As someone who works in cannabis land use planning, it's an equity concern to provide spaces where people can smoke legally. Only homeowners really have a legal space, as rental units, parks, and most sidewalk areas formally prohibit it (of course enforcement is a different story). It also provides a more private and comfortable space to smoke vs the sidewalk, as well as a space for newcomers to experience weed in a supervised space.

The interesting peculiarities in NJ are that there is an incredibly strict delineation between food/drink and cannabis. Edibles can't look like food (child safety), and consumption lounges can't be on the same premises as a place serving food and drink (probably child safety too, but I imagine that's more so the liquor-license lobby at play).

That said, just buy some pre-rolls for a few bucks and enjoy the lounge.