Provisions in the bill open the program to those suffering from chronic pain, among other newly eligible conditions. It also expands the variety of cannabis formulations that may be possessed by patients and significantly increases total number of state-licensed dispensaries that can operate in the state.
“With his veto, Governor Youngkin has stripped Virginians of the reliable, direct-to-patient delivery services on which they have relied for years.”
The new law defines “cannabinoid edible products” as “soft or hard lozenges in a geometric square shape into which a cannabinoid concentrate or the dried leaves or flowers of the plant of the genus cannabis is incorporated.”
“Despite the popularity of these issues among New Hampshire voters, the Senate continue to be an impediment to reform. Far too often, this body engages in partisan politics rather than working toward the interests of the majority of New Hampshire voters who want to see marijuana legal in the ‘Live Free of Die’ state.”
Thirty-two Senate Republicans and one Democrat voted against the bill, which would have reduced penalties involving the possession of up to one-half ounce of cannabis to a noncriminal infraction.
The bill provides relief for over 175,000 people with low-level marijuana convictions.
“Marylanders already pay a premium tax on retail cannabis products. Raising these taxes even higher will undoubtedly drive prices out of reach for some consumers. They will also hurt state-licensed businesses, many of which have already invested millions of dollars in up-front costs and are still struggling to break even.”
Despite growing public support for legalization, there remains a vocal yet powerful minority intent on maintaining the failed policy of cannabis criminalization.