Legalizing cannabis for recreational use is a hot topic in New Hampshire and across the nation. If New Hampshire moves in the direction of legalizing cannabis for recreation use, it is critical to get the policy right from the start. Optimal cannabis commercialization policy for our state must utilize the best available scientific evidence to reduce public harm, limit youth and problematic use, and purposefully advance social justice and equity in the state.
Why It Matters
Commercializing addictive products increases the number of people who get exposed and the negative consequences of their use. Public health and prevention-based state regulations play a critical role in preventing substance misuse and increased access to these products.
By the Numbers
3,000+
children accidentally ate weed edibles in 2021, marking an increase in accidental youth exposure of 1375% since 2017 (American Academy of Pediatrics, January 2023).
3 in 10
people who use cannabis may have a use disorder (CDC, February 2024).
4.5 million
people between the ages of 18-25 use marijuana daily or near-daily in the United States. 81% of them meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder. (2022 U.S. National Drug Use Survey)
Our Impact
New Futures has developed the Principles for Cannabis Policy and Regulation, which provides a policy framework to highlight the importance of protecting children and youth, promoting social justice and opportunities for equality, protecting public health, and ensuring appropriate funding from cannabis revenue is directed to efforts to reduce harm.
Each year, New Futures scores legalization bills against the Principles for Cannabis Policy and Regulation to show the public and lawmakers where the bill stands against evidence-based strategies.
In 2024, the legislature put forth a bill that contained many of the Principles for Responsible Cannabis Policy. After passing the House and Senate, the House of Representatives killed the bill on a concurrence vote.
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