Gov Sununu remark on HB 1633, "If they want to make significant changes, then it’s not going to pass"

Today the New Hampshire House rejected Senate amendments to a marijuana legalization bill, moving it to a conference committee for further negotiation. The House passed its version in April, which differs significantly from the Senate's, particularly regarding the regulatory model. Governor Chris Sununu supports the Senate's version, which includes state-run franchise dispensaries, and has urged minimal changes for the bill to pass. "If they want to make significant changes, then it’s not going to pass. It’s just that easy,” the governor said.

Differences Between New Hampshire Senate's and House's Marijuana Legalization Models

• Regulatory Model:
  
  • Senate Version: Proposes state-run franchise dispensaries, limiting the number to 15 statewide.
  • House Version: Allows privately owned cannabis retailers regulated under an "agency store" model.
• Possession Limits:
  
  • Senate Version: Legalizes possession of up to 2 ounces of marijuana for adults.
  • House Version: Allows possession of up to 4 ounces.
• Taxation:
  
  • Senate Version: Implements a 15% franchise fee on gross monthly sales of marijuana.
  • House Version: Imposes a lower tax rate of 12% and exempts medical marijuana purchases from taxation.
• Governor's Support:
  
  • Senate Version: Supported by Governor Chris Sununu, who has stated he would sign it into law.
  • House Version: Not supported by the governor due to the lack of state-run franchise provisions.
    

Source:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2024/05/30/new-hampshire-house-and-senate-to-hash-out-marijuana-legalization-bill/?sh=1a98edd64748

https://newhampshirebulletin.com/2024/05/30/cannabis-legalization-set-for-negotiations-after-frustrations-among-house-supporters/

https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-hampshire-marijuana-legalization-bill-headed-to-conference-committee-after-house-rejects-senate-amendments/

UPDATE:
House Bill 1633 (HB 1633) in New Hampshire, which aimed to legalize and regulate recreational marijuana, was tabled by the House of Representatives on June 13, 2024. This effectively halted the bill for the current legislative session, meaning marijuana will not be legalized in New Hampshire this year, and this is a good thing -
Let's fight for NH "LIVE FREE OR DIE" and make a new bill better for everyone!