CMMNJ Zoom Meeting Agenda for January 14, 2025

 

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for January 14, 2025 at 7 pm

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 818 4041 1047  Passcode: 944156 Or, click: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81840411047?pwd=KbB46gRiMzoAzsorniBJsvQV8JgJNV.1

One tap mobile: +1 (305) 224-1968 ID: 818 4041 1047# Passcode: 944156#  

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbCapu7d55

Agenda:  

Got 10 Minutes? Help Shape the Future of Medical Cannabis Access! Are you satisfied with current cannabis laws and access? Or frustrated? Americans for Safe Access (ASA) fights for safe and legal access but can’t do it without your insights.

NJ Home Grow Coalition was named Reformer of the Year! Help us legalize home grow - NJhomegrow.com, Cannademix, Trichome Analytical (Cannabis Testing Laboratory), NORML

U.S. appeals court: a NJ law barring employment discrimination against cannabis users does not allow for private lawsuits, and tossed out a proposed class action against Walmart… a significant setback for both cannabis and employment law.

The federal government has awarded Rutgers University more than half a million dollars to study the effects of medical cannabis for 5 years. Researchers will examine the risk for Cannabis Use Disorder. 

NJ marijuana sales have exceeded $1 billion for 2024, the CRC said. Combined recreational and medical marijuana purchases reached $1,004,826,946—marking a 25 percent increase over 2023’s total.

The Top International Cannabis Stories From 2024

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC):

Next meeting: Thursday, February 6, 11 a.m. 

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

Register to speak by February 4th at 5 p.m. Submit comments in writing to the CRC here by February 7th at 5 p.m.

The NJCRC set the Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF) at $2.50 for an ounce of cannabis, up from $1.24, starting on January 1. The fee goes into a fund dedicated to social equity programs and reinvesting in communities harmed by marijuana criminalization. A portion also goes to programs to divert youth from cannabis use.

The CRC December 12th meeting on YouTube.

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.

NJ Cannabis Trade Association (NJCTA) wanted to eliminate patient-only hours at Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs), and the CRC agreed. 

There are 383 adult-use cannabis companies operating now. The patient count is down to 66,378.

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

DEA Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) John Mulrooney scheduled testimony in the cannabis rescheduling process, now set to begin on January 21:

1/21/2025 Government

1/22/2025 Hemp for Victory (HFV)

1/23/2025 Cannabis Bioscience International Holdings (CBIH)

1/28/2025 Connecticut Office of the Cannabis Ombudsman (OCO)

1/29/2025 National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA)

1/30/2025 Village Farms International (VFI)

2/4/2025 The Commonwealth Project (TCP)

2/5/2025 Veterans Initiative 22 (VI22)2/6/2025 Dr. Ari Kirshenbaum

Americans for Safe Access will hold a virtual hearing with respect to the proposed rescheduling of marijuana into schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act.

Doctors for Drug Policy Reform (D4DPR) is challenging DEA’s denial of its participation in the proceedings and is asking the DEA judge to stay the hearings.

The Journal of the American Medical Association finds that psilocybin-assisted therapy “resulted in a significant, sustained reduction of symptoms of depression.”

Editorial: Harm reduction must replace punitive drug policies: The Lancet Global Health; The Global Commission on Drug Policy called for a re-evaluation of the global drug response. 

It will now be up to the First Circuit to decide whether broad federal cannabis prohibition is constitutional.

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: 

Special Zoom Webinar: “Shaping Federal Cannabis/Cannabinoid Policy Under Fire” by Steph Sherer (Americans for Safe Access) Jan 9, 12:00 - 1:00 PM. Register.

Treasury report: 

Checking: $9,708. PayPal; $414.

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.

Repeal Day Remarks, Rodney Square, Wilmington, DE 2024

 

Repeal Day Remarks

Rodney Square, Wilmington, DE 2024

Celebrating the 91st Anniversary of the Repeal of Alcohol Prohibition, with

Delaware Cannabis Advocacy Network

President Biden, approximately 400,000 Americans are currently incarcerated for drug offenses. But drug use and drug abuse are health issues and social issues that cannot be solved by a criminal justice approach. The criminal justice approach only makes things worse.

