New Hampshire House Approves Cannabis Legalization Bill

NEW YORK- The New Hampshire House of Representatives has passed a bill to legalize adult-use cannabis, with a vote of 239 to 136, moving the proposal forward to the Senate where its outcome is less certain. This marks the third consecutive year the House has passed cannabis legalization reforms, yet the Senate has consistently declined to follow suit.

Governor Chris Sununu, a Republican, reiterated his opposition to the bill in its current form, despite its passage in the House. The governor emphasized his preference for a state-run or state-franchised dispensary model, which differs from the present proposal that includes only state-licensed agencies without direct government management of operations.

Governor Sununu has outlined specific criteria for his support, including harm reduction measures and stringent controls to prevent cannabis access by minors. “The legislation passed today doesn’t get us there but the Governor looks forward to working with the Senate to see if we can get it done,” stated Governor Sununu.

Efforts have been made by lawmakers to align the bill with the governor’s requirements, incorporating a state-run dispensary model among other adjustments. The governor has also previously specified a cap of 15 stores statewide and a prohibition on lobbying and political contributions by cannabis licensees as essential for his endorsement.

As the bill progresses to the Senate, the debate continues amid New Hampshire’s unique position as the only New England state yet to enact cannabis legalization reforms. The ongoing legislative journey reflects the complex dynamics and varied stakeholder interests involved in cannabis policy debates within the state.