CMMNJ Public Meeting: September 8, 2020 Agenda & August Minutes

CMMNJ Monthly public Zoom meeting 

Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 7:00 PM 

Join Zoom Meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88285060016?pwd=cDNNOXZHSmtFMFJnQVEzaUhPaWVCUT09 

Meeting ID: 882 8506 0016; Passcode: 951284

Agenda: Approve the August 2020 minutes. 

CMMNJ’s Get-Out-the-Vote Campaign. The decision to legalize marijuana in NJ is yours! 
HeadCount’s Cannabis Voter Project! Visit www.cannabisvoter.info learn about reform & take action! TEXT: WEVOTE to 40649. TEXT: CANNA to 40649.

To register to vote in NJ, you must be: a U.S. citizen; at least 18 years old; a county resident for 30 days before the election; and, not currently incarcerated. The deadline to register to vote is Tuesday, October 13, 2020. College Voters United.  Gov. Phil Murphy orders millions of ballots to be mailed to voters by Oct. 5.  The state will provide more ballot drop boxes. To count, ballots must be postmarked by Nov. 3 and arrive no later than 8 PM a week after Election Day. #VoteCannabis2020.

Axel Owen, campaign coordinator for NJ CAN 2020, is holding conference calls with CMMNJ. Be sure to “Like” them. Expect--and respond to--coming opposition campaign (Rapid Response). 

CMMNJ held a Poster Contest to inspire people to vote Yes on the Cannabis ballot question on November 3rd, for artwork submitted by 9/1/20. Winners to be announced!

The Shore Grow fundraiser for Patient Aid will be 9/26/20 from 3 to 6 pm. Can’t attend in person? Join us virtually—on Zoom, or Podcast. Patients, be part of this--record your statements of how medical marijuana helps you. Send to Tom@ShoreGrow.com. See donated items for auction!

Decriminalization Rally for bill S2535 State House, Trenton, 8/27/20. Jo Anne Zito Op Ed: 
I’ve been unjustly criminalized by N.J.’s cannabis laws. Decriminalize it now! 

Jawara McIntosh died 7/17/20 from injuries he sustained while in jail on a marijuana offense.

NJ MMP Update: The DOH issued regulations on 6/25/20 to allow NJ ATCs to begin home delivery, but the service has yet to start. NJ medical marijuana doctor loses license.
The Appellate court continues to halt the progress of 196 applications for 24 additional NJ medical marijuana licenses. State urged to compromise. Hearing coming soon? More delays coming?

Home cultivation for patients--sign the petition: Let Patients Grow NJ. Also, visit the website: Let Patients Grow NJ #JeffsLaw. Use the momentum of a successful ballot victory in November to press forward our demands for social justice and home grow. Recent support grows!

Upcoming Events: Shore Grow Patient Aid 2020; CMMNJ fundraiser: 9/26/20, 3 – 6 pm.
Sativa Cross Podcasts, Trenton State House, 9/24, 10/22, 11/26, 11am to 2 pm.
The CannAtlantic Cannabis Conference, 9/26/20, 10 am – 6:30 pm. 

Treasury report: Checking: $3637; PayPal: $2974. Help our GOTV campaign!
Make a tax-deductible donation via PayPal to info@cmmnj.org, or, send a check to:
CMMNJ, 219 Woodside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08618. Hemp wristbands also available.

More info: Ken Wolski, RN, MPA (609) 394-2137 ohamkrw@aol.com http://www.cmmnj.org 
Facebook: Friends of CMMNJ
Coalition for Medical Marijuana - New Jersey
Twitter: @CMM_NJ
CMMNJ blog: https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/
CMMNJ’s free, public meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 PM.

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

The ballot question voters will be asked to approve on November 3, 2020:

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT TO LEGALIZE MARIJUANA

      Do you approve amending the Constitution to legalize a controlled form of marijuana called “cannabis”?

     Only adults at least 21 years of age could use cannabis.  The State commission created to oversee the State’s medical cannabis program would also oversee the new, personal use cannabis market. 

     Cannabis products would be subject to the State sales tax.  If authorized by the Legislature, a municipality may pass a local ordinance to charge a local tax on cannabis products.

INTERPRETIVE STATEMENT

     This amendment would legalize a controlled form of marijuana called “cannabis.”  Only persons at least 21 years of age could use cannabis products legally.

     The Cannabis Regulatory Commission would oversee the new adult cannabis market.  This commission was created in 2019 to oversee the State’s medical cannabis program.  The scope of the commission’s new authority would be detailed in laws enacted by the Legislature.

     All retail sales of cannabis products in the new adult cannabis market would be subject to the State’s sales tax.  If authorized by the Legislature, a municipality may pass a local ordinance to charge a local tax on cannabis products.

More info at: SCR183/ACR840

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 

August 11, 2020

Lawrence Library meeting rooms are CLOSED. CMMNJ meetings are Zoom Conferences.
July 2020 Minutes approved. (The fifth fully virtual public meeting of CMMNJ.)

CMMNJ’s Get-Out-the-Vote Campaign: 

Plant the seeds of change: HeadCount’s Cannabis Voter Project! Visit www.cannabisvoter.info learn about reform & take action! TEXT: WEVOTE to 40649.

To register to vote in NJ, you must be: a U.S. citizen; at least 18 years old; a county resident for 30 days before the election; and, not currently incarcerated. #VoteCannabis2020 on 11/3/20! 

Dee Carnegia is reaching out to NJ colleges and universities with letter/phone calls and emails: GOTV at Princeton U. Per Dee, some colleges are supportive, and she is working with Student Life representatives. “Voter Platform” is used on some campuses. Outsiders are not being permitted on campus, though some virtual set-ups are being arranged. Universities are educating voters about mail-in ballots. Rutgers’ Eagleton Institute of Politics is a resource. Prof. Calvin Schwartz at R.U. will be on Discover NJTV (reaching over 25K students).

Tracy McHugh is contacting sororities and fraternities in NJ.

NJ CAN 2020 hired Axel Owen to work to pass the ballot question on Nov. 3, 2020. 

CMMNJ is holding a Poster Contest to inspire people to vote Yes on November 3rd. Submit your artwork by 9/1/20. Win prizes ($25 and CMMNJ merchandise for top prizes)! Do good!

Gov. Murphy reaffirmed his enthusiastic support of marijuana legalization: “It’s got a huge social justice piece for me,” Murphy said. “The overwhelming percentage of persons nailed in our criminal justice system are persons of color…It’s a job creator, it’s a tax revenue raiser, it checks a lot of boxes. I hope we’ll get there sooner than later.” The latest poll by DKC Analytics shows that 68 percent of NJ respondents support legalizing cannabis for adults.

