TRENTON, NJ – A new bill introduced in the New Jersey Assembly aims to expand access to medical cannabis for patients living with sickle cell anemia.
Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Assemblyman William Spearman are leading the measure, known as Assembly Bill 913.
The bill would add sickle cell anemia to the list of qualifying medical conditions under New Jersey’s medical cannabis law.
Key Points
- Bill A913 would authorize medical cannabis as a treatment option for sickle cell anemia.
- The legislation is sponsored by Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds-Jackson and Assemblyman William Spearman.
- Lawmakers say the measure could help alleviate chronic pain and other symptoms of the inherited blood disorder.
Cannabis as a treatment option
Sickle cell anemia is a genetic condition that affects red blood cells, causing chronic pain and frequent medical complications. Supporters of the bill argue that medical cannabis can help manage the disorder’s severe pain episodes and improve patient quality of life.
Under current New Jersey law, medical cannabis is approved for several chronic and terminal conditions, including cancer, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Adding sickle cell anemia would extend eligibility to thousands of residents who face limited pain management options.
Legislative support and process
The bill, pre-filed for the 2024 legislative session, amends the “Compassionate Use Medical Cannabis Act” first enacted in 2009. It is currently pending review by the Office of Legislative Counsel before being referred to committee for consideration.
Reynolds-Jackson, representing parts of Mercer and Hunterdon counties, said the measure reflects a growing consensus among healthcare professionals that cannabis offers therapeutic potential for pain control in sickle cell patients. Co-sponsor William Spearman of Camden and Gloucester counties has voiced similar support, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to alternative treatments.
Expanding medical cannabis access
If passed, New Jersey would join a number of states that explicitly include sickle cell anemia among qualifying conditions for medical cannabis use. The change would allow licensed healthcare practitioners to recommend cannabis for symptom relief, including chronic pain, inflammation, and sleep disruption.
The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment, signaling legislative urgency in addressing the needs of patients with chronic illnesses.
Looking ahead
The proposal arrives amid ongoing efforts in Trenton to modernize the state’s medical cannabis framework and broaden therapeutic access. While the measure enjoys bipartisan interest, it must still navigate committee review and floor votes in both chambers before reaching the governor’s desk.
For patients living with sickle cell anemia, lawmakers say the bill represents a chance for relief through compassionate care and medical innovation.