New Jersey Enforces Hemp THC Ban, Delays Cannabis Lounge Approvals
New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) announced Monday the enforcement of a statewide ban on certain hemp products following a federal ruling. The law, which took effect on October 12, aims to curb the sale of psychoactive hemp items not derived from naturally occurring chemicals. Sellers violating this law face fines starting at $100 for a first offense, escalating to at least $10,000 for subsequent violations.
CRC Targets Synthetic Cannabinoids
The enforcement had been initially halted due to a federal judge’s ruling in Loki Brands LLC et al. v. Platkin et al., which prevented immediate action on most provisions. However, the CRC stated in a press release that prohibitions on sales to individuals under 21 and on non-naturally derived THC products are now enforceable.
This move targets synthetic cannabinoids like delta-10 and THC-O, which industry experts agree pose risks to consumers. Beau Huch, a cannabis and hemp attorney with Porzio Governmental Affairs, told Sophie Nieto-Munoz from the New Jersey Monitor that the CRC is “sending a message” to deter bad actors in the …