CMMNJ’s Peter Rosenfeld published an Op Ed supporting the adult use ballot question in NJ.

The Shore Grow fundraiser for Patient Aid will be 9/26/20 from 3 to 6 pm. Can’t attend in person? Join us virtually—on Zoom, or Podcast. Patients, be part of this--record your statements of how medical marijuana helps you. Send to Tom@ShoreGrow.com Donate items for auction!

Cannabis Decriminalization bill A1897 passed in the NJ Assembly 6/18/20. A better bill, S2535 awaits action in the NJ Senate. Rally for Decrim: State House, Trenton, 8/27/20, 11 – 2.

NJ MMP Update: The DOH issued regulations on 6/25/20 to allow NJ ATCs to begin home delivery, but the service has yet to start. 

TerrAscend Corp. said on 8/4/20 that its greenhouse in Boonton was OK’d by the NJ Department of Health to begin cultivating cannabis. Their first harvest is expected during the fourth quarter of this year. An ATC is expected to open in Phillipsburg, NJ in Q4 2020, followed by two additional ATCs upon regulatory approval. 

The Appellate court on 7/2/20 denied the DOH motion to end the stay and award ATC licenses. The DOH defended its actions, saying it was for good reasons that certain applicants were rejected on November 18, 2019. (Awards were supposed to be announced in December.) This continues to halt the progress, almost a year later, of 24 additional NJ medical marijuana licenses. State urged to compromise. Linda Graves gave an update on the issue. Many applicants are being harmed financially by the delay. There may be a review by the Court in October 2020. Regardless of the court decision, there may be additional legal challenges and appeals. 

Home cultivation for patients--sign the petition: Let Patients Grow NJ. Also, visit the website: Let Patients Grow NJ #JeffsLaw. Use the momentum of a successful ballot victory in November to press forward our demands for social justice and home grow.

Leading Cannabis Activist Mike Brennan: Advocate & Patient featured in Heady NJ.

Upcoming Events: Shore Grow Patient Aid 2020; CMMNJ fundraiser: 9/26/20, 3 – 6 pm.
Sativa Cross Podcasts, Trenton State House, 8/27, 9/24, 10/22, 11/26, 11am to 2 pm.
Rally for Decrim: State House, Trenton, 8/27/20, 11 – 2

Recent events: Sativa Cross Podcast, Trenton State House, 7/23/20.
March Against the War on Drugs, March, Rally, Speakers, CMMNJ table. Newark, 7/10/20. 

Treasury report: Checking: $3572; PayPal: $2974. Help our GOTV campaign!

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
Twitter: @CMM_NJ
CMMNJ blog: https://cmmnj.blogspot.com/
CMMNJ’s free, public meetings are the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9 PM.

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

CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for June 11, 2019

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3 
Tuesday, June 11, 2019 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve May 2019 minutes. Discuss:

Illinois to be the 11th state to legalize marijuana for adults. Legislature sends bill to governor.

DOH issues RFA for 108 new ATCs in NJ, including 24 for cultivation, 30 for manufacturing & 54 for dispensaries. Applications are due August 15. DOH adopts new rules effective 5/20/19, making it easier to add qualifying conditions. MMP expands to 47,500 patients, 950 doctors.

The medical marijuana expansion act, S10/A10, passed both houses of the NJ legislature (Senate 34 - 4; Assembly 65 – 5) and is scheduled to be sent to the governor on June 10th. (An amendment will require a revote by Assembly.)

NJ marijuana legalization bill is delayed. S2703/A4497, the “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory and Expungement Aid Modernization Act” may yet get a legislative floor vote. More likely, there will be a ballot question in November 2020. Decrim and expungement progress uncertain.

Six CMMNJ Board members made The Insider 100: Cannabis Power List.
Congratulations to Amanda, Guy, Jim, Jo Anne, Peter and Ken!

Upcoming Events: NORML Advocacy Day, Trenton State House, 6/10/19, 11 am – 4 pm.
CannaBash, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, June 15, 11 am - 7 pm.
Shore Grow Hydro, Patient Aid fundraiser for CMMNJ, 6/22/19, Ocean Twp., NJ  2- 6 pm.
2019 Slightly Stoopid events in Camden 6/16/19 and Asbury Park 6/29/19.
Medical Marijuana & Senior Citizens, Princeton Senior Resource Center, July 15, noon.
Ethics Seminar, Inspira Health Network, Centerton (NJ) Country Club, 10/17/19.
Podcast Trenton State House, 4th Thursday of each month, noon.

Recent events: Cannabis in the Community, Trenton Main Library, 5/8/19, 6 pm.
Pennington Day, Pennington, NJ, 5/18/19 10-4pm.
“Up in Smoke,” NJ Psychiatric Rehabilitation Assn., Forsgate Country Club, Monroe, 5/23.
Moorestown Day, Main St., Moorestown, NJ, 6/1/19, 9am – 4pm.
Jersey Gay Pride Festival, Asbury Park, 6/2/19, noon – 4pm.
Trentonian LTE: "Neese's inaccuracies on marijuana."
The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) closed their HQ in Trenton after 17 years.
May 16, 2019 was the 10th anniversary of the CMMNJ blog.

Treasury report: Checking: $4103; PayPal: $2661.

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 
May 14, 2019

April 2019 minutes approved.

NJ marijuana reform delayed. S2703/A4497: The “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory and Expungement Aid Modernization Act” to legalize personal use of cannabis for adults passed legislative committees (11/26/18 & 3/18/19) but the floor vote was canceled on March 25. A floor vote is possible in May. Is a ballot question coming in November 2020? The medical marijuana expansion act, S10/2426, is also stalled, tied to S2703. Urge your elected officials to vote “Yes” on S2703—Democrats and Republicans. NJ Republicans should Embrace Marijuana Reform. In the absence of legalization, do we support decriminalization?

A4571/S1847 eliminates 6.625% sales tax on medical marijuana. CMMNJ to support this?
Consult with CJS Systems?

See Maze calendar for upcoming cannabis activities.

Upcoming Events: Trenton State House Podcast, 4th Thursday of each month, noon.
Cannabis in the Community, Trenton Main Library, 5/8/19, 6 pm.
Pennington Day, Pennington, NJ, 5/18/19 10-4pm.
“Up in Smoke:  Legalized Marijuana’s Impact on Mental Health, Social Justice and Substance Use Recovery in NJ,” NJ Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, Forsgate Country Club, Monroe, 5/23, 8am.
Pork Roll Festival, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, 5/25/19, 10 am – 7 pm.
Moorestown Day, Main St., Moorestown, NJ, 6/1/19, 9am – 4pm.
Jersey Gay Pride Festival, Asbury Park, 6/2/19, noon.
CannaBash, Mill Hill Park, Trenton, June 15, 11 am- 7 pm.
2019 Slightly Stoopid events in Camden 6/16/19 and Asbury Park 6/29/19.
Ethics Seminar, Inspira Health Network, Centerton (NJ) Country Club, 10/17/19.
Pure Puff Bake Shop Podcast, Berlin, NJ 10 am.

