The bill amends existing legislation to allow medical cannabis dispensaries in New Jersey to establish satellite locations, which were previously prohibited under P.L.2019, c.153. It removes the restriction on satellite locations and introduces provisions permitting alternative treatment centers to maintain up to two satellite dispensaries, provided they have obtained the necessary permits. Additionally, any medical cannabis dispensary seeking to establish a satellite location must secure approval from the Cannabis Regulatory Commission and is limited to one satellite dispensary. The bill also emphasizes the importance of a labor peace agreement with a bona fide labor organization for alternative treatment centers and clarifies the types of permits that can be held concurrently.

Moreover, the bill enhances the operational framework for medical cannabis dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers by removing limitations on the number of strains cultivators can grow and the types of products manufacturers can create. It mandates criminal history background checks for permit applicants and establishes guidelines for the sale or transfer of permits, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The commission overseeing the medical cannabis program is granted authority to monitor compliance, impose penalties for violations, and ensure the integrity of the program, thereby reinforcing the regulatory framework while improving accessibility for patients.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7