The bill proposes significant amendments to New Jersey's cannabis regulations, focusing on the application and licensing processes for cannabis sales. Key changes include the introduction of nonrefundable application fees, a requirement for the Cannabis Regulatory Commission to make permit determinations within specified timeframes, and a mandate that at least one-third of medical cannabis permits issued be conditional. The bill also emphasizes the role of microbusinesses by reserving at least 10% of total permits for them and reducing their fees. Additionally, it outlines new requirements for applicants, such as submitting community impact and workforce development plans, while removing certain previous requirements like the necessity for a business plan and management operation profile.

Moreover, the bill enhances local control by allowing municipalities to regulate cannabis establishments and requires them to notify the commission of their decisions on applications. It establishes a system for tracking cannabis items and allows for the redesignation of products between medical and personal use at Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs). The bill also streamlines the application review process by eliminating the point scale system and certain documentation requirements, while ensuring that medical dispensaries in good standing cannot be prohibited from retailing cannabis. Overall, the legislation aims to create a more equitable and efficient cannabis market while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

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