On February 22, New Jersey passed several laws legalizing the recreational use of marijuana. This new legislation will have far reaching implications for New Jersey communities, families and businesses.

For families, this can be a teachable moment to talk with children about the effects marijuana can have on the developing mind and body. It could be an opportunity to have a family discussion or perhaps create a family policy of expectations regarding cannabis. The Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey (PDFNJ) will continue to provide messaging to New Jersey residents about the potential impacts that marijuana can have on today’s youth.

Our latest public service announcements aim to make New Jersey residents aware of the effects marijuana could have on young people. They are going to be seen throughout the state on bus shelters, highway service stations and on public transportation.

I also recently spoke about the new cannabis laws on ABC6 television and New Jersey 101.5 radio. These segments provide highlights and information on the new legislation.

The next few months may also be challenging for business owners as they begin to navigate the impact of the legalization of cannabis on the workplace. Employers can start preparing their workplaces for the new policies and procedures.

PDFNJ’s Drugs Don’t Work in New Jersey program was established to help business owners maintain and keep their workplace drug-free. In our recent winter newsletter, Stephen E. Trimboli, Esq. of Trimboli & Prusinowski, LLC, explained that “Users of lawful cannabis in New Jersey will now enjoy workplace protections that exceed those enjoyed by alcohol consumers and users of lawful prescription drugs. Employers will need to amend their drug-free workplace policies accordingly.”

To receive the Drugs Don’t Work in New Jersey newsletter and join this free of charge program please click here. Also, Drugs Don’t Work is hosting a "Marijuana in the Workplace" webinar at 11 a.m. Monday, May 3, focusing on the recreational use of marijuana, drug testing, work-related impairment issues and revising your drug-free workplace policy. 

Additionally, the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA) is a great resource for information on the new cannabis laws and outlined them in a recent newsletter. PDFNJ will also continue to keep you informed as the laws take effect in the next few months.

Continued wishes to stay safe and well.