Recent events: 420 Rally & Podcast, Trenton State House, 4/20/19, noon.
Patients Out of Time (POT) conference, Tampa, FL, 4/11- 4/13/19.
Community Cannabis Forum, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Pleasantville, NJ, 4/4/19.
Trenton Cannabis Community event, Trenton, NJ Library, 4/3/19, 6 – 8 pm.
Smoke-In for Patient Home Grow @ Sen. Sweeney's, W. Deptford, 4/4/19.
Die-in for Medical Cannabis Home Grow & OUD; 4/18/19, Trenton State House.

CMMNJ Board Meeting 4/2/19, 8 pm. CMMNJ welcomed Gaetano Lardieri onto our Board of Directors in April, 2019.

Treasury report: Checking: $3803; PayPal: $2632.

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.

February 12, 2019 CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3 
Tuesday, February 12, 2019 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM
Weather Closing: 
CMMNJ Meeting Canceled for tonight, February 12, 2019: 
All Mercer County Library branches are closed today.
https://mcl.org/branches/lawrbr.html

Approve January 2019 minutes. Discuss:

NJ marijuana reform delayed. S2703/A4497: The “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory and Expungement Aid Modernization Act” which legalizes personal use of cannabis for adults passed legislative committees 11/26/18 but there has been no action, or a floor vote, since.

There is, however, progress in PA & NY to legalize marijuana in 2019.

The Compassionate Access, Research Expansion and Respect States (CARERS) Act was re-introduced in the 116th Congress. New congressmen/women plan to hold House hearings on marijuana.

The medical marijuana expansion act, S10/2426, is also stalled, after sailing through three NJ legislative committees, also on 11/26/18. This bill is unfairly tied to the legalization bill.

NJ DOH OK’d 6 applications for ATCs on 12/17/18 for Atlantic City, Elizabeth, Ewing, Paterson, Phillipsburg & Vineland. Lawsuits challenge the awards. MMP now has over 40,000 patients.

OUD OK’d for marijuana therapy. Dr. Elnahal continues outreach to NJ MDs.

CBS refuses to air medical marijuana ad during Super Bowl.

NJ DOH MMP proposed regulations: CMMNJ awaits adoption of rules: our comments.

NJ OAG: CMMNJ awaits action on re/descheduling hearings from  the spring of 2018.

Upcoming Events: Patients Out of Time (POT) conference, Tampa, FL, 4/11-4/13/19.
Americans for Safe Access (ASA) Unity Conference, Washington, D.C., 3/18- 3/20/19.
Medical Marijuana in New Jersey, Hackensack UMC, Pascack Valley 2/16/19, 8am – noon.
5th Annual CANNAEAST Conference March 12-13, 2019 New York, NY.
Medical Marijuana & Industrial Hemp, Cooper U. Med School, 3/22/19, 8 am – 11 am.
Community Cannabis Forum, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Pleasantville, NJ, 4/4/19, 7 – 9 pm.

Recent events: Brick Zoning Board hearing cancelled on January 9, 2019; rescheduled for 2/27.
“Medical Marijuana in New Jersey”, 2/2/19, Penn Medicine/UMCP, Plainsboro, NJ.

Treasury report: Checking: $4907; PayPal: $2668. NJ Annual Report filed ($27.50).

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 & Coalition for Medical Marijuana--New Jersey.
CMMNJ blog: Agendas from 2009 to present.
Twitter:  Coalition for Medical Marijuana--NJ  @CMM_NJ

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
January 8, 2019

December 2018 minutes approved.

NJ marijuana reform delayed. S2703/A4497: The “New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory and Expungement Aid Modernization Act” which legalizes personal use cannabis for adults did not go to a vote by the entire legislature on December 17th, as hoped, after successfully passing appropriations committees from the Senate and Assembly on November 26th. It appears too many people want too many things from the legislation, and are unwilling to compromise. Discussion about taxes for cannabis—who wants what? People who want expungement now must wait 6 years, but it may be reduced to one year—S.F. has a good program. While there appears to be little support in legislature for home cultivation (and with the governor) advocates will never give up on it. Asm. Conaway’s COS met with Mike to discuss issue. Ed to see DPA’s position on home cultivation. One suggestion—tax the clones from dispensaries?

Eliminate the sales tax on medical marijuana—Jim M. to start a petition to end this sales tax immediately. Court challenge to get money back from illegal sales tax on medicine?
PA & NY to legalize in 2019? Will this encourage home cultivation?

The medical marijuana expansion act, S10/2426, is similarly stalled, after sailing through three legislative committees, also on November 26th. This bill is tied to the legalization bill, though there is really no reason that it could not advance on its own.

Hemp Bill cannot go forward with federal govt. agencies like USDA shut down. Licenses and programs still need OK to go forward and need approval for CBD as a food product.

NJ DOH OK’d 6 applications for ATCs on 12/17/18 in Atlantic City, Elizabeth, Ewing, Paterson, Phillipsburg & Vineland. Applicants must comply with background checks and regs.

NJ DOH MMP proposed regulations: CMMNJ awaits adoption of rules: our comments.

NJ OAG: CMMNJ awaits action on re/descheduling hearings from  the spring of 2018.

Upcoming Events: Patients Out of Time (POT) conference, Tampa, FL, 4/11-4/13/19.
Americans for Safe Access (ASA) Unity Conference, Washington, D.C., 3/18- 3/20/19.
Brick Zoning Board hearing resumes on January 9, 2019.
Medical Marijuana in New Jersey, (4 CEUs for RNs) 2/2/19, 8am – 12 pm, Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center, Plainsboro, NJ.
Medical Marijuana in New Jersey (4 CEUs for RNs) presentation is also available at Hackensack UMC at Pascack Valley on 2/16/19, 8am – 12 pm.
5th Annual CANNAEAST Conference March 12-13, 2019 New York, NY.

Treasury report: Checking: $4924; PayPal: $2668.


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.

Comments on the Proposed Regulations from the NJ Department of Health, Division of Medicinal Marijuana

Medical Marijuana patients greatly appreciate the obvious effort the personnel of the Department of Health (Department) expended in rescuing the Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) from the currently often cruel and counterproductive regulations.  Many regulations were designed to delay the program’s implementation and severely limit patient access.  The Coalition for Medical Marijuana—New Jersey, Inc. (CMMNJ) applauds the current proposal which resonates with a refreshing commitment to patient welfare.

