The bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products in New Jersey, aligning state law with federal regulations. It repeals existing laws concerning intoxicating hemp and introduces new definitions, such as "container" for packaging and "final hemp-derived cannabinoid product" for consumer use. The legislation clarifies the allowed tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration for hemp, specifies what constitutes hemp and its derivatives, and excludes certain high-THC products. Additionally, it amends definitions related to cannabis and hemp-derived products to ensure that these products are not classified as controlled substances, while introducing terms like "industrial hemp" and "intermediate hemp-derived cannabinoid product."

Furthermore, the bill enhances safety and compliance measures for cannabis establishments, including stricter identification requirements for customers and comprehensive labeling standards. It establishes the Cannabis Regulatory Commission's authority to issue various classes of licenses and mandates that cannabis establishments verify customer age and adhere to health and safety regulations. The bill also introduces an excise tax on intoxicating hemp beverages and outlines penalties for violations, while emphasizing the importance of promoting diversity in cannabis business ownership and ensuring public health and safety standards are met. Overall, the legislation aims to create a clear and equitable regulatory environment for the cultivation, handling, and sale of hemp and its derivatives in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4:28-8, 24:6I-33, 24:6I-35, 24:6I-42, 24:6I-50