New Jersey Senator Hopes to Void New Medical Marijuana Rules
Many New Jersey legislators believe that Gov. Chris Christie’s proposed regulations on distributing medical marijuana undermines the intent of the law. According to NJ.com, Senator Nicholas Scutari scheduled a January 20, 2011 hearing to force the governor’s administration to adjust their proposed regulations. New Jersey only recently became the 14th state to adopt medical marijuana laws. The details regarding how the police will enforce these news laws are still being debated.
As the law currently stands, patients who would like to legally obtain medical marijuana must register with the Department of Health and Senior Services’ Medicinal Marijuana Program. Once registered, a certified doctor may prescribe use of the drug. Only patients with a debilitating medical condition such as terminal cancer or muscular dystrophy may receive a medical marijuana prescription in New Jersey. Not all debilitating conditions would automatically qualify for a prescription, so patients may have to file a petition for acceptance into the program.
During this transitional period surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana, there is bound to be a number of unnecessary or unlawful arrests. Patients believing they are legally obtaining marijuana may face harsh penalties. Stores that sell marijuana may face undue scrutiny and wrongful prosecution. Anyone mistakenly arrested for marijuana possession during this transitional period in New Jersey would be well-advised to fight the charges with the help of a skilled lawyer.
The Princeton marijuana defense attorneys at Lependorf & Silverstein stay informed about the changing marijuana laws in New Jersey. We understand the rights of New Jersey patients and the seriousness of a marijuana offense. If you have been charged with possession of marijuana in New Jersey, please call our office at 609-240-0040 to discuss your case at no cost.
