New Hampshire House Committee Schedules Work Session and Potential Vote on Cannabis Legalization Bill

House Bill 186 was filed in January by Representatives Jared Sullivan (D‑Grafton) and Heath Howard (D‑Strafford). The proposal would legalize marijuana for everyone 21 and older, establish a regulatory framework under a newly created Cannabis Commission, and direct revenue from taxes and fees into the state’s general fund, substance misuse prevention and recovery programs, municipalities, and public safety agencies. A Granite State Poll from the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, published earlier this year, found that 70% of New Hampshire residents strongly or somewhat support legalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana—up from 65% in mid‑2024. This includes majority support among all political affiliations.

The measure has already received public hearings and work sessions earlier this year, but was retained in committee in March. The September 10 work session marks the first time the full committee will take it up, giving lawmakers the chance to recommend whether the bill should advance to the House floor.

If approved, New Hampshire would becoming the 25th legal cannabis state, joining every other state in New England.