If New Hampshire moves in the direction of legalizing recreational cannabis through a commercial model, it is imperative 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.
About the Bill
HB 1633, which is the only bill in the legislature this year attempting to legalize cannabis for adult use, meets many of New Futures' Principles for Responsible Cannabis Commercialization.
In its current form, the amended bill directs 20% of cannabis revenue to substance misuse prevention, treatment, and recovery funding.
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Bill Status
The House of Representatives passed a version of HB 1633 that fell short of meeting the Principles for Responsible Cannabis Policy and Regulation, and did not provide any funding to reduce the harms of legalizing another addictive product. Last month, the Senate passed HB 1633 based on the policy and finance committees’ recommendations. This marks the first time in state history that the New Hampshire Senate has voted to advance cannabis legislation.
While falling short of meeting New Futures' social justice principle, HB 1633, the Senate amended version, met most of New Futures’ Principles for Responsible Cannabis Policy, including an increase to 20% of cannabis revenue designated for substance misuse prevention, treatment, and recovery funding; strong protections for kids; and sound public health policy.
The House of Representatives voted to non-concur with the Senate amendment and the bill went to committee of conference. Members of the committee of conference signed off on a compromise, but the House of Representatives voted to table the bill on June 13, meaning it will not advance this session. New Futures will continue to ensure our Principles are valued in future legalization and commercialization discussions.
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