William J. Caruso

Partner

Overview

Bill serves as Chair of Archer’s Cannabis Group. Bill is one of the leading advocates and influencers for the cannabis industry, and served as an influential voice in New Jersey’s long battle to end cannabis prohibition. He is a co-founder of New Jersey United for Marijuana Reform, a group that laid the groundwork for the legalization movement. Bill was also a leader with the advocacy group, NJ CAN 2020, that spearheaded the November 2020 ballot initiative to legalize cannabis for personal use.

In his practice, Bill represents clients that are both veterans and new leaders in the medical and adult-use cannabis industries, including retailers, processors, growers and ancillary businesses. He provides guidance on marijuana-related business issues, including issues pertaining to strategic planning and transactions, banking and finance, taxation, labor and employment, land use and zoning, real estate, municipal law, and healthcare law.

Bill has a deep knowledge of New Jersey government and strong relationships with political and industry leaders in the state. Prior to joining Archer, Bill served nearly five years as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Assembly Majority Office in Trenton. He was responsible for developing and implementing the Assembly’s policy agenda, and, as top aide to the Speaker, served as lead staff negotiator on all policy matters and as liaison to the Governor’s office, Senate and state departments. He was responsible for daily management of approximately 30 policy research professionals and communications and administrative staff. During his tenure, Bill helped shepherd through numerous pieces of landmark legislation, including pension and health benefits reform.

Prior to taking the Assembly post, Bill served for more than 11 years as Chief of Staff for U.S. Rep. Andrews, a Camden County Democrat. In that position, Bill had responsibility for overseeing all aspects of the Congressman’s policy and public relations agenda, with specialization in economic development, education and defense policy. He was responsible for daily management of approximately 20 policy research professionals and communications and administrative staff in offices in New Jersey and Washington, D.C. Bill also served 11 years as Congressman Andrews’ Campaign Manager.

Bill served as Democratic legal and public relations advisor to the 2011 New Jersey Apportionment Commission, which was tasked with redrawing the lines of the state’s 40 legislative districts following the 2010 census.

Credentials

Education

Rutgers University School of Law, JD
Bucknell University, BA

Admissions

New Jersey

Offices

Voorhees, NJ

Areas of Focus

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Practice

Industries

Data Centers & Digital Infrastructure

News & Insights

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From Regulation to Opportunity: The Evolving Cannabis Landscape

02.20.2026

Speaking Engagements & Seminars

From Regulation to Opportunity: The Evolving Cannabis Landscape

Bill Caruso will moderate the Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey program “From Regulation to Opportunity: The Evolving Cannabis Landscape.” Bill, joined by Harris Laufer, Commissioner of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, will lead a discussion about the future of cannabis in New Jersey amidst changes in government officials, federal actions, and legislation. The program will help industry leaders, operators and investors prepare for the opportunities, challenges, and new directions of New Jersey’s cannabis industry....

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NJBIA Public Policy Forum 2026: C-Suite Panel Discussion

01.30.2026

Speaking Engagements & Seminars

NJBIA Public Policy Forum 2026: C-Suite Panel Discussion

Bill Caruso is moderating the session “C-Suite Panel Discussion” at the NJBIA’s Public Policy Forum 2026. Governor Mikie Sherrill is the Keynote Speaker, delivering remarks to New Jersey’s policymakers and business community in one of her first addresses since taking office....

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New Intoxicating Hemp Restrictions Bill Passes NJ Senate Committee

12.15.2025

In the News

New Intoxicating Hemp Restrictions Bill Passes NJ Senate Committee

The New Jersey Senate Committee advanced S-4509, sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Teresa Ruiz and Senate President Nick Scutari, establishing rules for intoxicating hemp products distinct from cannabis. The bill integrates these products into the adult-use cannabis market, bans online and vending machine sales, requires lab testing, and sets new excise taxes and licensing....

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