Cannabis in New Hampshire

Cannabis in New Hampshire is illegal for recreational use and decriminalized for possession of up to 3/4 oz as of July 18, 2017. Medical use is legal through legislation passed in 2013.

Medical cannabis (2013)
In July 2013, New Hampshire Governor Maggie Hassan signed into law a bill allowing the use of medical cannabis for patients with "chronic or terminal diseases" and "debilitating medical conditions." The bill was noted as one of the stricter medical marijuana bills in the nation, allowing cannabis only after all other treatment methods have failed. Hassan also modified the measure, prohibiting patients from growing their own cannabis.

Failed legalization (2014)
On January 15, 2014, New Hampshire's legislature voted preliminarily 170 to 162 in favor of House Bill 492, based on Colorado Amendment 64, which would have legalized the personal use of up to 1 oz of marijuana by those over 21 years old as well as production and sale by licensed facilities and dispensaries.

Decriminalization (2017)
On July 18, 2017, New Hampshire decriminalized cannabis, replacing misdemeanor charges with a $100 fine for a first or second offense and $300 for a third offense. Four offenses within three years would result in misdemeanor charges. Individuals who refuse to identify themselves to police could still be subject to arrest.

Legalization of cannabis policy
In May 2023, Governor Chris Sununu said he supports, in principle, the legalization of cannabis with conditions - despite for years being completely surrounded by jurisdictions already with legalized cannabis in Vermont, Maine and Massachusetts - plus Canada to the north. The New Hampshire House of Representatives passed several bills on cannabis legalization for years - but the New Hampshire Senate takes no action, tables or rejects the bills for years.