Hawaii lawmakers have a number of choices for adult-use hashish reforms earlier than them following the introduction of three completely different hashish payments thus far this legislative session.
Launched late final month, a pair of companion payments introduced by Home Rep. David Tarnas (D) and Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole (D) intently resemble a legalization proposal unveiled late final yr by Hawaii Lawyer Common Anne Lopez, in line with Marijuana Moment. These proposals (HB2600 and SB3335) would legalize adult-use hashish and set up the Hawaii Hashish Authority, which might oversee gross sales and different regulatory issues.
Some advocates, nevertheless, argue that the proposals may do extra hurt than good by introducing new hashish possession penalties for minors.
“Typically talking, the invoice gives a sound floorplan for adult-use legalization however erects a construction that’s nonetheless far too punitive in its method. Inserting a velvet glove of legalization on legislation enforcement’s iron hand will not be what is named for.” — Nikos Leverenz, of the Drug Coverage Discussion board of Hawai’i and the Hawai’i Well being and Hurt Discount Heart, through Marijuana Second
Lawmakers may additionally take up two different hashish reform payments as outlined by Cannabis Business Report:
- Senate Bill 2487, proposed by Sen. Pleasure San Buenaventura (D), seeks to decriminalize the grownup possession of as much as one ounce of hashish, reclassifying possession “offenses” as civil violations somewhat than legal misdemeanors.
- House Bill 2037, proposed by Minority Chief Rep. Gene Ward (R), would let voters weigh in on the concept of a constitutional modification to legalize adult-use hashish. If authorized, the modification would permit lawmakers to implement an adult-use system, the report mentioned.
Hawaii was one of many first states to legalize medical hashish — and the primary to take action through the legislature — however lawmakers have refused to go additional on the difficulty regardless of rising nationwide momentum for vital hashish reforms. The Hawaii Senate voted overwhelmingly in favor of legalizing hashish final yr however that proposal in the end died within the Home.
A report Up to date final yr discovered that the state may generate greater than $50 million in further tax income annually by legalizing and regulating adult-use hashish.
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