NEW JERSEY

Murphy signs intoxicating-hemp law

Gov. Murphy signs P.L.2025, c.215, narrowing the definition of hemp to close the 2018 Farm Bill loophole and pulling intoxicating hemp-derived products into the regulated market. New hemp/cannabis definitions take effect April 13, 2026.

Hemp-beverage sell-through period ends

Intoxicating hemp beverages may only be sold by CRC and ABC (liquor) licensees, capped at 5mg THC per serving and 10mg per container, and a hemp-beverage excise tax begins. Online and vending-machine sales are barred.

First cannabis consumption lounges open

New Jersey’s first licensed on-premises cannabis consumption lounges open, with more endorsements expected through 2026 for Class 5 retailers and medical dispensaries.

First intoxicating-hemp law enacted

Gov. Murphy signs S3235, the state’s first attempt to regulate intoxicating hemp products and route them toward the licensed market. It is later repealed and replaced by the broader 2026 law.

First adult-use retail sales begin

Recreational sales launch through existing medical dispensaries granted expanded licenses, opening the East Coast’s first major adult-use market. The state later grows past 100 licensed dispensaries.

CRC opens adult-use license applications

The Cannabis Regulatory Commission begins accepting cultivator, manufacturer, and testing-lab applications, with retail applications following March 15, 2022. Microbusinesses and social-equity applicants are prioritized.