CMMNJ’s intent is to seek to improve what is already an excellent proposal and far superior to the existing regulations.  We base our comments on years of listening to concerns raised by patients, information gained through other state programs and insights provided by our experts.  Based on the tenor of the regulatory proposal, we have every confidence that the Department will give full and fair consideration to our comments and concerns in the interests of benefitting patients, which we all agree is the purpose of this enactment.  We have provided what we trust are adequate rationales for each of our recommendations but would be pleased to answer any questions the Department may have.

In the Summary of the Department of Health’s Proposed Readoption with Amendments of N.J.A.C 8:64, the Department notes on page 4:

"P.L. 2015, c. 158 (approved November 9, 2015), at § 1, established N.J.S.A. 18A:40-12.22, which requires those in charge of schools to establish policies for the administration of medicinal marijuana, by means other than smoking and inhalation, to students, if they are “qualifying patients” within the meaning of the Act, while they are on school grounds and buses, and at school-sponsored events. P.L. 2015, c. 158, § 2, established N.J.S.A. 30:6D-5b, which requires administrators of facilities offering services for persons with developmental disabilities to establish policies for the administration of medicinal marijuana to those persons, if they are facility clients and “qualifying patients” within the meaning of the Act, while they are on facility premises."

What is missing is an evaluation of how this law is working. How many patients in schools and facilities for the developmentally disabled qualify for medical marijuana?  How many of these patients are actually receiving medical marijuana as a result of this law? Are caregivers actually able to come to these facilities one or more times a day to administer medical marijuana to qualifying patients? Families of patients typically report that these patients are not getting the medical marijuana that they require in order to control their serious medical conditions (seizures, chronic pain, anxiety, etc.) Thus, the clear intent of this law is being frustrated by the inability of caregivers/family members to report to these facilities one or more times a day to administer medical marijuana. On the other hand, staff at these facilities are trained to safely administer and account for other controlled substances. The staff of these facilities should be empowered to administer medical marijuana as well, to relieve the families of this burden while meeting the needs of the patients, in compliance with the intent of the law.

In the Summary of the Department of Health’s Proposed Readoption with Amendments of N.J.A.C 8:64, the Department notes on page 6:

"On January 23, 2018, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order No. 6 (EO 6), in which he directed the Department and the Board of Medical Examiners to “undertake a review of all aspects of New Jersey’s medical marijuana program, with a focus on ways to expand access to marijuana for medical purposes.”

The Department’s Executive Order 6 Report (Issued by Acting Commissioner Shereef Elnahal, M.D., M.B.A. on March 23, 2018) is clear and welcome. What is missing is the report from the New Jersey Board of Medical Examiners (BME). Is this report forthcoming? On 7/3/18, CMMNJ sent an email to the BME asking them about their missing input from EO 6 and they have not had the courtesy to reply. CMMNJ certainly hopes they treat the governor with more respect. The EO 6 Report notes that:

“There are 523 MMP-approved physicians throughout the State (as of February 15, 2018), (while) only 79% are actively writing patient statements and treating patients.” 

There are approximately 28,000 physicians in New Jersey, so less than 2% of the total New Jersey physicians are participating in the MMP. This is an unacceptable level of physician participation in the MMP that the BME and the Department must address. Currently patients must search the Department web site for a physician to recommend marijuana for them. Typically, these physicians charge cash (usually over $100) for each visit as they contend that a patient’s health insurance does not cover medical marijuana. Additionally, patients are required to return to the participating physician every 30, 60 or 90 days for a renewal of the medical marijuana recommendation. This is an added and unnecessary expense for many of the New Jersey medical marijuana patients who already have to contend with the most expensive medical marijuana in the U.S. The Department is currently developing “Provider Education Program and Dosing Guidelines.” The Department notes that:

“With the expansion of authorized debilitating conditions, the Department recognizes the need to provide education and guidance to providers. To that end, the Department is exploring the creation of an education program for all physicians, with focus on the endocannabinoid system (ECS).” 

There are already a number of educational programs on the ECS that are approved for Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits for physicians. The Department should adopt one of these programs immediately, and require mandatory ECS education for all physicians in New Jersey who have prescription privileges as a condition of continued licensure in the state. A great many more people in New Jersey are going to be using marijuana in the near future and it is incumbent upon prescribers to be familiar with how marijuana works in conjunction with traditional therapies in controlling and managing health problems. Additionally, the Department should allow anyone in New Jersey who has prescription privileges, including Advance Practice Nurses, Physician’s Assistants, Dentists and Veterinarians, to recommend medical marijuana. Marijuana is part of mainstream medicine, despite the fact that 98% of New Jersey physicians have shown little or no interest in learning about the ECS, a system that interacts with all the other systems in the body and a system that may well play a role in all disease processes affecting humans and animals.

All References are to NJAC 8:64:

Sec. 2.2 “Application for registration as a qualifying patient”: (g) (Proposed) In recognition of the fact that New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware and a total of 30 states now have medical marijuana laws, the Department shall recognize current, valid medical marijuana ID cards that are issued by any other state in the country, and these patients shall not be subject to criminal penalties for possession and use of marijuana that is consistent with New Jersey’s regulations.

Sec 2.5 “Physician certification…(c) A physician may issue multiple written instructions at one time authorizing the patient to receive a total of up to a 90-day supply.” This amounts to a needless expense for a number of patients who suffer from life-long debilitating medical conditions. It should be extended to allow for either a 6-month supply, or better still, left up to the authorizing physician in consultation with the patient to determine when a return visit is appropriate.

Sec 2.5 (a) 9: Requires that the physician educate the patient “on the lack of scientific consensus for the use of medical marijuana, its sedative properties, and the risk of addiction.”  The Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act (Act) stands in direct contradiction to this unwarranted requirement when it states:

“Modern medical research has discovered a beneficial use for marijuana in treating of alleviating the pain or other symptoms associated with certain debilitating medical conditions, as found by the National Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Medicine in March 1999.”  (C.24:6I-2a)

Thus, the Act directly contradicts the required, disingenuous assertion. In recorded human history, there has never been a single fatality from the use of marijuana. It is impossible to fatally overdose on marijuana. Nor is the risk of addiction a major concern with marijuana. After stopping, less than 10 percent of users experience noticeable withdrawal symptoms even after heavy, long-term use of marijuana. These withdrawal symptoms, when noticed, are typically mild and include irritability and sleep disturbance. There are no serious withdrawal symptoms like those noted with alcohol (delirium tremens or DTs, seizures, death); heroin (flu-like symptoms); or nicotine (intense craving). The addiction potential for marijuana is about equivalent to that of caffeine. Let’s be clear that there is no lack of scientific consensus on the existence of the ECS, its role, and its importance in managing diseases, medical conditions and symptoms, at least among those who study the issue. What lack of consensus there is for the use of medical marijuana is a direct result of the federal government’s refusal to allow any large-scale clinical trials of marijuana. While there have been successful, small scale clinical trials of marijuana, the federal government continues to obstruct research into the benefits of medical marijuana. Thus, physicians in New Jersey are required to make a political statement about marijuana without a thorough explanation of why a lack of scientific consensus on medical marijuana exists. One might also argue that now, with 30 of 50 states having medical marijuana programs, there is indeed a consensus, scientific as well as popular, on the use and benefits of medical marijuana.

