New Jersey Bill Proposes Regulation of THC-Infused Drinks Currently Legal in the State

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New Jersey lawmakers are moving forward with a bill aimed at regulating THC-infused drinks, which are currently legal and widely available across the state. The proposed legislation seeks to establish clearer guidelines and oversight for these products, which have grown in popularity but remain largely unregulated.

The bill, sponsored by State Senator Nicholas Scutari, would require the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission to oversee the production, sale, and labeling of THC-infused beverages. These drinks, which contain the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, are marketed as a legal way for consumers to enjoy the effects of THC without smoking or vaping.

“This legislation is about ensuring that these products are safe, properly labeled, and only available to those who are legally allowed to purchase them,” said Senator Scutari. “As the market for THC-infused products expands, we need to make sure we have the right regulations in place to protect consumers and prevent misuse.”

Currently, THC-infused drinks are sold in various forms, including seltzers and teas, and are often made using hemp-derived Delta-8 THC, a compound that is similar to Delta-9 THC found in marijuana but is derived from hemp. The legal status of Delta-8 products has been a gray area, with some arguing that they fall under federal hemp laws, while others believe they should be regulated like other cannabis products.

Proponents of the bill argue that the lack of regulation has led to inconsistent product quality and labeling, which can pose risks to consumers. The proposed regulations would set standards for THC content, require clear labeling of ingredients and potency, and restrict sales to individuals over the age of 21.

Opponents, however, have raised concerns about the potential impact on businesses that currently produce and sell these drinks. Some small business owners have argued that the bill could impose burdensome regulations that would be difficult for them to comply with.

In response to these concerns, the bill includes provisions for a phased implementation of the new regulations, allowing businesses time to adjust to the new requirements. Additionally, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission would be tasked with providing guidance and support to businesses during the transition.

State Assemblymember Annette Quijano, who supports the bill, emphasized the need for consumer protection in this emerging market. “We need to make sure that consumers know what they are getting and that these products are safe,” Quijano said. “This bill is a step in the right direction to bring order and clarity to a rapidly growing industry.”

The legislation has sparked a broader conversation about the regulation of cannabis-related products in New Jersey. While the state legalized recreational marijuana in 2021, the regulatory framework for products like THC-infused drinks has lagged behind, leading to a patchwork of rules and a lack of oversight.

If passed, the bill would make New Jersey one of the first states to implement specific regulations for THC-infused beverages, setting a potential precedent for other states grappling with similar issues.

The bill is currently under consideration in the state legislature, with a vote expected in the coming weeks. If approved, the new regulations could take effect as early as next year, marking a significant shift in how THC-infused products are managed in New Jersey.