CMMNJ Public Meeting Agenda for March 13, 2018

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #3 
Tuesday, March 13, 2018, 7-9 PM

Approve February 2018 minutes. Discuss:

CMMNJ met with DOH Deputy Commissioner Jackie Cornell on 2/28/18 as part of Gov. Murphy’s Executive Order #6 to expand and improve access to the Medicinal Marijuana Program. CMMNJ urges extensive revisions to the MMP. "It was a program designed to keep people out of it," said Ken Wolski, in NJ.com. "It’s a program that’s not meeting the needs of the patients.” The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel said 43 petitions should be added to the MMP; the DOH must act by 4/25/18.

NJ Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee: CMMNJ was invited to give oral and written testimony in support of legalizing, taxing and regulating marijuana for adults in NJ at the Trenton Statehouse on March 5, 2018. Follow up committee meetings planned for 4/21 @ 10 am at Rowan U., Glassboro, and 5/12 @10 am at Bergen C.C., Paramus.

Advocates speak up at local council meetings throughout the state in support of marijuana reform.

March 10, 2018--15th anniversary of CMMNJ’s first public event at the White Dog Café.

NJ’s legalization bills in 2018 legislative session (S830 / A1348).
Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Urge support in Congress: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion in jail over one year; found guilty of nothing! Free him!

Pennsylvania medical marijuana available for purchase on Feb. 15, and a total of six dispensaries open across the state that week.

Upcoming Events:
Marijuana rally in Trenton on April 20th (420) from 9 am to 3 pm.
Trenton Cannabis Community meeting 3/14/18 at Artworks, Trenton.
“Cannabis: Alleviates Pain, Treats Addiction” Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, 5/10–12/18. (Ken speaking on a panel 5/10; also NJ women veterans speaking. Press release sent 2/6/18.)
Nonprofit collaboration 3/15 in Woodbridge, 8-1pm.

Treasury report: Checking: $2951; PayPal: $3235; (1000 new ECS brochures purchased).

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 13, 2018

January 2018 minutes approved. Discussion:

Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order #6 to expand and improve access to the Medicinal Marijuana Program at a Press Conference in Trenton on 1/23/18. DOH & BME given 60 days to come up with new rules. "I'm very pleased the governor has taken such a strong stand to expand the program," Wolski said in NJ.com.

Trenton Cannabis Community meeting on 2/7/18 at Artworks in Trenton; discussion involved marijuana reform & breaking the stigma, voter registration & other local activity, getting patients into the medical program, preparing for the new industry. Follow up meeting planned for March 14th. 

NJ’s legalization bill re-introduced in new legislative session (S830 / A1348): Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns.

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel said 43 petitions should be added to the MMP; the DOH commissioner must act by 4/25/18. CMMNJ urges extensive amendments to CUMMA.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Urge support in Congress: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

CMMNJ joined MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce; Ken attended a meeting at the Am. Heart Assn. 2/7.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion in jail nearly one year; found guilty of nothing! Free him!

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, February 15, 2018.
“Cannabis: Alleviates Pain, Treats Addiction” Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, 5/10–12/18—Ken speaking on a panel 5/10; also NJ women veterans speaking. Press release sent 2/6/18.
Nonprofit collaboration 3/15/18 in Woodbridge, 8 am – 1pm.

Treasury report: Checking: $3101; PayPal: $3162 (1000 new ECS brochures purchased).

