New Hampshire remains the only state in New England without legalized recreational cannabis, but 2025 has brought renewed legislative efforts to change that. Lawmakers are considering three different bills—House Bill 75 (HB 75), House Bill 186 (HB 186), and House Bill 198 (HB 198)—each proposing unique approaches to legalization.
HB 75: Decriminalization Without a Commercial Market
HB 75, introduced by Rep. Kevin Verville (R-Deerfield), aims to legalize cannabis for adults 21 and older but does not establish a regulated marketplace for sales or cultivation. Instead, the bill simply removes penalties for possession and use, leaving no system for purchasing legal cannabis. Despite its limitations, the New Hampshire House passed HB 75 on February 20, 2025, marking a step toward cannabis reform.
HB 186: Full Legalization with Regulation
HB 186, sponsored by Rep. Jared Sullivan (D-Grafton), takes a broader approach by legalizing cannabis while also setting up a regulated industry. The bill proposes licensing systems for cultivation, manufacturing, testing, and retail sales, alongside taxation and administrative oversight. However, as of March 2025, the bill remains under review in the House Commerce and Consumer Affairs Committee, where lawmakers are debating the details.
HB 198: A Limited Legalization Model
Also led by Rep. Sullivan, HB 198 proposes a compromise between the other two bills. It would legalize cannabis for adults and allow limited home cultivation but does not create a retail system. This bill remains in committee, with legislators debating the risks and benefits of allowing personal cultivation without a regulated supply chain.
Governor’s Opposition vs. Public Support
Governor Kelly Ayotte (R), who took office in January 2025, has expressed firm opposition to cannabis legalization. She cites concerns over youth mental health and road safety and has hinted at vetoing any legalization bill that reaches her desk.
Despite the governor’s stance, public opinion in New Hampshire strongly favors legalization. Recent polls show that 65% of residents support legal cannabis, reflecting shifting attitudes within the state.
New Hampshire’s Status in the Region
New Hampshire is increasingly isolated on cannabis policy. Every neighboring state—Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island—has already legalized and regulated adult-use cannabis. This regional contrast adds pressure on New Hampshire lawmakers to align their policies with the rest of New England.
What Happens Next?
The coming months will be critical as these bills move through legislative debates. HB 75 now heads to the Senate, while HB 186 and HB 198 await further discussion. Whether New Hampshire will finally legalize adult-use cannabis depends on how lawmakers navigate differences in their approaches—and whether the governor remains firm in her opposition.