The one thing marijuana bars should be able to serve in NJ

Now that we have legalized recreational marijuana in New Jersey, it was only a matter of time before we would have places to publically consume it. The powers that be are working on plans and rules to make marijuana bars happen in New Jersey.

I totally believe marijuana bars will be a great thing for New Jersey. My only problem with the idea is one of the rules being set down.

New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commsion logo- nj.gov

"Both the state and municipality would have to approve of any cannabis consumption area." No problem there.

"They would be barred from overselling to consumers and must ensure safe consumption, to the extent that they can." Makes sense to me.

"Like any cannabis business, people would have to be 21 years old to enter and must show a photo ID. However, registered medical cannabis patients would be permitted at all consumption areas." Totally on board.

"They could be indoor or outdoor but would need to be enclosed." Sure.

photo- Timur Romanov, Unsplash

"No alcohol or tobacco consumption would be allowed on the premises" Why? Do they not realize that people who use marijuana also drink and smoke? Then again, it's so hard to smoke in New Jersey that if they get yet another place to outlaw tobacco, you know they're going to jump on it.

"No food sales are allowed, but consumers would be allowed to bring food in or have it delivered." Here's where I have a major problem.

Why can't food be sold in marijuana bars? If it's allowed to be brought in or delivered, then the food isn't the problem. Since one of the side effects of marijuana is the munchies, why not allow these marijuana bars to take advantage of the market they create? It's just like putting salted peanuts and pretzels on the bar.

Not only that, but think of what a marijuana bar license could do for a struggling restaurant. If restaurants can serve drinks with a liquor license, why shouldn't they be allowed to serve edibles provided they follow the age and intoxication rules?

If they overserve, they would be subject to the law just like the bars are.

With liquor licenses so expensive and hard to come by, allowing restaurants the ability to purchase a marijuana license at the right price could be a boon for a struggling industry that was almost wiped out by the pandemic. Marijuana could actually be the "gateway drug" to more profitable businesses in New Jersey.

To me, it's a no-brainer, but when you consider the brains of those making the decision, it doesn't surprise me.

Opinions expressed in the post above are those of New Jersey 101.5 talk show host Steve Trevelise only. Follow him on Twitter @realstevetrev.

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Here's where NJ legal weed is sold

The number of recreational cannabis dispensaries continues to grow, with close to two dozen state approvals given since the first adult recreational sales in the state back in April. Here is where the open sites are located.

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions: