am.

Recent events: 
Radio interview with Peter Lamont: Marijuana in the Garden State with Ken Wolski, 3/31/14.
Sentencing of Chris Goldstein & Don DeZarn 3/26 in federal court for marijuana possession--2 years supervised probation, $3000 fine, and both banned from Independence Hall National Park.

Treasury report: Checking: $3959; PayPal: $3882.

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:

US House Bans Feds From Policing Medical Marijuana States
http://www.hightimes.com/read/us-house-bans-feds-policing-medical-marijuana-states

State By State Breakdown of How the US House of Representatives Voted for Medical Marijuana
http://www.thedailychronic.net/2014/32840/state-by-state-breakdown-of-how-the-us-house-of-representatives-voted-for-medical-marijuana/

House votes to restrict DEA marijuana raids
http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/house-votes-restrict-dea-marijuana-raids

Ingle: Legal pot has Christie fired up
http://www.app.com/story/opinion/columnists/2014/05/29/ingle-legal-pot-christie-fired/9738631/

Parents of Epileptic Children Nationwide Ask AG Holder to Reschedule Marijuana
http://www.thedailychronic.net/2014/32718/parents-of-epileptic-children-nationwide-ask-ag-holder-to-reschedule-marijuana/

Peter Lamont’s blogtalkradio Episode 52 with Ken Wolski, 5/22/14.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/understandingthelaw/2014/05/22/episode-52-special-guest-ken-wolski

Where do the 12th Congressional District Candidates Stand on Civil Rights and Liberties Issues?   https://www.aclu-nj.org/files/8614/0146/9042/CD12_Chart.pdf

Keystone Cannabis Reform
http://www.gofundme.com/2atmdg

New Jersey Medical Marijuana Program: Don’t Leave Wounded Vets Behind
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/05/26/new-jersey-medical-marijuana-program-dont-leave-wounded-vets-behind/

Mike Whiter, Veteran Talks PTSD w/ NA Poe [Scrapple Interviews]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQyvAM4OOCo&list=UUnCSxNqqMBCtQsniANr_xeg

Relief of medical marijuana off-limits at N.J. hospitals
http://www.northjersey.com/news/relief-of-medical-marijuana-off-limits-at-n-j-hospitals-1.1022114?fb_action_ids=10152128661213657&fb_action_types=og.comments&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582#sthash.bvyUuNO7.dpuf

Battle Over Medical Marijuana Pits State-vs-Federal Government
http://www.my9nj.com/story/25598235/battle-over-medical-marijuana-pits-state-vs-federal-government?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=10194334

The Record: Medical pot haze
http://www.northjersey.com/opinion/opinion-editorials/medical-pot-haze-1.1022836

Medical Marijuana Not Permitted in Hospitals
http://www.njtvonline.org/news/video/medical-marijuana-not-permitted-in-hospitals/

New TV Ad Urges New York Gov. Cuomo to Support Medical Marijuana
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHq9XwpSbNo&feature=youtu.be

Pushing Back Against Pushing Back Against Marijuana
http://www.ladybud.com/2014/05/28/kevin-sabet-pushes-back-against-marijuana-legalization/

Memorial to Reform Activists
http://www.equalrights4all.org/memoriam.htm

NJ medical marijuana patients light up to support Sparta man
http://www.nj.com/sussex-county/index.ssf/2014/05/nj_medical_marijuana_patients_light_up_to_support_sparta_man.html#incart_river

Medical Marijuana Supporters to Gather at Sparta Municipal Building
http://thealternativepress.com/articles/medical-marijuana-supporters-to-gather-at-sparta

Atlantic City resident has cannabis conundrum for casinos
http://www.nbc40.net/story/25495251/atlantic-city-resident-has-cannabis-conundrum-for-casinos?fb_action_ids=10152108910618657&fb_action_types=og.comments&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582

Patron wants Revel to clarify when, where he can use medical marijuana
http://m.pressofatlanticcity.com/communities/atlantic-city_pleasantville_brigantine/patron-wants-revel-to-clarify-when-where-he-can-use/article_c2db56f6-da31-11e3-95a5-001a4bcf887a.html?mode=jqm

Few patients so far for marijuana dispensary
http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/apexchange/2014/05/10/nj--member-exchange-medical-marijuana-dispensary.html

