NJ A5926

Creates a third-degree crime (3-5 years imprisonment, up to $15,000 fine) for business owners who manufacture, distribute, or dispense marijuana without a Cannabis Regulatory Commission license

Establishes a second-degree crime (5-10 years imprisonment, up to $150,000 fine) for leaders of illegal marijuana business networks who organize unlicensed marijuana operations at multiple locations, with a presumption of imprisonment upon conviction

Makes knowingly purchasing marijuana from an unlicensed business a disorderly persons offense (up to 6 months imprisonment, up to $1,000 fine)

Authorizes the New Jersey State Police and Attorney General's Office to close unlicensed marijuana businesses and seize any marijuana found on the premises

Convictions under this bill do not merge with separate convictions under existing controlled dangerous substance laws (N.J.S.2C:35-5), allowing for additional penalties