Competition among N.J. medical pot dispensaries lowers prices

New medical marijuana dispensaries in New Jersey are causing prices to fall as they compete with other dispensaries in the state.

The state Health Department released a report last month saying the average price in 2015 was $489 an ounce, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Advocates said that was among the highest in the nation.

But two dispensaries launched last fall have offered discounts and specials knocking that price down to the $300 range, as well as innovative products.

New Jersey has five dispensaries, but the number of patients has fallen below expectations.

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Dispensary operators and patients said that’s due to strict state regulations that have made the program too expensive.

Health officials have defended the rules, saying they want patients to get a safe product.

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