Sec. 3.4 (c): In comments, this limits caregiver to marijuana only from the ATC named on the registry ID card. This needs to be changed to allow flexibility for quick changes between ATCs, without the need for a new card. The reality is that caregivers report they can already change their ATC without getting a new ID card. Please note there is NO Sec. 3.4 in the published proposed Regulations (pages 51-52) (?)

Sec. 9.6: The Department wisely recommends no change to the “Alcohol and drug-free workplace policy” for ATCs, which includes, “1. The policy’s inapplicability if an employee, who is also a qualifying patient, fails the drug test solely because of the presence of marijuana in a confirmed positive test result.” Indeed, this workplace protection for medical marijuana patients should become the standard for all businesses in New Jersey. It makes no sense to penalize a patient in the workplace for using the very physician-recommended medication that, in many cases, allows that employee to participate in the workplace in the first place.

Sec. 10.12: Continues the prohibition on home delivery. This is unacceptable and must be eliminated and home delivery expressly permitted.

Sec. 11.4: Requires the ATCs to develop standards for documenting patient self-assessment. In order to ensure standardization, the Department should provide the standards and specifically a questionnaire.

Sec 13.4: Adopt “Patient Focused Certification” in order to bring national standards to every aspect of the MMP (testing, etc.) through Quality Assurance audits using the industry’s best technical experts: https://safeaccess2.org/patientfocusedcertification//

CMMNJ proposes the addition of patient/caregiver home cultivation under stringent controls:

(Proposed) Sec. 8:64-13.12 In recognition of the facts that there are an insufficient number of ATCs to serve the existing patients; and, there is a greatly expanding patient need for medical marijuana; and, the ATC prices for medical marijuana exceed what many patients can afford (as well as what the illegal market charges); and, the Act provides for patient access from ATCs but does not prohibit patient growing; and, there is a greater need for stringent control over growers for general consumption that are not necessary for individual patients growing for themselves; and, not all strains necessary for patients are available from ATCs when needed by the patients; and, the very act of cultivating medical marijuana may itself provide therapeutic benefit to patients; and, the majority of states that have medical marijuana programs in the country allow home cultivation by patients; and, in recognition of the fact that the state is moving toward legalization of marijuana for recreational use; now therefore, patients or their registered caregivers shall be allowed to apply to the Department for a permit to grow up to 6 marijuana plants on the conditions that follow.

Sec.8:64-13.12 a. A patient who qualifies for a MMP ID card shall provide a completed DOH self-grow application and pay a fee to the DOH of up to $60 to apply for the self-growing permit ($10 per plant). 
b. The DOH shall review the application, decide, and notify the applicant within 60 days whether it will or will not authorize a self-grow permit.  If the DOH grants a permit, it shall be expressly limited solely to the patient’s personal use and any other distribution shall subject the patient to any applicable penalties as well as withdrawal of the privilege and revocation of their patient registration.
c. The permit shall be effective for one year and shall limit the applicant to a maximum of 6 mature plants. Each plant shall bear a tag issued by the DOH that identifies the plant as legally permissible to law enforcement officers. Plants shall only be cultivated indoors in a room or area that can be locked.
d. The applicant shall apply for a renewal each year at least 60 but no more than 90 days before the permit is scheduled to expire. 

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed medical marijuana regulations from the New Jersey Department of Health Division of Medicinal Marijuana.

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

CMMNJ's Regulatory and Legislative Recommendations

Regulatory and Legislative Recommendations for the

New Jersey Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP)

Regulatory Recommendations:

1. Allow any New Jersey licensed physician with prescription privileges to recommend medical marijuana;
2. Make the Physician Registry voluntary, to serve as a patient resource, not as a requirement for physician participation in the MMP;
3. Add to the MMP the 43 petitions that were recommended be approved by the Department of Health (DOH) Review Panel;
4. Allow additional qualifying conditions to be decided in the privacy of the prescriber-patient relationship;
5. Mandate education on the Endocannabinoid System for all healthcare professionals in NJ who have prescription privileges, based on anticipated expansion of qualifying conditions for marijuana therapy, and on anticipated legalization of adult use;
6. Have the DOH develop complete dosing and administration guidelines for standardized medical marijuana products (including information on expected effects, side effects, adverse effects, etc.); See: “Medicinal cannabis: Rational guidelines for dosing” https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/582a/efb5bfa326fdba0affc23e343151e02aa903.pdf
7. Allow edible medical marijuana products for qualified patients in all state institutions to improve care and reduce healthcare costs--allow institutional physicians to recommend, and nurses to administer, medical marijuana after appropriate training and then conduct case studies on patients receiving treatment;
8. Reschedule/deschedule marijuana in NJ (Director of Division of Consumer Affairs, Office of Attorney General);
9. Eliminate fee for caregiver ID card;
10. Evaluate effectiveness of mandated policies and procedures for the administration of medical marijuana at schools and facilities for the developmentally disabled throughout NJ, modify the policies as necessary, and extend these policies to include colleges and universities in NJ;
11. Eliminate the requirement for psychiatric clearance for minors and require only one MD to recommend medical marijuana for minors;
12. Cancel the 7% tax on medical marijuana which is in violation of the New Jersey Division of Taxation’s Technical Bulletin issued 2/16/10 that notes, “Effective October 1, 2005, all drugs for human use, including prescribed drugs and over-the-counter drugs are exempt from sales and use tax.”  http://www.state.nj.us/treasury/taxation/pdf/pubs/tb/tb63.pdf
13. Establish medical marijuana discounts for veterans.

