Significant Steps Toward Legalization and Reform
On Thursday, the New Hampshire House of Representatives passed two key Republican-sponsored measures aimed at advancing cannabis reform:
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House Bill 196 (HB 196): Introduced by Rep. Jonah Wheeler (D), this bill proposes the annulment of certain criminal records related to simple marijuana possession. The measure would apply to offenses involving up to two ounces of marijuana or five grams of hashish for adults aged 21 and older, or any higher amount legalized under New Hampshire law.
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House Bill 53 (HB 53): Sponsored by Rep. Wendy Thomas (D), this legislation would permit state-registered medical cannabis patients and caregivers to grow cannabis at home, with allowances of three mature plants, three immature plants, and 12 seedlings per individual. Patients could also possess up to 8 ounces of usable cannabis from their homegrown plants. Landlords, however, retain the right to prohibit cultivation within rental properties.
Legislative Progress and Challenges
HB 53 passed the House with a strong majority vote of 328-42 and now proceeds to the Senate, which has historically been less receptive to cannabis reform. Rep. Wendy Thomas remains optimistic about its chances but has not specified a timeline for passage.
Meanwhile, HB 75, introduced by Rep. Kevin Verville (R), also gained House approval. This bill would:
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Remove state penalties related to cannabis possession and cultivation for adults aged 21 and older.
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Exclude the creation of a licensed commercial market or comprehensive regulatory framework.
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Maintain penalties for minors and impose restrictions on public use.
Despite passing the House, HB 75 faces a likely veto from Governor Kelly Ayotte (R), who has consistently opposed adult-use cannabis legalization throughout her political career.
Other Active Cannabis Measures
Two additional cannabis-related bills are currently under consideration:
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HB 198 (Rep. Jared Sullivan, D): Aims to legalize limited personal cultivation and possession without establishing a commercial market.
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HB 186 (Rep. Jared Sullivan, D): Proposes legalization for personal use alongside a licensed, state-regulated marijuana market. However, lawmakers have chosen to table HB 186 for now, focusing instead on Sullivan’s simpler HB 198 proposal.
Public Sentiment and Previous Efforts
According to an April poll, nearly 65% of New Hampshire residents support medical cannabis legalization, while 61% back broader adult-use legalization. Despite this public support, similar efforts were narrowly defeated in the previous legislative session due to concerns over state-controlled retail models and consumer pricing.
Expanding the Scope: Psilocybin Proposal
Additionally, Rep. Kevin Verville proposed a bill to remove criminal penalties for the possession and use of psilocybin by adults 21 and older. However, this measure faces uncertain prospects, as a similar therapeutic psychedelics proposal was previously rejected by House committees.
Regulatory Outlook and Future Considerations
The New Hampshire House’s approval of these cannabis measures signifies a growing momentum for drug policy reform in the state. However, several hurdles remain:
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The Senate’s historical reluctance to pass cannabis reform.
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The Governor’s expected veto of adult-use legalization proposals.
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Balancing public support with regulatory frameworks that address public safety and economic growth.
Final Thoughts: A Potential Shift in New Hampshire’s Cannabis Landscape
With multiple cannabis-related bills advancing through the legislative process, New Hampshire could be on the verge of significant changes in its cannabis policies. The successful passage of HB 196 and HB 53 would represent notable progress toward criminal justice reform and medical cannabis accessibility, while ongoing debates around adult-use legalization and psilocybin reform highlight the complexities of drug policy in the state.