To the Editor:

I recommend that everyone who is interested in the subject of cannabis dispensaries in Princeton read the Cannabis Task Force (CTF) report (tinyurl.com/5643pz7e), which I found to be well-researched, thorough, and balanced. I was surprised when a fervid opposition to the recommendations in the report emerged, given that Princeton voted overwhelmingly in support of legalization. I don’t see how cannabis dispensaries are qualitatively different from liquor stores, which are an accepted part of our community.

Like alcohol, cannabis is now a legal drug. Like alcohol, cannabis will be for sale to adults only. As with alcohol, adults will be personally responsible for consuming cannabis appropriately and safely. There is a potential for abuse, as there is with all drugs, but blocking cannabis dispensaries in Princeton will not obviate that potential any more than getting rid of liquor stores would.

Opponents argue that the presence of cannabis dispensaries in Princeton will increase children’s awareness of cannabis and encourage them to use it. But it is no more feasible to hide the existence and legal consumption of cannabis from children than it is to hide the existence and legal consumption of alcohol. It is the responsibility of parents to educate their children about the dangers and illegality of underage use of any drug, including alcohol. Talking with and educating children about cannabis would be of vastly more benefit to them than blocking the establishment of cannabis dispensaries in our town.

As for the impact of dispensaries on crime, traffic, and parking, I trust the careful work of the CTF over the unfounded, hyperbolic claims of opponents who are determined to prove, as one of them put it, “starts with pot, ends with catastrophe.”

Cannabis dispensaries will not bring catastrophe to Princeton any more than liquor stores have. The dispensary opponents cannot change the fact that cannabis is legal in New Jersey. One way or another, legal cannabis will be consumed in our town. I strongly support the recommendation of the CTF that cannabis dispensaries be established in Princeton and I urge others who support the recommendation to write to our Council members (princetonnj.gov/872/Mayor-Council) and attend the Council meeting on Zoom at 7 p.m. on March 29.

Jane Eldridge Miller
Laurel Circle