Legislative Recommendations:

1. Increase the 2 ounce limit per patient per month (medical cannabis use is individualized for patient and medical condition, so there should be no upper limit to what a patient can have—dosage should be based on patient need and method(s) of administration);
2. Restore home cultivation of 6 (six) plants for qualified patients with a NJ MMP ID card (which was approved by the NJ Senate on 2/23/09);
3. Allow any licensed healthcare professional with prescription privileges to recommend medical marijuana, including Advanced Practice Nurses, Dentists, and Veterinarians;
4. Recognize out-of-state ID cards now that 30 states have medical marijuana programs including NY, PA, DE, etc.;
5. Allow patients to obtain medical marijuana from out-of-state, if necessary, while NJ increases supply to meet increased demand;
6. Decriminalize marijuana as soon as possible to protect potential medical patients from arrest and criminal charges for the possession and use of small amounts of marijuana;
7. Do not allow adult use (legalization) legislation to infringe on any current rights of medical marijuana patients;
8. Allow for the use of cannabis as a first line treatment rather than a treatment of last resort--amend CUMMA C.24:6I-3 Definition of “Debilitating medical condition” (1) delete “if resistant to conventional medical treatment”;
9. Pass into law S997 which requires registered qualifying patient's authorized use of medical marijuana to be considered equivalent to use of any other prescribed medication--this prohibits restrictions on patients receiving organ transplants based on marijuana use;
10. Include explicit employee workplace protections--pass into law A1838 which establishes protection from adverse employment action for authorized medical marijuana patients;
11. Pass A1856 "Children's Caregivers Act" which revises requirements for primary caregivers for medical marijuana patients who are minors;
12. Permit any edible form of marijuana for any age and establish dosage units for all forms (repeal prohibition on edibles for adults—only minors are currently allowed edibles);
13. Require initial and ongoing training for all state, county and local Law Enforcement Officers on the medical marijuana program (OAG Guidelines posted on the DOH website is not adequate training);
14. Adopt “Patient Focused Certification” in order to bring national standards to every aspect of the MMP (testing, etc.) through Quality Assurance audits using the industry’s best technical experts, (currently used in DE & MD): https://safeaccess2.org/patientfocusedcertification//

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

February 23, 2018

CMMNJ April 11, 2017 Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #1 
Tuesday, April 11, 2017, 7--9 PM

Approve February 2017 minutes. (No March 2017 meeting due to snow.) Discuss:

NJ DOH Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel: Public Hearing 2/22/17 re: 45 Petitions to add conditions to the MMP. Panel will make initial recommendations, followed by a 60 day comment period, followed by final rec’s.  DOH Commissioner has 180 days to decide.

NJ legalization bill expected soon—what do we want in it? Home cultivation? Workplace protection? Reparations to minorities? Expungement? Decarceration? What strategies support legalization in NJ in 2017? (Educational efforts, coalition building, demonstrations, media & social media outreach.)

PA Auditor General says, “Regulate and tax marijuana.” Big push in DE.

Upcoming Events:  Harrisburg, PA: Decriminalization Rally 4/19/17, 11:30 am.
New Jersey CannaBusiness Association: Updates on Cannabis Laws and Business Opportunities in NJ. Kenilworth, NJ 07033, 4/19/17, 6 - 9:00 PM, Register-- $65.00
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on April 18, 2017, 10 am to 2 pm. Guests?
ASA Unity Conference, The Role of Cannabis in Modern Medicine, Washington, D.C., 4/7-11.
420 Statehouse Smokedown/Podcast & After Party at NJ Weedman’s Joint, Trenton, NJ 4/20, 11- 4 pm.
Global Cannabis March -Rehoboth Beach, DE, 5/6/17, 2 pm Surfside Park & North Boardwalk.
Patients Out of Time 11th National Clinical Conference on Cannabis Therapeutics:
Cannabis: Protecting Patients and Reducing Harm, May 18-20, 2017, Berkeley, CA

Recent Events: What Nurses Need to Know about Medical Cannabis; UMCP 2/18.

Treasury report: Checking: $3099; PayPal: $2728 (70 t-shirts purchased). 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 
February 14, 2017

January 2017 Minutes approved.

NJ DOH Panel will consider 45 Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program. A Public Comment period is expected soon—be prepared!

For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html              

For links to each Petition, see:
http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Re: Tourette Syndrome (MMP -042) Diana spoke of her 17 y/o son with TS and the severe symptoms he experienced (tics, screams, destructive behavior and abuse by peers) and the remarkable response he had to a trial dose of cannabinoids.
Re: Opioid Use Disorder (MMP – 063) Jack spoke of his son Tom’s heroin addiction, the 5 stints in rehab, the 20% addiction cure rate, the 5% Drug Court cure rate & the need for marijuana Rx.
These are the stories that the Medical Review Panel needs to hear!

NJ legalization bill expected soon. What strategies should we pursue to advance the support for legalization of marijuana in NJ in 2017? Educational efforts, Coalition building, demonstrations, Media & Social Media outreach.  New website touts NJ reform: https://www.3fronts.org/
Randy Thompson’s work in A. P. discussed (getting mayor & council to endorse legalization).

New Jersey Cannabusiness Association (NJCBA): Trade association focused on supporting the growing legal cannabis industry. http://www.newjerseycannabusiness.com/

Upcoming Events:  
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on 2/28/17 (Ricardo Rivera & Brian Haydon of 3fronts scheduled).
What Nurses Need to Know about Medical Cannabis; UMCP 2/18/17, 8am – 1pm.
“Benefits of medical marijuana” at MS self-help group, Hunterdon Co., 2/25 noon

Treasury report: Checking: $3152; PayPal: $2622.

     

               

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

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

Second Delaware medical marijuana dispensary slated to open [video]
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/delaware/item/102699-second-delaware-medical-marijuana-dispensary-slated-to-open?l=ct

Delaware legislators say they have votes to legalize pot
http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/local/2017/03/30/bill-would-make-marijuana-legal-delaware/99815040/

Planned Relaunch of The Joint on 4/20
http://www.sophisticatedrelations.com/registered-nurse-mom-debi-madaio-celebrates-womens-history-month-planned-relaunch-new-jerseys-popular-medical-marijuana-themed-eatery/

New Jersey Medical Marijuana Program Gets ‘C’ Grade In Annual Study
https://patch.com/new-jersey/montclair/new-jersey-medical-marijuana-program-gets-c-grade-annual-study

South Jersey Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Comment on Whether Employer Pays for Medical Marijuana Program
http://www.lawfirmnewswire.com/2017/03/south-jersey-workers-compensation-attorneys-comment-on-whether-employer-pays-for-medical-marijuana-program/

Philly420: The most arrested drug in Camden, N.J. is ...
http://www.philly.com/philly/health/cannabis/Philly420-The-most-arrested-drug-in-Camden-NJ-is-.html

New Jersey Bills to Provide Employment Protections for Medical Marijuana Patients Introduced
http://www.natlawreview.com/article/new-jersey-bills-to-provide-employment-protections-medical-marijuana-patients

Would Legalizing Medical Marijuana Help Curb the Opioid Epidemic?
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/877823?src=wnl_mdplsnews_170331_mscpedit_wir&uac=142709SZ&impID=1320300&faf=1

Why New Jersey needs a pro-marijuana candidate for governor
http://nj1015.com/would-you-vote-for-a-new-jersey-gubernatorial-candidate-who-would-legalize-weed-poll/?trackback=tsmclip

Cannabis Legalization Bills Make Splash in Congress
https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/breaking-cannabis-legalization-bills-make-splash-in-congress?utm_campaign=Roost&utm_source=Roost&utm_medium=push

March 14, 2017 CMMNJ Monthly Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Room #1 
Tuesday, March 14, 2017 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve February 2017 minutes. Discuss:

NJ DOH Medicinal Marijuana Program Review Panel held a Public Hearing in Trenton 2/22/17 for additional testimony to 45 Petitions that would add qualifying conditions to the MMP. Additional comments are accepted through 3/8/17. The Panel will make initial recommendations to the DOH Commissioner, after which there will be a 60 public comment period, followed by the Panel’s final recommendations.  Then the Commissioner has 180 days to make final decision.

