This article summarizes Metrc (New Jersey) Support Bulletin NJ_IB_0059, which changes how Lab Test Batch and Sample Package correction requests must be submitted to Metrc Support starting July 1, 2026, and what cannabis operators should do to avoid common testing workflow errors.
Bulletin details (NJ_IB_0059)
Bulletin number: NJ_IB_0059
Distribution date: 06/17/2026
Effective date: 07/01/2026
Subject: Lab Test Batches Support Update
Reason: Updated protocols for Support cases regarding Lab Test Batches
What changed: who can request Lab Test Batch fixes
Metrc, in conjunction with the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC), updated the protocol for correcting incorrectly submitted Lab Test Batches and situations where the incorrect Sample Package was selected.
Previously, testing facilities could contact Metrc Support directly for assistance to update an incorrect Lab Test Batch or change the Sample Package associated with a test.
Effective 07/01/2026: Any request to Metrc Support to update a Lab Test Batch or Sample Package must originate from the licensee who submitted the test sample (the submitting licensee), not the testing facility.
Why this matters in day-to-day Metrc operations
This bulletin affects how you handle mistakes after a sample is submitted for compliance testing in Metrc. If the wrong sample package is chosen or a Lab Test Batch is submitted incorrectly, the lab may no longer be able to initiate the Support case on your behalf. That means the operational burden shifts to the originating licensee to identify the issue, document what needs to be corrected, and submit the request through Metrc Support.
For many New Jersey operators, this will require tighter internal coordination between inventory/Metrc users, quality teams, and the lab. Delays can occur if the submitting licensee does not promptly open the Support ticket, which can slow testing timelines, hold inventory in the wrong status, and create downstream disruptions to production scheduling, transfers, or retail availability.
Common scenarios impacted by the new Support protocol
Incorrect Sample Package selected: If the wrong Metrc package was used when creating or associating the sample for testing, the submitting licensee must request the correction through Metrc Support.
Incorrectly submitted Lab Test Batch: If the Lab Test Batch was created or submitted with incorrect information that requires Support intervention, the submitting licensee must be the one to initiate the request.
How to reduce errors: Metrc Learn training
To help prevent these issues, Metrc encourages all licensees to complete the Metrc Learn course titled Understanding Common Errors in Testing. Completing this training can reduce avoidable rework, shorten turnaround time, and help ensure the correct packages and test batches are used the first time.
Where to submit requests and get help
Metrc directs licensees to use the Metrc Support portal for questions and assistance.
Metrc Support: https://support.metrc.com
Operational best practices to align teams (without changing the bulletin)
Because only the submitting licensee can initiate these correction requests after 07/01/2026, New Jersey operators should ensure the person or team responsible for Metrc sampling submissions is also prepared to open Support cases quickly when needed, with clear internal documentation of the package tag(s), Lab Test Batch details, dates, and the exact correction requested.
This is especially important when responsibilities are split across departments (for example, a production team pulling samples, an inventory team submitting in Metrc, and a separate QA team coordinating with the lab). The new protocol effectively requires the submitting licensee to own the Support workflow end-to-end for these correction types.
Tools that support compliant labeling and connected operations
While this bulletin is focused on testing workflows and Support case origination, labeling and retail traceability are common adjacent compliance pressure points for New Jersey operators working in Metrc.
DistruLabels: DistruLabels is a 100% free tool for creating compliant packaging and retail labels, helping operators stay aligned with Metrc Retail ID compliance by generating clear, consistent labels for retail-ready items.
DistruERP: For larger operators that need complete supply chain management beyond labeling, DistruERP is Distru’s comprehensive Cannabis ERP platform designed to support connected workflows across production, inventory, compliance, and distribution.
Key takeaway for New Jersey licensees
Starting July 1, 2026, New Jersey licensees that submit test samples must also be the ones to request Metrc Support corrections for Lab Test Batches and Sample Package selection issues. Build this responsibility into your testing SOPs so issues are resolved quickly and inventory movement is not unnecessarily delayed.
