Delta 8 THC Hemp Regulation Moves Forward In NJ, Sparks Debate Between Alcohol And Cannabis Industry
Delta 8 THC — popularly known as “intoxicating hemp” — regulation bills were voted on in the New Jersey legislature on July 1.
The bills passed in both the Assembly and State Senate, with amendments allowing liquor stores to sell hemp drinks after obtaining proper permission. To this end, the NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) must now set up new rules and issue a special license.
Legalization and Licensing
Bill S3235 regulates the production and sale of certain intoxicating hemp products. Originally set to regulate a demand covered by dispensaries, the legislature made amendments to allow big alcohol to compete.
Now the state’s CRC will oversee the licensing process for liquor stores to sell hemp drinks together with their usual offer. Although expedited, the approval of the bill broadly changes the landscape for the adult use of hemp products.
On the bright site, the regulation will help ensure products are tested and meet quality standards. In this manner, New Jersey has addressed the big issue of how to deal with Delta 8 synthetic compounds.
Amendments Favoring the Alcohol Industry
The amendments allowing liquor stores to sell hemp drinks have sparked significant debate. This move is seen as a win for the alcohol industry, giving them a new product line and potentially increasing their customer base.
However, this amendment has faced criticism from cannabis advocates. They argue that it undermines the specialized regulatory framework intended for cannabis products. The bill specifies that hemp products cannot contain more than 0.5 milligrams of total THC per serving and 2.5 milligrams of total THC per …