In a landmark move, adult-use marijuana legalization was passed by the New Hampshire Senate, signaling a shift in the perception and acceptance of cannabis in the state. However, the journey towards achieving legal sales in the state is far from over. The model being used for the sales of marijuana is a state-operated one, a departure from the typical private business structure seen in other states.
Understanding the Model
The proposed model for marijuana sales sets New Hampshire apart as it involves state control at different levels of the operation. This includes cultivation, distribution and the final point of sale. The idea behind this is to have the government handle all sales, similar to how the state handles liquor sales. This model addresses some of the key concerns of private business operations such as unchecked growth and profit over public health. It, however, implies that the state assumes all risk and also increases the responsibility and control held by the government.
Implications for the Medical Marijuana Program
While the adult-use marijuana bill is a progressive step, it doesn’t automatically imply an expansion of the existing medical marijuana program in the state. Patients who require marijuana for medical purposes must still go through the traditional channels to obtain their supplies. Thankfully, services such as MMJ.com are available to assist these individuals with obtaining their New Hampshire Medical Marijuana Card. It is crucial to note that while the new legislation is a win for marijuana advocates, it doesn’t replace the importance of the medical marijuana program.
Next Steps Towards Legalization
While the Senate’s decision marks a crucial turning point, additional steps need to be taken to make the state-operated sales model a reality. The bill will now be reviewed by the House, and if it passes, it will then move on to the governor’s desk for final approval. The governor’s stance on adult-use marijuana has been resistant in the past, but many are hopeful that the potential for new state revenue and the shift in public opinion may sway his decision.
What This Means for Other States
- The New Hampshire Senate’s decision could serve as a blueprint for other states considering marijuana legalization, especially those that prefer a state-controlled model over a private one.
- While the state-operated model isn’t new— as seen with states such as New Brunswick in Canada — it could open up new discussions about marijuana sales in the public versus private sectors in the United States.
- The bold decision can energize marijuana proponents in other states to pursue similar legislation.
In conclusion, the approval of the adult-use marijuana bill by the New Hampshire Senate is a significant step in the direction of marijuana legalization in the state. While there are still several stages to navigate before this becomes a reality, this move underscores the changing perception of marijuana in the country and could potentially inspire other states to consider similar routes.
