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HB 1446

providing that an individual's use of therapeutic cannabis shall not disqualify the individual from the purchase, ownership, or possession of a firearm.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Drew and 3 co-sponsors

New Hampshire bill would allow medical cannabis users to legally own firearms at the state level, though federal law still prohibits such purchases through licensed dealers.

Remove from Table (Rep. Butler): MF RC 81-270 03/26/2026 HJ 9 P. 39
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1446

Legislative bill overview

HB 1446 would prevent therapeutic cannabis use from disqualifying individuals from purchasing, owning, or possessing firearms in New Hampshire. Currently, federal law prohibits firearm ownership for any unlawful drug user, and cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance federally, creating a conflict between state medical cannabis programs and federal gun regulations.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a practical conflict for New Hampshire's medical cannabis patients who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights. Approximately 20,000+ registered patients in the state could be affected, though the bill would not resolve the federal legal barrier that prevents licensed firearms dealers from selling to cannabis users.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal-state conflict: The bill cannot override federal firearms law (18 U.S.C. § 922), meaning licensed dealers would still be prohibited from selling firearms to cannabis users regardless of state law
  • Implementation gap: State law changes cannot force federal compliance; this creates legal ambiguity for dealers and patients without solving the underlying problem
  • Second Amendment vs. drug policy: Reflects broader tension between expanding cannabis access and traditional firearms regulations, with different stakeholder philosophies on both issues
  • Enforcement questions: Unclear how state law would function when federal requirements remain restrictive, potentially creating liability for firearms dealers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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