Why it matters: House Bill 431 in New Hampshire would allow patients and caregivers to grow cannabis at home, as well as increase the number of plants that medical cannabis dispensaries can grow. The bill has passed in the house and is now under consideration in the Senate.
What they are saying: Supporters of the bill believe it addresses issues of access and price for therapeutic cannabis patients in areas where Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) are far away and the cost of products from ATCs is high. However, opponents argue that cannabis legalization would contribute to increased drug use and overdoses among teenagers.
The big picture: House Bill 431 is one of several bills related to cannabis legalization in New Hampshire, with other bills proposing the legalization of adult-use cannabis and the creation of a Liquor and Cannabis Commission to manage industry regulations statewide.
What to watch: The future of House Bill 431 in the Senate, as well as the other bills related to cannabis legalization currently under consideration in New Hampshire.
My take: The passing of House Bill 431 in the New Hampshire House is a step forward for patient access to medical cannabis. However, it remains to be seen how other bills related to cannabis legalization will fare in the state, and whether or not the governor will ultimately sign any such legislation into law.
