This bill legalizes the possession and use of cannabis for individuals aged 21 and older in New Hampshire, establishing specific quantity limits for personal possession. The new legal language defines "cannabis" to include the leaves, stems, and flowers of the cannabis plant, while excluding resin and hemp products. Possession limits are set at two-and-a-half 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 introduces penalties for individuals under 21 who possess cannabis, including fines and substance abuse assessments. It clarifies that law enforcement cannot arrest individuals for minor violations of cannabis possession, provided there are no other grounds for arrest, and emphasizes that employers can enforce policies regarding cannabis use in the workplace.

Additionally, HB 1235-FN amends the Controlled Drug Act by prohibiting the transfer of cannabis to individuals under 21 and allowing correctional facilities and property owners to regulate cannabis use on their premises. It modifies penalties for possession, establishing that individuals under 21 with more than 3/4 ounce of marijuana or 5 grams of hashish will be guilty of a misdemeanor, while lesser amounts will result in a violation. The bill also makes deletions, such as replacing "marijuana" with "cannabis" and removing certain provisions related to marijuana-infused products. The effective date of the act is set to be upon its passage, and while there is no direct revenue impact, there may be indeterminable expenditures related to the judicial and correctional systems due to the changes in penalties and regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 318-B:26, 265-A:43
HB1235 text: 318-B:26, 265-A:43