The bill expands the cultivation of cannabis in New Jersey by allowing it on land that receives farmland assessment, thereby enhancing agricultural use. It amends existing legislation to clarify the types of permits available for medical cannabis cultivators, manufacturers, and dispensaries, while establishing limits on the number of permits that can be held concurrently by applicants. Notably, it removes the previous restriction that prohibited medical cannabis cultivators from operating on agricultural land under the Farmland Assessment Act. The bill also outlines provisions for alternative treatment centers, including their ability to hold multiple permits and establish satellite dispensaries, while emphasizing labor peace agreements and financial assistance for minority, women-owned, or disabled-veteran businesses.

Additionally, the bill introduces stringent background check requirements for individuals seeking permits in the medical cannabis sector, prohibiting those with certain criminal convictions from obtaining permits unless they demonstrate rehabilitation. It also removes the requirement for nonprofit medical cannabis entities to be recognized as 501(c)(3) organizations by the IRS. The commission is tasked with ensuring an adequate number of medical cannabis establishments to meet patient needs and is empowered to evaluate and issue additional permits as necessary. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the regulatory framework of the medical cannabis industry while promoting economic development and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7, 24:6I-49