Controlled Dangerous Substance Act

Much has changed over the last decade when it comes to cannabis law. While marijuana possession, sale and manufacture remain technically illegal in New Jersey and Pennsylvania on both the state and federal levels, the states differ on many of the enforcement protocols and penalties. This is particularly true in the area of medical marijuana (MMJ). Laws related to its legal use in New Jersey will continue to evolve.

Under federal law, marijuana is a Schedule I controlled substance.[1]The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), placed marijuana in is most restrictive category, Schedule I. It further defined marijuana as a drug with a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use for treatment, and lacking acceptable safety uses even under medical supervision. 21 U.S.C. Section 812(b)(1).

Marijuana On School Grounds? Proceed With Caution

The primary concern for public school administrators is that marijuana is still listed as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, which means the federal government continues to take the position there is no acceptable medical use of the drug. Accordingly, the use of medical marijuana within 1,000 yards of school property could cause schools who receive federal funding to run afoul of the Drug Free Workplace Act and cause a loss of that federal funding.

And New Jersey's top cop wants to hear from you on this subject.

Later this month, the state Attorney General's Office will host four public hearings seeking input as to whether marijuana should remain a "schedule 1" drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medicinal value.