February 22 is the self-imposed state deadline to open adult-use recreational marijuana sales. But cannabis industry insiders say, like other deadlines, it won't be met.
“I think that the CRC (New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission) are working diligently to open the adult-use market. I don’t know how far off it will be, but it seems like that deadline won’t be made at this point,” said Shaya Brodchandel, President of New Jersey Cannabis Trade Association (NJCTA) and CEO of the Harmony Dispensary.
It has been nearly a year since adult-use marijuana was legalized in the state.
Regulations for adult-use still have yet to be finalized, leading to a questionable commitment on when sales can begin. That, coupled with a lack of direction and communication from regulators and leaders, has led to frustration and a continued push for answers from cannabis sellers and growers.
“The biggest thing that we need to do at this point is have a regular ongoing communication with regulators and policymakers, so we can understand what is the time we are going to be permitted to begin the adult-use market," Brodchandel said.