As we travel across the beautiful United States, we begin to notice the big green mark the little plant called marijuana has left on our country. Since 2016, all Pacific states have officially accepted the recreational use of marijuana (with the exception of Hawaii, which legalized medical cannabis only), but sometimes we might forget the impact of the Eastern Seaboard. Since this time, Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts have joined the fray. Meanwhile, powerhouses New York and Pennsylvania have officially permitted medical cannabis, and their little neighbor New Jersey has since followed suit. So how has the Garden State handled the distribution and regulation of this little mind-altering herb? Let’s travel to the urban wilderness and take a closer look at some facts about legal cannabis in New Jersey.
Many People, One Monster
While it is one of the smallest states in the country, New Jersey is (ironically) one of the most tightly inhabited, reporting a population of 9 million residents in 2017. Despite its sprawling urban cluster, however, the aptly named Garden State offers some of the most beautiful sights in the nation and is home to some spectacular lore. In fact, New Jersey is home to the Pine Barrens, one of the largest uninhabited forests along the Atlantic, and thousands of tourists flock to the area to catch a glimpse of the Jersey Devil, one of the most unintentionally infamous symbols of the state. However, thrill-seekers and urban hoppers will appreciate an escape to New York, across the northern border. Who would’ve thought one of the most densely packed states could produce such beautiful landscapes?
The Way of the Weed
While recreational weed is still 100% illegal in the State of New Jersey, lawmakers officially legalized medical-grade cannabis in 2010. However, the government enforces rigorous regulations on the plant, meaning that only 0.09% (6,400) patients can be served. Some of these legal requirements include the reassessment of a license every 90 days, as well as educational programs for doctors (which they must take before they can issue the drug). Interestingly, though, New Jersey is the only state that allows minors to smoke consume medical cannabis on school property.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
