The bill amends New Jersey's existing legislation to clarify definitions and regulations surrounding hemp and cannabis, specifically updating Section 3 of P.L.2019, c.238 and Section 3 of P.L.2021, c.16. It establishes clear definitions for terms such as "Hemp producer," "Hemp product," and "Total THC," ensuring that hemp and its derivatives are recognized as agricultural commodities rather than controlled substances. The bill sets specific THC concentration thresholds for hemp products, which must not exceed 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis, and outlines permissible THC levels for servings and packages. Additionally, it introduces the definition of "intoxicating hemp product" for those exceeding 0.5 milligrams of total THC per serving or 2.5 milligrams per package, and mandates licensing for sellers of these products.

Moreover, the bill creates the "Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Fund," which will collect fees and tax revenues from cannabis and intoxicating hemp beverage sales. A portion of this fund will support an "Underage Deterrence and Prevention Account," while the majority will be directed towards municipalities classified as "impact zones" and law enforcement training. The bill also establishes penalties for violations related to intoxicating hemp products, allows municipalities to impose local cannabis transfer and user taxes, and outlines regulations for the sale of malt alcoholic beverages. The Cannabis Regulatory Commission is tasked with implementing these changes and creating a public education program regarding intoxicating hemp beverages, with certain provisions taking immediate effect while others will be enacted 30 days post-enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:28-8, 24:6I-33, 24:21-5
Advance Law: 4:28-8, 24:6I-33, 24:21-5, 24:6I-50, 40:48I-1
Pamphlet Law: 4:28-8, 24:6I-33, 24:21-5, 24:6I-50, 40:48I-1