New Hampshire House Committee Advances Marijuana Legalization Bill, But Passage Uncertain
Despite opposition from the state Senate and Governor, the New Hampshire House is pushing forward with a bill to legalize marijuana. The House Commerce Committee voted to advance the legislation, which would allow individuals 21 and older to use cannabis and permit home cultivation. However, the bill’s fate remains uncertain, with many lawmakers acknowledging that the governor’s opposition makes passage unlikely.
House Bill 186 would also allow for the sale of cannabis, which would be taxed under the existing rooms and meals tax, generating an estimated $27 million annually. The bill would also remove the cap on licenses for cannabis businesses, which was a point of contention in 2024.
While some lawmakers, such as Representative Jared Sullivan, remain optimistic about the bill’s chances, others are more pessimistic. Representative John Potucek, a Republican, believes the debate is over, citing the Senate’s rejection of the bill and the governor’s opposition.
Even some lawmakers who voted to advance the bill, such as Representative John Hunt, acknowledge that passage is unlikely. Hunt expressed support for the bill but recognizes that the governor’s opposition makes it difficult to move forward.
The bill will now head to the House floor, where it could receive a vote early next year. However, given the current opposition, it remains to be seen whether the bill will ultimately become law.
