The Louisiana House Administration of Criminal Justice Committee made large cannabis reform measures by approving both HB 524 and HB 243. These measures would legalize recreational cannabis within the state as well as decriminalize possession both present and past.
HB 524
The first bill that passed the House committee was HB 524. This would legalize recreational cannabis in the state. Adults 21 and over can purchase and possess up to 2.5 pounds of recreational cannabis on themselves at one time. Cannabis can be purchased from state licensed retailers. Plus, home growth is legalized. A person wishing to grow their own cannabis for personal use must apply for a state permit. Once they receive a permit, then they are allowed to grow up to six plants in their home for their own personal use.
This bill was originally designed as a referendum for the 2022 ballot. It was amended and presented by the bill’s sponsor, Representative Richard Nelson (R), to the House floor, where it was accepted and then distributed to the correct House committees
Public Response
A poll was taken at the end of March. It posed the question to voters, do they support the legalization of recreational and medical cannabis? 67 percent of people interviewed said that they were in favor of both recreational and medical cannabis legalization. This is more than the 54 percent that expressed favor of both in 2020, just one year prior.
The other major question asked of voters was: “Would you favor or oppose also allowing the marijuana plant to be a permissible type of medical marijuana?”
¾ of voters said that they would be in favor of allowing the cannabis plant as a type of medical cannabis. Recently, the House Health and Welfare Committee approved a bill to legalize the use of raw cannabis for medical purposes. It would appear that lawmakers are responding positively to what their voters want.
Future
Both HB 524 and HB 243 are set for a full House chamber vote this week. It’s scheduled for this Thursday, April 29th, but there is a chance it will be tabled until later in the legislative session. As more news develops, we will update you with the latest.
Make sure to check back for more cannabis and hemp related news.