In a surprising shake-up, New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) is undergoing a significant change. Charles Barker, a leading voice against the influence of big cannabis corporations, has been removed by the Murphy administration. This decision has left many advocates concerned about the future of social justice in the state’s cannabis industry.
Barker’s Replacement: Who is Amelia Mapp?
Barker’s seat is set to be filled by Amelia Mapp, a Union County Board of Taxation Commissioner and wife of Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp. Although Mapp comes with a background in the pharmaceutical industry as an accounts payable specialist, critics worry that she lacks the strong social justice credentials that Barker brought to the table.
Barker, a civil rights advocate from the National Action Network (NAN), had been an outspoken critic of the growing influence of corporate cannabis companies, arguing that the state’s legalization effort had strayed from its original goals of equity and justice for communities disproportionately harmed by the War on Drugs.
Governor Murphy’s Statement
In a statement released Friday, the administration acknowledged Barker’s contributions over the past three and a half years, particularly his work in establishing a fair and equitable adult-use cannabis market. The Governor’s office noted:
“We look forward to Commissioner-designate Amelia Mapp continuing to build upon this important work on the Commission.”
However, many insiders feel the move signals a potential shift away from prioritizing social justice. Leo Bridgewater, a prominent cannabis activist, was quick to criticize the decision.
What This Change Means for N.J.’s Cannabis Industry
- Social Justice Concerns: Barker’s removal raises questions about the state’s commitment to its original social justice promises. One of Barker’s key criticisms was how the cannabis legislation had fallen short of its goals to uplift communities most affected by cannabis criminalization.
- Corporate Influence: Barker’s opposition to the influence of large cannabis corporations in New Jersey’s market was well-known. His replacement has sparked concerns that the state is shifting towards favoring corporate interests over smaller, social equity applicants.
- Mapp’s Background: While Mapp is a Black woman, satisfying the racial representation requirement of the CRC, some feel her professional background in pharmaceuticals doesn’t align with the social justice focus Barker championed.
A Wider Debate: Corporate Cannabis vs. Social Equity
Barker’s removal comes at a time when the cannabis industry in New Jersey is seeing rapid growth, but not without controversy.
Social justice advocates have long argued that the state’s cannabis laws should prioritize small businesses, particularly those owned by Black and brown entrepreneurs, who have been disproportionately affected by cannabis-related arrests.
However, there’s increasing concern that large cannabis companies are dominating the space, making it harder for smaller players to compete.
The Role of the Legislative Black Caucus
Bridgewater also pointed out that this move wouldn’t have occurred under the watch of the late Sen. Ron Rice, former chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. Rice was a vocal critic of New Jersey’s cannabis legalization efforts, often referring to them as a “smokescreen” for allowing large corporations to take control.
Reaction from the National Action Network
The removal has left many at the National Action Network surprised. Barker was a strong advocate for racial justice within the cannabis space and his removal suggests that the administration may be pivoting away from the equity-focused agenda it had initially laid out. A source from NAN mentioned they were caught off-guard by the move, especially since Gov. Phil Murphy had recently spoken at one of their events, reaffirming his commitment to racial justice.
What’s Next for New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission?
While Mapp’s appointment still needs to be confirmed by the state Senate, it’s clear that the future of New Jersey’s cannabis industry is at a crossroads.
Will the state continue to prioritize social equity, or is this the beginning of a more corporate-driven approach to cannabis regulation?
As advocates and industry insiders watch closely, the Murphy administration faces increasing pressure to stay true to the original promises of equity, justice, and opportunity for those most affected by cannabis prohibition.
Conclusion: A Critical Moment for N.J. Cannabis Policy
Charles Barker’s removal from the CRC highlights the ongoing tension between corporate interests and social justice in the cannabis industry. While Amelia Mapp may bring a fresh perspective, the big question is whether she will carry forward the social justice torch that Barker lit.
For now, many advocates remain skeptical and will be watching closely to see how Mapp’s appointment impacts the future of New Jersey’s cannabis market.
