Hawaii lawmakers are again pushing for laws legalizing cannabis for recreational use by adults in the state. Last year, a move to legalize cannabis for everyone 21 and older gained ground.
Now the question is whether the cultivation and sale of marijuana will be approved. Currently, more than 30 states have legalized or decriminalized marijuana in small quantities. In 2019, Hawaii removed penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana weighing up to 3 grams. However, a fine of $130 can be imposed. Possessing more than 3 ounces without a permit is a minor offense.
Recreational possession of cannabis
A new law introduced by Senator Joy San Buenaventura would allow recreational possession of small amounts. “States that cannabis legalize see a reduction in the use of opioids, painkillers and alcohol consumption,” said Ty Cheng, president of the Hawai'i Cannabis Industry Association.
The law would also allow growing up to six plants, as long as they are in an enclosed area. Legislators and community members in favor of legalizing the use argue that tax revenue from the sale of marijuana could benefit the state's economy.
“Having a lower tax rate in the beginning helps the legal market to compete better with the illegal market,” said Cheng. “A 10 percent tax rate, which is expected to bring more than $81 million in new tax revenue to the state, is a reasonable number to start with.”
The 2021 Impacts of Marijuana Legalization in Colorado report showed that there may also be potential negative health and safety factors associated with legalization. Since legalization, the state has seen an increase in drunk driving and emergency room visits.
Still, according to the country, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, according to Jeanné Kapela, Member of the House of Representatives: “Legalizing weed is not just a matter of money, it is a matter of morality. While tax dollars are important, the question is whether or not we will continue to prosecute Native Hawaiians and other and minority communities for consuming a plant.”
Source: hawaiipublicradio (EN)
