NJ A833

Reinstates criminal penalties for underage possession or consumption of alcohol, cannabis, marijuana, or hashish in schools, public places, public conveyances, places of public assembly, or motor vehicles as a disorderly persons offense (punishable by up to 6 months imprisonment and/or up to $1,000 fine)

Establishes a minimum fine of $500 for violations

Imposes a mandatory 6-month driver's license suspension or postponement when the offense is committed in a motor vehicle; for those under 17, the suspension period begins when they turn 17

Eliminates the current warning-based system enacted in 2021, which replaced criminal penalties with written warnings, referrals to community services, and restrictions on law enforcement search authority

Authorizes courts to require offenders to participate in alcohol or drug abuse education or treatment programs through the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services