Possession Limits

New Hampshire permits medical cannabis use with specific possession limits and has decriminalized small amounts for recreational purposes:

• Adults: Possession of up to 3/4 ounce (21 grams) of cannabis is decriminalized, resulting in a civil violation punishable by a fine rather than criminal charges.
• Medical Patients: Qualified patients can possess up to 2 ounces (56 grams) of usable cannabis within a 10-day period.

Cultivation Laws

Cultivation of cannabis in New Hampshire is highly restricted:

• Home Cultivation: Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal for both medical and recreational users.
• Licensed Cultivation: Only state-licensed Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs) can legally grow cannabis for medical purposes.

Medical vs. Recreational Use

Medical Use

New Hampshire’s medical cannabis program was established under the Therapeutic Cannabis Program (RSA 126-X):

• Qualifying Conditions: Conditions such as cancer, chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, glaucoma, and severe pain qualify patients for medical cannabis.
• Medical Card: Patients must obtain a recommendation from a state-licensed physician and register with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.
• Purchase Limits: Medical cannabis can be purchased from licensed Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs), with specific possession limits as defined by the program.

Recreational Use

Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in New Hampshire:

• Possession: Possession of small amounts (up to 3/4 ounce) is decriminalized, resulting in a fine rather than criminal charges. Possession of larger amounts remains a criminal offense.
• No Legal Sales: There are no provisions for the legal sale or purchase of recreational cannabis.

Penalties for Violations

Violations of New Hampshire’s cannabis laws can result in various penalties:

• Possession Over Limits: Possession of more than 3/4 ounce can lead to criminal charges, fines, and possible jail time.
• Illegal Sales: Selling cannabis without a license is a felony offense with severe penalties, including imprisonment.
• Public Consumption: Consuming cannabis in public places can result in fines.

Recent Updates and Changes

New Hampshire continues to monitor and adjust its cannabis regulations:

• Legislative Efforts: Recent legislative efforts have focused on expanding the medical program and potentially legalizing recreational use, but significant changes have yet to occur.
• Decriminalization: The decriminalization of small amounts of cannabis reflects a shift towards more lenient policies, although full legalization remains under discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can tourists buy medical cannabis in New Hampshire? A: No, only residents of New Hampshire with a valid medical cannabis card can purchase medical cannabis from licensed ATCs.

Q: Where can I consume cannabis in New Hampshire? A: Medical cannabis consumption is legal in private residences. Public consumption is prohibited.

Q: How can I get a medical cannabis card in New Hampshire? A: Patients must get a recommendation from a state-licensed physician and register through the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services.

Q: Are there any legal limits for transporting cannabis within New Hampshire? A: Medical cannabis patients can transport their medication, but it must be in a sealed container and not in a public place.

Conclusion

New Hampshire’s cannabis laws are currently focused on limited medical use, with decriminalized possession of small amounts for recreational purposes. Staying informed about these laws ensures responsible and legal cannabis use in the state.

Additional Resources

• New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services – Therapeutic Cannabis Program
• NORML: New Hampshire Laws
• New Hampshire State Legislature

By following this guide, you can navigate the cannabis laws in New Hampshire confidently and responsibly.