Sunday marked the two-year anniversary of the legalized sale of recreational cannabis in New Jersey. The market has grown from a few dispensaries to more than 100, including recreational-only, medical, and a combination of both.

Jeff Brown, executive director of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, said, “I think it’s a huge milestone that we’re now two years into adult use cannabis sales in the state of New Jersey. The market is expanding. It still shows a lot of potential. And it’s growing day by day, there’s now 130 stores open, retail sites. More and more cultivators are opening up and more and more manufacturers. So there’s greater product … more choices for consumers.”

Giovanni Paul, co-owner and vice president of Noiré Dispensary in Maplewood, said, “I think it’s awesome seeing that everyone is embracing it and welcoming the product. We are removing the stigma [and there’s] still ways to go.”

While many entrepreneurs laud the progress the industry has made in New Jersey, they say the still face barriers.

Precious Osagie-Erese tried to open a legal dispensary in her hometown of East Orange last year but was denied a license. Founder of Precious Canna Co., she said that forced her to pursue other avenues into the business. “I formed a pre-roll brand … I have a pre roll product that will be in most dispensaries in New Jersey launching in May.”

Meanwhile, advocates of at-home cultivation of cannabis are still pushing for that development. Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth), who supports a provision for homegrown marijuana, said he is disappointed New Jersey has yet to adopt it. “There’s no reason not to start at least the medical patients. I mean, I think it’s pretty unacceptable at this point,” Gopal said.