Negotiators in New Hampshire’s House and Senate have reportedly reached a compromise on a cannabis legalization bill, according to the New Hampshire Bulletin. Lawmakers have until Thursday to reach a deal before the end of the legislative session.
Last month, the state Senate approved a bill that would allow adult-use sales through state-run shops – a demand of Gov. Chris Sununu (R), who has said he would veto any cannabis legalization bill that does not include this provision. The compromise bill keeps the state-run model included in the Senate-passed legislation, despite opposition from House members.
The compromise bill also includes the Senate-favored 15% tax on cannabis sales. The House version included a 10% tax.
The latest version would also decriminalize possession of up to 1 ounce of cannabis as soon as the bill is signed into law – the limit is an ounce less than what was included in the House version but would take effect immediately rather than six months. Under current state law, individuals can possess up to three-quarters of an ounce.
Senate negotiators also agreed to a demand by their House counterparts that the Cannabis Control Commission created by the law include two industry representatives. The bill would also give current medical cannabis companies in the state an advantage if they seek one of the 16 adult-use licenses.
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