New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A5791

Introduced
11/30/23  

Caption

Clarifies that unlawful gifting of marijuana or cannabis is prohibited under "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

Impact

The proposed changes to the cannabis law would have implications for personal use and distribution of marijuana in New Jersey. By making it clear that gifting cannabis under certain circumstances is against the law, A5791 aims to deter potential exploitation of the legal cannabis market. This could influence both consumers and businesses operating within the state, potentially leading to stricter enforcement actions against those attempting to capitalize on loopholes in existing cannabis laws. Additionally, it specifies that only those over 21 years of age can participate in legal cannabis transactions, which may affect compliance requirements for retailers and users alike.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5791 seeks to amend certain provisions of the 'New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act'. The bill specifically clarifies that gifting cannabis to another person for promotional or business purposes is prohibited under state law. This amendment aims to address ambiguity surrounding the legality of gifting marijuana, particularly when it could be seen as part of a sales transaction rather than a genuine gift. The bill reinforces the legal framework regarding what constitutes unlawful conduct in relation to cannabis transactions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill concern the interpretation of what constitutes a lawful gift of cannabis. Critics might argue that the prohibitions could infringe on personal rights for cannabis use among adults, leading to confusion over casual exchanges of cannabis that might occur among friends or community members. Supporters of the amendment, however, maintain that the changes are necessary to prevent abuse of the cannabis market and to ensure that transactions adhere strictly to regulatory measures meant to protect public health and safety. The balance between personal autonomy and regulatory compliance may spark ongoing debates as the political landscape regarding cannabis continues to evolve.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NJ A3251

Clarifies that unlawful gifting of marijuana or cannabis is prohibited under "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

NJ A4448

Modifies definition of "impact zones" in "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

NJ S1489

Modifies definition of "impact zones" in "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

NJ S1994

Modifies definition of "impact zones" in "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

NJ A1684

Directs Cannabis Regulatory Commission to adopt regulations concerning labeling, marketing, and sale of cannabidiol and products containing cannabidiol; prohibits sale of cannabidiol to minors.

NJ A2436

Directs Cannabis Regulatory Commission to adopt regulations concerning labeling, marketing, and sale of cannabidiol and products containing cannabidiol; prohibits sale of cannabidiol to minors.

NJ A2798

Permits law enforcement agencies to prohibit recreational use of cannabis items by law enforcement officers.

NJ A3914

Permits law enforcement agencies to prohibit recreational use of cannabis items by law enforcement officers.

NJ S3456

Requires temporary detention and notification to parent or guardian of underage person who unlawfully purchases or possesses alcoholic beverages or cannabis.

NJ S181

Requires temporary detention and notification to parent or guardian of underage person who unlawfully purchases or possesses alcoholic beverages or cannabis.

Similar Bills

NJ A3251

Clarifies that unlawful gifting of marijuana or cannabis is prohibited under "New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act."

NJ S3325

Enhances penalties for distribution and manufacture of certain amounts of fentanyl.

NJ A5649

Enhances penalties for distribution and manufacture of certain amounts of fentanyl.

NJ S2492

Enhances penalties for distribution and manufacture of certain amounts of fentanyl.

NJ A784

Allows certain drug dealing offenses to be graded by "units," rather than weight, of controlled dangerous substances.

NJ A2174

Allows certain drug dealing offenses to be graded by "units," rather than weight, of controlled dangerous substances.

NJ S190

Requires grading of offenses involving manufacturing, distributing, and dispensing heroin based on dosage units in addition to weight.

NJ A343

Requires grading of offenses involving manufacturing, distributing, and dispensing heroin based on dosage units in addition to weight.