New Hampshire’s Cannabis Legalization Efforts Stall After House Vote

13 June 2024

The New Hampshire House has narrowly voted to table House Bill 1633, halting efforts to legalize recreational cannabis for adults and delaying potential changes to the state’s marijuana laws until at least 2026. The bill, which proposed legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and older, increasing decriminalization limits, and establishing a state-regulated retail system, failed amid sharp divisions between the House and Senate over retail models and state control. Proponents of the Senate-backed model, which would have given significant oversight to the state’s Liquor Commission, argued it provided necessary safeguards, while critics labeled it a stifling monopoly and an overreach of state authority.

This outcome continues a decade-long pattern of legislative stalemates on marijuana law reform in New Hampshire. Advocates criticized the delay, citing its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities and its ongoing cost to taxpayers. The rejection also dashed hopes for expanded accessibility for medical cannabis patients and economic growth from a new industry. With this decision, New Hampshire remains the only state in New England without legalized recreational cannabis, leaving consumers to turn to neighboring states and missing out on potential local revenue opportunities.