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

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

How New Jersey's push to legalize marijuana could impact Staten Island
http://www.silive.com/news/2018/02/new_jersey_legalized_marijuana_impact_staten_island.html

New Jersey’s Path to Marijuana Legalization
https://www.freedomleaf.com/new-jersey-marijuana-legalization/

NJ marijuana legalization: How to get a marijuana license in cutthroat weed market
https://www.app.com/story/news/local/public-safety/2018/02/08/new-jersey-marijuana-legalization-license-weed-phil-murphy-medical/1084268001/

Nevada marijuana model studied by New Jersey group
https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/pot-news/nevada-marijuana-model-studied-by-new-jersey-group/

Verona Council Ponders Gov. Phil Murphy's Plan to Legalize Pot
https://www.tapinto.net/towns/bloomfield/articles/verona-council-ponders-gov-phil-murphys-plan-to-5

Ocean County freeholder calls weed more addictive than cocaine; experts disagree
https://www.app.com/story/news/politics/ocean-county/2018/02/08/ocean-county-freeholder-calls-weed-more-addictive-than-cocaine/318624002/

Murphy cautiously expanding NJ’s growing medical marijuana program
http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/opinion/editorials/murphy-cautiously-expanding-nj-s-growing-medical-marijuana-program/article_fa9f1d90-7d0a-5612-91d3-61ea4e6f6491.html

"Reefer Madness" Comes to Chatham Borough Council; Cannabis Advocates Make Pitch for Chatham Marijuana Shop
https://www.tapinto.net/sections/government/articles/reefer-madness-comes-to-chatham-borough-council

N.J. medical marijuana: These big changes could be coming to state's program
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2018/02/review_of_medical_marijuana_could_bring_these_chan.html

Toms River Council Tables Marijuana Ordinance
https://patch.com/new-jersey/tomsriver/toms-river-council-tables-marijuana-ordinance

Rice, Singer to introduce bipartisan marijuana decriminalization bill
https://www.politico.com/states/new-jersey/story/2018/02/14/rice-singer-to-introduce-bipartisan-marijuana-decriminalization-bill-253118

Memory of child with cancer inspires push to expand N.J. medical marijuana program
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2018/02/memory_of_child_with_cancer_spurs_bill_expanding_m.html

Legal Medical Marijuana Sales Begin At Pennsylvania Facility
https://www.pharmpro.com/news/2018/02/legal-medical-marijuana-sales-begin-pennsylvania-facility

Keystone Kush, wax and shatter: Here's what medical marijuana products you can find in Pa.
http://www.pennlive.com/news/2018/02/medical_marijuana_names_prices_pa.html

New N.J. medical marijuana bill calls for more dispensaries, edibles
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2018/02/new_bill_calls_for_medical_marijuana_overhaul_in_n.html

N.J. medical marijuana growers are ready to expand. Will Phil Murphy let them?
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2018/02/medical_marijuana_growers_were_ready_to_expand_for.html

N.J. marijuana legalization: Some urge New Jersey to slow the rush toward legal weed
https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/new-jersey/2018/02/20/some-urge-new-jersey-slow-rush-toward-legal-marijuana/355249002/

First hearing on recreational marijuana held in Jersey City
http://hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/27547311/article-To-legalize-or-not------First-hearing-on-recreational-marijuana-held-in-Jersey-City-?instance=latest_story

N.J. to decide if weed should be taken off list of most dangerous drugs
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2018/02/nj_to_review_how_marijuana_is_classified_under_sta.html

61 Incredible Benefits of Marijuana (Backed by Science)
https://www.herbonaut.com/benefits-of-marijuana/

New Jersey Assembly weighs marijuana legalization during day-long hearing
https://www.thecannabist.co/2018/03/05/new-jersey-marijuana-legalization-hearing-update/100563/

NJ Assembly Hearing On Cannabis, High Praises Of Plant
https://headynj.com/nj-assembly-hearing-on-cannabis-sings-high-praises-of-plant/

How Did Cannabis Legalization Stall in New Jersey?
https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/how-did-cannabis-legalization-stall-in-new-jersey

CMMNJ Feb. 13, 2018 Public Meeting Agenda

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda
Lawrence Township Library, Room #3
Tuesday, February 13, 2018 7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve January 2018 minutes. Discuss:

Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order #6 to expand and improve access to the Medicinal Marijuana Program at a Press Conference in Trenton on 1/23/18. DOH & BME given 60 days to come up with new rules. "I'm very pleased the governor has taken such a strong stand to expand the program," Wolski said in NJ.com.

