In recent developments in New Hampshire's cannabis legislation, Governor Chris Sununu has signed a bill that broadens access to therapeutic cannabis but has vetoed another measure that would have expanded cultivation capabilities for alternative treatment centers.
On July 12, 2024, Sununu approved House Bill 1349, which adds generalized anxiety disorder to the list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis. This new provision, effective September 10, 2024, will enable individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder, once certified by a medical professional, to apply for a cannabis registry ID and purchase therapeutic cannabis from the state's nonprofit alternative treatment centers (ATCs). Proponents of the bill argue that it offers a valuable alternative to traditional pharmaceutical treatments and could also benefit those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“This bill represents a significant step forward in providing people with more options for managing their anxiety,” said a supporter of the legislation. “For many, therapeutic cannabis could be a preferable alternative to conventional medications.”
The New Hampshire Bulletin noted that not all cannabis-related legislation met with approval from Sununu. He vetoed House Bill 1581, which would have permitted the state’s ATCs to construct greenhouses on their cultivation sites, provided they received approval from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The goal of the bill was to enable more efficient cannabis production, potentially reducing energy costs associated with indoor cultivation.
Sununu’s veto was based on concerns about the bill’s lack of detailed safeguards regarding the security and location of the proposed greenhouses. In his veto message, Sununu emphasized the need for stricter controls and regulations to ensure the security of facilities dealing with regulated substances.
“The legislation provides scant detail regarding safety, security, and location requirements,” Sununu stated. “Those details are necessary to ensure appropriate controls on a regulated substance.”
The governor’s veto of HB 1581 follows a recent legislative defeat for cannabis advocates. Last month, lawmakers rejected a cannabis legalization bill that Sununu had supported, largely due to concerns over state control of cannabis sales.
As New Hampshire continues to navigate the complexities of cannabis regulation, the expansion of qualifying conditions for therapeutic use represents a significant change. At the same time, the rejection of the greenhouse bill highlights ongoing debates over how best to balance innovation in cannabis cultivation with the need for stringent regulatory oversight.
If you are struggling with an addiction to marijuana or any other substance, reach out to Avenues Recovery so that we can give you the help you deserve.