The bill SB 651-FN-A seeks to legalize, regulate, and tax cannabis in New Hampshire, establishing a comprehensive framework for cannabis establishments. It allows individuals aged 21 and older to use cannabis under regulations similar to those for alcohol, including age verification and prohibitions on sales to minors. The bill emphasizes transitioning cannabis sales from the illicit market to legal businesses, ensuring consumer safety through testing and labeling, and allocating tax revenue to support education and substance use programs. Key provisions include the creation of a Cannabis Fund and a Substance Abuse Prevention and Recovery Fund, managed by the Department of Health and Human Services, to support evidence-based programs and public education campaigns.

The bill introduces new definitions and regulations for cannabis use, including possession limits for adults and legal activities permitted. It establishes a licensing procedure for cannabis establishments, allowing municipalities to regulate their operations while prohibiting financial contributions to localities. The bill also includes provisions to protect individuals from law enforcement actions based solely on compliance with the new regulations, mandates testing for harmful contaminants in cannabis products, and emphasizes consumer education. Additionally, it amends existing laws to modernize the legal framework surrounding cannabis, including the removal of certain references to "marijuana" and "hashish," and introduces a 12.5 percent excise tax on cannabis sales. Overall, SB 651-FN-A aims to create a structured and safe environment for the cannabis industry while prioritizing public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12, 179:8, 318-B:17-c, 318-C:4, 318-B:26, 318-B:2-c, 318-B:2-d, 318-B:27, 265-A:43, 76:3, 126-X:1, 126-X:7, 126-X:8, 292:7, 293-A:9, 304-C:149, 176:9, 176:7, 179:59, 176:11, 178:19-a, 176:1, 176:14, 318-B:1