Rep. Carol McGuire

Maddy summarySB 650 allows New Hampshire alternative treatment centers to use CBD and other nonintoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids (like CBD) in therapeutic products, while requiring these products to undergo contaminant and cannabinoid testing. It specifically prohibits centers from using any hemp-derived products containing natural THC over 0.3% (including delta-8, delta-9, or synthetic THC variants). The bill directly affects licensed alternative treatment centers by expanding permitted ingredients for therapeutic products under strict safety testing rules. It does not change recreational cannabis laws or allow intoxicating THC products. The law takes effect 60 days after passage.

Maddy summaryHB 1473 prevents New Hampshire towns and cities from adopting zoning rules that restrict land used for agricultural fairs, specifically targeting properties owned by corporations dedicated to promoting agricultural skills. It directly affects local governments (municipalities and counties) and fairground operators by blocking zoning restrictions on these sites. The bill adds language clarifying that agricultural fairs, along with agritourism and farming, are traditional land uses that shouldn’t be unreasonably limited by zoning. It requires local authorities to recognize these activities as fundamental to New Hampshire’s economy and environment, rather than imposing new restrictions. The law takes effect upon passage with minimal fiscal impact, as noted in the bill’s analysis.

Maddy summaryHB 1052 amends New Hampshire's licensing requirements for Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs) by adding a new pathway to licensure. It allows individuals with an internationally certified alcohol and drug counselor credential and 6,000 hours of supervised work experience to qualify for LADC licensure without needing an associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field. This change specifically removes the higher education requirement for applicants using this pathway, as outlined in the bill's amendment to RSA 330-C:17. The bill takes effect 60 days after passage and directly affects professionals with international certification and substantial work experience who lack the standard educational qualifications.

Maddy summaryHB 1235 legalizes possession and personal use of cannabis for New Hampshire residents aged 21 or older, with specific quantity limits: up to 2.5 ounces of flower/trim, 10 grams of concentrate, or products containing no more than 2,000mg THC. It defines key terms like "cannabis products" (including edibles) and excludes hemp (under separate law) and certain plant parts. Possession of small amounts by those under 21 remains a violation punishable by fines ($100-$300), not criminal charges. The bill shifts enforcement focus from minor cannabis offenses to serious crimes while establishing clear limits for adult use.

Maddy summarySB 479 allows alternative treatment centers (ATCs) to operate as for-profit businesses, previously requiring them to be non-profit entities. This bill amends state law to permit ATCs organized as business corporations or limited liability companies (instead of only non-profit voluntary corporations) to sell cannabis to qualifying patients. Key provisions remove the mandatory non-profit status requirement and establish procedures for non-profit ATCs to legally convert to for-profit structures. The change directly affects ATC operators seeking to pursue commercial models while maintaining existing patient access to therapeutic cannabis.

Maddy summaryHB 1796 creates a regulated program allowing the therapeutic use of psilocybin in clinical settings to treat specific medical conditions, including treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, substance use disorders, and end-of-life care. The bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to establish a regulatory board and license qualified medical providers, cultivation facilities, and testing laboratories. It sets standards for administration sessions (including preparation, the session itself, and integration) and mandates reporting of adverse events. This program will make psilocybin treatment available to eligible patients under medical supervision in approved settings.

Maddy summaryHB 1271 reorganizes the oversight of acupuncture in New Hampshire by transferring regulatory authority from an existing board to the executive director of the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification. The bill establishes a new three-member advisory board composed of licensed acupuncturists and a detoxification specialist to advise the executive director on rulemaking and implementation. Key provisions include setting specific eligibility requirements for licensure, defining the scope of practice, and creating a list of approved acupuncture schools. The legislation also outlines procedures for license renewal, continuing education, and the use of professional titles, while maintaining existing rules until they are formally updated or repealed.

Maddy summaryHB 1676 creates a Sunset Commission to evaluate New Hampshire's occupational licensing boards and determine if they should continue existing. The commission, made up of members appointed by the governor, legislative leaders, and the public, will assess whether current regulations are necessary for consumer safety or if less restrictive alternatives like voluntary certification or market competition would suffice. Based on its findings, the bill proposes repealing or modifying the authority of numerous boards over the next six years, starting with acupuncture and body art practitioners in 2025 and ending with real estate and physical therapy boards in 2030. Ultimately, the legislation aims to reduce regulatory barriers while ensuring that any remaining restrictions are the least intrusive methods needed to protect public health and safety.