The bill amends existing legislation to allow medical cannabis dispensaries to establish satellite locations, which were previously prohibited under P.L.2019, c.153. It removes the restriction on dispensaries having satellite locations and introduces provisions that permit alternative treatment centers, which received permits before or after the effective date of the law, to maintain up to two satellite dispensaries. Dispensaries must obtain approval from the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to establish a satellite location, and they are limited to one such location. The bill aims to improve accessibility to medical cannabis for patients by enabling dispensaries to expand their services.

In addition to the satellite location provisions, the bill outlines operational requirements for medical cannabis dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers, including the removal of limitations on the number of strains and types of products that can be produced. It mandates criminal history background checks for permit applicants and establishes ethical standards for employees involved in the permit application process, prohibiting any financial interests in the cannabis industry. The commission is given authority to monitor compliance, impose penalties for violations, and ensure that operations align with state regulations and public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7