GOP-Led Cannabis Legalization Bill Passes New Hampshire House But Senate Hurdle Looms

'Cannabis is here,' says GOP sponsor of the bill. 'The question is whether or not we provide an outlet' to buy it safely and legally.

The New Hampshire House of Representatives passed a bill legalizing and regulating adult-use marijuana on Thursday, offering a glimmer of hope for supporters after years of failed attempts. However, the legislation still faces hurdles in the Senate, while Republican Governor Chris Sununu has his reservations. The bill passed in a 239–141 vote, first reported Marijuana Moment.

Sponsored by Rep. Erica Layon (R), the bill allows adults over 21 to purchase marijuana from up to 15 licensed stores across the state. It also permits possession of limited amounts of cannabis.

This legislation marks a departure from Governor Sununu’s preferred model, which envisions state-run cannabis stores. Additionally, it excludes a ban on marijuana industry lobbying, which the governor’s office had pushed for. Layon has expressed concerns that these aspects of Sununu’s proposal could face legal challenges.

Despite these differences, Layon spent recent weeks working with senators and members of a state study commission to build consensus on legalization.

“There’s a lot of people in the state who currently use cannabis. I really don’t think the number is going to increase much by passing this bill,” Layon said before the vote, noted the outlet.

“We're concerned about those people who are buying it on the black market and they're buying product that's contaminated by fentanyl because of poor product handling. Cannabis is here. The question is whether or not we provide an outlet for people who are currently turning to the streets as a way to buy it in the state, and we keep some of the sales here in New Hampshire,” she said.

Proponents of the bill agree with Layon, arguing that legalization would provide a safe and regulated marketplace for existing cannabis users, reduce reliance on the illicit market and generate revenue for the state.

However, some lawmakers, like Rep. Tim Cayhill (R), raised concerns about potential impacts on mental health, law enforcement, homelessness and the free market.

The House also approved an amendment reflecting Layon’s collaboration with senators, though it drew criticism from some Democrats who argued it restricts consumer choice.

With the House vote complete, the bill now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain. Even if it passes there, Governor Sununu’s potential veto also presents a significant hurdle for marijuana legalization in New Hampshire.

Image Credits: Billion Photos and Yarygin by Shutterstock Edited By Benzinga