Marijuana decriminalization bill moves to the Senate

A bill to decriminalize possession of small quantities of marijuana by adults aged 21 or older has passed the New Hampshire House.

The bill, HB 640, would reduce possession of one ounce or less of marijuana or five grams or less of hashish to a violation, similar to a speeding ticket. Fines would range from $100 for a first offense to $350 for multiple offenses, and the drugs in question would be confiscated.

A fine for a single conviction within a three year period would be waived if the offender undergoes a substance abuse assessment by a licensed counselor.

Possession of larger quantities of marijuana would still be a misdemeanor offense.

There are slight variations on these policies regarding possession of marijuana-derived products, and the bill does include growing cannabis in its definition of marijuana.

Similar bills have passed the House in other legislative sessions, but failed to get through the Senate.

Supporters of decriminalizing marijuana in New Hampshire argue that personal possession of the drug should not entail criminal penalties. They believe the move will save state funds by reducing the use of law enforcement and corrections resources while improving outcomes for offenders.

Some opponents counter that decriminalization will increase use of the drug, particularly among vulnerable youth populations, for whom it can have negative consequences.

Other opponents argue that decriminalization is an unacceptable “half-step” short of full legalization of recreational use of the drug.

Would you support the decriminalization of marijuana in New Hampshire? Leave a comment below to join the discussion, and we'll present your thoughts to legislators considering this issue. Only comments from NH residents will be counted, so please indicate if you are from NH in your response.