NJ’s legalization bill re-introduced in new legislative session (S830/A1348): Support home cultivation, address concerns.

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel said 43 petitions should be added to the MMP; the DOH commissioner must act by 4/25/18. CMMNJ urges extensive amendments to CUMMA.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Urge support in Congress: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

Political Prisoner Ed (NJWeedman) Forchion in jail nearly one year; found guilty of nothing!
Free him!

CMMNJ joined MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce.

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, February 15, 2018 with ACLU NJ.
“Cannabis: Alleviates Pain, Treats Addiction” Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, NJ    May 10–12, 2018.

Treasury report: Checking: $3101; PayPal: $3162 (1000 new ECS brochures purchased).

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
January 9, 2018

December 2017 minutes approved. Discussion:

Governor-elect Phil Murphy plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018. Advocates urged to work with the new Administration and NJUMR.org to sign petitions, write lawmakers, and pass resolutions about patient access, decriminalization, expungement, etc. to help make this happen.
Gov. Christie finishes his second term at noon on Jan. 16, followed by Murphy inauguration.
U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions rescinds Cole memo on 1/4/18—implications for marijuana reform?

California rolls out legal marijuana 1/1/18.

CMMNJ Press Conference at Statehouse, Trenton, 1/9/18 at 11:00 am in support of home cultivation.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template, addressing concerns.

The Medicinal Marijuana Program (MMP) Review Panel recommended on 10/25/17 that 43 petitions be approved to add conditions to the MMP (chronic pain, anxiety, migraines, Tourette’s syndrome, and Opioid Use Disorder). The DOH commissioner has 180 days to act. CUMMA amendments urged by CMMNJ. Contact the DOH transition team? Stigma still affects how health care professionals learn about marijuana.

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Urge support in Congress: Capwiz from DPA and NORML.

CMMNJ Year End Report 2017 completed; detailed financial report sent to CMMNJ Board members.

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

Upcoming Events: “CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, January 23, 2018.
Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, NJ, May 10 – 12, 2018.

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

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

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

NJ Marijuana Legalization: Some Shore Towns Say 'No Sales Here'
https://patch.com/new-jersey/brick/nj-marijuana-legalization-some-shore-towns-saying-no-sales-here

Bipartisan fury greets Trump administration decision to rescind marijuana protections
http://www.philly.com/philly/business/cannabis/trump-administration-to-end-policies-that-let-legal-marijuana-flourish-20180104.html

Jeff Sessions’s Endless War on Marijuana
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/07/opinion/jeff-sessionss-war-marijuana.html?emc=edit_tnt_20180107&nlid=17961243&tntemail0=y

Asbury Park Council Would Support Marijuana Dispensaries Here
https://patch.com/new-jersey/asbury-park/asbury-park-council-would-support-marijuana-dispensaries-here

VA Clears The Air On Doctors Talking To Veterans About Marijuana Use
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/01/09/576577596/va-clears-the-air-on-doctors-talking-to-veterans-about-marijuana-use

NORML: Marijuana Regulation: Impact on Health, Safety, Economy
http://norml.org/marijuana/fact-sheets/item/marijuana-regulation-impact-on-health-safety-economy

NORML: Marijuana and Psychomotor Impairment
http://norml.org/marijuana/fact-sheets/item/marijuana-and-psychomotor-impairment

Beware of bogus marijuana studies | Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2018/01/beware_of_bogus_marijuana_studies_editorial.html

Howell Mourns Jake 'The Tank,' 7, Who Fought Brain Cancer
https://patch.com/new-jersey/howell/howell-mourns-jake-tank-7-who-fought-brain-cancer

The moral case for legal pot | Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2018/01/the_moral_case_for_legal_pot_editorial.html

Welcome to Drug War Facts
http://drugwarfacts.org/

New governor signs executive order aimed at expanding New Jersey’s medical marijuana program
https://planetprinceton.com/2018/01/23/new-governor-signs-executive-order-aimed-at-expanding-new-jerseys-medical-marijuana-program/