We call for the passage of a NJ Decarceration Act to deliver large scale reductions in NJ’s state adult and youth prison populations.
https://www.change.org/petitions/nj-state-senate-and-assembly-we-call-for-the-passage-of-a-nj-decarceration-act-to-deliver-large-scale-reductions-in-nj-s-state-adult-and-youth-prison-populations

Patients Out of Time Conference, 2014
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8hdLwFwWgY

Mathre: The ECS System Part 1, Education
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2CJlUoh-bw&list=PL0CsY39bcm1RyOZeWktI20NllsH1yB8pg

Medical cannabis: Be informed and challenge the myths
http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2014/06/medical-cannabis-informed-challenge-myths.html

How Colorado has gone to pot
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-colorado-has-gone-to-pot/

Poll on change.org to allow NJ adults to have access to edibles
http://www.change.org/petitions/chris-christie-allow-edibles-for-patients-of-all-ages

NJ's medical marijuana program lacks compassion: Letter
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/05/njs_medical_marijuana_program_lacks_compassion_letter.html

Demonizing marijuana doesn’t serve public
http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/opinion/readers/2014/05/16/pot-reform/9180181/

Medical marijuana seen to have dramatic effect on symptom relief
http://articles.philly.com/2014-05-05/news/49611703_1_dispensary-patients-compassionate-care-foundation

Marijuana provides the only seizure relief for my daughter: Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/05/marijuana_provides_the_only_seizure_relief_for_my_daughter_opinion.html

CMMNJ October 2012 Agenda

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Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, October 9, 2012; 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

7:00 PM:  Call meeting to order.   Approve September 2012 minutes.  Discuss:

The lawsuit against DOH for failure to implement the Medicinal Marijuana Program is progressing and it will ask for a court-appointed monitor of the program.

Patients are registering for ID cards with DOH; problems with doctors continue.  ATC update: More delays; promised September opening of Montclair ATC did not occur.  No ATCs open yet.

Adding qualifying conditions to NJ’s medical marijuana law—Board members’ efforts.

NJ Senator Nick Scutari introduced S1977 to decriminalize 50 grams of marijuana.  Fall committee hearing upcoming?  (NJ Assembly passed A1465--decrim for 15 grams--on 6/25/12.)

Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion: Retrial for hung jury on distribution charge starts Oct. 10, 2012.

Upcoming events: NJ State Nurses Assn. to honor Ken Wolski, RN with “Don Award” for his medical marijuana advocacy at Bally’s in Atlantic City on 10/24/12. Tickets available at: http://njsna.org/associations/6274/files/DivaDon%20Invite.pdf.  NORML NJ meeting October 15th at 7pm at the Ale House, New Brunswick, NJ.  Ewing Community Fest 10/6/12, and Lawrence Community Day 10/7/12.  ASA v. DEA oral arguments in federal court 10/16 followed by ASA’s 10th Anniversary benefit dinner in D.C.  NORML Conference, Los Angeles, 10/4-6/12.

Treasury report: Checking: $3163; PayPal: $3353.

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 their endorsement of our issue.)  For more info, contact:

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes
Lawrence Library
September 11, 2012

7:00 PM:  Meeting called to order.   August 2012 minutes approved.  Discussion:

Diane Riportella, medical marijuana advocate and an ALS patient, died 8/31/12 at age 56.
Jim Miller is hospitalized on and off following an accident requiring multiple surgeries.
Frank Fulbrook was hospitalized following lung surgery.  He hopes to return Oct./Nov.
         
Patients are registering for ID cards with DOH; they are encountering multiple problems with doctors.  See Vanessa Waltz’s survey of registered NJ doctors: NJ DOCTORS STRUGGLE WITH COMPLEX MARIJUANA REGULATIONS.  Reggie Miller, V.P. of marijuanadoctors.com (860.967.8370) discussed his organization and said he has 4000 NJ patients registered and needs doctors.

ATC update: Rumors that Greenleaf ATC in Montclair will open this month; Compassionate Care Foundation in Egg Harbor will open in the fall; Compassionate Care Centers of America Foundation will open on Rt. 1 in Woodbridge in the near future.

Adding qualifying conditions to NJ’s medical marijuana law—Board members’ efforts.

NJ Senator Nick Scutari’s bill, S1977 to decriminalize 50 grams of marijuana referred to committee.  Nick Mellis will propose adding legislators as honorary CMMNJ Board members.

