The bill revises New Jersey's regulations concerning hemp, intoxicating hemp beverages, and medical cannabis, establishing that, starting April 13, 2026, it will be illegal to sell or distribute certain hemp-derived products exceeding specified THC levels or containing cannabinoids not naturally produced by the Cannabis sativa L. plant. It extends the deadline for hemp producers to possess or transport intermediate hemp-derived cannabinoid products with THC concentrations exceeding 0.3 percent until November 13, 2026, under specific conditions. The bill also prohibits the online sale of intoxicating hemp beverages and their distribution through vending machines, imposing civil penalties for violations. Additionally, it requires a certificate of analysis confirming THC content for intoxicating hemp beverages and allows municipalities to regulate cannabis establishments while ensuring that medical dispensaries can continue retail sales without restrictions if they have been operating lawfully for at least three years.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws regarding intoxicating hemp beverages and alcoholic beverages, clarifying that the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control retains enforcement authority. It modifies the classification of retail licenses, allowing holders of plenary retail consumption licenses to sell intoxicating hemp beverages for off-premises consumption until a specified expiration date. The bill also extends deadlines for hemp producers and intoxicating hemp beverage regulations to November 13, 2026, and repeals the requirement for ABC licensees to store intoxicating hemp beverages in inaccessible areas. Additionally, it facilitates the co-location of medical cannabis dispensaries with adult-use cannabis retailers by exempting them from needing separate municipal approvals in municipalities that already permit medical dispensaries, thereby enhancing operational efficiency while maintaining regulatory oversight.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2C:35-10, 24:6I-45, 24:6I-48.5, 33:1-12.23