Hawaii Lawmakers Deliberate on Trio of Cannabis Legalization Proposals

LOS ANGELES— In a pivotal legislative session, Hawaii’s lawmakers are presented with three distinct proposals aimed at reforming the state’s cannabis laws. These include two notable bills pushing for the legalization of adult-use cannabis, alongside the establishment of a regulatory framework, marking a significant moment in the state’s approach to cannabis legislation.

The proposals, introduced by House Rep. David Tarnas (D) and Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole (D) late last month, draw inspiration from a legalization blueprint put forth by Hawaii Attorney General Anne Lopez last year. These bills, HB2600 and SB3335, propose the creation of the Hawaii Cannabis Authority to manage sales and regulatory aspects, echoing a broader national trend towards embracing cannabis reform.

However, the reception to these proposals has been mixed, with some advocates cautioning against potential negative impacts, particularly concerning new possession penalties for minors. Nikos Leverenz, representing both the Drug Policy Forum of Hawai’i and the Hawai’i Health and Harm Reduction Center, critiqued the punitive nature of the proposed legislation. “The bill provides a sound floorplan for adult-use legalization but erects a structure that is still far too punitive in its approach,” Leverenz told Marijuana Moment, advocating for a more lenient approach to reform.

Additionally, lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 2487 by Sen. Joy San Buenaventura (D), which aims to decriminalize the possession of up to one ounce of cannabis, shifting the classification from a criminal misdemeanor to a civil violation. Meanwhile, House Bill 2037, proposed by Minority Leader Rep. Gene Ward (R), suggests a constitutional amendment to legalize adult-use cannabis, potentially allowing voters to directly influence the legislative direction.

Hawaii, historically one of the first states to legalize medical cannabis through legislative means, has seen its progress stall in expanding cannabis laws, despite an overwhelming Senate vote last year in favor of legalization which ultimately faltered in the House.

With the potential for over $50 million in additional tax revenue annually from regulated adult-use cannabis, as highlighted in a report last year, the current legislative session represents a critical juncture for cannabis policy in Hawaii. The outcome could significantly influence the state’s legal, economic, and social landscape, reflecting a growing consensus on the need for reform in cannabis laws nationally.