New Hampshire Senate Committee Rejects Marijuana Legalization Bill

16 April 2025

Efforts to legalize cannabis possession in New Hampshire have failed again. On April 15, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted 3–2 to recommend killing House Bill 198, a bipartisan proposal that would have legalized small amounts of cannabis for adults 21 and over.

What HB 198 Would Have Done for New Hampshire

The bill did not seek to create a retail market but focused solely on legal possession. It would have allowed:

• Up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower or trim
• 10 grams of cannabis concentrate
• 2,000 mg of THC in edible or infused products

It also banned public smoking or vaping, with fines for violations.

Key Takeaways

• House Passed It: The bill cleared the House with strong bipartisan support (208–125).
• Senate Stalled It: Judiciary Committee rejected it along party lines, halting its progress.
• Governor Opposed: Gov. Kelly Ayotte has consistently opposed cannabis legalization.
• No Legal Sales Were Proposed: The bill did not authorize dispensaries or sales.

Why This Matters

New Hampshire is now the only state in New England where non-medical cannabis possession remains illegal for adults. The failure of HB 198 means:

• Arrests Continue: Over 690 people were arrested in 2023 for cannabis possession.
• Racial Disparities Persist: Black residents are over 4x more likely than white residents to be arrested for cannabis.
• Medical Patients Left Behind: A separate bill (HB 53) allowing patients to grow their own medicine was also tabled.
• No Path for Legal Businesses: Entrepreneurs continue to face legal barriers with no framework for recreational sales.

What Opponents Say

Republican New Hampshire lawmakers argued that:

• Legalizing possession without sales would fuel the black market.
• It could send the wrong message to youth.
• There is no regulatory structure in place to ensure safety or oversight.

What Supporters Say

Advocates and civil rights groups argue:

• The bill would have reduced arrests and aligned NH with neighboring states.
• It was a practical compromise by avoiding retail sales debates.
• Continued prohibition disproportionately harms marginalized communities.

What’s Next?

Despite widespread public support (about 65%), cannabis reform efforts continue to stall in the state Senate. Until lawmakers change course, possession remains illegal—even if purchased legally in nearby states.

If You’re a Consumer or Business Owner in NH:

• Adult-use cannabis is still illegal, even if bought legally elsewhere.
• Medical cannabis remains legal in New Hampshire, but growing your own is not allowed.
• No recreational sales or dispensaries are permitted in the state.

Stay informed and watch for future legislation that could change the landscape.