New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte Remains Opposed to Marijuana Legalization
Despite President Donald Trump’s consideration of reclassifying marijuana at the federal level, Governor Kelly Ayotte has reaffirmed her stance against legalizing the drug in New Hampshire. While she would comply with any changes to federal law, Ayotte’s primary concern is the potential impact on quality of life, particularly for youth.
As a mother and former prosecutor, Ayotte is worried about the effects of marijuana on mental health and road safety. She cites the lack of a reliable method to measure marijuana intoxication in drivers, which she believes could lead to an increase in car crashes. This concern is supported by a 2023 study from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health, which found that seven states that had legalized recreational marijuana saw a 10% average increase in motor vehicle accident deaths.
Ayotte’s opposition to legalization is also driven by her concern for public safety. While some argue that legalization keeps people out of the black market and reduces overincarceration, Ayotte believes that the potential risks to quality of life outweigh any benefits. She hopes that if federal law changes, it will also address the issue of road safety.
New Hampshire currently allows medical marijuana use, but recreational use remains illegal. Ayotte’s stance is at odds with some advocates who argue that marijuana is less dangerous than other drugs and that legalization can reduce crime and incarceration rates. However, Ayotte remains committed to her position, prioritizing the well-being and safety of New Hampshire residents.
