To meet the rising demand for state-approved cannabis, the state Department of Health is reviewing 146 applications for six licenses by Nov. 1, including 51 applications vying for two licenses that will be granted in South Jersey. Four of the state's existing medical marijuana facilities, known as Alternative Treatment Centers, are also requesting state approval to add satellite locations.
During a recent visit to Camden, state Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal told the Courier-Post he believes towns should welcome a medical marijuana dispensary because it would increase access for local patients. The state's medical marijuana program serves 32,000 patients — nearly double the number who registered during Gov. Chris Christie's administration.
"We're seeing such a tremendous surge of patients seeking medical marijuana, knowing how effective it is for their conditions," Elnahal said. "(Having) a medical marijuana dispensary in town will be able to serve their community and those needs."
Here's a status report on various proposals across the tri-county region: