The bill HB 643-FN-A seeks to legalize marijuana for individuals aged 21 and over in New Hampshire, establishing regulations for its use, possession, and sale, akin to those for alcohol. It introduces a new chapter (318-F) to regulate cannabis, defining key terms and setting possession limits, while also amending existing laws to exclude authorized substances from the definition of "illegal drugs." The bill outlines the roles of various cannabis-related entities, including cultivation facilities and retail stores, and mandates that all cannabis sold must be tested and labeled. It also specifies that state and local law enforcement shall not arrest or seize cannabis if the activity complies with state law, and it prohibits driving under the influence of cannabis. Notably, the bill does not include any or markers, suggesting it adds new provisions without altering existing text. Additionally, the bill details the application process for cannabis establishments, including fees, registration, and renewal procedures, and allows municipalities to regulate or prohibit such establishments. It sets residency requirements for applicants, mandates background checks, and prohibits establishments within 1,000 feet of schools. The bill also establishes the cannabis control fund, amends RSA 176:9 to include training for liquor investigators, and appropriates funds for the liquor commission and the department of health and human services. It repeals a section of the law related to separation gins and sifters used with cannabis and states that it will take effect upon its passage. The fiscal note attached to the bill indicates an appropriation of $4,750,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023, and acknowledges indeterminate increases in state revenue and expenditures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 6:12, 179:8, 318-C:4, 176:9, 176:11, 176:14, 318-B:26, 318-B:2-c, 265-A:43, 318-B:1