New Jersey Cannabis Commission Sees Leadership Changes, Approves New Lounge

Chair Dianna Houenou departs as new Commissioner Jackie Ferraro joins, while the NJ-CRC greenlights the state's fifth cannabis consumption lounge.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:36pm

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The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ-CRC) saw the departure of Chair Dianna Houenou and the arrival of new Commissioner Jackie Ferraro at its latest meeting. The Commission also approved the opening of a new cannabis consumption lounge in Millville, the fifth such facility in the state.

Why it matters

Houenou's departure marks the end of an era for the NJ-CRC, which she helped build from the ground up to oversee the state's burgeoning legal cannabis industry. The addition of Ferraro, an industry veteran, signals the next phase of the commission's work. The approval of a new cannabis lounge also demonstrates the continued expansion of New Jersey's regulated marijuana market.

The details

During the meeting, Houenou reflected on the challenges of establishing the NJ-CRC and building a fair, equitable cannabis framework for the state. She noted the intense scrutiny and 'complex hurdles' the commission has faced, but said she is proud of the 'meaningful impact' the agency has had. Ferraro, who was appointed by the state Assembly Speaker, praised New Jersey's cannabis rollout and said she will work to create a 'more responsible, sustainable industry.' The commission also approved a new cannabis consumption lounge for Blazin Buddiez dispensary in Millville, the fifth such facility in the state after openings in Atlantic City and Merchantville.

  • Houenou's last public meeting as NJ-CRC Chair was on March 31, 2026.
  • Jackie Ferraro was appointed as a new NJ-CRC Commissioner at the same meeting.
  • The Blazin Buddiez cannabis lounge in Millville was approved on March 31, 2026.

The players

Dianna Houenou

The outgoing Chair of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, who helped build the agency from the ground up and oversaw the state's transition to a legal cannabis market.

Jackie Ferraro

The newly appointed Commissioner of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, who is an industry veteran and former cannabis legalization advocate.

Blazin Buddiez

A cannabis dispensary in Millville, New Jersey that was approved to open the state's fifth cannabis consumption lounge.

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What they’re saying

“Five years ago, the Commission existed only on paper. Then, one day, it became a government body with only 6 people on the payroll. Today, it oversees a functioning, diverse, and expanding industry that provides medical access, economic opportunity, and consumer protections to New Jersey residents.”

— Dianna Houenou, Outgoing Chair, New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission

“Because of your vision, New Jersey stands as a national model for what an equitable cannabis framework can look like.”

— Krista Nash, Commissioner, New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission

“New Jersey has done a great job rolling out this program. I've been in the industry for many years... born and raised in New Jersey.”

— Jackie Ferraro, Newly Appointed Commissioner, New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission

What’s next

The NJ-CRC will need to appoint a new Chair to replace Dianna Houenou, who is departing the commission. The addition of Commissioner Jackie Ferraro also signals the start of a new era for the regulatory body.

The takeaway

The changes at the NJ-CRC mark a pivotal moment for New Jersey's cannabis industry, as the state continues to build out a robust and equitable regulatory framework. The approval of a new consumption lounge also demonstrates the industry's ongoing expansion and the commission's efforts to provide safe and responsible access for consumers.