SEEF Comments from Angela Speakman Recommends Education Funding

Angela Speakman submitted recommendations to fund public cannabis education efforts to the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission for the Social Equity Excise Fee (SEEF) hearing, urging the State to invest in formal cannabis education programming fro general audiences.

As written by ES Founder Angela Speakman, SEEF recommendations

"As per the explanation on​ the nj.gov CRC blog, SEEF "represents a direct effort to address the inequalities of the past and ensure that the legal cannabis market benefits everyone, not just a select few." The blog content goes on to note that NJ is the only state to implement this type of tax​/funding program in order to support those harmed by the "criminalization o​f cannabis," often widely referred to as the failed War on Drugs. In order to deliver on the intention to further a "more equitable society" through several key funding areas (social support services, business development for social equity applicants, expungement and legal aid programs, public awareness campaigns, and community reinvestment), a significant portion of the monies collected through the SEEF mandatory fees should be spent on meaningful, relevant, and formal public cannabis education programming​, which aligns with the public awareness campaign priority area.

Why is this an urgent and widespread need? Because cannabis arrived in our statewide marketplace with heavy, complex baggage that stems from over a century of inaccurate information, often driven by unethical motives from those in positions of authority.  The purpose of the SEEF funds as outlined on the NJCRC website inherently acknowledges this longstanding circumstance and the State of New Jersey has an obligation to invest in funding and resources to proactively institute a formal public cannabis education initiative, one designed to be ongoing and beneficial to the general public.  Without immediate action to address the needs of New Jerseyans, problematic stigma will remain prevalent, individual confidence and empowerment to make informed health and wellness decisions will be limited, and the potential to achieve a more equitable society will continue to be suppressed.   

As the founder of Elucidation Strategies, a cannabis education agency, and an instructor in the Stockton University Hemp and Cannabis Business Management undergraduate degree program, my professional focus is on cannabis education and helping people make informed decisions about this complex topic.  ​On a daily basis, I encounter New Jerseyans who need access to information from trusted, neutral sources, from professionals who are willing and able to appropriately support the exploration of this multifaceted topic. Sometimes I encounter people in tears managing confusion and fear because the trusted sources in their world are unable to provide accurate responses to plant medicine questions; other times, I encounter well-intended community influencers attempting to make cannabis business decisions that have wide-reaching economic and public health impact - real-life implications for community members - based on false beliefs, not realizing that they are furthering harm that will ultimately ripple across lives and neighborhoods.  Since the launch of the AU marketplace, I have talked with thousands of New Jerseyans who want AND need more than bullet points in a toolkit, brief sales-driven conversations, and safety disclaimers in their digital feeds. The assurance that "stigma is waning" is not enough; intentional actions are desperately needed. As an experienced cannabis educator, patient, and advocate, I am​ making​ this ​recommendation based on the following realities:

1. There is an urgent need across all New Jersey communities for access to reliable, relevant, and accurate cannabis education.  New Jerseyans deserve much more than what is currently available. ​After over a century of prohibition accompanied by problematic and inaccurate information, continued status discrepancy between federal and state regulation, and decades of inequity-driven messaging crafted in direct opposition to this ancient form of plant medicine, considerable investment in helping people understand the fundamentals and context surrounding cannabis should be an urgent priority.  If you want individuals to be able to make informed decisions about anything regarding this truly unique topic, industry, or controversy, explaining fundamental concepts, including historical insight about how the continued controversy developed, why rampant misinformation exists and why research data and evidence is not as prevalent as it should be, and how to locate reliable resources, should be a foundational part of community engagement around the topic of cannabis. 

2. With genuine investment in systematic and comprehensive public cannabis education efforts, facilitated by trained educators who specialize in cannabis and related topics, the ROI for all cannabis industry stakeholders and New Jerseyans is enormous.  That ROI touches the lives of all in the Garden State, particularly when looking through the economic, social justice, and public health lenses. ​When public cannabis education discussions arise, especially with those focused on policy and regulation, what's often pointed to are current available learning opportunities: safety practices, workforce development, and entrepreneurial support.  While these are all incredibly valuable programs and offerings, this does not address the wide-ranging needs of the general public.  Individuals who are afforded the opportunity to learn about cannabis past, present and future from experienced educators who specialize in this complicated subject matter are only then equipped to make informed decisions.  If an in-person/online/hybrid public cannabis education learning program was accessible for millions of 21+ New Jerseyans, the important work of combatting stigma, bolstering the statewide economy, and informed wellness decisions will become standard.  Customized and nuanced education is what will move the needle, ultimately benefiting all.   

​3. The​ "things are slowly changing" sentiment that I've heard across the industry is unsatisfactory and advances complacency that is not helping New Jerseyans who want to explore reliable information now. New Jersey's thoughtful and practical approach to the launch of this industry stands out among other states; our track record is impressive and showcases commitment to nurturing successful growth in a fledgling industry. We have learned from other legalization efforts and have quickly become a model for other states across the country.  Looking to some of the pioneer states like CO, CA, and WA, states we have previously looked to for guidance and best practices, we can ascertain the immense value and impact of organized public cannabis education efforts that cover ALL the aspects of the plant, including history, science, consumption, and much more.  The SEEF tax program was essentially designed for this type of initiative and a public cannabis education program would require a dedicated, ongoing funding source to achieve the desired outcomes.  

I am not simply submitting these recommendations; I am submitting these recommendations while offering to be part of the solutions to the many issues, obstacles, and problems that exist because of the lack of​ access public cannabis education. While there are some efforts made by the NJCRC, education-minded licensed operations and ancillary businesses, and other industry stakeholders, significant gaps currently exist that can be addressed through high-quality learning opportunities.  I, alongside my colleagues, have developed and facilitated informative and enjoyable public programming, complete with responsive curriculum and responsible resources, to provide audiences with meaningful learning opportunities that support and empower participants, regardless of the type of intersection (ex/ individual wellness, caregiving responsibilities, municipality processes, etc.). 

Over the past several years, I have designed and delivered responsive and customized public programs for libraries and community centers, higher education institutions, and local community organizations who sought out learning opportunities for their audiences.  These programs are effective and efficient; I am happy to share impact data and evaluation results that demonstrate how the public cannabis education I have provided has helped New Jersey community members. 

In an effort to help the NJCRC and other public service representatives explore what this type of learning program could look like, I would like to offer an on-site public program experience for staff and appointed personnel that would serve as an interactive and proven example of what is possible.  Participation in this program is likely to be elucidating, as my approach to cannabis education provides valuable, relevant, and meaningful content and conversation that significantly widens understanding and informed decision-making.  If there is any additional information I can provide, I am happy and able to do so.  Thank you for the opportunity to submit my SEEF funds recommendations."

Contact Elucidation Strategies for cannabis education services.