Representatives from the Stockton University chapter of Students Organizing for Marijuana Research and Transparency (SMART), Weedmaps, the Compassionate Care Foundation and the New Jersey Cannabis Industry Association held a public forum about the benefits of legalizing cannabis in New Jersey on Monday evening at Stockton University. The panel of experts featured a diverse array of professionals from the industry, including:
- Jenna Miscioascio, President of SMART at Stockton University
- Kelli Hykes, Director of Government Relations for Weedmaps
- Tim Weigand, Dispensary and Facilities Manager for Compassionate Care Foundation
- Kelley Crosson, Vice President of the New Jersey Cannabis Industry Association
- Renato Paoli, Assistant Grower for Compassionate Care Foundation
The panelists discussed prospective benefits to the state including jobs, tax revenue and increased capital investment that legal cannabis would bring.
“There are certain skills that will be beneficial in this industry. While the industry will take a while to develop in New Jersey, the opportunity and potential for growth is enormous. We have the skills ready to go in New Jersey and the state can be a real leader,” said Bridget Hill Zayat, the Stockton University Adjunct Professor who moderated the event.