Christie Strikes Deal On Medical Marijuana
NEW YORK (WCBS 880) – New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie eased his stance on proposed medical marijuana regulations after signing a deal on Friday paving the way for the drug to be available by next summer.
"We're affording people a greater chance of receiving the care that they need in their time of pain," Christie said.
Potency regulations will remain in place, but the deal makes it easier for terminally ill patients to get medical marijuana, WCBS 880's Levon Putney reports.
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LISTEN: WCBS 880's Levon Putney reports
Christie said the legislature will keep a close eye on the program to make sure it is not being abused.
"The THC requirements are going to be monitored by the department and the legislature over the next two years to make sure the program is going to be as effective as it can be for those who are in need of this treatment," Christie said.
The deal was a good faith compromise, Christie said, "on a responsible medically based program" that will allow six dispensaries to be started—two in the South, two in Central Jersey and two in the North.
The bill's main sponsor, Assemblyman Reed Gusciora, said it's about time to sign legislation that benefits the patient.
"We're now moving forward with the appropriate regulations, which keep the patient's needs first," Gusciora said.
