Reefer Madness In NJ: A Frustrating New Rule You Probably Didn't

Ever since New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s signature enabled marijuana legalization into law back on February 22, it’s been reefer madness in the Garden State!

Before that, New Jersians with qualifying medical conditions could obtain a registered medical marijuana card to legally purchase and use cannabis.

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But NOW the rules are set. This "historic" step will finally legally allow the adult use of cannabis and possession for adults 21 years and older, right?

Well, sort of...

The rules that were announced last week from the New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission, are a first step to guide businesses in this new venture.

But here’s the challenge for pot smokers.

According to a study done by the USA TODAY Network, over 70 percent of communities in the Garden State have said “no” to the recreational marijuana industry.

That’s about 400 towns!

They’ve even gone as far as passing ordinances prohibiting manufacturing, delivery, cultivation, or dispensaries.

Here's the good news...

The 98 municipalities that did pass ordinances giving the ok for dispensaries in their neighborhoods are located in the Central and Southern counties of New Jersey.

Still, it’s not quite "420" yet…

(a term that's been associated with marijuana use since 1971)

Dianna Houenou, chair of the CRC, thinks recreational cannabis users will probably have to wait until 2022 before they can literally walk through the door of a dispensary.

Here's what you probably didn't know...

These new cannabis rules also prohibit purchasing edibles. Yup that means no pot cookies, candies, or brownies. That hurts. Many weed connoisseurs and businesses were hoping to indulge in this pot world favorite.