New Jersey lawmakers just took a big step that could change how you buy THC drinks in the state. A new bill passed a key Senate committee this week, paving the way for hemp-derived THC beverages to hit liquor store shelves under strict rules. This move comes amid a rush to regulate the booming market before federal changes kick in next year, promising safer options but sparking debate over business impacts.
Lawmakers in New Jersey advanced Senate Committee Substitute for S-4509 on December 15, 2025. The bill sets up rules for hemp-derived cannabinoid products, focusing on intoxicating hemp beverages. It allows licensed liquor stores to sell these drinks starting next year, but only under tight limits to ensure safety and compliance.
The legislation defines hemp as the cannabis plant with no more than 0.3% total THC on a dry weight basis. Intoxicating hemp beverages come from this hemp and must meet federal standards until a 2026 cutoff. After that, sales shift fully to the state’s cannabis system.
One big change targets product limits. From March 13, 2026, drinks can have no more than 5 milligrams of THC per serving and 10 milligrams per container. This keeps things from getting too strong for casual buyers.
The bill also adds an excise tax of $3.75 per gallon on wholesale sales of these beverages. All money from this tax goes into the state’s cannabis fund to support programs and enforcement.
Businesses get a grace period to adjust. Until January 13, 2026, current sellers can keep operating as is. Then, a 60-day window lets them clear out higher-THC stock before stricter rules apply.
How It Affects Liquor Stores and Businesses
Liquor stores stand to gain from this bill, but they face new hurdles too. Holders of Alcoholic Beverage Control licenses can start selling intoxicating hemp beverages soon after the law takes effect. This opens a fresh revenue stream for shops already dealing in alcohol.
The bill reshapes New Jersey’s hemp market by letting wholesalers and retailers join in, but only for beverages until November 13, 2026. After that date, these sales stop in liquor stores, pushing everything to licensed cannabis outlets under the Cannabis Regulatory, Enforcement Assistance, and Marketplace Modernization Act.
Manufacturers must get approval from the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission within 120 days of the rules going live. Those who miss the deadline could shut down sales entirely. This timeline speeds up compliance, which some in the industry call too rushed.
For smaller businesses, the shift means investing in testing and labeling to meet THC caps. Online and direct-to-consumer sales of these products get banned, limiting how companies reach customers. Employees at licensed spots must follow age checks and training rules.
Here’s a quick look at the timeline for businesses:
| Date | Key Change |
|---|---|
| January 13, 2026 | Bill takes effect; grace period starts for inventory sales. |
| March 13, 2026 | THC limits kick in (5mg/serving, 10mg/container). |
| April 1, 2026 | Excise tax of $3.75/gallon begins. |
| November 13, 2026 | Liquor stores stop selling; moves to cannabis licensees only. |
This structure helps stores plan ahead, but it could squeeze out unprepared players.
Consumer Access and Safety Measures
For everyday folks in New Jersey, this bill means easier access to regulated THC drinks right in local liquor stores. No more hunting for specialty shops; you could grab one next to your beer. Safety gets a boost with age restrictions and potency caps, aiming to protect younger users and prevent overconsumption.
Sales to anyone under 21 become illegal starting January 13, 2026, except for medical cases. Products must carry clear labels on THC content and warnings. The commission will set standards for testing to ensure what’s on the shelf matches the label.
Consumers benefit from a transition that avoids sudden bans. During the 60-day window, higher-strength drinks stay available to finish off stock. This keeps options open without chaos.
But not all products make the cut. The bill bans non-beverage items like gummies or vapes with intoxicating levels. It also prohibits synthetic cannabinoids or those made outside the plant naturally. This focuses the market on drinks, which some see as a safer entry point.
- Expect clearer product info to help you choose wisely.
- Watch for price hikes from the new tax, but revenue supports community programs.
- Stay informed on local store policies as they adapt.
These steps build trust, letting people enjoy hemp drinks with less worry about quality.
Broader Regulatory Context and Future Outlook
New Jersey’s push comes after years of back-and-forth on hemp rules. Back in September 2024, Governor Phil Murphy signed a law that temporarily banned many hemp products without cannabis licenses. That sparked lawsuits from businesses, arguing it hurt the legal market.
Federal changes add pressure. A 2025 law bans most hemp-derived THC nationwide after November 2026, closing what some call the “hemp loophole.” New Jersey wants to align with this while keeping its economy humming. The state’s cannabis industry has grown fast since legalization, with sales topping billions in recent years.
This bill bridges the gap, letting hemp beverages thrive short-term while shifting to full cannabis oversight long-term. Sponsors like Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz and Senate President Nicholas Scutari say it protects public health and boosts state funds.
Industry voices raise concerns. One expert noted the quick passage left little time for public input, calling it a “dark of night” move. Others worry the beverage-only focus limits innovation, potentially costing jobs in broader hemp sectors.
Looking ahead, the bill heads to the Assembly for a vote, possibly soon. If approved, the Cannabis Regulatory Commission drafts final rules. This could set a model for other states balancing federal shifts and local needs.
As New Jersey navigates this, the focus stays on fair access and strong enforcement. The changes promise a more controlled market that grows with demand.
In the end, this bill marks a turning point for how New Jersey handles hemp and THC, blending opportunity with caution to serve residents better. It safeguards health while opening doors for businesses, all amid big federal shifts that could redefine choices nationwide.