New Hampshire’s bill to legalize cannabis possession and cultivation for adults 21 and older, HB 1648, passed the House on February 20 with a veto-proof majority of 236-112. Unfortunately, the bill did not receive a public hearing in the state Senate, in part because the legislative session was shortened by COVID-19. In order to maximize our chances of passing a legalization bill in 2021, advocates should focus on opportunities to advance this important issue in the context of the 2020 election.
The New Hampshire House of Representatives already overwhelmingly supports legalizing cannabis for adults' use, so the likelihood of passing a legalization bill in 2021 will depend on the outcome of the governor's race and the 24 state Senate races.
Here are five ways you can help:
(1) Read MPP’s voter guide to learn where candidates for state Senate and governor stand on cannabis policy.
(2) If candidates on your ballot (or in your area) have not yet publicly taken a position on cannabis legalization, reach out to them and ask their opinion. And if you determine that a candidate is worthy of your support, be sure to thank the candidate for supporting cannabis legalization — you might also offer to volunteer, put a sign in your yard, or donate to their campaign.
(4) Donate to support our efforts! Two-thirds of Granite Staters support legalization, but most probably won’t know we are working hard to achieve that goal unless we tell them what we are doing!
(5) Share the voter guide with your friends! Many legislators and candidates are still undecided, and a few thoughtful emails and calls from voters are often all it takes to earn their support.