NJ legalization bill expected soon—what do we hope will be in it? Home cultivation? Expungement of records? Workplace protection? Reparations to minorities? What strategies support the legalization in NJ in 2017? Educational efforts, Coalition building, demonstrations, Media & Social Media outreach.

PA Auditor General says, “Regulate and tax marijuana.”

Upcoming Events:  Harrisburg, PA: Decriminalization Rally 4/19/17 11:30 am.
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on March 21, 2017, 10 am to 2 pm. Guests?
“Meet the Experts, Atlantic City B2B Spring Break” 3/18&19 http://www.meetexperts.org/
ASA Unity Conference, The Role of Cannabis in Modern Medicine, Washington, D.C., 4/7-11.
http://www.nationalmedicalcannabisunityconference.org/
Patients Out of Time 11th National Clinical Conference on Cannabis Therapeutics:
Cannabis: Protecting Patients and Reducing Harm, May 18-20, 2017, Berkeley, CA http://www.medicalcannabis.com/2017-national-clinical-conference-on-cannabis-therapeutics/

Recent Events:  
What Nurses Need to Know about Medical Cannabis; UMCP 2/18; 5CEUs for 100 RN’s.

Treasury report: Checking: $2673; PayPal: $2680 (70 t-shirts purchased). 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 
February 14, 2017

January 2017 Minutes approved.

NJ DOH Panel will consider 45 Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program. A Public Comment period is expected soon—be prepared! For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html              
For links to each Petition, see:
http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Re: Tourette Syndrome (MMP -042) Diana spoke of her 17 y/o son with TS and the severe symptoms he experienced (tics, screams, destructive behavior and abuse by peers) and the remarkable response he had to a trial dose of cannabinoids.
Re: Opioid Use Disorder (MMP – 063) Jack spoke of his son Tom’s heroin addiction, the 5 stints in rehab, the 20% addiction cure rate, the 5% Drug Court cure rate & the need for marijuana Rx.
These are the stories that the Medical Review Panel needs to hear!

NJ legalization bill expected soon. What strategies should we pursue to advance the support for legalization of marijuana in NJ in 2017? Educational efforts, Coalition building, demonstrations, Media & Social Media outreach.  New website touts NJ reform: https://www.3fronts.org/
Randy Thompson’s work in A. P. discussed (getting mayor & council to endorse legalization).

New Jersey Cannabusiness Association (NJCBA): Trade association focused on supporting the growing legal cannabis industry. http://www.newjerseycannabusiness.com/

Upcoming Events:  
“CMMNJ TV” will next tape on 2/28/17 (Ricardo Rivera & Brian Haydon of 3fronts scheduled).
What Nurses Need to Know about Medical Cannabis; UMCP 2/18/17, 8am – 1pm.
“Meet the Experts, Atlantic City B2B Spring Break” 3/18&19 http://www.meetexperts.org/
“Benefits of medical marijuana” at MS self-help group, Hunterdon Co., 2/25 noon

Treasury report: Checking: $3152; PayPal: $2622.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

N.J. lawmakers will vote on legalizing marijuana despite Trump's new Attorney General
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/02/nj_lawmakers_will_vote_on_legalizing_pot_despite_t.html

N.J. migraine, chronic pain patients seek OK to use medical marijuana
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/NJ-migraine-chronic-pain-patients-seek-OK-to-use-medical-marijuana-.html

14 Marijuana Jobs In New Jersey: ‘Cannabusiness’ Grows In The Garden State
http://patch.com/new-jersey/montclair/14-marijuana-jobs-new-jersey-cannabusiness-grows-garden-state

When Retirement Comes With a Daily Dose of Cannabis
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/19/nyregion/retirement-medicinal-marijuana.html?emc=edit_tnt_20170219&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y&_r=0

What should medical marijuana treat in N.J.? Public gets its say Wednesday
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/02/what_should_medical_marijuana_treat_public_gets_it.html

Chronic pain considered for medical marijuana use in New Jersey
http://www.philly.com/philly/health/Chronic-pain-considered-for-medical-marijuana-use-in-New-Jersey.html

Panel Considers Adding Ailments Medical Marijuana Can Treat
http://www.njtvonline.org/news/video/panel-considers-adding-ailments-medical-marijuana-can-treat/

N.J. patients beg: Treat pain with medical marijuana instead of opioids
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/02/patients_beg_to_let_medical_marijuana_treat_pain_m.html

NJ mulls expanding medical marijuana — Could this help combat heroin epidemic?
http://nj1015.com/nj-mulls-expanding-medical-marijuana-could-this-help-combat-heroin-epidemic/?trackback=tsmclip

PAIN PATIENTS URGE NJ MEDICINAL MARIJUANA PANEL TO INCLUDE THEM IN PROGRAM
http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/17/02/22/pain-patients-urge-nj-medicinal-marijuana-panel-to-include-them-in-program/

Everything you need to know about N.J.'s medical marijuana program
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/02/heres_how_njs_medical_marijuana_grew_last_year.html

See why this medical marijuana producer is selling the most in the state
http://www.nj.com/camden/index.ssf/2017/02/see_why_south_jersey_medical_marijuana_producer_is.html

It's time to expand N.J.'s medical marijuana program | Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/02/its_time_to_expand_the_medical_marijuana_program_e.html

As Trump Said in the Campaign, Leave Pot to the States
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/27/opinion/as-trump-said-in-the-campaign-leave-pot-to-the-states.html?emc=edit_tnt_20170227&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Despite what Trump and Christie say, truth is cannabis more beneficial than not | Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/03/trump_christie_are_misinformed_cannabis_is_more_beneficial_than_not.html

Auditor General DePasquale Recommends Regulating, Taxing Marijuana as Right Move to Help Deal with Critical Issues
http://www.paauditor.gov/press-releases/auditor-general-depasquale-recommends-regulating-taxing-marijuana-as-right-move-to-help-deal-with-critical-issues

