NJ Eyes 100-Dispensary Expansion
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is proposing adding nearly 100 medical cannabis dispensaries in the state as part of his industry expansion plan after the legislature failed to pass adult-use legislation, according to an Asbury Park Press report. The plan would see a total of 108 dispensaries in the Garden State, up from just the six. Those currently active and another six licensed yet to open.
The expansion is part of a broader bill — the Jake Honig Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act — which would make broad changes to the state’s medical cannabis program, including reducing the number of times per year patients need to see their recommending physician; increasing the amount of cannabis that patients allowed to purchase per visit; phasing out the state sales tax on cannabis by January 1; allowing home delivery, and setting a goal of awarding 15 percent of licenses to minority business owners. And 15 percent for veterans, women, and disabled people.
The measure passed both legislative chambers last month but the legislature needs to reconcile. Some of the amendments before it moves to the governor.
Murphy’s administration is seeking applications for up to 24 cultivators, 30 manufacturers, and 54 dispensaries with 38 in northern New Jersey, 38 in the state’s central region, and 32 in the southern part of the state, according to the report.