TRENTON, NJ – Whether you’re at the beach, an open-air concert, the boardwalk, a park or anywhere else in New Jersey, chances are you are going to smell the odor of marijuana wafting through the air.
It has become the new normal in a post-legal marijuana age in New Jersey.
A year following the legalization of recreational marijuana, many New Jersey residents have reported a prevalent scent of weed in public areas and even within their residences, reveals a poll conducted by Stockton University.
The survey indicates that 57% of New Jersey adults have frequently sensed the smell of marijuana in public areas. Additionally, around 29% have detected the aroma emanating from neighboring homes. However, despite the prevalence of the scent, a majority, 52%, of the adults surveyed stated they were not perturbed by the smell. Conversely, 19% expressed significant annoyance, with non-users of marijuana more likely to be disturbed by the scent.
John Froonjian, director of the Hughes Center, highlighted the unanticipated challenge posed by the scent of marijuana in public spaces in New Jersey, saying, “Not much thought was given to the issue of the smell of marijuana becoming part of the public landscape in New Jersey.” He noted the limited number of legal venues for marijuana consumption, resulting in individuals using the substance in public settings like parks and streets.
On the topic of cannabis consumption lounges, the N.J. Cannabis Regulatory Commission’s rules, although permitting such establishments, have seen few being inaugurated. Current regulations dictate these lounges be attached to marijuana dispensary locations and prohibit sales of food and alcohol, potentially restricting their allure and accessibility.
Additionally, the poll touched upon the concerns surrounding driving under the influence of marijuana. 39% of the respondents knew someone who drove while high on cannabis. While 51% deem driving after cannabis consumption as highly dangerous, this contrasts with 90% who regard drunk driving in the same light. Froonjian commented, “Driving while intoxicated by any substance is a bad idea that causes accidents. Responsible users must avoid driving while high on weed.” The poll also emphasized the demand for a roadside test to determine marijuana-induced impairment, with 73% of participants regarding it as a significant concern.