New Jersey Senate Committee has introduced legislation to modify the state’s hemp beverage regulationThe liquor store can sell bigger containers of hemp-derived THC drinks. Senate President Nick Scutari’s (D-Union) measure proposes that bottles up to 500 milliliters can contain 200 milligrams total THC, until the new federal limit takes effect in November 2025.
Hemp Beverage Regulations Proposed for Change
The legislation proposed introduces several major changes to existing regulations for beverages derived from hemp. The bill would allow liquor stores to sell up to 200 mg of THC per container. This is a much higher concentration than the 5 milligrams limit per container for THC beverages sold by licensed cannabis dispensaries. Bill also allows for a margin of 10% error in THC concentration. Large bottles could contain as much as 220 milligrams.
The measure also allows certain bars to offer hemp drinks for consumption off premises, as long as they are still in the original container. This measure is intended to allow licensed retailers some operational flexibility before the federal government redefines hemp. The federal law that was passed in 2018 inadvertently permitted intoxicating products of hemp. A new amendment will be implemented on November 12th, 2025 and limit the THC level in hemp to only 0.3 per cent. New Jersey’s cannabis regulatory agencies are expected to begin treating intoxicating hemp-based products the same way they treat traditional marijuana, restricting their sales to licensed retailers after November 12, 2025.
Safety and Industry Perspectives
Industry stakeholders and safety advocates have expressed a variety of reactions to the proposed changes.
- Retailer Support: Mahi Pátel from the Garden State Liquor Retailers Association said that hemp products have been a significant revenue source for family-owned businesses facing inflation and changing trends in alcohol consumption. Patel said that the law “strikes an appropriate balance between the responsible regulation of retailers and their operational flexibility.”
- The Public Health Issues Susanna Puntel from the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp voiced concerns about the 200-milligram THC restriction, calling it a “responsible provision” in terms of youth access and public health. Puntel said that 200 milligrams of THC is a much higher level than the limits set by other states, and this could lead to a reduction in tax revenue.
- Police Opposition Andrew Caggiano is the Chief of Police of Montville, and the President of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police. He described the legislation as being “deeply flawed” and “operationally irresponsible.” Caggiano raised concerns over the lack of roadside THC-testing technology and drug identification experts. He warned that high dosages could lead to accidents and increase impaired driving.
Background Regulatory Framework and the Medical Cannabis Licensing Process
New Jersey has continually adjusted its approach to hemp intoxicating beverages. In January of that year, Gov. Phil Murphy (D), signed a law restricting the sale of intoxicating hemp products to liquor stores licensed by state and marijuana dispensaries. The bill caps THC at 10 mg per package, while April 13 is set as the deadline for compliance. In March, Governor. Mikie Sherrill signed another bill, which extended the deadline until May 31. The new law also requires resealable containers for hemp beverage products exceeding 10 mg and removes a store requirement that hemp-derived drinks be kept in employees-only sections.
A section of the bill aims to simplify the licensing process, not only for hemp beverages but also medical cannabis dispensaries who intend to sell adult-use products. The provision could allow for these businesses to begin without further municipal approval, which would address long-standing concerns of the industry about lengthy permitting processes.
It was passed by the Senate Committee 8-1, Sen. Kristin Korrado (R – Passaic) voting against it and Sen. Mike Testa – Cumberland abstaining. The bill was also passed by the Assembly on a 47-20 basis.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Hemp Gazette is not a medical provider and does not offer diagnoses or treatment plans. Consult a healthcare professional before you make any decision regarding your health. The Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia (TGA) has not evaluated any statements regarding the therapeutic use of cannabis or hemp-derived products. TGA regulates the access to medical cannabis in Australia.