NJ Moves Forward: Medical Cannabis Access Expanded for Sickle Cell Anemia Patients
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New Hope for Sickle Cell Patients: NJ Assembly Approves Cannabis Access
If you’ve been wondering about the latest in New Jersey cannabis policy, here’s news worth knowing and sharing. A new bill is moving through the legislature that could expand medical cannabis access for thousands of New Jersey residents living with sickle cell anemia.
Bill A913, recently passed by the New Jersey Assembly with overwhelming support, seeks to officially add sickle cell anemia to the list of qualifying conditions for the state’s medical cannabis program. The vote came in strong: 70 in favor, just 2 against, and 4 abstentions, signaling broad bipartisan backing.
Why It Matters:
Sickle cell anemia affects approximately 64,000 New Jersey residents, many of whom endure chronic pain and other debilitating symptoms. For these individuals, medical cannabis could offer a new avenue for relief — a more natural, potentially life-improving alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals.
The bill is spearheaded by Assembly members Verlina Reynolds Jackson (D-Mercer) and William Spearman (D-Gloucester), with co-sponsorship from Joe Danielsen (D-Somerset). It previously passed the Assembly Health Committee and the Appropriations Committee with similarly strong support. While the Senate companion bill (S2392) has yet to advance, the momentum in the Assembly gives hope that change is on the horizon.
Stay informed. Stay empowered. And if you or someone you love is affected by sickle cell anemia, now may be the time to explore how medical cannabis might support wellness. Here at Smoke This Way, we believe in the power of education and access. This move represents progress not just for cannabis reform, but for compassionate, patient-centered care in our communities!