Why it matters:
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin have announced an initiative that provides $15 million in grants to support Community-Based Violence Intervention (CBVI) programs. This funding comes in part from the state’s cannabis tax fund.
What they are saying:
Gov. Murphy stated that the initiative demonstrates the administration’s commitment to reducing violence and creating safer communities. Attorney General Platkin emphasized the focus on community-led violence intervention efforts to disrupt cycles of violence.
The big picture:
CBVI programs aim to address violence in areas where it is most prevalent by implementing a range of strategies such as mentoring programs, job training, and trauma support services. The state of New Jersey has been providing CBVI funds for three years, with the initiative expanding to include 31 community organizations.
What to watch:
Interested organizations can apply for a portion of the available funds by demonstrating a history of success in violence intervention work. Two categories are available: “Tertiary Prevention” for de-escalation and mediation services, and “Primary or Secondary Prevention” for violence prevention strategies in at-risk areas.
My take:
The initiative launched by Gov. Murphy and Attorney General Platkin is a crucial step towards addressing and reducing violence in New Jersey communities. By allocating funds from the cannabis tax, the state is leveraging a new revenue source to support important programs. It will be interesting to see the impact of these grants on violence prevention efforts and whether other states adopt similar initiatives using cannabis tax revenue.
