NJ Governor Signs Bill Tightening Rules On Hemp: Industry Stakeholders Protest, Big Alcohol Celebrates
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed Senate Bill No. 3235 into law, introducing strict regulations for intoxicating hemp products, including Delta-8 THC and THC-infused beverages.
The bill, which places these products under the purview of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC), marks a significant shift in the regulation of hemp-derived THC products.
The bill itself sparked debate among hemp industry stakeholders, who are being partially outlawed. Late amendments to the legislation have raised concerns that the alcohol industry is benefiting from regulatory advantages that cannabis businesses do not receive.
Outcry Among Hemp Industry
For hemp industry stakeholders who have been following state guidelines and voluntarily implementing safety measures, the new law comes as a blow. Many complain that they have been unfairly impacted by legislation that was meant to crack down on unregulated products, not those adhering to responsible practices.
“We are good actors. We followed the process the state put forward to enter this business… and here we are,” said Philip Petracca, owner of Bella Ray Beverage, a THC drink startup.
Petracca, like many others, has invested heavily in the industry, but now faces being outlawed by new regulation, reported Asbury Park Press.
New Amendments Favor Alcohol Industry
Murphy acknowledged that late-stage changes to the bill granted alcohol licensees—such as liquor stores and distributors—allowing them to sell intoxicating hemp beverages without being subject to the same …