The bill amends Section 12 of P.L.2019, c.153 to enhance the application process for cannabis business permits in New Jersey, specifically for medical cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, and dispensing. It requires applicants to submit a full application for each initial permit and location, regardless of any prior permits held. A new stipulation mandates that applicants obtain a letter or affidavit from municipal officials confirming compliance with local zoning laws, which must be issued within 30 days and cannot be contingent on land use approval. Additionally, applications will be disqualified if they lack documentation proving control over the premises, including a landlord certification for leased properties. The bill also emphasizes labor peace agreements, requiring all permit applicants (except microbusinesses) to submit an attestation of such agreements, with the commission prioritizing applications from those with collective bargaining agreements and significant local residency.

Further amendments include the introduction of a signed project labor agreement requirement and the inclusion of individuals who have resided in New Jersey for at least two years in the application process. The definition of a "bona fide labor organization" is expanded, and the commission is tasked with conducting a disparity study to assess the need for race-based measures in permit issuance. The bill mandates that at least 30% of new medical cannabis permits be awarded to certified minority, women's, and disabled veterans' businesses, and it emphasizes the creation of integrated curricula with higher education institutions related to cannabis. The commission must also ensure compliance with local ordinances and solicit municipal input when limits on cannabis establishments are set. Overall, the bill aims to create a more structured and equitable framework for cannabis business licensing in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7.2, 24:6I-36