Upcoming events: NJ State Nurses Assn. to honor Ken Wolski, RN with “Don Award” for his medical marijuana advocacy at Bally’s in Atlantic City on 10/24/12. Tickets available at: http://njsna.org/associations/6274/files/DivaDon%20Invite.pdf.  NORML NJ meeting October 15th at 7pm at the Ale House, New Brunswick, NJ. Boston Freedom Rally is 9/15/12.  Ewing Community Fest 10/6/12, and Lawrence Community Day 10/7/12.  NORML Conference, Los Angeles, 10/4-6/12.  Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion retrial starts 10/10.

Treasury report: Checking: $2944; PayPal: $3349.

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

N.J. medical marijuana program off to slow start thanks to red tape
http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/healthquest/doctors-must-jump-through-hoops-in-order-to-conform-to-state-medical-marijuana-law

The Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey (CMMNJ) Report: New Jersey Medicinal Marijuana Program Physician/Patient Registry
http://www.scribd.com/doc/105499771/CMMNJ-Report-on-NJ-Medical-Marijuana-Doctor-Registry

NJ Medical Marijuana: Status Update 9/17/12
http://nj1015.com/nj-medical-marijuana-status-update/

The mobster's son and the pot clinic: A feud grows in Jersey
http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/09/the_mob_bosss_son_and_the_pot.html

NJ's 1st legal medical pot dispensary delayed
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/09/27/4861018/njs-1st-legal-medical-pot-dispensary.html

NJ Gov Christie denies stalling but admits rewriting medical marijuana law
http://www.freedomisgreen.com/nj-gov-christie-denies-stalling-but-admits-rewriting-medical-marijuana-law/

Medical marijuana dispensary, New Jersey's first, faces delayed opening
http://newyork.newsday.com/news/region-state/medical-marijuana-dispensary-new-jersey-s-first-faces-delayed-opening-1.4051872

Chris Christie Says Medical Marijuana Delay Not His Fault [POLL/AUDIO]
http://nj1015.com/chris-christie-says-medical-marijuana-delay-not-his-fault-audio/

NJ DOCTORS STRUGGLE WITH COMPLEX MARIJUANA REGULATIONS

Trenton – A report issued today by CMMNJ found that physicians registered to participate in the state Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) struggled with the initial launch of the registry for qualifying patients.

Read the full report: http://www.scribd.com/doc/105499771

New Jersey operates the only medical cannabis program in the country that requires physicians to join a special registry to recommend marijuana. Seriously ill residents must have a “bona fide” relationship with one of the few registered doctors to apply to the DOH for their own registry card.

CMMNJ Board Member and cancer patient Vanessa Waltz called all of the 148 doctors listed on the NJ Department of Health website and reached 99.

- 46 offices reported that they were actively accepting new patients interested in the program
- 30 offices reported that they were not currently accepting new patients but may in the future
- 23 offices reported that they were registered but were not currently participating in the MMP

The conversations with practice managers and physicians revealed that residents who qualify for the MMP face new and significant barriers to safe cannabis access.

From the report: “Offices reported that there has been no communication initiated by the state in terms of: How the program works; how the patient registration process works; that the physician registry would be published online; that the patient registry was opening; alerts to any changes in guidelines on the DOH informational website.”

CMMNJ has already been on record appealing to the NJ DOH and the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners to take a comprehensive approach to educate NJ physicians about cannabis. Now communication between DOH and the handful of doctors willing to participate in the MMP registry seems to have broken down.

The report continues: “The NJ DOH and the MMP official are not communicating with physicians. Participating doctors did not receive notice when patient registry was opened, and only found out when their phones started ringing or saw it on the news. The DOH has failed in providing doctors with information including clear educational materials, guidelines, and updates. Phone calls and emails from offices are not being returned.”

The final conclusion from CMMNJ: “The logical solution to this problem for patients is to amend the MMP regulations immediately to remove all provisions related to the physician registry.”