New Jersey Governor Orders Review of Medical Marijuana Program
https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/NJ-Murphy-Executive-Order-Medical-Marijuana-470740043.html

Phil Murphy moves to expand access to medical marijuana in New Jersey
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2018/01/hold_murphy_expands_medical_marijuana_program_adds.html

Should N.J. expand access to medical marijuana?
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2018/01/should_nj_expand_access_to_medical_marijuana.html

Murphy's marijuana audit moves NJ closer to legalization
http://www.dailytargum.com/article/2018/01/murphys-marijuana-audit-moves-nj-closer-to-legalization

NJ marijuana legalization: 5 weed lessons from the New Jersey Cannabis Symposium
https://www.app.com/story/news/local/public-safety/2018/01/26/new-jersey-marijuana-legalization-cannabis-symposium-phil-murphy-2018/1066220001/

Medical marijuana program needs fixes after Christie sabotage | Editorial
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2018/01/medical_marijuana_program_needs_fixes_after_christ.html

Failing to move for emergency vehicle leads to drug arrest of Hopatcong driver
http://www.njherald.com/20180130/failing-to-move-for-emergency-vehicle-leads-to-drug-arrest-of-hopatcong-driver#

What does N.J. say to legal recreational weed? New poll has answers
http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2018/01/what_does_nj_say_to_legal_recreational_marijuana_a.html

New bill could legalize home-grown marijuana in New Jersey
http://newjersey.news12.com/story/37398412/new-bill-could-legalize-home-grown-marijuana-in-new-jersey

New FDU marijuana poll highlights continued divisions
http://www.njbiz.com/article/20180201/NJBIZ01/180209990/new-fdu-marijuana-poll-highlights-continued-divisions

N.J. Assembly majority whip sitting out marijuana legalization | Philly 420
http://www.philly.com/philly/business/cannabis/n-j-assembly-majority-whip-sitting-out-marijuana-legalization-philly-420-20180123.html

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for January 9, 2018

Monthly Public Meeting Agenda 
Lawrence Twp. Library, Rm. #3 
Tuesday, January 9, 2018 
7:00 PM -- 9:00 PM

Approve December 2017 minutes. Discuss:

Governor-elect Phil Murphy plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018. Who is contacting whom in the new Administration about patient access, decriminalization, expungement? Gov. Christie finishes his second term at noon on Jan. 16, followed by Murphy inauguration at War Memorial: https://www.njinaugural2018.com/tuesday

California rolls out legal marijuana 1/1/18.

Press Conference at Statehouse, Trenton, 1/9/18 at 11:00 am in support of home cultivation.

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): Facebook’s “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns.

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

Marijuana Justice Act of 2017 (S1689): Congressional co-sponsors sought for Sen. Cory Booker’s federal bill.

CMMNJ Year End Report 2017 completed; detailed financial report sent to CMMNJ Board members.

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

Upcoming Events:
“CMMNJ TV” taping at Princeton TV studio, January 2018.
Patients Out of Time conference, Jersey City, NJ, May 10 – 12, 2018.

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

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
December 12, 2017

November 2017 minutes approved. Discussion:

Governor-elect Phil Murphy reaffirms plans to legalize marijuana in the first 100 days of 2018! Who is contacting whom in the new Administration about moving forward with advances for patient access and decriminalization/expungement? Jim Miller working with Bill Caruso and he is willing to accompany any patient in legislative meetings; Ken working with Doctors for Cannabis Regulation; Peter & Bob Kane working with S. Jersey legislators; patients/advocates urged to contact individual legislators.

Gov. Christie finishes his second term at noon on Jan. 16.

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

NJ’s legalization bill (S3195): “Friends of CMMNJ” letter template in support of home cultivation, addressing concerns.

Expect marijuana use uptick of 3% with new law; 97% of current marijuana users will just change vendors from illegal market to legal market. Teen use down in legal states.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2018 CMMNJ meetings were approved for 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.