I have worked in the healthcare industry for 51 years including 48 years as a registered nurse (RN). I’ve worked in a wide variety of clinical settings, including 22 years with the New Jersey Department of Corrections (NJ DOC). When I started with the NJ DOC in 1984, there were 9,000 inmates. When I retired in 2006, there were 27,000 inmates. And 86% of those inmates were Black or Hispanic, about the same rate that were poor, inner-city residents.

I saw the effects of this mass incarceration on the inmates, their families, and their communities.

For the inmates, the average length of stay was four years. When they were released, they had problems with employment, education, and housing. They had a high recidivism rate.

The families of inmates were disrupted. They had a low socioeconomic status, and poor education.

The inner-city communities where most inmates were from, were characterized by poverty and violence. It was Ground Zero of the War on Drugs.

The War on Drugs is the most wasteful, disgraceful, and counterproductive policy this country has ever had. The domestic and foreign components of the War on Drugs combine the worst aspects of alcohol prohibition and the Vietnam War. Alternatives to the War on Drugs—legalizing drugs--must be explored and applied.

But people insist we must keep drugs illegal, “for the children.”

I’ve seen the  effects of our current policy on the children of the inmates. Children of inmates are robbed of the loving guidance and support of a parent. Having a parent in jail is an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). These children face other ACEs, like living with poverty, violence, and food insecurity. This results in children of inmates who have a low socioeconomic status, a greater involvement with the criminal justice system, and a greater likelihood of substance abuse. 

Our War on Drugs is literally creating future generations who are doomed to lives of poverty, violence, and substance abuse.

For the past 21 years I have been executive director of the Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ). CMMNJ has been instrumental in getting a medical marijuana bill passed into law in 2010.

In 2020 the ballot question to legalize marijuana in New Jersey passed with 67% of the vote. All 21 counties in New Jersey voted to legalize marijuana.

New Jersey voters saw the sickest and most vulnerable members of their community using medical marijuana and getting stronger and better. They now had an alternative medicine that helped them without harsh side effects. Voters could tell that the dangers previously associated with marijuana were exaggerated.

When we legalized marijuana in New Jersey we ended over 30,000 arrests each year for marijuana offenses. Some of those resources are now improving the lives of the community members who were devastated by the War on Drugs.

We now have a $1Billion legal marijuana industry in New Jersey, with social equity at its core. There are tax benefits and other benefits to local communities.

And what is true of the benefits of creating a legal marijuana industry is true for other drugs as well.

Only 10% of drug users ever become addicted to drugs. The other 90% use drugs to improve their lives in some way. Stop arresting, and wasting resources, incarcerating drug users. Develop programs to help them when their drug use becomes problematic.

Arresting a heroin user or a cocaine user does nothing but increase the dependence of that person on drugs. Their substance abuse problem is now compounded by a conviction. The former inmate is less able to find gainful employment, housing, or even a stable family life.

So, President Biden, I am calling on you to recognize these facts.  Please use your clemency power to commute sentences, pardon convictions, and release people incarcerated for non-violent drug offenses. Let them start to rebuild their lives.

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: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83480499229?pwd=aMvVtxLA7ddtVyhUXw6bEmeiw95KqM.1

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 Monthly Meeting Agenda for November 12, 2024

  

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for November 12, 2024  at 7 pm

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 896 6228 3034    Passcode: 373075 Or, click: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89662283034?pwd=f3WDrlxBbEcOs9ZWA4HZsfkD5mOUs0.1

One tap mobile: (305) 224-1968, ID: 896 6228 3034#, Passcode: *373075# 

Find your local number 

Agenda: 

National Election Day, November Bummer:

Massachusetts residents voted down a Ballot Question 4 that would have enacted a new law governing five psychedelic drugs: psilocybin and psilocin, mescaline, dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and ibogaine.