MEET THE EXPERTS, B2B Spring Break, Atlantic City, March 18th & 19th
https://www.meetexperts.org/

Using marijuana to treat chronic pain might help cut down on opioid abuse
https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/using-marijuana-to-treat-chronic-pain-might-help-cut-down-on-opioid-abuse/2017/02/24/518fbec2-f84e-11e6-bf01-d47f8cf9b643_story.html?utm_term=.6d70e518ceb5

Dr. Oz Looks at Medical Marijuana as a Potential Cure for Opioid Addiction
https://healthimpactnews.com/2016/dr-oz-looks-at-medical-marijuana-as-a-potential-cure-for-opioid-addiction/

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

NJ Weedman arrested on witness tampering
http://www.app.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2017/03/03/nj-weedman-arrested-witness-tampering/98719178/

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for Jan. 10, 2017

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Township Library 
Tuesday, January 10, 2017 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve December 2016 minutes. Discuss:

NJ DOH released 45 Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the Medicinal Marijuana Program that are under consideration by a DOH Panel. A Public Comment period is expected soon—be prepared! For a list of the conditions, see: http://cmmnj.blogspot.com/2017/01/petitions-to-nj-doh-panel.html              
For links to each Petition, see:
http://www.nj.gov/health/medicalmarijuana/review-panel/petitions2016.shtml

Ken Wolski and Dr. David Nathan interviewed on NJTV News:
http://watch.njtvonline.org/video/2365918193/

What strategies should we pursue to advance the support for legalization of marijuana in NJ in 2017? Educational efforts, coalition building, demonstrations, media & social media outreach.

NJ NURSE: “PTSD Qualifies for Marijuana Therapy in New Jersey” by Ken Wolski, RN: http://nursingald.com/publications/1442

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

Treasury report: Checking: $3092; PayPal: $2672. 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 
December 13, 2016

October 2016 minutes were approved (there was no meeting in November 2016).

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 NJ DOH on the Petitions to add qualifying conditions to the state’s MMP. A number of Petitions were submitted in August 2016 (Chronic pain, Anxiety, Migraines, OA, Neuropathic pain, Autism and Opiate Use Disorder that we know of.) The DOH Panel  will review the Petitions and then there will be a 60 day public comment period.

Bob Kane report on U. of P. marijuana panel (PA getting started setting up dispensaries. They expect it will take about one year to be functional. PA Medical Cannabis Society is a player.).

Lefty Grimes got a patient’s medical marijuana back from the Bayonne Police!

Garden State Cannabis Consultants being formed with Bob Kane and Nick Mellis.

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: 
CMMNJ Guest Lecture at TCNJ PoliSci Class: The Politics and Public Policy of Marijuana, 10-26-16.
PCTV host Doris Robinson discussed medical marijuana with Ken Wolski, RN and Debi Madaio, RN at the PCTV studio in Piscataway, NJ, 10-19-16.
CMMNJ TV episode with Dana Beal, Zoe Patchell & Tony Liberte, 10-18-16.
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.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

N.J. residents with chronic pain and other ailments seek medical marijuana http://www.philly.com/philly/news/new_jersey/20161213_N_J__residents_with_chronic_pain_and_other_ailments_seek_medical_marijuana.html

Feds must drop outdated marijuana prohibition
http://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/openforum/article/Feds-must-drop-outdated-marijuana-prohibition-10823091.php

Gov. Christie Compares Cannabis to Heroin
https://www.marijuanatimes.org/gov-christie-compares-cannabis-to-heroin/

Should states with medical marijuana still categorize it as dangerous?
http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/new-jersey/99348-attorneys-urge-state-to-change-classification-of-marijuana-

Ridgefield Park schools adopt medical marijuana policy
http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/bergen/ridgefield-park/2016/11/29/ridgefield-park-schools-poised-adopt-medical-marijuana-policy/94624032/

Marijuana, Immigration Law and John Lennon
http://www.jewishlinknj.com/features/16002-marijuana-immigration-law-and-john-lennon

NJ Weedman feels ‘like a prisoner at Guantanamo’ in drug trial
http://www.trentonian.com/general-news/20161207/nj-weedman-feels-like-a-prisoner-at-guantanamo-in-drug-trial#disqus_thread

NJ Weedman asks for help replacing confiscated "weedmobile"
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2016/12/nj_weedman_asks_for_help_replacing_confiscated_wee.html

NJ NURSE: PTSD Qualifies for Marijuana Therapy in New Jersey
http://nursingald.com/publications/1442

Dumont Restaurateur Pioneers Medical Marijuana Club
http://bergenfield.dailyvoice.com/lifestyle/dumont-restaurateur-pioneers-medical-marijuana-club/689374/

Ten Years and Growing: Medical Marijuana in Rhode Island – Where Are We Now?
http://www.rimed.org/rimedicaljournal/2016/12/2016-12-50-health-mcdonald.pdf

Marijuana Advocates to Light Up, Hand Out Thousands of Joints During Trump Inauguration
http://thejointblog.com/joints-trump-inauguration/

New Jersey Judge of Compensation Orders Employer To Pay Costs Of Medical Marijuana Program And Costs Of Filling Prescriptions
http://njworkerscompblog.com/new-jersey-judge-of-compensation-orders-employercarrier-to-pay-costs-of-medical-marijuana-program-and-costs-of-filling-prescriptions-for-marijuana/

A Pop-Up Marijuana Garden in Philadelphia?!!
http://hightimes.com/news/pop-up-weed-gardens-growing-consumer-rights/

Parkinson's Disease tremor control
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAdDdTZuNA8&feature=youtu.be

CMMNJ TV: Dana Beal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tdN63pIBCg8

The DEA Bursts the CBD Bubble
https://www.projectcbd.org/article/dea-bursts-cbd-bubble

This Month in Marijuana - December 2016
https://www.facebook.com/notes/marijuana-majority/this-month-in-marijuana-december-2016/579867478804572

Audrey and Kevin Byrnes discuss medical marijuana, laws and uses.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dKk5byTFFk

Questions Over Marijuana Policy in Trump Administration
http://watch.njtvonline.org/video/2365918193/

Israel, a Medical Marijuana Pioneer, Is Eager to Capitalize
http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/17/world/middleeast/israel-a-medical-marijuana-pioneer-is-eager-to-capitalize.html?emc=edit_tnt_20161217&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Navy Veteran & VA Hospital Inpatient Tests Boundaries of Conflicting State & Federal Cannabis Laws
https://www.prlog.org/12604610-navy-veteran-va-hospital-inpatient-tests-boundaries-of-conflicting-state-federal-cannabis-laws.html