There’s a shift happening in Washington that many veterans have been waiting years for. In May, the U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation that would allow doctors at the Department of Veterans Affairs to recommend medical cannabis to veterans living in states where it’s legal.
The Senate will soon consider the bill, and lawmakers will determine whether it becomes law. Meanwhile, the momentum behind the legislation shows that veteran access to cannabis is an important national conversation.
As veterans, Shore House Canna owners Tom Nuscis and Dave Christian pay close attention to how cannabis benefits their community. It’s why they support veteran-owned New Jersey cultivators and manufacturers who harness the power of the plant.
That personal stake is why Nuscis and Christian founded Shore House Canna in the first place.
Key Takeaways:
- Federal medical cannabis policy could soon change for veterans.
- Veterans face a real opioid risk, which is a key reason many turn to medical cannabis.
- A medical card isn’t required under New Jersey’s recreational cannabis law.
- Shore House Canna is built around veteran support.
Why Veterans Are Turning to Cannabis
Chronic pain, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury are the three conditions most often cited by veterans who seek relief with medical cannabis. Statistics show that veterans are twice as likely to experience a fatal opioid overdose compared to civilians. Overdose prevention calls for alternative pain management.
“Finding cannabis useful is something that has become synonymous with PTSD,” Tom Nuscis says. As a disabled veteran, Nuscis sees medical cannabis as a meaningful option to manage pain and symptoms without relying on opioids. “We have an alternative for sleep and pain… without taking harsh medications.”
Dave Christian, U.S. Army veteran, agrees. “We see a lot of veterans come through our store here using cannabis for anxiety,” he says. “A great night’s sleep is a big use case. And taking the edge off of chronic pain in lieu of opioids.”
What’s Changing at the VA
Currently, under federal policy, Veterans Affairs doctors can discuss cannabis use with patients, but they cannot fill out forms to help them legally access medical cannabis, even in states where it’s legal. Consequently, many veterans must seek out outside, often expensive, medical providers instead of getting help from their own doctors at the VA.
That would change under the House-passed amendment. If it is signed into law, VA physicians can make official recommendations in states where medical cannabis is legal.
The Senate still needs to pass the measure. Nevertheless, although both the House of Representatives and Senate previously passed similar proposals, neither chamber has ever enacted them into law. Hopefully, this time will be different.
Veterans deserve more treatment options. Finally, the conversation around their care is widening.
What New Jersey Veterans Need to Know
Thankfully, New Jersey veterans don’t have to wait on the federal government to access medical cannabis today. The state’s Medical Marijuana Program allows residents, including veterans, to register with a qualifying condition such as chronic pain or PTSD through a state-authorized provider. Veterans pay a reduced rate of $20 for a registration card, which is valid for two years.
Locally, you don’t need a medical card at Shore House Canna. After New Jersey passed the state’s recreational cannabis law in 2022, anyone over 21 can access cannabis without a prescription. To experience the therapeutic uses of THC, all you need is a valid ID.
“When you come into Shore House, we have educated budtenders who can talk to you about what it is that you’re dealing with, and what it is that you’re trying to address through cannabis or other prescription drugs,” Christian says. “We can guide you to the right product.”
They have plenty to choose from. Notably, Shore Canna carries veteran-owned brands including Victory Natural Farms, which former U.S. Army Captain Evan Cleaver owns, and North Lake Supply, a certified women-owned, veteran-led cannabis business. In particular, these brands highlight the commitment to supporting veterans within the cannabis community.
If you want to support veteran-owned cannabis businesses, Shore House Canna is a great place to start.
TK VETERAN DISCOUNT INFO?
FAQ
- Do I need a medical card to buy cannabis at Shore House Canna?
No. Since New Jersey legalized recreational cannabis in 2022, anyone 21 or older can purchase cannabis with a valid ID, no prescription or medical card required.
- Can my VA doctor help me get medical cannabis?
Not yet. Under current federal policy, VA doctors can discuss cannabis use with patients but can’t fill out the paperwork to help them access it. A House-passed amendment could change that, but it still needs Senate approval before becoming law.
- What conditions do veterans most often use cannabis for?
Chronic pain, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury are the most commonly mentioned conditions. Veterans often use cannabis for anxiety, sleep, and pain management as an alternative to opioids.
- Does Shore House Canna carry veteran-owned products?
Yes. The store carries veteran-owned brands like Victory Natural Farms (owned by former U.S. Army Captain Evan Cleaver) and North Lake Supply, a certified women-owned, veteran-led business.
The Next Frontier Is Here
In conclusion, you don’t need to wait for a Congressional amendment to access great cannabis in New Jersey. Shore House Canna is here for the veteran community, no medical card required.
If you’re a veteran in New Jersey who is curious about medical cannabis, stop by Shore House Canna and chat with one of our experienced budtenders. We’re here to help you find what works for you.
DISCLAIMER: The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