Florida Voters Reject Marijuana Legalization Ballot Measure While the measure got a clear majority of votes, it failed to achieve the 60 percent vote threshold needed to pass a constitutional amendment under state law.

North Dakota Voters Defeat Marijuana Legalization At The Ballot. ND voters also rejected a cannabis legalization proposal two years ago.

South Dakota Voters Reject Marijuana Legalization Ballot Initiative After Third Attempt From Advocates

Nebraska Voters Approve Medical Marijuana Legalization measures even as the two initiatives sit in legal limbo amid court challenges from opponents.

Arkansas voters won’t get to weigh in on a ballot initiative to expand medical marijuana after the state Supreme Court ruled the measure didn't fully explain what it would do, tossing out the initiative just two weeks before the election.

Where President-Elect Trump Stands on Marijuana Legalization

New Jersey Issues:

Stockton University in S. Jersey is the first NJ college to have a cannabis undergraduate degree, the B.S. in Hemp and Cannabis Business Management.

NE CANN Panel: Why Home Growing is Still a FELONY?! Part 1; 

Why Home Growing is Still a FELONY?! Part 2

Bud Bandit has gone from underground legacy to legal THCA smoke shop. Now, they want to open an adult-use cannabis dispensary in Trenton. “I had to go to (Trenton officials) to show them samples (and) lab reports.” Bud Bandit has an NJCRC conditional dispensary license still needs the city of Trenton OK.

Adults with chronic pain are significantly more supportive of expanding cannabis access than the physicians who treat them, according to Rutgers Health.  The study found broad support for education for doctors prescribing medical cannabis.

Most U.S. military veterans who have used psychedelics reported in a recent study that they pursued the substances for healing or spiritual exploration, and over 80% said they benefited from the experience. 

The NJ General Assembly unanimously passed Bill A3881 in September, to prohibit the dissemination of criminal history information for individuals with expunged records, including marijuana offenses. The Senate version, Bill S2513, passed the SLP Committee 10/21/2024 - Yes: 5; No: 0.

The long-awaited New Jersey Cannabis Training Academy (NJ-CTA) for entrepreneurs and professionals was launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Trenton. The NJ Cannabis Training Academy has 5 levels of classes that are available online now. The first three levels are available to the public.

Marijuana Use Is Tied To ‘Higher Prevalence Of Physical Activity,’ Contrary To ‘Lazy Stoner’ Stereotypes, New Study Shows

NJ Gov. Murphy signed Bill A 4461 to limit the manufacture and sale of hemp products to those licensed by the NJ CRC, but the hemp industry scored a significant victory when a NJ judge ruled that the state cannot enforce parts of a new law that treat out-of-state hemp products differently. The ruling came two days before an Oct. 12 deadline for businesses to remove hemp products such as CBD lotions, hemp-based drinks and delta-8 gummies from their shelves. The judge ruled that New Jersey cannot label a product as “intoxicating” and restrict its sale if it complies with the laws in the state where it was made.

The UFCW’s CannUnion Kickback party in West Berlin in South Jersey drew cannabis consumers, entrepreneurs, and activists for panels on psychedelics in mental health and homegrow legalization.

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.

CRC Delays Vote On Increasing Marijuana Social Equity Excise Fees (SEEF), that goes into effect on 1/1/25. The SEEF is $1.24 an ounce and it brought in $2.6 million in 2024, though no money has been spent so far. The SEEF can run up to $30 per ounce when the average price of cannabis (currently $330.68 an ounce) is between $250 and $350. “By extending the timeline to set the SEEF for 2025, we’re ensuring that our decision reflects an intentional and thoughtful commitment to community reinvestment and sustainable growth for New Jersey’s cannabis industry,” said CRC Chair Dianna Houenou.

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

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

The U.S. DEA has contacted 25 “designated participants” to testify at a Dec. 2 hearing about marijuana rescheduling from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3 before DEA Chief Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney II. Designated Participants must “come prepared with January-February 2025 availability dates.” 

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.” 

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.

