The New Jersey Senate Committee advanced S-4509, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz and Senate President Nick Scutari, establishing rules for intoxicating hemp products distinct from cannabis. The bill integrates these products into the adult-use cannabis market, bans online and vending machine sales, requires lab testing, and sets new excise taxes and licensing. 

Managing Director Bill Caruso, Acting President of the NJ CannaBusiness Association, supported the bill as a step to bolster the adult-use cannabis market, noting that intoxicating hemp MSOs can partner with licensed manufacturers and that hemp farmers could gain access to the adult-use market. He emphasized: “This is pretty much done. Congress acted.”

Other advocates emphasized public safety and the need to regulate high-THC hemp products while raising concerns about protecting local hemp businesses.

If passed, NJ-CRC will implement licensing, employee education, and sales rules, shaping the future of intoxicating hemp in New Jersey.

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