Read the full report: http://www.scribd.com/doc/105499771

Or see: http://www.normlnj.org/blog/uncategorized/2012-09-11/survey-of-physicians-registered-with-the-new-jersey-department-of-health-to-recommend-medicinal-marijuana

For more information about this release, please contact Ken Wolski 609 394 2137 or
Chris Goldstein 267 702 3731

CMMNJ, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is a non-profit educational organization.
Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. www.cmmnj.org
219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ  08618

Extra:

WISCONSIN GLAUCOMA PATIENT HAS USED CANNABIS FOR 40 YEARS TO STAVE OFF BLINDNESS
http://immly.org/gfs-40_pr_2012-09-25.htm

Marijuana And Cancer: Scientists Find Cannabis Compound Stops Metastasis In Aggressive Cancers
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/19/marijuana-and-cancer_n_1898208.html

Worth Repeating: Big Pharma Takeover Of Med Marijuana In 2013
http://www.tokeofthetown.com/2012/07/worth_repeating_big_pharma_takeover_of_med_marijua.php

Do You Think NJ Weedman Ed Forcion Should be Found Not Guilty? [POLL]
http://nj1015.com/do-you-think-nj-weedman-ed-forcion-should-be-found-not-guilty/

Gov. Christie: Don't put “bureaucrats between an American citizen and her doctor”
http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2012/09/gov-christie-dont-put-bureaucrats.html

Medical Professionals Regarding Accepted Use of Medical Cannabis
Sign On Letter
http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/182/p/salsa/web/common/public/signup?signup_page_KEY=7039

Open letter to Governor Christie:

Dear Governor Christie:

Respectfully, I disagree with your assertion that because only 240 people have registered for the Medical Marijuana program that the sponsors of the legislation have embellished on the demand (http://nj1015.com/chris-christie-says-medical-marijuana-delay-not-his-fault-audio/). ; The fact is, Governor, that there were more than 240 people interested in a fair shot to open Alternative Treatment Centers who attended the public hearings on your regulations.  I personally spoke to more than 240 people across The Garden State who were interested in putting their hard-earned money into such a legal and viable establishment.

There are more than 240 people, working class adults with children, in my township of Livingston who would sign up for an accessible Medical Marijuana Card that would protect them and their families from the long arm of the law.

The fact is, Governor, that the law was written broadly, and by your own admission, the regulations have rewritten the law.  The regulations were designed to set up a system that fails and only by that measure is this program succeeding spectacularly.

This is no different than how you handled the marriage equality issue, Governor... setting up roadblocks to avoid a law that would conflict with your ideologies and national Republican dogma and ambitions, and, the funny thing, Governor, is that in the process we had completely sold out our core Republican free-market principles.  Under your governorship, you have led the expansion of gambling and beer breweries.  The Advocates who bravely came out of the closet and fought for and won their Compassionate Use law freely and fairly based solely on the morality of their arguments and without any money to back them up, have met with a Republican government that has ignored public commentary and shut down the public's interests completely and totally in a new line of business that some politicians had to control.  How powerful the State has become.  How embarrassing for us long-time Republicans who actually believed in our mantra of a smaller, more-efficient, less-intrusive government.

I saw in the news the other day that the Police got a 28-year old with pounds of marijuana and $300,000 in cash (http://www.nj.com/hudson/index.ssf/2012/09/300g_found_in_alleged_drug_dea.html). ; There are legions of good law-abiding folks across the Garden State who could have put the cash generated by their legal Alternative Treatment Centers to good work, with real jobs that people are passionate about.  What a waste of time and effort (As an aside, it is tough raising kids even at our age.  I'd have to walk a mile in the shoes of a 28-year-old with a four-year-old son before I sat in judgment of the choices that he had made.  I don't suppose he will get any credit for having chosen Life?!?).

Dearest Governor, we come to you with our heads down and our hands extended in friendship.  Even if we cannot competently compete in the legal commerce of this new industry, will the State please provide patients with an avenue of access to safe and effective medicine (as defined by law, despite your aversion)? Even if the State cannot uphold the law and make safe and effective medicine available to patients, can citizens of The Garden State please be afforded refuge from the long-arm of the law by consulting with their very real physicians with respect to their marijuana use and reasonably obtaining Medical Marijuana Cards?

Governor Christie, you are so powerful, and we, we are so meek.  How may we, the Good People of The Garden State, serve you so that we may avail ourselves to the law and reverse this long, slow, and painful train wreck of your Medical Marijuana Program?

Sincerely,

Justin Escher Alpert
56 Amherst Place
Livingston, New Jersey  07039
(917) 406-2323
justinalpertesq@yahoo.com

Christie says he can't force municipalities to take medical marijuana treatment facilities

According to The Star Ledger, 03/01/12:

"In a live interview with Steve Adubato, Gov. Chris Christie said that hold up on medical marijuana treatment centers are not a state issue. The local municipalities keep turning them away so the facilities can't be established and that is what is causing the delay in implementing the medical marijuana law in New Jersey."

