A pair of Senate committees in Hawaii has made strides toward cannabis legalization in the state by advancing a bill that would end marijuana prohibition, incorporating several amendments to the original proposal. The bill is now headed to the chamber floor for a vote, expected next week.
Last year, the Senate passed a similar legalization bill which stalled in the House. However, proponents are optimistic that this year’s proposal could progress further. Governor Josh Green, a Democrat, expressed support for legalization, emphasizing its significance as a social issue that needs addressing.
The current bill, SB 3335, introduced in January, spans over 300 pages and draws heavily from a legalization plan presented by state Attorney General Anne Lopez. During Friday’s hearing, the Senate committees, including Ways and Means and Commerce and Consumer Protection, adopted various amendments, including revisions related to funding, hemp regulations, criminal justice, and licensing provisions.
One significant amendment allows individuals with prior felony cannabis convictions to apply for licenses and employment in the legal marijuana industry after a waiting period of 10 years following the completion of their incarceration or supervised release. Additionally, possession and distribution of marijuana paraphernalia would be legalized under the proposed legislation.
Another notable change is the modification of the name of the regulatory agency overseeing the legal marijuana market to the Hawaii Hemp and Cannabis Authority, reflecting its expanded role in managing both hemp and marijuana affairs.
Despite the progress, some senators voiced reservations. Senator Tim Richards acknowledged the bill’s proximity to completion but maintained concerns, while Senator Sharon Y. Moriwaki emphasized the need for further development around medical marijuana and cautioned against potential societal issues.
Republican Senator Kurt Fevella expressed opposition due to concerns over the lack of defined parameters. Law enforcement agencies in the state also submitted testimony opposing the bill, citing concerns about potential increases in fatal car crashes and roadway deaths linked to marijuana use.
However, advocacy groups urged lawmakers to pass the bill while calling for amendments to address equity and justice concerns. Karen O’Keefe from the Marijuana Policy Project highlighted the need for a less punitive approach and criticized the bill’s potential to perpetuate criminalization.
If enacted, SB 3335 would permit adults aged 21 and older to possess limited quantities of cannabis and concentrates, establish the Hawaii Cannabis Authority to regulate the industry, and impose taxes on marijuana sales to fund law enforcement efforts and promote social equity, public health, and education.
The bill also includes provisions for expunging past cannabis-related convictions, setting limits for driving under the influence, and providing tax relief for licensed marijuana businesses. Additionally, it proposes criminal penalties for individuals under 21 found in possession of marijuana.
While former Governor Dave Ige had resisted legalization due to federal law conflicts, current Governor Josh Green has signaled support, aligning with Democratic senators who consider cannabis legalization a priority for boosting the state’s economy.
In addition to cannabis reform, lawmakers are also considering legislation to provide legal protections for patients undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy, with support from various state agencies and advocacy groups.
As Hawaii navigates its path towards drug policy reform, the outcome of these legislative efforts could have far-reaching implications for the state’s social, economic, and criminal justice landscape.
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