New Hampshire Senate Approves Cannabis Legalization Bill with State-Run Dispensaries

LOS ANGELES- The New Hampshire Senate has passed an adult-use cannabis legalization bill that includes a state-run dispensary system. The bill, favored by Republican Governor Chris Sununu, marks the first time the chamber has approved such reforms.

The Senate’s version of the bill differs from the House’s, which passed last month and did not include state-run shops. The Senate bill proposes 15 state-run or franchised shops by 2025, with a maximum of one per municipality, except for Nashua and Manchester, which could have more. This model is based on New Hampshire’s liquor store system.

Senator Daryl Abbas highlighted that New Hampshire residents are already purchasing cannabis legally in neighboring states. He emphasized the need for state control to mitigate negative impacts without benefiting from the sales.

The bill directs cannabis tax revenue to children’s behavioral health (10%), public safety (10%), and alcohol abuse prevention (15%). Public smoking would be prohibited, with fines for violations, and police would be allowed to confiscate cannabis from individuals smoking in public. The legislation also bans nicotine and alcohol sales where cannabis is sold and prohibits cannabis industry lobbying.

The bill must now be approved by the House before moving to Governor Sununu, who has indicated he would sign a bill that meets his conditions, despite his general opposition to cannabis reforms.

Medical cannabis is legal in New Hampshire, but recreational use has only been decriminalized. The Senate’s approval of this bill represents the furthest any cannabis legalization effort has progressed in the state. If enacted, House Bill 1633-FN-A would legalize adult-use cannabis for those over 21 and establish a regulatory framework, including limits on possession and the number of dispensaries to prevent market oversaturation.

Senator Jeb Bradley proposed an amendment to create a “cannabis control commission” to oversee public health and safety, indicating ongoing concerns about public health implications. Other amendments include restrictions on cannabis business license owners from engaging in political activities or contributing funds to related entities and requiring local approval for opening retail outlets.

Despite opposition from some legislators who fear increased access and illegal sales, polls show strong public support for legalization. The bill will undergo further scrutiny in a second Senate committee and a second Senate floor vote before returning to the House with amendments.

Governor Sununu has outlined specific criteria for signing a cannabis legalization bill, emphasizing regulatory control and public health protections. His approval remains a critical hurdle for the bill’s enactment.