Overview Of Cannabis Laws In New Hampshire
Have you ever wondered about the cannabis laws in New Hampshire? Curious about what is legal and what isn’t in the Granite State when it comes to marijuana? In this article, we will provide you with an overview of cannabis laws in New Hampshire to help you navigate the regulations and stay informed.
Medical Marijuana Laws
Medical marijuana has been legal in New Hampshire since 2013 when Governor Maggie Hassan signed House Bill 573 into law. Under the state’s medical marijuana program, patients with qualifying conditions can obtain a registry identification card to legally purchase and use cannabis for medicinal purposes.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
To be eligible for the medical marijuana program in New Hampshire, patients must have one of the following qualifying medical conditions:
- Cancer
- Glaucoma
- Multiple Sclerosis
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- ALS
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Any terminal illness with a prognosis of less than one year
If you have one of these conditions, you may qualify for a medical marijuana card in New Hampshire.
Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Card
To obtain a medical marijuana card in New Hampshire, patients must follow these steps:
- Visit a qualified healthcare provider to get a medical evaluation and receive a written certification that you have a qualifying medical condition.
- Register with the Therapeutic Cannabis Program (TCP) online and pay the registration fee.
- Once approved, you will receive your medical marijuana card in the mail.
Medical marijuana patients in New Hampshire are allowed to possess up to two ounces of cannabis for therapeutic use. The state also has a limited number of Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) where patients can purchase medical cannabis products.
Decriminalization of Marijuana
In 2017, New Hampshire decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. Under the decriminalization law, possession of up to three-quarters of an ounce of cannabis for personal use is considered a violation rather than a criminal offense. Violators are subject to a civil fine of $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense, and $350 for subsequent offenses.
Penalties for Possession
While decriminalization is a step in the right direction, it is important to note that possessing larger quantities of marijuana or selling cannabis without a license is still illegal in New Hampshire and can result in criminal charges.
Recreational Marijuana Laws
As of now, recreational marijuana remains illegal in New Hampshire. The state has not yet legalized the use of cannabis for adult recreational purposes. However, efforts to legalize recreational marijuana in New Hampshire are ongoing, with advocates pushing for legislative changes to allow for the possession and sale of marijuana to adults over 21 years of age.
Current Legalization Efforts
Several bills to legalize recreational marijuana have been introduced in the New Hampshire legislature in recent years, but none have passed both chambers. Despite this, the conversation around recreational cannabis legalization continues in the Granite State, and it is possible that we may see changes to the current laws in the future.
Industrial Hemp Laws
In addition to medical and recreational marijuana laws, New Hampshire also has regulations regarding industrial hemp. Industrial hemp is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species that contains less than 0.3% THC and is used for various industrial purposes, such as textiles, paper, and biofuel.
Hemp Cultivation Licensing
Under federal law, the cultivation of industrial hemp is legal in the United States, as long as it is done in compliance with state regulations. In New Hampshire, farmers interested in growing industrial hemp must obtain a license from the Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food (DAMF) and adhere to strict guidelines for cultivation, testing, and processing.
Hemp-Derived Products
Hemp-derived products such as CBD oil are also legal in New Hampshire as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. These products are widely available in stores and online, offering consumers the potential health benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cannabis laws in New Hampshire are evolving, with medical marijuana legal for qualifying patients, decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis, ongoing efforts to legalize recreational marijuana, and regulations surrounding industrial hemp. It is important to stay informed about the current laws and regulations in the Granite State to avoid any legal issues related to cannabis use. Whether you are a medical marijuana patient, a recreational user, or a hemp farmer, knowing the cannabis laws in New Hampshire is essential for compliance and peace of mind. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the cannabis laws in New Hampshire, and we hope this overview has been helpful to you.
