Hawaii Senate votes for reform!

Published: March 9, 2011

Tuesday, March 8, was a busy day for your senator. Yesterday, the Hawaii Senate passed five marijuana-related bills out of its chamber. All five bills would improve Hawaii’s marijuana laws – both medical and otherwise. Many thanks to all of you who called and e-mailed your senators to move these sensible bills closer to passage!

SB 1460 would replace the criminal penalties for possession of up to an ounce of marijuana with a simple civil violation of $100. SB 1460 passed 24-0-1 (Ayes-Noes-excused).

SB 1458 would establish licensed medical marijuana growers, sellers, and infused product manufacturers. SB 1458 passed 24-1-0. 

SB 175 transfers jurisdiction of the medical marijuana program from the Department of Public Safety to the Department of Health. SB 175 passed 24-1-0.

SB 58 would, among other things, increase possession limits for patients. SB 58 passed 24-0-1.

SB 113 would create a three-year medical marijuana research program in Hawaii. SB 113 passed 23-2-0.

All five of these bills now move to the House, which may prove a challenge. Please keep an eye on your inbox for future calls for testimony and outreach. Thank you for your time and support.