Gov. Sununu says recreational marijuana in N.H. is ‘inevitable’, offers path forward
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After previously refuting the notion of legalizing recreational marijuana, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu is now backing a path to approving the practice in the Granite State.
Sununu acknowledges that a large portion of New Hampshire residents support recreational marijuana legalization. Sununu says ignoring reality would be “shortsighted and harmful” and plans to introduce guidelines that will focus on harm reduction over profits.
The new legislature would mimic New Hampshire’s alcohol sale protocols, ensuring the state retains control of marketing, sale and distribution.
“This is a long-term, sustainable solution for our state. I am supportive of legalizing marijuana in the right way — with this legislature — rather than risk a poorly thought-out framework that inevitably could pass under future governors or legislatures,” said Sununu in a statement. “This is the best path forward for our state, and I stand ready and willing to work with the legislature so that we can deliver a legalization bill that is smart, sustainable, and retains the fabric and culture of our state.”
While Sununu has propped open the door for marijuana sellers, he made sure to state he wants to avoid businesses overextending their reach.
“New Hampshire must avoid marijuana miles — the term for densely concentrated marijuana shops within one city or town. Any city or town that wants to ban shops should be free to do so,” said Sununu. “The state would not impose any taxes, and should control all messaging, avoiding billboards, commercials, and digital ads that bombard kids on a daily basis.”
Sununu also says legalizing marijuana will help keep users safe while “the black market been more dangerous.”
“Marijuana and other drugs on the black market are being laced with fentanyl, posing significant risks to our citizens. By regulating the sale of marijuana in New Hampshire, the state will ensure our citizens are in a safer place,” said Sununu.
In 2017, Sununu became the first Governor in New Hampshire history to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana possession.
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