Despite the positive changes happening in Louisiana, fear of failure is circulating around the House over recreational cannabis legalization. HB 699 has been pushed back several times now by it’s sponsor, Representative Richard Nelson (R), who is trying to modify his bill to earn more votes for passage.

Recently, the House voted against a complementary taxation bill that would go into effect should HB 699 be signed by the governor. Now the fear is more present in activists and cannabis supporters as the legalization bill is one again pushed back for another day.

HB 699

The recreational cannabis legalization bill has taken a long journey to make it to the full House vote. It would allow citizens over 21 to purchase and possess up to 2.5 pounds of cannabis. It would also allow citizens with licenses from the state to grow up to six plants at home. However, Representative Nelson filed an amendment to potentially remove the need for licenses for home cultivation if it will earn the bill more votes and send it to the Senate.

A recent poll shows around 70 percent of Louisiana residents approve of legalizing both medical and recreational cannabis bills. In 2014, Louisiana became the first state in the Deep South to legalize medical cannabis. Many activists were hoping that it would also be the first state to legalize recreational cannabis in 2021. But this recent defeat is raising questions. 

Other Measures

While legalization as a whole may not happen in 2021, other bills have passed the House involving cannabis. First is HB 652. This bill passed a full House vote 68-25 and heads to the Senate. It handles decriminalization measures. After many changes, the House approved the measure as a $100 fine to those possessing 14 grams with no threat of jail time.

Another is HB 391, a bill that would expand the medical cannabis program. Smokable medical cannabis flower would be added to the list of appropriate forms of medication for qualifying patients. This bill is also in the Senate and is waiting for a full chamber vote here soon. Finally there is HB 640. This would update the state’s hemp laws to follow the USDA’s Final Rule. Those took effect in March of this year. 

All of these changes are a step forward towards legalization, even if it isn’t this year. Maybe the House can agree on a measure for next year to potentially legalize recreational cannabis use. Even the governor, who has traditionally been against legalization, is taking an interest in recreational cannabis legalization. As more information becomes available, we will update you with the latest.

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