Calling All Applicants, Calling All Applicants!!! It’s the Final Call for ATC Applications!
Last month, Gov. Murphy issued a Request for Applications (“RFA”) for additional Alternative Treatment Centers. Those looking to have a chance to obtain one of the six anticipated permits to operate an Alternative Treatment Center (“ATC”) must submit their application by 5 PM, Friday, August 31, 2018. The application process is open to most individuals/entities, except those currently holding or having a 25% stake in a permit issued by the NJ Department of Health (“Department”). The application and instructions can be found on the Department’s website here.
On August 9, the Department held a pre-application conference for all applicants. In order to submit an application for an ATC, at least one representative, on behalf of the applying entity, must have attended the conference. The conference reviewed the application process and addressed many questions that were received by the Department. Additionally, on August 15, the Department published answers to 190 questions. The Department noted that they received over 500 questions, and they anticipate posting additional responses shortly.
Of importance, while the Department issued a Notice of Rule Proposal to amend the current New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act, and it is expected that the current law will be amended shortly, the applications that are being accepted will be subject to the current regulations. The Department anticipates that a decision will be made by November 1 as to whom will be awarded the six permits.
Not to worry, if you missed this round of submitting an application or you are not one of the lucky six, the Department has assured the public that they anticipate issuing another RFA shortly. With the recent changes to the law, along with the anticipated changes to the Act, the number of registered patients will continue to rise, which will continue to increase the demand for medical marijuana. As that demand increases, so will the need to open additional ATCs.
If you have any questions about this post or any other related matters, please feel free to contact our Cannabis Law Practice Group.