The legalization of marijuana in the United States has been a hot-button issue for years, with some states legalizing it for both recreational and medicinal use.
New Hampshire is one of those states that has legalized cannabis for medical purposes, but as of 2021, recreational marijuana remains illegal.
Knowing the legalities surrounding cannabis can be confusing, so if you’re looking to understand what’s legal and what isn’t when it comes to marijuana in New Hampshire, this guide is here to help.
Medical Marijuana in New Hampshire
Marijuana is legal for consumption in New Hampshire. However, the state has one of the most strict policies in not only New England but the rest of the country.
In order to make sure you are in line with local laws, you’ll want to continually check for changes and communicate with your doctor.
Many expect the laws to change in New Hampshire in the near future, but for now, they’re something to follow closely.
Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana
New Hampshire has a comprehensive list available on the Department of Health and Human Services website. Some of those conditions include:
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- Lupus
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscular dystrophy
In 2021 and 2022, additional conditions were added to the list under new laws. They include insomnia, autism spectrum disorder, and opioid use disorder.
New Hampshire’s qualification laws can be difficult to understand as they warrant some conditions to be sole qualifiers while others must be in conjunction with another condition to qualify.
The Application Process
The process for applying for a medical marijuana card in New Hampshire is fairly simple.
The first step is to gather the required documents, which include a completed application form, a written certification from a licensed physician, and proof of residency.
Once you have all of the required documentation, you can submit your application online or by mail. Once your application is received, it will be processed and reviewed.
To upkeep your medical marijuana card, you will need to have renewal signatures from your medical provider every six months.
Where to Purchase Medical Marijuana
If you’re a qualified medical marijuana patient in New Hampshire, you can purchase your cannabis from one of the state-licensed dispensaries.
There are currently seven operational dispensaries in New Hampshire, with more expected to open in the future.
Recent provisions allow for medical marijuana users to purchase products from any dispensary in the state, known in New Hampshire as Alternative Treatment Centers (ATCs).
The patient or qualified caregivers are able to purchase cannabis products in accordance with local laws.
Alternative Treatment Centers have their own set of laws they need to follow as well, including not being within 1000 feet of schools.
When you go into a dispensary, you can expect the workers at the ATC to work closely with you to decide which options are right for you.
Marijuana Laws to Know
Possession Laws
In New Hampshire, qualified medical marijuana patients are allowed to possess up to two ounces of cannabis for medicinal use.
Caregivers and dispensaries may also possess up to two ounces of cannabis on behalf of the patient.
Similarly, only 2 ounces may be purchased at a single time from the dispensary every 10 days.
Penalties for Non-compliance
It’s important to know that the possession or use of marijuana without a valid medical marijuana card is still illegal in New Hampshire.
If you’re caught with cannabis without a valid medical marijuana card, you could be subject to hefty fines or even criminal charges.
In fact, New Hampshire tends to defer to federal guidelines on marijuana use meaning recreational use is banned.
Minors and Marijuana Use
In New Hampshire, minors are legally allowed to use medical marijuana if they have a valid medical marijuana card and are supervised by an adult caregiver.
However, there are strict guidelines in place regarding who can qualify as a minor’s caregiver.
According to state law, the caregiver must be at least 21 years old and must not have been convicted of a felony.
Conclusion
Knowing the legalities surrounding marijuana in New Hampshire can help ensure that you stay safe and within the bounds of the law when it comes to cannabis use.
Keep in mind that recreational marijuana remains illegal, and only those with a valid medical marijuana card can legally possess and purchase marijuana products.
Keeping ahead of the laws can help ensure that you’re compliant and protected if any issues arise.
