However . . .
Even though the Senate killed the effort to add additional licenses, it has passed legislation (HB 335) that provides DHHS with authority to allow current license holders operating ATCs to open a second dispensary location within their geographic licensed areas. The opening of a second location is subject to Department approval and may not be used for cultivation. The bill now goes to Governor Sununu.
The Legislature has also passed two bills (HB 364 and HB 459), which will make it easier to grow cannabis in New Hampshire. HB 364 permits qualifying patients and designated caregivers to cultivate cannabis for therapeutic use. The bill also permits qualifying patients and designated caregivers to donate excess cannabis to other qualifying patients. The bill sailed through the House, but passed the Senate on a party-line vote and may be vetoed by the governor. HB 459 seeks to promote the cultivation of hemp in the State by defining it and establishing a committee to study the federal guidelines on growing hemp. It sailed through the House and Senate and awaits action by the governor.
Additionally, the Legislature passed two bills (HB 350 and SB 88) which would make it easier for patients to obtain the required certification from a licensed health care provider to qualify for therapeutic cannabis. HB 350 adds physician assistants to the list of licensed health care providers who are authorized to certify that criteria has been met for the use of therapeutic cannabis. SB 88 eliminates the requirement that a licensed health care provider certifying that a patient meets the criteria for the use of therapeutic cannabis have a pre-existing three-month relationship with the patient. These bills face uncertain prospects in the governor’s office.
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