This bill establishes new criminal offenses related to the sale and purchase of marijuana from unlicensed businesses in New Jersey. Specifically, it makes it a third-degree crime for business owners to manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana without a license from the Cannabis Regulatory Commission. Additionally, it introduces a second-degree crime for individuals who lead illegal marijuana business networks, defined as those who conspire with others to unlawfully operate multiple unlicensed businesses. The penalties for these offenses include significant prison time and fines, with third-degree crimes carrying a potential sentence of three to five years and second-degree crimes carrying a potential sentence of five to ten years.

Furthermore, the bill creates a disorderly persons offense for individuals who knowingly purchase marijuana from unlicensed businesses, which could result in up to six months of imprisonment and fines. It also empowers the New Jersey State Police, in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney General, to close down businesses that violate these provisions and to seize any marijuana involved in such violations. This legislation aims to strengthen the enforcement of cannabis regulations and deter illegal operations in the state.