A New Jersey Senate committee has advanced legislation aimed at modifying the state’s hemp beverage regulation, specifically by permitting liquor stores to sell larger containers of intoxicating hemp-derived THC drinks. The measure, sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari (D-Union), proposes allowing bottles up to 750 milliliters to contain as much as 200 milligrams of total THC until new federal limits take effect in November 2025.
Proposed Changes to Hemp Beverage Regulation
The proposed legislation introduces several key changes to the existing framework for hemp-derived beverages. Under the bill, liquor stores would be authorized to sell containers with up to 200 milligrams of total THC. This concentration is significantly higher than the current 5 milligrams per container limit for THC drinks sold in licensed cannabis dispensaries. The bill also includes a 10 percent margin of error for THC concentration, potentially allowing some large bottles to contain up to 220 milligrams.
Additionally, the measure would permit certain bars to sell hemp beverages for off-premises consumption, provided they remain in their original containers. These provisions are intended to provide operational flexibility for licensed retailers ahead of a federal redefinition of hemp. Federal laws that, in 2018, inadvertently legalized intoxicating hemp products, but a forthcoming federal amendment, effective November 12, 2025, will limit hemp to a total THC concentration of 0.3 percent. After this date, New Jersey’s cannabis regulators are expected to treat intoxicating hemp products similarly to traditional marijuana products, restricting sales to licensed retailers.
Industry and Public Safety Perspectives
The proposed changes have drawn varied reactions from industry stakeholders and public safety advocates.
- Retailer Support: Mahi Patel of the Garden State Liquor Retailers Association stated that hemp beverages have become an important revenue stream for small, family-owned stores facing shifting alcohol consumption trends and inflation. Patel noted that the legislation “strikes the appropriate balance between responsible regulation and operational flexibility for licensed retailers.”
- Public Health Concerns: Susanna Puntel of the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp expressed concerns regarding the 200-milligram THC provision, calling it “irresponsible from a public health and youth access standpoint.” Puntel indicated that this level is substantially higher than limits in other states and could reduce tax revenue.
- Law Enforcement Opposition: Andrew Caggiano, Chief of Police in Montville and President of the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police, described the bill as “deeply flawed and operationally irresponsible.” Caggiano highlighted concerns about the lack of reliable roadside THC testing technology and drug recognition experts, warning that high dosage levels could lead to accidental overconsumption and increased impaired driving incidents.
Prior Regulatory Context and Medical Cannabis Licensing
New Jersey has repeatedly adjusted its regulatory approach to intoxicating hemp beverages. In January, then-Gov. Phil Murphy (D) signed a bill restricting intoxicating hemp product sales to licensed liquor stores and cannabis dispensaries, capping THC content at 10 milligrams per container, with a compliance deadline set for April 13. In March, Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D) signed another bill extending the compliance deadline to May 31, requiring resealable packaging for hemp beverages exceeding 10 milligrams, and removing a requirement for stores to keep hemp-derived beverages in employee-only areas.
Beyond hemp beverage regulation, another section of the bill seeks to streamline the licensing process for medical cannabis dispensaries that intend to add adult-use retail licenses. This provision aims to potentially allow these operations to commence without additional municipal review, addressing long-standing industry concerns about slow permitting processes.
The bill passed the Senate committee by an 8-1 vote, with Sen. Kristin Corrado (R-Passaic) voting no and Sen. Mike Testa (R-Cumberland) abstaining. It also advanced out of the Assembly with a 47-20 vote.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Hemp Gazette does not provide medical recommendations, diagnoses, or treatment plans. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before making any decisions regarding your health or any medical condition. Statements concerning the therapeutic uses of hemp, cannabis, or cannabinoid-derived products have not been evaluated by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Medicinal cannabis products in Australia are accessed via prescription pathways under TGA regulation.
