Bill > A5051

This bill amends existing laws to revise restrictions concerning hemp, intoxicating hemp beverages, and medical cannabis, primarily by adjusting deadlines and clarifying regulations for these products. Key changes include extending the deadline for certain hemp producers to possess intermediate hemp-derived cannabinoid products with THC concentrations exceeding 0.3% until November 13, 2026, and establishing specific container requirements for intoxicating hemp beverages, such as cans holding no more than 10 milligrams of total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or resealable bottles of 750 milliliters containing up to 200 milligrams of THC. The bill also clarifies that intoxicating hemp beverages sold by licensed alcohol distributors and cannabis retailers will be subject to specific penalties and prohibitions after November 13, 2026, and outlines rules for their storage and sale, including age verification requirements. Furthermore, it addresses the co-location of medical cannabis dispensaries with adult-use cannabis retailers, stating that municipal review or consent will not be required for such co-locations if the municipality already permits medical cannabis sales, and that municipalities cannot prohibit the retail sale of cannabis by medical dispensaries that have been lawfully operating for at least three years prior to the bill's enactment.