Upcoming Events: 

Shore Grow, CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PARTY, NOV 10th 12- 4 pm, 1710 Rt. 35, Oakhurst, NJ 07755. Door prizes, Raffles, Music, and Food!

The 8th annual Thanksgiving Give Away & Sativa Cross podcast, with CMMNJ, at the Statehouse Annex on Nov. 28th, 9:00 till 1:00 pm. Please donate items for the poor.

Treasury report: 

Checking: $10,081; 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.

NJ CRC: Prepare for Institutional Caregivers Now

NJ CRC: Prepare for Institutional Caregivers Now

I am glad to hear that the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission's "Permitting and Licensing Committee" is leading policy discussions on implementing Institutional Caregivers. 

However, I disagree with the committee's finding that legal issues need to be resolved before further steps are taken.

Institutional Caregiver policy development and stakeholder engagement should currently be in process in anticipation of the resolution of legal concerns.

The federal Justice Department and its component agencies have been barred from interfering in state-legal medical marijuana programs under a congressional appropriations rider that’s been annually renewed for a decade. There are no legal issues that will not be overcome to permit Institutional Caregivers in healthcare facilities.

Institutional Caregivers will be allowed to come into healthcare facilities and administer to patients the medicinal cannabis that has been recommended for them by licensed physicians, and purchased from Alternative Treatment Centers in New Jersey. 

This will be the law in New Jersey. For healthcare facilities to forbid implementation of Institutional Caregivers will place them out of compliance with the law, needlessly jeopardizing the health and safety of patients who are in their care.

Policy development among healthcare facilities should be on-going. These policies must include documentation of medicinal cannabis that is administered to the patient, along with the inclusion on the Patient Care Plan of the patient’s status in the Medicinal Cannabis Program (MCP).

How can a facility be allowed to deprive a patient of a duly approved medicine they are already using? Healthcare facilities should be more concerned about the legal consequences of doing harm to patients by forbidding access to medication that has stabilized their conditions. Any other concerns about cannabis can be dealt with by having patients sign “Hold Harmless” agreements.

Moreover, the use of cannabis in healthcare facilities is an established fact in the U.S.

In 2021, California passed Ryan’s Law, which allows terminally ill patients who have a valid medical cannabis card, to use medical cannabis in a healthcare facility, even though cannabis is an illegal Schedule 1 controlled substance under federal law.

The population of patients in New Jersey’s MCP is continually diminishing. This is partly because some of the sickest patients in the state--those currently in healthcare facilities-- are not allowed access to medical cannabis.

Institutional Caregivers will greatly expand the number of patients served, expand the success of this program, and improve patient care.

Thank you for your attention to this issue.

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

Oct. 30, 2024

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for October 8, 2024

 

CMMNJ Monthly Zoom Meeting Agenda for October 8, 2024 at 7 pm

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 846 0605 9419  Passcode: 424050 Or, click: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84606059419?pwd=Gkddgud9M97asAqFRyfRwywmjraXk3.1

One tap mobile: +1 (646) 931-3860 

Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kfxs7Efo3

Agenda: New Jersey Issues:

National Election Day, November 5, 2024: It matters that you vote! Elected officials need to know that cannabis consumers vote—it will encourage them to pay attention to our issue. CMMNJ cannot endorse any candidate for elected office. However, we can discuss the positions candidates stake out on any issue: 

Both Major-Party Presidential Candidates Signal Support for Cannabis Policy Reform: Where Trump and Harris Stand on Legalization

Following former President Trump’s announcement of support for a cannabis legalization ballot measure in Florida, Vice President Kamala Harris reminds voters that while in office, Trump “took marijuana reform backwards.” 

Kamala Harris: “We Need to Legalize” Cannabis, VP Says For First Time

Americans for Safe Access has launched The Compassionate Candidate Campaign to amplify patient voices. This initiative provides candidates a platform to learn about patients’ needs and to showcase their support!

