New Jersey § 2a:170-51
Full text of New Jersey New Jersey Statutes § 2a:170-51, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2a:170-51.
a. No person shall sell or offer for sale, either directly or indirectly by an agent
or employee, any product containing dextromethorphan as an active ingredient to a
person under 18 years of age. b. The establishment of all of the following shall constitute a defense to any prosecution
brought pursuant to subsection a. of this section: (1) that the purchaser of the product falsely represented, by producing either a driver's
license or non-driver identification card issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission,
a similar card issued pursuant to the laws of another state or the federal government
or Canada, or a photographic identification card issued by a county clerk, that the
purchaser was of legal age to make the purchase; (2) that the appearance of the purchaser of the product was such that an ordinary
prudent person would believe the purchaser to be of legal age to make the purchase;
and (3) that the sale of the product was made in good faith, relying upon the production
of the identification set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the appearance
of the purchaser, and the reasonable belief that the purchaser was of legal age to
make the purchase. c. A person who violates the provisions of subsection a. of this section, including
an employee of a retail establishment who actually sells a product containing dextromethorphan
as an active ingredient to a person under 18 years of age, shall be liable to a civil
penalty of not more than $750. In the case of a retail establishment that is part of a chain with two or more locations
in the State, the violation shall be assessed against the particular retail establishment
and not the chain. The civil penalty shall be collected pursuant to the “Penalty Enforcement Law of
1999,” P.L.1999, c. 274 ( C.2A:58-10 et seq. ), in a summary proceeding before the municipal court having jurisdiction. An official authorized by statute or ordinance to enforce the State or local health
codes or a law enforcement officer having enforcement authority in that municipality
may issue a summons for a violation of the provisions of subsection a. of this section,
and may serve and execute all process with respect to the enforcement of this section
consistent with the Rules of Court. A penalty recovered under the provisions of this subsection shall be recovered by
and in the name of the State by the local health agency. The penalty shall be paid into the treasury of the municipality in which the violation
occurred for the general uses of the municipality. d. The provisions of this act shall not apply to any prescription medication containing
dextromethorphan as an active ingredient that is dispensed by a pharmacist pursuant
to a valid prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Jersey § 2a:170-51
What does New Jersey Statutes § 2a:170-51 cover?
Section 2a:170-51 is part of the New Jersey Statutes, the codified statutory law of New Jersey. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New Jersey § 2a:170-51?
A common citation format is "New Jersey Statutes § 2a:170-51" (New Jersey). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New Jersey law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Jersey official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Jersey attorney.
How does New Jersey § 2a:170-51 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Jersey can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Jersey.