New Hampshire Expands Medical Marijuana Program To Include Anxiety, But Vetoes Cultivation Expansion

In a significant development for medical marijuana patients, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu (R) signed a bill adding generalized anxiety disorder to the list of qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. The legislation, known as HB 1349 and introduced by Rep. Heath Howard (D), takes effect in 60 days, providing a new therapeutic option for patients suffering from anxiety.

“This change will give patients with anxiety disorders a reason to discuss cannabis with their medical providers, and ultimately it will allow more Granite Staters to benefit from therapeutic cannabis,” Matt Simon, director of public and government relations at GraniteLeaf Cannabis told Marijuana Moment. This addition builds on the proven success of medical cannabis in treating PTSD among veterans, offering a safer alternative to benzodiazepines, which are highly addictive.

Bill Expanding Cultivation Locations Gets The Ax

However, in a move that has sparked debate, Sununu vetoed HB 1581, a bill that would have allowed medical marijuana businesses to open second cultivation locations, including greenhouses. Under current regulations, all cannabis for the state’s medical marijuana program must be grown indoors. This bill, sponsored by Rep. Suzanne Vail (D), aimed to provide more flexibility for alternative treatment centers (ATCs) by permitting semi-outdoor cultivation.

In his veto statement, Sununu emphasized the need for stringent safety and security measures, stating, “These details are necessary to ensure appropriate controls on a regulated substance.”

Pending Legislation And Broader Reforms

In addition to the above, two medical marijuana bills are still awaiting the governor’s decision. HB 1278, introduced by Rep. Wendy Thomas (D), seeks to expand the qualifying conditions for medical marijuana to include any debilitating or terminal condition as judged by a medical provider. Thomas, a cancer survivor and medical marijuana patient, has been vocal about the benefits she has experienced, citing relief from chronic pain, insomnia, and PTSD.

The second bill, SB 357, proposed by Sen. Becky Whitley (D), aims to broaden the authority to recommend medical marijuana to any licensed healthcare provider in New Hampshire with DEA registration.

Challenges in Legalization Efforts

Despite these advancements, broader efforts to legalize marijuana for adult use faced a setback this year. A legalization bill was tabled by House Democrats, including Rep. Heath Howard, due to concerns over a state-controlled franchise model. This decision was influenced by the upcoming gubernatorial election, as Governor Sununu is not seeking re-election. The stance of his potential successors, who have expressed opposition to legalization, could shape future legislative efforts.

New Hampshire lawmakers have dedicated significant efforts to marijuana reform, but have yet to achieve a consensus on comprehensive legalization. Past attempts, including measures to allow personal cultivation and state-controlled retail models, have faced legislative roadblocks.