This bill legalizes the possession of cannabis for individuals aged 21 and older in New Hampshire, while prohibiting public consumption. It repeals and reenacts RSA 318-B:2-c, which defines "cannabis" and establishes possession limits, allowing individuals to possess up to two ounces of cannabis flower or trim, ten grams of cannabis concentrate, and cannabis products containing no more than 2,000 milligrams of THC. The bill also permits the transfer of cannabis within these limits without remuneration, but imposes penalties for public consumption, escalating from a $100 fine for a first offense to misdemeanor charges for repeated violations. Additionally, it includes provisions for individuals under 21, establishing fines and potential forfeiture of cannabis, with all collected fines directed to the alcohol abuse prevention and treatment fund.

The bill amends the Controlled Drug Act, clarifying penalties for cannabis possession, particularly for those under 21, where possession of more than 3/4 ounce of marijuana or more than 5 grams of hashish will result in a misdemeanor. For individuals 21 and older, exceeding the possession limit will also result in a misdemeanor unless authorized under RSA 126-X. The bill replaces references to "marijuana" with "cannabis" in certain contexts and clarifies that employers are not required to accommodate cannabis use in the workplace. It maintains the prohibition of cannabis use for individuals under 21 and emphasizes that driving under the influence of cannabis remains illegal. The bill is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on state and local governments due to potential changes in judicial and correctional costs associated with enforcement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 318-B:26, 265-A:43