There have been a number of discussions in New Hampshire over the past several months regarding the decriminalization and legalization of marijuana. On March 20, the Granite State took a huge step toward making this a reality when the House voted 286-64 in support of establishing a medical marijuana program.
According to regional news source the Union Leader, the new law would enable individuals who suffer from chronic or terminal illnesses to use the drug under a doctor's recommendation. One of the proponents of the bill, Rep. Donald "Ted" Wright, told a personal story about how his wife used marijuana as part of a clinical study to successfully treat side effects of a drug she took to help her combat breast cancer.
There are, of course, those who are against legalizing the plant for medicinal purposes. The New Hampshire Association of Chiefs of Police argued that these kinds of discussions make drugs seem more acceptable among recreational users.
Though Gov. Maggie Hassan is known for her support of medical marijuana, the source states that it is currently unclear how she will react to the bill.
"The governor believes any measure permitting the use of medically prescribed marijuana must ensure that the method of distribution is safe and tightly regulated and has concerns about the ability to properly regulate a home-grow option, but she will continue to listen to the concerns of advocates, law enforcement and legislators as the process moves forward," said her communications director, Marc Goldberg.
It will be interesting to see how this bill progresses in the coming months. In the meantime, if you have been accused of any crime involving marijuana, be sure you have the best legal team on your side of the courtroom. Working with an experienced New Hampshire lawyer can ensure that you don't unnecessarily suffer under the strict marijuana laws the state currently has in place.
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