NJ Gov. Murphy signed Bill A 4461 to limit the manufacture and sale of hemp products to those licensed by the NJ CRC. The law will allow infused beverages to be sold by liquor stores regulated by the NJ Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control, after regulations are finalized. Intoxicating hemp products — including the THC seltzers — must be pulled off shelves in the next 30 days (mid-Oct.) New law Spurs Lawsuit by Hemp Businesses. NJ Cannabis Insider report.

The NJ Assembly Oversight, Reform, and Federal Relations Committee held a hearing on town cannabis problems. NJ has “a model that has lifted up racial and social equity…better than any other state in the nation,” NJCBA General Counsel Bill Caruso said. But “It is downright difficult to operate a profitable business in the cannabis industry. It takes significant financial investment,” NJCTA E.D. Todd Johnson said. Most small businesses fail within 10 years.

Gov. Murphy said $14.5 Million in new financial grants raised from cannabis tax revenue will go to New Jersey Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) Programs to address harms caused by the War on Drugs. 

Ken’s Trenton Times LTE: “Allow medical cannabis in health care facilities.”  Sen. Timberlake’s bill S3332  creates a 5-year pilot program to use medicinal cannabis in university hospitals to evaluate its efficacy in improving patient outcomes; do research, and spark innovation in medicinal cannabis. Kemani A. Scott, Director of Policy & Legislation, Office of Senator Troy Singleton.

Ignorance Is No Excuse with Gary George

Study: Medical Marijuana Users Report Significant Short-Term Health Benefits

Please subscribe to CMMNJ’s YouTube channel—we need 50 for greater access!

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC):

Next CRC meeting: Thursday, October 17, 11 a.m.

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

Register to speak by October 15th at 5 p.m. Submit comments in writing to the CRC here by October 18th at 5 p.m.

Gov. Murphy replaced NJ CRC Commissioner Charles Barker with Amelia Mapp.

NJ CRC Virtual Roundtable - An invitation is required to attend. 

• September 25, Public Engagement and Education Committee (Number of ATCs);
• October 1, Permitting and Licensing Committee (Institutional Caregivers)

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

The DEA will hold an administrative law hearing on marijuana’s scheduling on December 2, 2024. 

DEA Acknowledges New Two-Step Test For Marijuana’s Accepted Medical Use Is Legitimate; DOJ’s OLC: the prior five-part test was “impermissibly narrow.”

Reclassifying cannabis as a Schedule III drug only exacerbates a bad situation. It embeds it in the deeply flawed American pharmaceutical system and ignores the cultural and spiritual practices that have long been part of cannabis use. 

NY Times: Nixon Started the War on Drugs. Privately, He Said Pot Was ‘Not Particularly Dangerous.’

A committee from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) called for a public health approach with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) taking a larger role in cannabis policy. An estimated 18 million Americans use marijuana daily or near-daily, more than the number who drink alcohol that often.

MPP: Federal Marijuana Policy and pending legislation.

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.

Recent Events: 

NJ Cannabis Conference 2024: NECANN   9/6-7, Atlantic City, CMMNJ booth. 
Happy Wellness Expo! 9/8/24, Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ. 
420 Expo 1st NJ Legal Cannabis Cup, Edison, Sept. 13-15, 2024. CMMNJ table.
Ewing Community Fest 2024, TCNJ, 9/21/24; CMMNJ table!

Treasury report: 

Checking: $10,521; 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 Monthly Public Zoom Meeting for September 10, 2024

 

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

Join Zoom Meeting: ID: 828 4494 9196  Passcode: 442216 Or, click: 

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82844949196?pwd=fjj3Qfrh6o5owgbCabrpqea67biXzn.1

One tap mobile: 1 (309) 205-3325

Agenda: New Jersey Issues:

Forbes: Here’s How Home Growing Solves Some Of The Challenges Of Cannabis: safety, self-sufficiency, and the avoiding inflated, fake THC lab results. It also provides the ability to rule out traces of potentially harmful chemicals and provides an intimate connection with the plant. 

