Why it matters: A legislative proposal to legalize adult-use cannabis and establish a recreational marijuana market has stalled in the Hawaii state House of Representatives, preventing marijuana legalization from progressing in 2023.
What they are saying: Despite the bill receiving support in the state Senate and backing from the governor, House Speaker Scott Saiki said he would like to see a working group analyze the idea over the summer before approving recreational marijuana use.
The big picture: Marijuana advocates in Hawaii have faced numerous setbacks, with senior leadership in the state House killing off three earlier legalization proposals introduced in February.
What to watch: As public support for legalization continues to grow, it remains to be seen how long Hawaii lawmakers will continue to stall progress.
Your take: As more states move towards legalization, do you think Hawaii will eventually follow suit?
