This bill proposes significant amendments to the structure and operations of the Cannabis Regulatory Commission in New Jersey, which oversees both medical and personal use cannabis. Key changes include a revised appointment process for commission members, now consisting of five members appointed by the Senate President, Speaker of the General Assembly, and the Governor, with the chair selected by a majority of the members rather than solely by the Governor. The bill also establishes a Code of Ethics for commission members, prohibits them from engaging in cannabis business activities (with exceptions for registered patients), and increases the salaries for the chair and other members. Additionally, it introduces provisions for the employment and conflict of interest regulations for commission members and employees, including restrictions on family members' employment in cannabis-related entities and the requirement for members to devote their full attention to their duties.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the regulatory framework governing cannabis operations by defining various terms related to cannabis activities, streamlining the licensing process, and prioritizing applicants from impact zones and microbusinesses. It mandates that at least 25% of cannabis establishment licenses be awarded to applicants from impact zones and establishes reduced fees for microbusiness licenses. The bill also allows alternative treatment centers to operate without physical barriers between medical and personal use cannabis activities, provided they prioritize medical patients' needs. Overall, these amendments aim to improve governance, ethical oversight, and equity within the cannabis industry while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-24, 24:6I-27, 52:13D-17.2, 24:6I-52, 24:6I-33, 24:6I-36, 24:6I-46, 24:6I-34, 24:6I-44