Sativa Cross: Why Are We Still Waiting? For home cultivation in NJ

NJ Home Grow website

NORML Action Alert: New Jersey: Allow Patients to Grow Their Own Medicine

S2283: Psilocybin Behavioral Health Access and Services Act passed the Senate Health Committee on 6/6/24 but it was amended to focus on tightly regulated therapeutic access, eliminating home cultivation. The bill is in the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee. A3852, the identical Assembly bill, passed the Assembly Health Committee on 6/17/24. 

A 4461 will have the NJCRC regulate Delta-8 and other hemp-derived products. Delta-8 hemp drinks should be sold in licensed dispensaries only. “Keeping the regulation of these products within the CRC's purview is essential.” Cannabis license holders are mandated to be pro-union. Substitute S3235 passed the Senate and Assembly 6/28/24. Gov. Murphy can line-item veto. 

Doctors for Drug Policy Reform Presents, “The Farm Bill, Hemp-derived Minor Cannabinoids, and Regulatory Mayhem,” 9/25/24 at 7 pm.

S3484: Provides health care practitioners discretion to determine which medical conditions could qualify patients for use of medical cannabis. Introduced by Sen. Troy Singleton on 6/24/24 and referred to Senate Health Committee.

CMMNJ Website is still unavailable as we transition out of GoDaddy. Are there volunteers who can be part of the “CMMNJ Tech Team” to help with websites, blogs, social media, streaming, video, and/or audio? Text Nick Mellis @ 609.331.9304. Update from Brian Belanger. 

Please subscribe to CMMNJ’s YouTube channel—we need 50 for greater access!

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC):

Next CRC meeting: Thursday, September 19, 11 a.m. Location: 44 South Clinton Avenue, Trenton NJ 

Watch on YouTube; Register to speak here by September 17th at 5 p.m.

You may also submit comments in writing to the CRC here. The deadline to submit written comments on the September 19th agenda is September 20th at 5 p.m.

NJ CRC Virtual Roundtable - September 5, 2024, 11 a.m. via Zoom.

Product Safety, Packaging, and Labeling Committee wants to hear from you on key issues related to cannabis regulation and the cannabis industry in New Jersey.

• Are the current allotments and purchase limits reasonable?
• How do allotments, purchase limits, and other factors affect pricing?

An invitation is required to attend: submit a request here.

Upcoming NJ CRC Virtual Roundtables: (Register here)

• September 23, 11 a.m. - Permitting and Licensing Committee (Institutional Caregivers)
• September 25, 11 a.m. - Public Engagement and Education Committee (Number of ATCs)
• October 1, 11 a.m. - Permitting and Licensing Committee (Institutional Caregivers)

Federal Drug Policy Reform: 

The Administrator of the DEA will hold an administrative law hearing on marijuana’s scheduling under the federal CSA on December 2, 2024 so that the DEA can get “factual evidence and expert opinion regarding” marijuana’s transfer to Schedule III of the CSA. “Advocates should remain optimistic that the end to marijuana’s Schedule I status likely.” Paul Armentano, NORML

CMMNJ’s medical cannabis ongoing goals (NJ Legislature returns 9/12/24):

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 (note new bill numbers for 2024 - 2025 legislative session):
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.

Upcoming Events: 

New Jersey Cannabis Conference 2024: NECANN: Explore the booming cannabis industry at NECANN's NJ Cannabis Convention, Sept 6-7, 2024, in Atlantic City. Visit the CMMNJ booth #942!

Happy Wellness Expo! Sunday, September 8, 2024, 10am - 5pm; Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison, NJ 07940. Wellness activities--from yoga sessions to mindfulness workshops. Over 200 vendors. Ken’s presentation, “Seniors and Medical Marijuana” starts at 11 am. General admission $10. 

420 Expo Cannabis Convention for consumers is holding the 1st legal NJ cannabis cup this year in Edison, at the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, Sept. 13-15, 2024.

Ewing Community Fest 2024 at The College of New Jersey on Saturday, September 21, 2024, 10 am to 4 pm. Volunteer at the CMMNJ table!

Minorities for Medical Marijuana (M4MM): Upcoming events. 

Treasury report: 

Checking: $10,468; 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 websites, blogs, social media, streaming, video, and audio. 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.