(Christie says he can't force municipalities to take medical marijuana treatment facilities http://videos.nj.com/star-ledger/2012/03/christie_says_he_cant_force_mu.html )

It is completely disingenuous of Governor Christie to now say it is the fault of the local townships and municipalities in New Jersey that there are no Alternative Treatment Centers open to dispense medical marijuana to patients.

First of all, the state has never actually issued permits to any of these ATCs to open—over two full years after the bill became law. The state of New Jersey (read, Gov. Christie) has imposed one delay after another on this program. Now each employee and officer of every ATC has to undergo an incredibly detailed background check to make sure he or she is moral enough to dispense marijuana. Until that’s done, the ATC can’t even get started, even though the applications were supposedly approved by the state health department a year ago this month.

Secondly, the 100-plus pages of regulations drawn up to enact this law are a monument to unwieldy bureaucracy. These regulations guarantee that this program, if it ever gets working at all, will only dispense poor quality and limited selection marijuana to the fewest possible patients. Right now it is very close to that, distributing no marijuana to zero patients. (Not a single patient yet has an ID card.) Despite the overwhelming public outcry at these regulations, the inflexible Christie administration did not make a single change following the public comment period.

No, the buck stops at Mr. Christie on this one. He, and he alone, is responsible for the unconscionable delay in getting the Medicinal Marijuana Program started in New Jersey. He, and he alone, is responsible for tens of thousands of patients suffering needlessly and indefinitely in this state.

Ken Wolski, RN, MPA

Executive Director

Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. www.cmmnj.org

Open Letter to Governor Christie: Another hospice patient dies in needless pain

January 20, 2012

Dear Governor Christie,

I am writing to you in regard to the Medical Marijuana (MM) issue. Recently, I lost my mom. She was receiving hospice services at home after her return from the hospital. She was being administered morphine, methadone and God knows what else. After her hospital stay she became worse and at home all hospice could do was to medicate her and assist her in what they deem a comfortable death experience.

I contacted a doctor at Hackensack Medical Center that was enrolled in the MM program that had the permission to write a MM prescription. However, I was told that the program was on hold and that he could not follow through and that dispensaries were not yet in place. My moms’ pain management physician was all for it but had no idea how to do it. I had a contact that manufactures MM for California dispensaries but due to Federal law I could not attain it and I was not going to attempt anything illegal. I called the Governor’s office but that was as frustrating as anything could ever be. I’m not saying that the MM treatment could have saved my mom but maybe it could have managed the pain better and induced some appetite rather than having her literally starve to death and more or less dry up inside from the medication that was given her. Maybe it could have given her a few weeks of peace and happiness. Is that so bad?

All life is precious and sacred and particularly to me in this case. This was my one and only mom and I wanted to leave no stone unturned. Some research says that MM can destroy cancerous brain cells. The hold that pharmaceuticals seem to have on our system is not only ludicrous but also criminal. The intent of lawmakers seems just as bad. I’m not saying that MM should be available for recreational use but I’m not so sure it shouldn’t be either since alcohol and tobacco are much worse. At least make it available to hospice patients.

Why is New Jersey always the last with everything? Can’t we for once step up and be a leader. I voted for you and believed in you but now I’m not so sure about either party with the mess our nation is in. It seems that politicians / lawmakers are always putting themselves first and forgetting about the well being of the people, the individual and our nation.

I am a singer songwriter musician. I’ve just produced a music video called “Home America”. I’m telling you this because I put my effort and time into this because I love this country and I want you to know this. I may not be a scholar but I am no simpleton either. Please visit my video at: www.charleslallo.com. Also I’ve had the good fortune to have star of stage and screen, actor/singer Danny Aiello also record my song on his latest album called “Bridges”. I intend to do my part to make our nation better beginning right here in New Jersey; this state that I truly love being a part of, raised and bred.

As people we have to stop appearing to be doing the right things and begin to truly do the right things. This MM issue can be dispensed, marketed and presented in a way that can enlighten people to doing things in a certain way, in a way that is beneficial for everyone. We need to be educated in the essence of human nature and the sacredness of life. Let’s make the MM issue work for us and not for the underground community.

