The bill proposes significant amendments to New Jersey's cannabis regulations, focusing on the licensing and application processes for cannabis establishments, including the Cannabis Regulatory Commission's role, municipal ordinances, and alternative treatment centers. Key changes include the introduction of nonrefundable application fees, a requirement for the commission to make permit determinations within specified timeframes, and a mandate that at least one-third of medical cannabis permits be conditional. The bill also emphasizes support for microbusinesses by ensuring that at least 10% of permits are designated for them, while also establishing criteria for clinical registrant permits and requiring municipalities to be notified of applications.

Additionally, the bill removes certain requirements from the application process, such as the need for a business plan and liability insurance for conditional licenses, while emphasizing the importance of labor peace agreements. It introduces new criteria for evaluating applications, including community impact and workforce development plans, and prioritizes applications from individuals in "impact zones" with historical issues related to marijuana enforcement. The bill also establishes a centralized online portal for municipalities to submit cannabis-related ordinances and streamlines the licensing process for alternative treatment centers, allowing them to hold multiple licenses concurrently. Overall, the legislation aims to create a more equitable and efficient cannabis market in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 24:6I-7.1, 24:6I-7.3, 24:6I-36, 24:6I-45, 24:6I-35, 24:6I-46, 24:6I-22