This bill amends the New Jersey Smoke Free Air Act to establish increased penalties specifically for smoking cannabis or marijuana on public beaches. The current penalties for smoking violations are set at $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. The new provisions will raise these fines to $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second, and $1,500 for each subsequent offense. Additionally, any penalties collected will be split equally between the State Treasury and local municipalities, with the State's portion dedicated to smoking cessation programs.

The bill aims to address enforcement challenges faced by beach towns following the legalization and decriminalization of recreational cannabis in New Jersey. By increasing the financial repercussions for violations, the sponsors believe that it will serve as a stronger deterrent against smoking cannabis or marijuana on public beaches, while maintaining the existing penalties for smoking cigarettes unchanged. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 26:3D-62