New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy expressed his honor and pride during a visit to Prolific Growhouse, a Black-owned cannabis cultivation facility. The tour highlighted a significant milestone in New Jersey’s cannabis industry: a marijuana strain named “Murphy’s Sourz” in honor of the governor. This development underscores the state’s ongoing efforts to build an equitable and inclusive cannabis market.
A Memorable Visit to Prolific Growhouse
Governor Murphy’s tour of Prolific Growhouse showcased the growth and diversity of New Jersey’s cannabis industry since the legalization law passed in 2021. The facility, owned by David Nicolas, produces “Murphy’s Sourz,” a strain described as a delightful mix of sour lemon, sweet tangerine, with hints of diesel and pine. Murphy, holding a promotional flier for the strain, expressed his surprise and gratitude.
David Nicolas, CEO of Prolific Growhouse, shared his excitement, stating, “We were like, ‘Let’s try to get Governor Murphy’s attention with this one.’ I didn’t expect him to give me a surprise visit.” Murphy praised Nicolas as a “role model” for the industry, highlighting his journey from being adversely affected by the war on drugs to becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Calls for Continued Reform and Equity
Governor Murphy used the visit to emphasize the need for ongoing reform in the cannabis industry. He called for “more equity, more reward and redemption for the folks who were crushed by the war on drugs.” He reiterated his commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive industry that addresses past injustices.
Murphy’s tour is part of a broader effort to ensure that the cannabis industry in New Jersey is not only profitable but also fair and inclusive. Entrepreneurs like David Nicolas represent the potential for the industry to heal and uplift communities historically impacted by prohibition.
Record-Breaking Sales and Market Growth
New Jersey’s cannabis market has seen significant growth, with record sales reported in the first quarter of 2024. The state’s marijuana shops sold $201 million worth of products, reaching new historical highs, particularly during the 4/20 weekend, where sales exceeded $5.2 million.
The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) has been instrumental in supporting this growth while ensuring that the medical cannabis system remains robust. Recent measures include eliminating the cost of obtaining a medical cannabis card, making medical marijuana more accessible to patients.
Future Prospects: Consumption Lounges and Home Cultivation
In January, the CRC approved final rules for marijuana consumption lounges, allowing people to purchase and consume cannabis products on-site. This development is seen as a step towards normalizing cannabis use and creating social spaces around it. Advocates are also pushing for legislation to authorize home cultivation, a policy that Governor Murphy has supported.
However, home cultivation remains a felony in New Jersey, prompting ongoing efforts from lawmakers and activists to push for its legalization. Meanwhile, regulators are seeking input on how to allocate $3 million in revenue from a social equity tax on cannabis cultivators, aiming to reinvest in communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs.
Expansion and Challenges for Prolific Growhouse
Prolific Growhouse is currently in expansion mode, utilizing only a portion of its rented space in an industrial park. Plans include new flower rooms, space for cloning plants, additional packing rooms, a vault, and an employee break room. The facility also plans to install a full irrigation system for the plants.
David Nicolas shared that completing the build-out will require $700,000, a significant investment. Although Prolific Growhouse received a grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), more funding is needed. Nicolas pointed out the financial challenges faced by entrepreneurs from inner-city backgrounds, emphasizing the need for more grants and support from the state to ensure diversity in the industry.
“Cultivate the Legacy” Event
Earlier this year, Prolific Growhouse successfully hosted its inaugural event, “Cultivate the Legacy,” at Indigo Dispensary in Brooklawn, NJ. The event celebrated the intersection of Black culture and cannabis culture, emphasizing the positive impact of cannabis while dispelling stereotypes. Participants explored the intertwined narratives of culture and cannabis, commemorating historical roots and legal milestones.
The brand launched three new strains, now available in seven dispensaries across South Jersey. The celebration continued with an after-party at Vera Nightclub in Cherry Hill, NJ, allowing attendees to further mark the occasion. Prolific Growhouse extends its gratitude to sponsors for their support, contributing to the growth of a socially equitable cannabis industry in New Jersey.
Conclusion
Governor Murphy’s visit to Prolific Growhouse and the naming of “Murphy’s Sourz” highlight the progress and potential of New Jersey’s cannabis industry. The governor’s commitment to equity and reform, coupled with the industry’s impressive growth, signals a promising future for cannabis in the Garden State. Entrepreneurs like David Nicolas exemplify the transformative power of this industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and just cannabis market.
