The pro-marijuana movement just keeps trucking along, with New Jersey’s newly inaugurated governor directing officials to study the state’s limited medical marijuana program with a “focus on expanding patient access.”
Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy shared on Tuesday that his administration’s approach to medical cannabis would be very different than that of his predecessor, Republican and former presidential candidate Chris Christie, according to Marijuana Moment.
“Roadblocks put in place by the past administration means the law’s spirit has been stifled,” the new governor said before signing an executive order mandating that the state Department of Health and Board of Medical Examiners begin a 60-day review of the program.
Murphy also tweeted that he knows the healing power of the controversial drug, and “will not deny people compassionate care any longer.”
For eight years, medical marijuana has been difficult to access in New Jersey. Today, we’re turning the page. A fairer New Jersey means expanding access to medical marijuana for patients in need. pic.twitter.com/HtDqQDxShK
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) January 23, 2018
Medical marijuana is used to treat chronic and debilitating pain, epilepsy, glaucoma, PTSD, ALS, side effects of cancer treatment, side effects of HIV/AIDS, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis and other painful illnesses. We will not deny people compassionate care any longer.
— Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) January 23, 2018
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Born and raised in Compton, California, Jessica Bennett began her career as an intern at The Oakland Post, and later, The Source Magazine. She went on to write for respected hip hop publications such as DJ Booth and Hip Hop DX before becoming the Urban Editor of pop culture website, Wetpaint.com. She joined Ebony as the Entertainment Editor August 2017. Bennett has interviewed such names as Vanessa Williams, Spike Lee, Tyra Banks, Forest Whitaker, Magic & Cookie Johnson and several others.