Hawaii Lawmakers Push For Marijuana Legalization, As Bill Heads To Full State Senate

On Thursday, two Hawaii Senate committees passed a measure to legalize adult-use cannabis in the state.

The measure approved by Hawaii Consumer Protection and Ways and Means Committees will be discussed in the Senate next week.

About The Bill

SB 669 seeks to legalize marijuana for adults over 21 to buy and possess up to 30 grams of weed and grow up to six cannabis plants for personal use. It would establish a Hawaii Cannabis Regulatory Authority and will encourage small licensed growers across the state. However, "it’s likely to run into strong opposition in the state House," per Hawaii News Now.

The measure aims to avoid large companies monopolizing the industry, said Jarrett Keohokalole, one of the bill’s sponsors, Senate Consumer Protection Committee Chair. “We’d like the ability for this to become a decentralized agricultural industry. We are still required to ensure safety and ensure robust regulation.”

Hawaii Governor's Support

Gov. Josh Green, who seeks to ensure the continued viability of Hawaii's medical cannabis industry, showed his support for the bill.

However, Keohohalole said the administration has been difficult to deal with and called for a dialogue, noting that while the governor says he supports legalization, his 

unelected administrators reject every proposal they put forward. 

The governor's advisor responds. 

“Governor Green supports legalized use of cannabis by adults, providing that any legislation that emerges protects public safety and consumers, and assures product safety with testing and tracking,” said Blake Oshiro, adding that the governor encourages his departments to state their concerns and make suggestions. 

In related news, the Hawaii Cannabis Industry Association (HICIA) recently confirmed that  86% of Hawaii residents think that marijuana should be legal. 

The Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference Is Back!

The most successful cannabis business event in the world, the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference returns to Miami for its 16th edition. Here is where DEALS GET DONE, where money is raised, M&A start and companies meet investors and key partners. Join us at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel in Florida on April 11-12. Don’t miss out. Secure your tickets now. Prices will go up soon.

Photo: Courtesy Of AussieActive On Unsplash