The bill HB 186-FN-A proposes the legalization, regulation, and taxation of cannabis in New Hampshire for individuals aged 21 and older. It establishes a comprehensive framework for cannabis establishments, including cultivation, testing, and retail operations, while implementing regulations similar to those governing alcohol. Key provisions include prohibiting sales to minors, maintaining the illegality of driving under the influence of cannabis, and ensuring consumer safety through product testing and labeling. The bill also introduces new legal language to create a Cannabis Fund and a Substance Misuse Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Fund, with a portion of tax revenue from cannabis sales allocated to support education and treatment programs related to substance misuse.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to reduce or eliminate penalties for certain cannabis possession cases and mandates the vacating of specific guilty verdicts or pleas related to cannabis on a designated date. It establishes a Cannabis Commission to oversee the regulation and licensing of cannabis establishments and a Cannabis Advisory Board to provide guidance. The bill also outlines the financial implications, including the hiring of additional staff within the Department of Revenue Administration and the allocation of funds for public education campaigns and substance misuse initiatives. Overall, HB 186-FN-A aims to create a regulated cannabis market while addressing public health and safety concerns through structured oversight and funding mechanisms.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12, 179:8, 318-C:4, 318-B:26, 318-B:2-c, 265-A:43, 78-A:1, 78-A:3, 78-A:4, 78-A:7, 78-A:26, 126-X:1, 126-X:7, 126-X:8, 292:7, 293-A:9, 304-C:149, 318-B:1