New Hampshire Lawmakers Advance Cannabis Legalization Bill

New Hampshire lawmakers have advanced House Bill 1235 in the 2026 session to legalize adult possession and use of limited cannabis amounts for those 21 and older, without creating a retail market for it.

The measure cleared an initial review by the House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee and is expected to reach the House floor later in the session.

If enacted, HB 1235 would allow adults to legally hold up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis flower or trim, 10 grams of concentrate, or products with up to 2,000 milligrams of THC. Additional allowances would permit sharing small amounts among adults without compensation.

Under the bill, public consumption and underage possession of cannabis would remain restricted. Individuals younger than 21 could face civil violations, with fines for small amounts, stiffer penalties for repeat offenses, and fines directed to the state's addiction treatment and prevention fund.

The bill, however, does not create a commercial cultivation or retail system for cannabis.

Supporters argue the legalization measure would shift police focus to more serious crimes and align state law with public opinion and regional norms. Rep. Jared Sullivan, a Bethlehem Democrat and one of the bill's prime sponsors, believes the bill supports personal freedom and practical law enforcement. “New Hampshire residents have made it clear they want possession to be legal, and this bill reflects that reality,” he explained to My Keene Now.

Polls suggest that public backing for the bill aligns with Sullivan's statement. Approximately 70% of residents in an April University of New Hampshire survey said they supported possession legalization for personal use. Nearly half of all U.S. states, including neighboring New England states, have already legalized possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use.

My Keene Now notes that the bill's political outlook is uncertain. The Senate has historically rejected similar measures, while Gov. Kelly Ayotte opposes recreational legalization. Some lawmakers acknowledge the bill still faces challenges despite House support.