In a move that’s sure to make New Jersey’s cannabis enthusiasts happier than a stoner at a Doritos factory, Sen. Joseph Vitale has rolled out an early draft of legislation that could seriously spark up the state’s medical cannabis program. According to the Press of Atlantic City, this bill is so packed with potential changes, it’s like a well-stuffed joint of legislative reform.
The Bill’s Provisions
Here’s the juicy nugget of what’s in the proposed bill:
- Any healthcare provider who’s allowed to prescribe substances scarier than a horror movie marathon could also recommend medical cannabis.
- Out-of-state registered patients and caregivers could possess and administer medical cannabis in the state, but they wouldn’t be allowed to make purchases at New Jersey dispensaries. It’s like being invited to a party but not being allowed to hit the buffet.
- Patients could make purchases from any dispensary, not just the one they’re registered with. Because who doesn’t like a little variety?
- Limits on edibles for minors would be removed. Because apparently, gummy bears aren’t just for kids anymore.
- The Health Department would check if there are enough dispensaries to meet patient demand. If not, new permits would be issued, and 15% of those would go to a minority, woman, or veteran-owned business.
- Dispensaries could establish a medical advisory board to advise on business operations. Because sometimes, you need a little advice from your buds.
- Patients and caregivers couldn’t be discriminated against when enrolling in schools, colleges, universities, or when renting property. Because everyone deserves a fair shake, right?
Impact on Patients and Employees
The bill also includes some pretty chill employee protections. Employers wouldn’t be able to take action against patients enrolled in the program if they failed a drug test for cannabis. The employer would have to prove that the employee’s medical cannabis use impaired their ability to fulfill their duties. It’s like saying, “Sure, I ate the last slice of pizza, but can you prove it made me unable to do my job?”
New Conditions and Expansion
The draft doesn’t specify which conditions would be added to the regime. But last March, the state — nudged by Gov. Phil Murphy — added anxiety, migraines, Tourette’s syndrome, chronic pain related to musculoskeletal disorders, and chronic visceral pain. The state added 1,000 new patients in the month after the new conditions were added. Talk about a growth industry!
Vitale’s bill isn’t final and hasn’t been introduced yet. But for New Jersey’s cannabis enthusiasts, it’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. So, keep your fingers crossed, your lighters ready, and watch this space for more updates on the legislation that could change the game in the Garden State.
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