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:

                 

'Let Us Home Grow,' New Jersey Marijuana Advocates Say
https://patch.com/new-jersey/bloomfield/let-us-home-grow-new-jersey-marijuana-advocates-say

NJ marijuana legalization: When will weed be legalized?
http://www.app.com/story/news/politics/new-jersey/2017/12/08/marijuana-legal-new-jersey-when-timeline-2018/931192001/

Legal marijuana in N.J.! Hip, Hip, ... Hurrah? | Opinion
http://www.nj.com/opinion/index.ssf/2017/12/legal_marijuana_in_nj_hip_hip_hurrah_opinion.html

Fact Check: Chris Christie Claims He Has ‘No Problem’ With Doctor Regulated Marijuana Use
https://www.weednews.co/fact-check-chris-christie-claims-he-has-no-problem-with-doctor-regulated-marijuana-use/

Marijuana Job Workshop In New Jersey Will Train 'Budtenders'
https://patch.com/new-jersey/maplewood/marijuana-job-workshop-new-jersey-will-train-budtenders

V.A. Issues New Medical Marijuana Policy For Military Veterans
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/v-issues-new-medical-marijuana-policy-veterans/

Summit on drugged driving urges state to slow down marijuana legalization
https://www.njtvonline.org/news/video/summit-drugged-driving-urges-state-slow-marijuana-legalization/

NJ marijuana legalization: Point Pleasant Beach bans medical, recreational weed sales
http://www.app.com/story/news/local/public-safety/2017/12/26/nj-marijuana-weed-legalization-point-pleasant-beach-phil-murphy/982249001/

Weed goes legal in California. Here's how the program will work
http://www.nj.com/marijuana/2017/12/weed_goes_legal_in_california_heres_how_the_progra.html

What Weedman thinks about weed legalization might surprise you
http://www.nj.com/mercer/index.ssf/2017/12/i_want_legalization_but_we_are_being_excluded_says.html

How will legalizing marijuana impact police work?
http://www.northjersey.com/story/news/new-jersey/2017/12/31/how-legalizing-marijuana-impact-police-work/985299001/

How to grow your own marijuana. (If N.J. legislators allow it, of course.) | Philly 420
http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/philly420/how-to-grow-your-own-marijuana-if-nj-legislators-allow-it-of-course-philly-420-20171229.html

Recreational Pot Is Officially Legal in California
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/01/01/us/legal-pot-california.html?_r=0

NORML Blog, Marijuana Law Reform »
Working to reform marijuana laws
http://norml.org/

Former DEA Spokeswoman: Marijuana is Safe and The DEA Knows It
https://patients4medicalmarijuana.wordpress.com/2017/12/24/former-dea-spokeswoman-marijuana-is-safe-and-the-dea-knows-it/

As recreational marijuana becomes legal in California, Jewish advocates are ready
https://www.jweekly.com/2017/12/22/recreational-marijuana-becomes-legal-california-jewish-advocates-ready/

As Marijuana Industry Grows, Workers Begin to Unionize
https://ww2.kqed.org/news/2017/12/19/as-marijuana-industry-grows-workers-begin-to-unionize/?utm_source=social&utm_medium=Hootsuite&utm_campaign=UFCW

Legalization Activists Bring Advice, Weed to Lavallette Council Meeting
http://lavallette-seaside.shorebeat.com/2017/12/legalization-activists-bring-advice-weed-to-lavallette-council-meeting/

CMMNJ Minutes for December 12, 2017 Meeting

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes
December 12, 2017

November 2017 minutes approved. Discussion:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CMMNJ Meeting Agenda for December 12, 2017

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

Approve November 2017 minutes. Discuss:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monthly Public Meeting Minutes 
November 14, 2017

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

All Items on Agenda covered-Notes of discussions below.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recent Media Coverage and Blogs:


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

September 13, 2017

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

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

To whom it may concern:

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,


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