The bill proposes significant amendments to New Jersey's cannabis regulations, focusing on the licensing and application processes for cannabis establishments, distributors, and delivery services. Key changes include the introduction of nonrefundable application fees, a requirement for the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to make determinations on permit applications within 30 days, and the establishment of a minimum of one-third conditional permits for medical cannabis. The bill also emphasizes the importance of microbusinesses by reserving at least 10% of total permits for them and includes provisions for clinical registrant permits that require contracts with academic medical centers. Additionally, the bill mandates that municipalities notify the commission of their decisions on cannabis applications and submit relevant ordinances for public access.

Further amendments streamline the application review process by removing certain documentation requirements, such as business plans and liability insurance plans, while emphasizing labor peace agreements for applicants. The bill also introduces a priority system for applicants based on their ties to "impact zones," which are areas historically affected by marijuana enforcement. It allows municipalities to regulate cannabis establishments and prohibits them from restricting the retail sale of cannabis by established medical dispensaries in good standing. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance equity in the cannabis industry, promote local participation, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards while providing greater flexibility for alternative treatment centers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7.1, 24:6I-7.3, 24:6I-36, 24:6I-45, 24:6I-35, 24:6I-46, 24:6I-22