Needless to say I have anger in my heart because I have been personally affected by my mom’s death. I believe the scenario could have been different if we had a more clear perspective and open hearts and minds on this subject of MM. This is a God-given plant. My mom was in great shape at the age of 90. People’s first reaction is that she had a full life and at 90 maybe her time was due. This may be so but then again there is not a rule book that says one must die at 90 or 80 or even 60. People are living longer these days and if we were a more enlightened society this could be. But instead we choose to poison our foods, our air, our water and even our thoughts. Our capitalist society is suffering because we have sacrificed our integrity. Capitalism is great when integrity and caring are implemented factors.

She didn’t have to die and MM would not have turned her into a drug addict at age 90. God gave us this plant that has been used throughout the ages as a medicinal. It is natural and some may make the arguments that so are heroin and cocaine natural. Well, cocaine is not natural. In its natural form it is the cocoa leaf, which is still used in South America to help with menstrual cramps, fever and many other ailments. It is the warped sense of humankind that turns it into the dangerous substance of cocaine. As for heroin, I believe that with pure and proper intent it can be used to help those with deep psychological problems and trauma under strict restricted use. But as people we are so greedy, corrupt and downright evil all too often. It is time for America to wake up and become somewhat enlightened to the fact that no nation can stand divided and that now more than ever we need to care for each other and recognize truth and righteousness and not put up a façade. I wish I could have your ear and the opportunity to make this argument. I believe I am correct in my thinking and perspective and not carry the frustration of not being able to make my case.

I thank you for reading this and I hope your aides do allow this to get through to you. I am one that was in favor of you being our president but then again you are only human and that means that you are not perfect either. Therefore, I ask that you keep an open mind and heart and do this MM in a way that helps. There is no known lethal dose for MM. I’m sure every drug addict began with marijuana and every alcoholic with a beer. But not everyone that smoked a joint or drank a beer becomes an addict. Please consider what I am saying. Thank you again.

Very truly and respectfully yours,

Charles A. Lallo Jr.

charl@charleslallo.com

NJ Gov. Christie Allows Medical Marijuana, Regulations Still Need Work

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - July, 20, 2011
The Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey (CMMNJ)
www.cmmnj.org

Gov. Christie Allows Medical Marijuana, Regulations Still Need Work

Trenton - NJ Governor Chris Christie held a press conference on July 19, 2011 to address the status of the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act. He has decided to reverse his suspension of the program and allow six Alternative Treatment Centers to move ahead with their operations.

After discussing the various intersections or conflicts between state and federal laws Christie said, “I have instructed the Commissioner of Health to move forward as expeditiously as possible to implement the [program].”

VIDEO: http://www.livestream.com/governorchrischristie/video?clipId=pla_a1a6bf2e-1630-4282-bb87-f28f93e72f9a&utm_source=lslibrary&utm_medium=ui-thumb

"We are happy that the governor is moving forward with the medicinal marijuana program," said Ken Wolski, a registered nurse and executive director of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey (CMMNJ). "Patients have suffered too long waiting for this," said Wolski, "In thousands of cases patients in NJ have already died without the improvement in quality of life and relief of suffering that marijuana can bring."

CMMNJ remains focused on a final set of rules for the program that will be workable. "We still have a number of concerns about the regulations put out by the DHSS for this program," Wolski said, "The physician registry is unnecessary and will disqualify numerous patients. Plus the cap on THC level is arbitrary and home delivery is not being permitted. These are all roadblocks to patient access that we hope the Christie Administration will reconsider."

Some of the ATCs have expressed the same concerns. http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2011/03/07/nj-to-hold-hearing-on-medical-marijuana-rules/

Seriously ill New Jersey residents who would qualify under the law expressed surprise and measured hope at the governor's change in rhetoric.

Jay Lassiter lives with HIV and has testified for better regulations in Trenton, "This is a small step in the right direction for New Jersey and I'm glad that Governor Christie has finally discovered a sense of urgency to help New Jersey residents with cancer and AIDS. I look forward to the day when I won't be a criminal just for taking medical cannabis."

Charles Kwiatkowski, a father of three, lives with multiple sclerosis and has been one of the most visible patient advocates in New Jersey. "It's good and bad...all the restrictions," Kwiatkowski said today. "But, I'll believe it when I see it. So far it has been a really long, painful wait."

MEDIA NOTE- Wolski, Lassiter and Kwiatkowski are available to the press. CONTACT: Ken Wolski 609 394 2137 or Chris Goldstein 267 702 3731media@cmmnj.org