Patients and advocates in New Jersey warily read news today of a request for a possible 12-month delay in the medical cannabis program. Some residents who are living with cancer, HIV and MS have already spoken with their physicians in anticipation of legal access this year.
Sources in state government told this blogger that over 2,000 people interested in becoming a registered patient or Alternative Treatment Center operator have preemptively contacted the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) in the last few months.
Draft rules for the cannabis program were expected from DHSS in July with patients hoping for the first legal medical marijuana distribution in the fall.
The NJ Spotlight and the Newark Star-Ledger reported today that Governor Chris Christie and DHSS have asked for 6 to 12 months more to issue regulations. Several complexities of putting the law into place were pointed out in the coverage, including the initial marijuana seed crop.
Senator Nicholas Scutari, one of the strongest supporters of medical marijuana in New Jersey, did not want to see any delay.
The NJ legislature passed the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act in January after five years of consideration. It allows doctors to recommend cannabis therapy to patients who suffer from a specific list of the most serious medical conditions. The law included language for a six-month implementation plan.
Non-profit advocates were unaware of any of the questions remaining for the Christie administration. The local medical cannabis experts, involved in the passage of the law, reported no inquiries yet from DHSS.
A press release from the Coalition for Medical Marijuana New Jersey (CMMNJ) is expected.
The Philadelphia NORML Examiner will interview medical marijuana patients and NJ advocates throughout the week as this story develops.
Subscribe to the Philadelphia NORML Examiner – it’s free!
NJ: Medical marijuana law offers new centralized approach
Breaking NJ: Court orders bail for man jailed over medical marijuana
NJ Senators ask Gov Christie for medical marijuana pardon
NJ MS patient: 5 year sentence for growing marijuana
MS patient: Not guilty on most serious marijuana charge
NJ: Judge allows John Wilson to mention MS at marijuana trial
Rally photos: MS patient John Wilson facing 15 years for 17 plants
NJ: Politicians speak out for medical marijuana
Final plea for medical marijuana in New Jersey
Comments
Christie is a imposing his own narrow minded beliefs. He was against MM before the election and only wavered enough to get additional votes. He's and attorney, a paid professional lier.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!