Hawaii legalization and decriminalization expansion bills head to full Senate vote

Ask your state lawmakers to legalize cannabis this year.

Exciting news! This week, two crucial cannabis bills advanced in the Hawaii Legislature. SB 767 would legalize cannabis and allow licensed businesses to cultivate, produce, and sell cannabis products. It would also allow adult home cultivation of up to three mature plants. Under the bill, the state Department of Health would craft rules around business licensing and retail sales by July 1, 2021. The Senate Ways & Means Committee passed SB 767 with amendments on a 7-0 vote. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for a full vote.

Meanwhile, SB 758, which would increase the possession threshold to one ounce from three grams advanced out of the Judiciary Committee on a 7-0 vote. It also now heads to the Senate floor for a full vote.

Both bills’ futures are uncertain as Gov. Ige appears to be generally unsupportive of legalization. However, House Speaker Scott Saiki (D) is likely to be supportive, as he introduced a legalization measure in 2013. It’s now more important than ever to contact your lawmakers and let them know you support legalization. As both bills progress, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.