New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill CACR34

Introduced
12/14/21  
Refer
12/14/21  
Report DNP
3/7/22  

Caption

Relating to the use, sale, or cultivation of cannabis. Providing that the state shall make no law prohibiting the use, sale, or cultivation of cannabis for persons over 18 years of age.

Impact

If approved, CACR34 would effectively remove state-level prohibitions on cannabis, potentially leading to a more regulated and safe market for adults. This amendment could reshape law enforcement priorities, redirecting resources currently used to combat cannabis use toward other public safety issues. Additionally, it may open avenues for revenues through taxation and regulation within a burgeoning cannabis industry, as seen in other states that have embraced legalization.

Summary

CACR34 proposes an amendment to the New Hampshire constitution, which seeks to prohibit the state legislature from enacting any laws that would restrict the use, sale, or cultivation of cannabis for individuals over the age of 18. The amendment underscores a growing trend across the United States towards the legalization and normalization of cannabis use, aiming to establish a clear legal framework for adult consumers and growers in the state. This resolution reflects the ongoing shifts in public perception regarding cannabis, particularly as its potential benefits are increasingly recognized in both economic and social contexts.

Sentiment

The sentiment around CACR34 is largely positive among proponents who view it as a progressive step towards personal freedom and economic opportunity. Advocacy groups and certain lawmakers champion the bill as necessary for aligning state laws with evolving public opinions on cannabis. However, there are concerns from opponents who fear potential public health risks and increased substance misuse. The discussions tend to focus not only on personal liberties but also on the state’s responsibility to manage potential consequences.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding CACR34 include disagreements about the implications of legalization for public health, safety, and the workforce. Critics of the amendment raise concerns about the risks of cannabis use among younger populations and the associated societal impacts. Supporters argue that regulation would mitigate risks through controlled access and education. Furthermore, the necessity of the constitutional amendment versus straightforward legislative action has been debated, with some arguing that existing laws may suffice without entrenching such rights in the constitution.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH CACR19

relative to the personal possession of cannabis. Providing that adults 21 years of age or older shall have the right to possess a modest amount of cannabis intended for their personal consumption.

NH SB76

In patients, providing for cultivating cannabis for personal use.

NH SB6204

Legalizing the home cultivation of cannabis by persons who are 21 years of age and older.

NH HB1449

Legalizing the home cultivation of cannabis by persons who are 21 years of age and older.

NH HB2614

Legalizing the home cultivation of cannabis by persons who are 21 years of age and older.

NH HB5259

Relating to the cultivation of medical cannabis

NH H178

Establishing a local value added tax on cannabis cultivation sales

NH HB3230

Relating to the cultivation of medical cannabis

NH HB2679

Enacting the adult use cannabis regulation act to regulate the cultivation, manufacturing, possession and sale of cannabis in this state.

NH HB2405

Enacting the adult use cannabis regulation act to regulate the cultivation, manufacturing, possession and sale of cannabis in this state.

Similar Bills

LA HB472

(Constitutional Amendment) Revises Article VII of the Constitution of La. (OR -$139,000,000 GF RV See Note)

NJ ACR123

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR75

Proposes temporary constitutional amendment allowing State constitutional convention convened to reform system of property taxation to propose statutory changes.

NJ SCR43

Proposes constitutional amendment authorizing Legislature to invalidate certain court decisions.

LA HB244

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides for the election of constitutional convention delegates and vote requirements necessary for the adoption of a new constitution (RR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HB678

(Constitutional Amendment) Modifies disposition of certain state revenues through repeal of the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund and deposits of certain revenue streams into the Budget Stabilization Fund (RRF INCREASE GF RV See Note)

LA HB473

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides relative to the application of state monies to the unfunded accrued liability of the Teachers' Retirement System of La. (EN DECREASE SD RV See Note)

HI SB1225

Proposing An Amendment To Article Xvii, Section 3 Of The Hawaii Constitution To Specify That The Standard For Voter Approval Of A Constitutional Amendment Proposed By The Legislature Is A Majority Of All The Votes Tallied Upon The Question.